Q. Why do you need high speed or broadband telemetry?

A. Everyone is limited. By utilizing the IntelliServ Broadband Network operators can make decisions in real-time and increase performance to reduce lifting costs. Service Companiescan provide better quality control while drilling more productively. “Drill more wells on given budgets, which are also better wells in terms of placement, production and recovery.”

Q. What services does IntelliServ provide?

A. IntelliServ provides broadband networking and along string evaluation.  These services provide the oil and gas industry with the only high-speed, high-volume, high-definition, bi-directional broadband data transmission system that enables downhole conditions to be measured, evaluated, monitored and actuated in real time.

Q. Which companies connect to the Broadband Network?

A. The service providers are Baker Hughes, Halliburton, Schlumberger and Weatherford.

Q. What is the typical lead time required to mobilize the networked drillstring equipment associated with the surface systems?

A. IntelliServ has networked drillstrings available in the Navasota, Texas, USA and in Aberdeen, UK for deployments in respectively the Western and the Eastern hemisphere. A recent rapid deployment took only 15 days from callout to wellsite deployment on a deepwater rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Inventory of downhole tools, such as underreamers, as well as distance from our inventory depots impact the duration.

Q. What measurements can be made along the string?

A. Along string evaluation for pressure and temperature is now commercially available. Other measurements are on the roadmap to be developed, such as vibration, strain, caliper etc.

Q. What is the temperature limitation of the IntelliServ Broadband Network?

A. The booster assembly electronics are powered by lithium batteries with a temperature limitation of 302°F or 150°C. The pressure limitation on the seal assemblies is 25,000 psi (1725 Bar)

Q. What type of environments has the networked drill pipe been expose to?

A. The networked pipe has been exposed to acid, cement, through-string wire line logging.

Q. What is the differential pressure rating for the networked pipe (external and internal)?

A. The differential pressure ratings for the IntelliServ Broadband pipe remain the same as its wired counterpart. See specification sheets for these ratings.

Q. What is the impact on tensile strength and is networked drillstring suitable for Testing operations?

A. The wiring modifications do not affect the tensile strength of the pipe itself. We designed the armored coax to fail at approximately the strain at which the pipe yields. Depending on the grade of pipe, this failure strain may be somewhat before or somewhat after the yield strain of the pipe. Prior to tensile failure of the coax, some (permanent) plastic deformation may be sustained by the cable.

Q. What is the maximum dogleg for the IntelliServ pipe?

A. As the mechanical properties of the pipe remain unchanged, the maximum dogleg severity recommendations for IntelliServ pipe remain the same as to its un-wired counterpart.

Q. What type/makes/models of top drives can the data swivel be installed on?

A. IntelliServ has been deployed on more than 25 different rigs. Without any modification, the data swivel can typically be placed on CanRig topdrives. Occasionally, the IBOP stack and/or the pipe handler require modification for the Varco and MaritimeHydraulic topdrives. Minimal engineering is required for Letourneau topdrive systems.

Q. What is the internal diameter of the booster assemblies compared to the tool joint's internal diameter?

A. Key Booster Assembly Dimensions 

Q. What are the diameters of the booster subs? Do the booster subs have an enlarged OD or reduced ID?

A. The 5” booster assemblies have the identical internal diameter (ID) as regular tool joints. However, the 4”, the 5 7/8” and the 6 5/8” booster and measurement assemblies have a slight reduction in ID – see the equipment specification sheet. For example the ID for the 6 5/8” booster is 4 1/8”. The outer diameter of all booster assemblies are identical to regular tool joints.

Q. What size accelerator can be used with IntelliServ Networked jars?

A. Wiring designs have been created for the 6-3/4 and the 8” accelerators, but to date none of these have been built or tested yet. Both NOV and WFT accelerators/intensifiers wiring design have been completed.

Q. What are the efficiency gains?

A. Immediate efficiency gains are obtained by significantly reducing downlinking to rotary steerables when drilling deep wells and also on the time spent surveying is eliminated by the transmission of all data from downhole in real time. Be it petrophysical or drilling dynamics, operators have the ability to make more informed decisions with full sets of information.

Q. What is the reduction in risks?

A. The IntelliServ Broadband Network enables reliable telemetry for underbalanced drilling, permits longer step outs for extended reach drilling, optimizes Rotary Steerable Tool Performance, delivers full LWD data to the surface, extends bit performance and life among many other risk reductions. The benefits of the IntelliServ Broadband Network can substantially improve well productivity and reservoir characterization for enhanced field operations.

Q. What is the average downlinking time required by conventional mud pulse telemetry systems?

A. 7-8 minutes whereas the IntelliServ Broadband Network downlinking time is instantaneous.

Q. What is the transmission rate of the different measuring tools using mud pulse telemetry and how does it compare against WDP speeds?

A. Maximum throughput of MWD tools in general is 16-24 bits per second. The IntelliServ Network allows information transmission rates of up to 57,600 bits per second.

