DIAGNOSING PRODUCTION PROBLEMS WITH DOWNHOLE VIDEO SURVEYING AT PRUDHOE BAY

This paper describes a real-time, fiber-optic downhole video (DHV) sys tem and its use as a diagnostic tool in solving production problems in Prudhoe Bay wells. Recent developments in lens preparation technology and advancements in the application of electro-fi ber-optic cable hav e proved the viability of DHV surveying in oilfield applications. This paper presents case histories of the first field applications in whic h the fiber-optic DHV system was used to perform downhole visual inspe ctions of tubulars and casing. These operations determined fluid entry under flowing conditions, verified tubing and casing integrity, and f acilitated wireline fishing operations. The fiber-optic system provide d more comprehensible identification capabilities and other operationa l advantages than obtainable with alternative methods of downhole diag nostic techniques or the DHV coaxial-cable systems. This paper also ov erviews the enhancements made since the first applications of fiber-op tic cable.