Acoustic Logging

Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Many earth science disciplines

Index

benefit from information derived

from acoustic logging data. This

Petrophysical Applications

guide highlights the range of

Geophysical Applications

applications for full wave, monopole

Geological Applications

and dipole acoustic data.

Drilling Applications

More in-depth information to

each application is available.
Please contact your local customer
service representative.

Geomechanical Applications
Reservoir Engineering /Production Applications
Appendix-A Synergy with other technologies
Appendix-B Applications sorted into user topics
Appendix-C Quick reference to product codes

Note: The product codes mentioned with each

application are related to the acoustic
product only. Other codes may apply.

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Porosity and Lithology Evaluation

Gamma Ray

Porosity

Lithology

Ts decreases
with depth

Acoustic velocity is primarily a function of the rock matrix

and can be used to identify different lithologies, as well as
stratigraphic correlation. A variety of crossplot techniques,
using acoustic measurements alone, or in combination with
other porosity logs (neutron and density), have been
devised to assist in lithologic identification (Figure 1).

Limestone

Dolomite
X300
CN increases
with depth

Figure 2 Shear slowness as a lithology indicator. The

cased-hole apparent compensated neutron
porosity (Track 2) appears to increase with
depth, while the XMAC shear velocity data
decreases with depth. This response indicates a
lithology change rather than a porosity change,
which is confirmed in the lithology track. In the
interval above x300, the apparent compensated
neutron porosity increases with depth, indicating
a lithology change rather than a porosity change.
This technique can be extremely useful for
through-casing evaluation when a density log
is not available.
Figure 1 Generalized comparison of acoustic, neutron,
and density log responses in common reservoir
lithologies and to gas
The addition of shear slowness to lithology identification
provides a more robust result that can be particularly
useful in cased-hole evaluation where a density log is not
available. In Figure 2, the combined use of shear slowness
and cased-hole neutron porosity results in enhanced porosity determination in a complex lithology. Crossplots of
Vp /Vs ratio vs. compressional travel time, tc, facilitate
identification of lithology trends with respect to porosity
and lithology.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.100 or .200 (if Full Wave is required) Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-FE.097 Section J-3
PETR-FE.103 or .201 or .202 (Depending on Mineral Volume Model
used) Section J-3
PETR-AC.103 if required (Full Wave Delta T) Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Gas Detection in Turbidites Using High Resolution

Compressional and Shear Data

3.0

Wet
Sandstones

Shear and compressional slowness can be processed to 1ft

vertical resolution compared to the standard 3-4ft vertical
resolution. This analysis technique can be performed on
standard XMAC Elite acquired data and allows existing
data to be re-interpreted. This technique can also be
applied in cased holes.

Shales

Dry or Gas
Sandstones
1.3
130

60

200

Compressional Slowness (us/ft)

0.5 ft
3.0

Shales

Wet
Sandstones
Low-saturation
Sands

Vp /Vs Ratio

In this example, the interval was logged, and the resulting

data processed at standard (3.5ft) resolution as well as high
resolution (0.5ft). Notice the difference and additional
information provided by the higher resolution data. Using
the higher resolution data, Baker Atlas is able to discriminate
dry sands from turbidites, while they are masked when
data is analyzed in the standard 3.5ft resolution. Turbidites
are hard to define using standard resistivity data, so any
help provided by other technologies, such as high resolution acoustic, is valuable additional information.

Low-saturation
Sands

Vp /Vs Ratio

The vertical resolution of array tools is typically 3.5ft,

but higher resolution is desirable for thin-bed evaluation.
Waveform matching (multi-shot) processing techniques
use the redundant information contained in overlapping
receiver sub-arrays to improve vertical resolution. Recent
techniques obtain vertical resolutions up to 1ft.