Q. What is the need for memory in BHA tools while using IntelliServ?

A. Data is being sent to the surface in real-time using IntelliServ, eliminating the need for memory downhole, unless used as back up.

Q. What is the approximate daily charge for a networked drill string?

A. A 5 7/8” drill string for extended reach drilling or a 6 5/8” drill sting for deepwater are available for $1/Day/FT all inclusive of people and processes.

Q. MWD and LWD tools prevent tools or balls to pass due to their restriction in internal diameter (ID). What is the ID restriction on any of the networked components?

A. All networked components up from the interface sub (that connects to the MWD/LWD tools) have a published pass through diameter that allows for pass through cement, plugs, log tools, free-point indicators etc.

Q. What is the accuracy and operating range for the along-string pressure evaluation?

A. Accuracy:

• Pressure resolution of 0.5 psi
• Pressure precision of +/-100 psi

Environmental Range:

• Pressure range of 0 - 25k psi
• Temperature range of 0 - 150 C

Q. How long has IntelliServ been providing high speed telemetry?

A. High speed telemetry has been around more than one decade. Wired Telemetry was developed first for a mud hammer then for well construction in general. The IntelliServ Broadband Network is assembled by installing a shielded data communication wire in the interior of standard double shoulder drill string components. The technology is outlined in detail in the June 2005 Department of Energy (DOE) report “Very high-speed drill string communication network” by David Pixton (report # 41229R14) and available to the public. Even before the publication of key elements of the NOV IntelliServ system, there have been several efforts in the industry to develop such a network. Some of those date back to the 1930’s.

Q. How many rigsite personnel are required to operate/manage the IntelliServ network?

A. A minimum of two field specialists are required at all times when IntelliServ drillstrings are handled at the wellsite. The field specialists manage the inventory, ensure proper handling by rig crews and deliver the downhole data service at the wellsite.

Q. How is networked pipe inspected?

A. The pipe components of the IntelliServ Broadband Network are inspected in the same manner as normal pipe. Inspectors keep in mind the presence of the coil and cable during inspection.

Q. How can you connect to the Network?

A. The IntelliServ Broadband Network is an open architecture which allows anyone to connect to the bottom of the Network to take advantage of its capabilities. Each service company manufactures an Interface sub jointly with IntelliServ. The Interface sub, which is owned by the service company, allows bi-directional communication from the network to the downhole tools. Data from the downhole tools is then delivered on surface to the service company via the IntelliServ acquisition system.

Q. How is the data displayed in real time at the rigsite and which format is the data provided (ie. WITSML)?

A. The data delivery service includes visualization of the along string annular pressure service on wellsite monitors as well as transmission to remote monitoring and support centers. The downhole data acquired by the IntelliServ service partners is displayed by the same service partners, in high-definition in real time.

Q. How is coaxial cable installed in pipe?

A. The high speed, high strength coax cable runs through the joint and is anchored inside the tool joint upset, and kept in tension from pin to box. The advantage of this design is that the drilling tubular is not affected by the addition of the telemetry system and its mechanical characteristics remain the same.

High reliability is achieved by the fact that the induction coils do not need direct contact with eachother; this means operations and materials such as pipe dope, among others, can be still used. The cable is anchored at the joints and stretched along the tubular without affecting its mechanical integrity.

Q. How much stress can coaxial cable withstand? Can coaxial cable handle the stresses it is exposed to in modern operating?

A. Yes. Coax cable in the pipe is set under slight tension to avoid tension and compression changes under any circumstance. The coax cable sits inside a steel shield which protects it from damage or breakage.

Q. How many times a year is internal coating of the pipes done, once or twice a year? How difficult is this with the wired pipe?

A. Networked drill strings are coated prior to installing the network components as the coating process involves high temperature processes (coating burn off, coating cure) that would damage the armored coax and coils.

Q. How is the recut/reface of networked pipe done?

A. It is done in the same manner as any double shouldered drill pipe. The coils and coax cable are installed at the pin and box once the threads are recut.

Q. How many booster assemblies are run in a typical drillstring?

A. Typically, the booster assemblies are distributed at a maximum interval of every 1,500 feet (500m) or approximately 45 joints. There is no minimum spacing.

Q. How are jars and other BHA components wired?

A. The wire inside jars and other extensible tools accommodate the stroking action by coiling the wire inside the mandrel.

Q. There are XTM series of pipes that form metal to metal seals. This will be a solution in gas wells. How does IntelliServ wire the XTM series of premium pipes?

A. To date no XTM pipes have been wired. We proceed to add this line of products upon customer demand. The metal to metal seal system in the connection threads is a significant advantage for certain underbalanced operations.

Q. How can the IntelliServ Broadband Network improve formation pressure while drilling?

A.   The IntelliServ Broadband Network not only allows for an instantaneous actuation of FPWD tools but also enables a high definition of draw-downs and build-ups which ultimately can lead to subsequent wire line formation testing runs saving. With pumps off it results in reduced disturbance and better measurements.

Q. In regards to onboard memory and data recording of MWD/LWD tools readings, how does IntelliServ’s networked drillstring create an return on investment (ROI) that supports using the service?

