John L. Maida

Downhole fiber optic sensing: the oilfield service provider’s perspective

There is increasing interest in the petroleum industry in the application of fiber-optic sensing techniques. In this paper, we review which sensing technologies are being adopted downhole and the drivers for this deployment. We describe the performance expectations (accuracy, resolution, stability and operational lifetime) that the oil companies and the oil service companies have for fiber-optic sensing systems. We also describe the environmental conditions (high hydrostatic pressures, high temperatures, shock, vibration, crush, and chemical attack) that these systems must tolerate in order to provide reliable and economically attractive reservoir-performance monitoring solutions.

Adapting optical technology to dynamic energy prices: fiber-optic sensing in the contemporary oil field

The oil and gas industry is continually striving to produce more hydrocarbons and reduce waste. Many sensing techniques using optical fiber have been developed over the last three decades for all stages of well development. This paper reviews these optical sensing technologies, with emphasis on new applications and business drivers. Expected performance parameters of these new technologies are discussed, including their accuracy, resolution, stability, and operational lifetime. Environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, shock, vibration, crush, and chemical exposure, are also discussed. These optical technologies are expected to provide safe, reliable, cost-effective, and unprecedented monitoring solutions.

Downhole fiber optic sensing: the oilfield service provider's perspective: from the cradle to the grave

For almost three decades, interest has continued to increase with respect to the application of fiber-optic sensing techniques for the upstream oil and gas industry. This paper reviews optical sensing technologies that have been and are being adopted downhole, as well as their drivers. A brief description of the life of a well, from the cradle to the grave, and the roles fiber-optic sensing can play in optimizing production, safety, and protection of the environment are also presented. The performance expectations (accuracy, resolution, stability, and operational lifetime) that oil companies and oil service companies have for fiber-optic sensing systems is described. Additionally, the environmental conditions (high hydrostatic pressures, high temperatures, shock, vibration, crush, and chemical exposure) that these systems must tolerate to provide reliable and economically attractive oilfield monitoring solutions are described.