3.5 ft

Dry
Sands

Turbidites
Dry or Gas
Sandstones
1.3
130

60

200

Compressional Slowness (us/ft)

Vp /Vs versus tp crossplot. In addition to the lowsaturation sands identified in (a), the high-resolution
result (b) also resolves turbidite and dry sand intervals
Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4
XPLT.100 Section I-1
DATA-IO.101 Section J-24 (If resolution other than 3.5ft is required)

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Shear Slowness in Slow Formations

Normally, shear waves are the second arrival in an acoustic
wave train. Monopole transmitters generate indirect (mode
conversion) shear waves, while dipole transmitters generate
direct shear waves.
Unconsolidated or poorly consolidated sandstones (soft
rocks) are less rigid and more compressible than wellconsolidated hard) rocks. When a formation shear-wave
velocity is less than the acoustic velocity of the borehole

Shear
Slowness

GR
CAL

fluid (Vs<Vf), the rock formation is called slow. Slow

formations produce weak shear-wave propagation that
requires low-frequency dipole transmission and reception
to adequately detect shear arrivals. Conventional monopole
acoustic logging devices cannot obtain shear-wave slowness in slow rocks because these devices cannot separate
the shear-wave arrival from the Stoneley-wave arrival.
Dipole devices like the XMAC Elite can directly excite a
shear wave, such that a good reflected shear signal can be
acquired even in ultra-slow formations.

VDL

Shallow Unconsolidated
Shale Sequence

1200
us/ft

1400

300

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Hydrocarbon Identification. Gas (1 of 4)

Acoustic coupling between solid and gas, or fluid and gas,
is poor, resulting in a high loss in energy. A sudden loss of
energy (amplitude) in the measured acoustic signal (primarily in the compressional wave and only secondarily in the
shear wave) may indicate gas-filled pore space. This is
called gas effect. In the case of gas-filled porosity, the
acoustic-neutron crossplot can be useful for this purpose
because neutron porosity is lower than acoustic porosity
in gas zones.

Log presentation illustrating the use of tc and ts curves

as an immediate gas indicator

Petrophysical Applications

Compressional velocities are affected (slowed) by the

compressive fluids in the pore space, while shear velocity
is affected only by the rock matrix. Consequently, the presence of gas is especially noticeable in compressional-wave
slowness. The combined use of compressional and shear
slowness, either as a ratio or as a log overlay, provide an
immediate gas indicator.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Hydrocarbon Identification. Gas (2 of 4)

The ratio of Vp /Vs is very effective in identifying light
hydrocarbons (gas). When ts is plotted against the Vp /Vs
ratio, water-bearing sands and shales show a linear relationship, and points falling below matrix lines result from
the slowing effect of tp in light hydrocarbons. These
relationships are used for correcting porosity in gasbearing intervals.

VpVs Ratio

1
50

100

150

200

Crossplot of shear slowness vs. Vp /Vs serves as an immediate

hydrocarbon indicator. Compressional slowness travel
times increase where the rock pore space is occupied by
more compressible fluids.

250
300
ts (sec/ft)

350

400

450

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
Geoscience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4
XPLT.100 Section I-1
DATA-IO.101 Section J-24 (If resolution other than 3.5ft is required)

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

Hydrocarbon Identification. Gas (3 of 4)

Another technique can be used to detect gas with acoustic
measurements without the need for using R/A sources in a
well. The Poissons ratio is strongly influenced by gas-filled
porosity. This method can be used in open and cased holes.
GR-CAL

Poissons Ratio

DTS-DTC

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.102 or .104 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Petrophysical Applications

separation over the receiver array in up and down going

waves. This is called a common source gather. The up
going waves are the direct Stoneley wave and the reflected
up going Stoneley wave. The down going wave is the
reflected down going Stoneley wave. Using the Stoneley
wave velocity information, these up and down going
waves are then shifted (in time) to the middle of the array.
The resulting waveforms are then stacked to reduce the
noise effects.