A. The real-time data that can be transferred is 20,000 times faster than a standard pulsar. This enables better ROP through more informed drilling technique and less wear on components of the BHA through faster, nearly instant reaction times.

Q. Besides providing a faster data rate, how does the IntelliServ network improve LWD/MWD services?

A. Using the IntelliServ network with LWD/MWD tools allows the provider to transmit additional curve data that might not be normally available due to mudpulse bandwith restrictions.

Q. How can a drilling contractor buy the string?

A. Yes, the drilling contractor would buy the premium drill string directly from NOV Grant Prideco. NOV IntelliServ wires the string and manages the telemetry service for approximately $1/day/m for an extended reach drilling or deepwater drilling.

Q. How does acoustic noise interfere with IntelliServ Broadband Network?

A.   It does not cause interference.

Q. Where has IntelliServ been utilized? How many wells have been drilled using IntelliServ?

A. About 90 wells have been drilled using the broadband network system in five continents, transmitting data from the downhole tools of the four largest service companies. Among the customers are National Oil Companies, International Oil Companies and Independents. As mud pulse is available as redundancy, jointly the systems cover 100% of the drilled interval, whereby the IntelliServ part typically exceeds 90-95%.

Q. Where does IntelliServ operate?

A. IntelliServ operates locations around the world with primary facilities in: Houston, TX; Provo, UT; Navasota, TX; Villahermosa, Mexico; Trinidad and Macae, Brazil.

Q. Which companies form the Joint Venture (JV)?

A. The JV is between a) IntelliServ is the current provider of the only networked drillstring system in the industry. The IntelliServ Broadband Network is the drill string telemetry product line of National Oilwell Varco (NOV); Grant Prideco, who was the parent company of IntelliServ prior to their acquisition by NOV, is the market leaders in the second generation double shouldered premium drill pipes which is an enabler for this technology; and b) Schlumberger who is the leading service company for LWD and directional drilling services.

Q. What are the key elements of the JV between IntelliServ and Schlumberger?

A. NOV IntelliServ has an agreement with Schlumberger Drilling and Measurements to form a Joint Venture where Schlumberger will acquire a non-controlling (45%) minority interest in the Drill String Telemetry business.

Q. Why are these companies investing in this joint venture?

A. This strategic partnership will allow further strengthening of both organizations’ ability to more effectively enable our customers to transition to high-speed, high quality telemetry services in all the areas they operate.

Q. What benefits will Schlumberger get from an association with the IntelliServ Joint Venture?

A. Schlumberger will gain access to the IntelliServ Broadband Network and through our joint marketing efforts maximize the uptake of the definition dowhole operations. This relationship will also enable Schlumberger to provide our entire portfolio of technologies on the network.

Q. Will Schlumberger have access to the confidential information of IntelliServ's other partners and customers (some of which are Schlumberger's competitors)?

A. No, by the terms of the agreement, Schlumberger is expressly prohibited from accessing any confidential information concerning IntelliServ’s customers.

Q. How will the Schlumberger participation in the Joint Venture affect/impact the open architecture of the system which today is vendor neutral?

A. Schlumberger has a minority position in the joint venture and participation will be completely transparent from where it is today. The system will continue to be an open architecture system controlled by NOV IntelliServ, who is the majority participant in the Joint Venture.

Q. Will this JV impact our client's ability to select BHA providers for The IntelliServ Broadband Network applications?

A. Our clients will continue to have the freedom to select the BHA Provider of their choice to work the IntelliServ Network.

Q. How will the Joint Venture be managed?

A. The JV will be managed by NOV the majority interest holder. Schlumberger’s participation will be through a minority board position and a technical steering committee.

Q. How would this JV affect Service Companies and our Customers?

1. Service companies: NOV IntelliServ is committed to connect downhole tools of any service company to the bottom of the network and transmit their data to surface and vice-versa. Downhole tools interface with the network at the Bottom Hole Assembly. Together with the service company, the interface subs will be developed and tested. The Drill String Telemetry system will transmit the measurement data to surface for delivery to the service company.
2. NOV IntelliServ Customers (existing / new): With Safety, Quality and Customer Satisfaction as the foundation of The IntelliServ Networks values, NOV IntelliServ will continue to work with all service companies interested in the development, testing and deployment of interface subs. We are committed to deliver the highest quality drill string to enable the transmission of customer's and partner's downhole data. This information enables quicker and better decisions, higher performance of better placed wellbores.
3. The IntelliServ Network: NOV IntelliServ is the market leader in bi-directional, high-speed, Drill String Telemetry for downhole measurements and tools. The newly formed joint venture underlines our commitment to continue to work with all service companies to market and deploy our network into the field.

Q. Given the relationships that IntelliServ has with NOV and Schlumberger, what future merger plans are in place?

A. NOV is the parent company of IntelliServ. Schlumberger’s investment constitutes an investment that will benefit all MWD/LWD service companies to return data to the surface. There are no plans to change the current compositions, locations or direction of IntelliServ.