Phuel Detector

Introduction

The Phuel Detector confirms to the wireline or coil tubing operator that the tool string is at the top of the riser without relying on the weight or line indicators. The system can be configured for most operations and provides a clear and reliable indication of the string position resulting in reduced accident risk and reduced operating time.

A simple magnetic sensor detects the presence of a magnet incorporated at the rope socket or connector and lights on the hand held display are illuminated corresponding to the position of the tool string. When the magnet is located within 30 cm of the sensor the lights on the display come on.

The Detection System

The detection system consists of the magnet detectors and display unit, which are used to determine the string position within the riser stack. The electrical system is approved for use in Zone 1 areas and complies with Atex regulations and intrinsic safety requirements. The main power unit should be mounted directly to the wireline unit and has cable reels that provide sufficient length to reach the riser and the wireline operator.

The wireline operator uses the hand held display and through a configuration of flashing lights can determine:

• when the tool string has arrived in the riser so that the pulling rate can be reduced.

and

• when the string is positioned at the top of the riser, so that the wellhead valve can be closed.

Sensor Mounting Options

To ensure that the magnetic signature can be easily distinguished from other parts of the tool string the sensor must be positioned so that there is no magnetic material between it and the magnet. The mounting options are as follows:

Strap On: - If you are using a modern lightweight riser, which has been manufactured from a non magnetic steel, then the sensors can be simply strapped directly to the riser with an easy to use belt.

Lubricator Sub: A crossover can be supplied that will interface with your existing equipment and provides a location for the sensor to be mounted. The unit is of one-piece construction and is certified to the requirements of API 6A, with third party verification certificates.

Alternatively, your existing equipment can be modified to incorporate a non-magnetic sensor housing. The nature of this interface requires that you deliver the equipment to us for modification and re-certification but has the advantage that the system can be used without increasing the length of the riser section or introducing more equipment.

Finally, Phuel can offer standard pressure control equipment (lubricators, Cross-overs, Fast Test Subs etc) with the sensor housing incorporated to suit your needs.

Up to two sensors can be deployed in the riser, one at the top to eliminate the need to over pull and one at the bottom to provide a warning that the magnet has arrived in the riser, thus providing sufficient time for the pulling rate to be reduced.

Magnet Sub

The Magnet sub forms part of the tool string being run and as such can be offered in many options. The preferred one consists of a fishing neck that latches to the top of the tool string without interfacing with the wire. This simple method of attachment standardises the interface with the tool string and simplified the system especially for electric line operations. A similar fishing neck is still presented upwards to still allow fishing operations if the line is broken during the operation.

Alternative configurations can interface directly with the sucker rod connections, standard e-line connections or even coil tubing connections as requested.

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