Hydrocarbon Identification. Gas (4 of 4)

Another effect to identify gas is to look for reflections of
the Stoneley wave generated by a discontinuity (in this
case, a thin layer filled with gas)
Notice the reflection arrivals lining up with its vortex
pointing towards the gas thin bed.
The most robust way to perform a wave separation is a
two-step separation. The first step wave separation is a

F
E
E
T

CAL

Modeled Stoneley
Reflection

Measured Stoneley
Reflection

GR

200

0
0

(s)

6000

Vp/Vs Ratio
6 (in) 11

1.2

80

(s)
6000
S-Slowness
P-Slowness
(s/ ft)
360

X
7
0
0

X
7
5
0

X
8
0
0

Notice the difference between recorded and modeled

reflected Stoneley waves, suggesting permeable thin beds
filled with gas. Here, reflected Stoneley waves are used to
detect gas zones. Note that Vp /Vs kicks to the left reaching
1.7 (Light Hydrocarbon/Gas value for DTS=260us/ft)
where high reflection signatures occur.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 400 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 or .105 Section J-4
PETR-AC.102 or .104 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Integrated Transit Time (ITT)

Acoustic velocity logs were initially used to provide
calibration of surface seismic velocities and reflectors.
Acoustic-log interval travel time or transit time, t, can
be integrated over the entire logged interval to provide
the equivalent of seismic one-way time, which is compared to borehole seismic surveys and reflection seismic
two-way time.

Geophysical Applications

Acoustic-log data is commonly calibrated using checkshot

(velocity) or vertical seismic profile (VSP) surveys prior to
its use in geophysical applications. Data from these surveys
is used to adjust the log data for drift and borehole conditions, and results in improved time-depth correlation.

Acoustic-log presentation showing the integrated one-way

transit time as tick-marks on the right side of the depth track
Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 100 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
N/A

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geophysical Applications

They tie seismic time to log depth and are also used to match
well-log quantities to seismic attributes for distinguishing
primary seismic events (geologic structure and stratigraphy).
It is possible, however, that a synthetic seismogram may
not provide a very good match to the seismic field data.
Disagreements commonly result from the differences in
seismic and well-log measurement scale and acquisition
physics, such as operational frequency (wavelength), borehole condition, and angle of measurement particularly in
the presence of anisotropy.

Synthetic Seismograms
Synthetic seismograms allow correlation of Vp, Vs, SP,
resistivity and density log data with specific surface seismic and VSP events, and also provide more accurate AVO
modeling results. Compressional- and shear-wave data can
be presented in the form of wavelets for comparison to
surface seismic data. Synthetic seismograms are artificial
seismic records obtained from an acoustic impedance log,
which is the product of acoustic- and density-log data.

WELL
LOCATION

SONIC
VELOCITY
T
(

SONIC
VELOCITY
OR
ACOUSTIC
IMPEDANCE
P/T

REFLECTION
COEFFICIENT

REFLECTION
COEFFICIENT
WITH
TRANSMISSION
LOSSES

HORIZONTAL
DISTANCE

SYNTHETIC
SEISMOGRAM

SEISMIC REFLECTION
SECTION

+ REFLECTION
AMPLITUDE

TIME
TIME
DEPTH

TIME
TIME

Steps involved in generating a synthetic seismogram.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 100 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
GEOP-DSS.401 Section J-17
GEOP-DSS.302 Section J-17

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geophysical Applications

TI anisotropy
Two types of anisotropy are of particular interest azimuthal
and transverse anisotropy. Shear wave anisotropy (splitting)
occurs in the presence of horizontal stress. TI anisotropy
relates to the vertical anisotropy of a shear wave velocity
compared to a horizontal shear wave velocity. These properties are derived from Stoneley and Shear wave data. The
main application for this technology is surface seismic
anisotropy correction.

NMO

4th Order
Correction

2000m

3000m

4000m

Different corrections to surface seismic can provide very

different answers to the earth model to be used later when
a drilling trajectory is chosen. The more accurate the model,
the better. TI (Transverse anisotropy), occurs mostly in
shales. TI correction is required for good seismic inversion.
TI is computed from the difference between DTSvertical
(from a Shear measurement) and DTShorizontal (from
inversion of Stoneley data)

Seismic imaging data is available in time, not depth.

To migrate from time to depth, an earth model is utilized.
Large uncertainties can result from assuming an isotropic
earth, if anisotropy is not accounted for during this
migration process.

AAMO
Raybending only

AAMO
+ TIV Anisotropy

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geophysical Applications

0.6

Core data reflecting the correlation

between (Shear Anisotropy) and
(Compressional Anisotropy). It is the
parameter used to correct seismic sections
for anisotropy. If can be determined from
logs, then can be obtained from this
graph. Better correlations can be obtained
if core analysis is constrained to the
particular formation under study.

