Downhole visual analytics provider EV has developed imaging technology to assist in the identification and measurement of well perforations, which are the holes punched into the casing or liner of an oil well to connect it to the reservoir.

According to EV, the technology, dubbed ClearVision, features a combined 360° integrated array video and phased array ultrasound scanning tool that together offer a 4D evaluation system for wellbore applications.

Source: EV

The combination of the technologies reportedly enables ClearVision operators to locate and measure 100% of all perforations, even those small dimension perforations as well as those plugged with sand.

As such, EV suggests that the technology could potentially enable engineers to create better frac designs by offering insight into perforation erosion and proppant placement trends, thereby improving well performance and increasing hydrocarbon production.

Making this possible, according to EV, is ClearVision’s video array, which reportedly offers axial and circumferential measurement accuracy, along with radial geometry and pipe thickness measurements of its ultrasound scanner. Together, these capabilities deliver detailed insights into erosion trends and proppant placement.

“Missed data can lead to errors in decision-making and inferior frac designs, which can result in over a million dollars in lost production for a single well in its first year of operation,” explained researchers from EV. “ClearVision delivers full and accurate measurements for a complete understanding of proppant placement to help optimize frac performance by design, for each and every well field wide. This leads to increased production and enhanced long-term recovery from fewer, higher-performing wells, resulting in increased profitability and lower carbon emissions for every barrel of oil produced.”

Further, ClearVision delivers its data and analytical results using its data interpretation and visualization system known as the EV Web Portal.