0.5

S-anisotropy (gamma)

0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1

In deviated wells, the measured anisotropy

will be a mix of azimuthal and TI
anisotropy. While anisotropy can be
easily detected, it is hard to quantify
for large deviations (>45 deg).

Solid circle: Shale and Coal

Square: Sand
Triangle: Carbonate

0
-0.1
-0.1

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

P-anisotropy (epsilon)

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 400 Section C-3
GR

DTSH
Stoneley Wave

50

(API)

200

Anisotropy ()
100

(%)

DTSV
350

100

0.5

(ms)

5.5

X100
X200

TI anisotropy is quantified by (Gamma), which relates to the ratio of

DTSh/DTSv. Notice that is only >0 in shale sections. In a transverse
anisotropic formation, the Stoneley wave is delayed more or slower than
in an isotropic formation. A significant delay of the dipole wave relative
to the Stoneley wave in the shale indicates the TI effect.

GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.104 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

A more complete way to analyze fractures is to measure

the anisotropy created by them on the shear wave energy
or splitting. XMAC can detect azimuthal anisotropy,
providing the fractures azimuth (strike).

Fracture Detection and Orientation

Knowledge of fracture system orientation is important for
further field development. Optimal reservoir drainage is
dependent on the well location relevant to fracture system
direction. Subsequent development well placements should
consider the detected fracture system direction.

Dip
Fast sh
Anis. Azi. Analysis

Acoustic Image

5700

Locating fractures, recognizing fracture morphology, and

identifying fluid flow properties in the fracture system are
important criteria in characterizing reservoirs that predominantly produce from fracture systems. However, fracture
identification and evaluation using conventional resistivity
and only compressional-wave acoustic logs are difficult in
part because fracture recognition is very dependent on the
dip angle with respect to the borehole.

Fast AZ =
Frac Strike

Fracture
Strike
NNE/SSW

5725

Fracture
Intensity =
Anisotropy

Fractures are physical discontinuities that generate acoustic

reflection, refraction, and mode conversionall of which
contribute to a loss of transmitted acoustic energy. In
particular, compressional- and shear-wave amplitude and
attenuation and Stoneley-wave attenuation are significantly
affected by the presence of fractures. Compressional waves
are primarily affected by oblique fracturesthose with dip
angles between 15 and 85, while shear waves are primarily affected by horizontal or near-horizontal fractures. On
conventional velocity logs, fracture-induced attenuation
may be evidenced as cycle skipping, variations in the Vp /Vs
ratio, and on VDL presentations as chevron (crisscross)
patterns caused by mode-conversion interference.

30

5750

Fracture analysis example from XMAC log data. The

anisotropy and fast azimuth are shown along with a dip
analysis. An acoustic image from a CBIL is shown at the
right. Note the coincidence between the fracture strike and
the fast azimuth strike direction from XMAC.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 300 Section C-3

Recently developed anisotropy analysis methods use

crossed-dipole shear, Stoneley-wave, and acoustic imaging
data individually or in combination to provide reliable identification and evaluation of in-situ and induced fractures.

GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

The governing physical principle is that waves, especially

shear waves, are attenuated when traveling across fractured
sections in a well.

Cataclastic zone

Vp /Vs

DTC
Tight zone
DTS

Full monopole waveform

VDL plot

Decrease of velocity
of P and S waves

Instantaneous amplitude
VDL plot, P, S, & St first
arrivals

Reduction of the high

frequency components

Frequency
spectrum

Energy of P, S & St
waves et rec 1-8

Low Energy of the P, S,

and St waves

Left: Geothermal example showing

how Monopole signals are affected
when crossing a fractured section.
Notice how fracture zones reduce
acoustic velocity, energy, and
attenuates high frequency contents.

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

Fracture Detection and Orientation in Cased Holes

Fractures are physical discontinuities that generate acoustic
reflection, refraction, and mode conversion, all of which
contribute to a loss of transmitted acoustic energy. In particular, compressional- and shear-wave amplitude and
attenuation and Stoneley-wave attenuation (recorded in
open holes only) are significantly affected by the presence
of fractures. Compressional waves are primarily affected
by oblique fracturesthose with dip angles between 15
and 85, while shear waves are primarily affected by
horizontal or near-horizontal fractures. On conventional

(ms)

4.5 0

Anisotropy can be detected by XMAC both in open and

cased holes.

{
1.5

This anisotropy analysis method uses the shear wave

splitting phenomena to provide reliable identification and
evaluation of in-situ and induced fractures.

Cased Hole

Open Hole

Fast & Slow

Waves

velocity logs, fracture-induced attenuation may be evidenced

as cycle skipping, variations in the Vp /Vs ratio, and on VDL
presentations as chevron (crisscross) patterns caused by
mode-conversion interference.

Anisotropy
(%)

30

X050

Orthogonal
fractures

X100

Notice the anisotropy in the mid-section, where single

direction fractures exist. In the top section, where no
anisotropy is detected, orthogonal fractures are seen in
the image (since there at fractures at 90 degrees, no shear
wave splitting occurs). Also notice that anisotropy measurement was not affected by the fact that the well was
cased (gray) or not (green)

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.350 Section F-10 (If recorded in CH)
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

open holes only) are significantly affected by the presence

of fractures. Compressional waves are primarily affected
by oblique fracturesthose with dip angles between 15
and 85, while shear waves are primarily affected by horizontal or near-horizontal fractures. On conventional velocity logs, fracture-induced attenuation may be evidenced as
cycle skipping, variations in the Vp /Vs ratio, and on VDL
presentations as chevron (crisscross) patterns caused by
mode-conversion interference.

Hydraulic Fracture Evaluation

Fractures can be detected behind cased hole. This fact
makes the XMAC Elite an excellent service for hydraulic
fracturing evaluation.
Fractures are physical discontinuities that generate acoustic
reflection, refraction, and mode conversionall of which
contribute to a loss of transmitted acoustic energy. In particular, compressional- and shear-wave amplitude and
attenuation and Stoneley-wave attenuation (recorded in

GR
0 150

Dens
2

CAL
5 in 15

Anisotropy Map

DOLOMITE

LIME

-10

ANHY

(deg)

360

AVE
AZ

Tracer Analysis

n
30

(%)

Frac
Tip

Perfs

In this example, a hydraulic fracture showing the fracture

tip move upwards from the perforations. Tracer analysis
confirms the XMAC data analysis. The acoustic data
shows the fracture extending higher than the tracer analysis. Keep in mind the difference in depth of investigation
(a few inches for tracers versus some feet for XMAC Elite).
The frac plane could have probably moved away from the
borehole wall as it extended upwards. Note that the frac
azimuth can now be easily spotted.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
PETR-FE.103 Section J-3
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

Permeability Index
A formation permeability index can be reliably estimated
from XMAC Stoneley wave data using modeling and
inversion techniques. Stoneley waves provide a dynamic
measurement of permeability. Other methods only infer
permeability from static measurements. However, many
factors affect the Stoneley wave, such as borehole rugosity
and mudcake rigidity. By isolating the permeability and
non-permeability attributes of the Stoneley wave, we can
determine the dynamic measurement of permeability. A
modeled Stoneley wave reflecting the non-permeability
attributes of the borehole and formation is computed and
compared with the measured data. Inversion is then used
to determine the Stoneley wave permeability.

0
70

200
DTS[us/ft]

200

Dfth

300

0
0

Dfmsd

250
250

GR[API]

NMR perm [mD]

300

DTth
DTmsd

NMR and Acoustic wave measurements can provide

permeability profile data on a foot-by-foot basis, either
independently or in combination. However, resulting
permeabilities are based on two very different physical
phenomena. Neither permeability value is absolute unless
calibrated with core or other reliable well data. When the
two profiles are in agreement, greater confidence in the
derived permeability is achieved. Understanding the differences when they do occur can also lead to a better understanding of the formation. While Stoneley waves are
influenced by both matrix and fractures, NMR measurements are mainly dependent on the matrix porosity.
Differences between Stoneley and NMR permeability
can often be explained as fracture permeability.

Core Perm (unfil.) [mD]

Stoneley perm [mD]
0.001

Msd. Ston. wave

100

1500

[us]

4500

XX50
Stoneley

DTS

NMR

GR

DTS

Here we see a comparison of permeability from Stoneley

with a curve from NMR and with values from core measurements. As one can observe, there is good agreement
between the Stoneley and NMR data, and the core values
show reasonable agreement over much of the interval.

XX100

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 400 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.101 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.204 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Syn. Ston. wave

1500

[us]

4500

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

TC and TS can be processed to 1ft vertical resolution

compared to the standard 3-4ft vertical resolution. This analysis technique can be performed on standard XMAC Elite
acquired data and allows existing data to be re-interpreted.
This technique can also be applied in cased holes.

Thin Bed Analysis

The vertical resolution of array tools is typically 3.5ft,
but higher resolution is desirable for thin-bed evaluation.
Waveform matching (multi-shot) processing techniques
use the redundant information contained in overlapping
receiver sub-arrays to improve vertical resolution. Recent
techniques obtain vertical resolutions up to 1ft

GR

DTS (0.5ft)

DTS (3.5ft)

150

Low
saturation
sands

X250

Resistivity
image

(api)

DTP (3.5ft)
80 (us/ft) 360

FEET

50

DTP (0.5ft)
80 (us/ft) 360

Turbidites

X450

X350

1 ft

In the above example, turbidites are seen in high resolution

tc /ts, and confirmed by the image log.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
DATA-IO.101 Section J-24 (If resolution other than 3.5ft is required)

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geological Applications

Thin Bed Analysis Combined with Vp /Vs Ratio Computation

3.5 Aperture

350 DTS (0.5 ft) (Conventional-Dotted) 150

GR

1 VRM Resistivity
.2
20

2.3

Vp /Vs- 3.5

5 Caliper 15

2.2
2.1
2.0
1.9

9600

150

250

300

350

DTS
Conventional

0.5 Aperture

9570

Vp /Vs- 0.5

9565

Conventional Slowness
3.5 Ft. Aperture

200

WAVETBAN Slowness
0.5 Ft. Aperture

2.3
2.2
2.1
2.0
1.9

Hydrocarbon Indication
150

200

250

300

350

DTS
(0.5 foot)

The vertical resolution of array tools is typically 3.5ft,

but higher resolution is desirable for thin-bed evaluation.
Waveform matching (multi-shot) processing techniques
use the redundant information contained in overlapping
receiver sub-arrays to improve vertical resolution. Recent
techniques obtain vertical resolutions up to 1ft.
DTC and DTS can be processed to 1ft vertical resolution
compared to the standard 3-4ft vertical resolution. This
analysis technique can be performed on standard XMAC
Elite acquired data and allows existing data to be reinterpreted. It can also be applied in cased holes.
When Vp /Vs fluid identification analysis is utilized over the
same data setbefore and after resolution enhancement
hydrocarbon points can be differentiated. This is particularly
useful in gas/turbidites environment

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.204 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4
XPLT.100 Section I-1
DATA-IO.101 Section J-24 (If resolution other than 3.5ft is required)

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Drilling Applications

Stress Induced Azimuthal Anisotropy (Main Stress Direction)

DEPTH (ft)

GR
0 200
(API)

Fast
AZ

Fast Wave

0 180

Slow Wave

AVE ANIS

SLO
2000

(deg)

1200

(us)

FAST Vs

3700

0 (%) 15

S-fast

S-slow

(n
FAST SHEAR
DIRECTION
0

(deg)[F2]

360
(deg)[F2]

RAY
150

FEET

AZIMUTH
360

FEET

X600

GAMMA RAY
0
150
(oApi) [F1]

ACOUSTIC IMAGE
0

CALIPER
16
(in)[F1]

360
(deg) [F1]

ANISOTROPY MAP
0

100

360

1500

(%)[F2]

14550

X800
14600

Formation anisotropythe directional variation of physical

propertiescan be the result of depositional processes
(intrinsic) or tectonic processes (stress-induced). Formation
anisotropy is evidenced through variations in permeability,
rock strength, fractures, and borehole stresses. Stress-induced
anisotropy is known as azimuthal anisotropy, where parameters differ in an azimuthal direction.
Analyses of in-situ anisotropy (primarily stress-induced)
are made using direct or derived shear-wave velocity and
provide the magnitude and azimuth of anisotropy, i.e., the
size and direction of the maximum and minimum horizontal stresses. These results are used in well design and well
placement for optimum reservoir drainage to detect and
characterize fractures in open and cased hole, to predict
borehole instability and sand production, and in the design
and evaluation of well-completions (hydraulic fracturing).

Stress-induced anisotropy is measured by cross-dipole

acoustic logging. As in the example, the anisotropy is significant in sand, but disappears in shale. The anisotropy
results provide the maximum stress azimuth, and the
anisotropy magnitude is a measure of formation shear
stress or stress difference. In the center example,
anisotropy is shown in the form of an anisotropy map. In
the same well as the center example, an image log was run
over the anisotropic area, and large breakouts were
detected. Notice that breakout orientation (DTSslow direction) coincides with the dark areas in the map as expected.
The anisotropy map shows FAST AZ at 90 degrees from
the breakouts shown in the image log.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C. 300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Drilling Applications

Induced Fractures (Circulation Loss)

The dispersive nature of Stoneley waves makes them sensitive to fluid movement and thus, to open fractures. The
effects of open fractures on Stoneley waves are amplitude
reduction, increase in Stoneley slowness, occurrence of
mode conversion, and occurrence of Stoneley reflections

Notice the strong reflected Stoneley waves and strong

shear anisotropy (bright on the map) coincide with
induced fractures shown in the image log. Fractures
Azimuth from Images (brown rose plot in the middle)
coincide quite well with Fast azimuth rose plot (FAZ
shown by itself on the left).
Stress-induced anisotropy is measured by cross-dipole
acoustic logging. The anisotropy analysis results provide
the maximum stress azimuth. The anisotropy magnitude is
a measure of formation shear stress or stress difference.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.500 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
PETR-AC.204 Section J-4
PETR-AC.205 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

Rock Mechanical Properties

The determination of a reservoirs mechanical properties
is critical to reducing drilling risk and maximizing well
and reservoir productivity. Estimates of rock mechanical
properties are central to drilling programs, well placement,
and well completion design. Mechanical properties include
the elastic properties (Youngs modulus, shear modulus,
Poissons ratio, and bulk modulus) and the inelastic
properties (fracture gradient and formation strength).
There are three elastic moduli that correspond to each type
of possible formation deformation. Youngs modulus (E),
Bulk modulus (K) and Shear modulus (). An additional
parameter, Poissons ratio (), is a measure of the geometric
change of shape under uni-axial stress. These four elastic
parameters are interrelated such that any one parameter
can be expressed in terms of two others, and can also be
expressed in terms of acoustic-wave velocity (compressional
and shear slowness) and density.

Shear and compressional velocities are a function of the

bulk modulus, shear modulus, and density of the formation
being measured. The Vp /Vs ratio, combined with formation
density, , is used to calculate Poissons ratio, Youngs
modulus, the bulk modulus, and the shear modulus.
Whenever possible, log-derived dynamic rock properties
should be calibrated to core-derived static (laboratory)
properties because the static measurements more accurately
represent the in-situ reservoir mechanical properties.
The elastic moduli and Poissons ratio are used in a variety
of applications. These applications include predictions of
formation strength, well stimulation (fracture pressure and
fracture height), borehole and perforation stability, sand
production and drawdown limits in unconsolidated formations, coal evaluation, and determining the roof-rock
strength index for underground mining operations.
Continuous profiles of static mechanical properties and
rock strength can be computed using acoustic logging and
other openhole data.

Youngs/Bulk/Shear modulus
Poissons ratio

Pressure Gradients
Lithology
Drawdown Pressure

Gamma Ray/Caliper

This is a mechanical properties log showing several of these

elastic properties. Borehole pressures above the maximum
gradient will hydraulic fracture the formation. Borehole
pressures below the minimum gradient will cause the
formation to fail (breakout or even collapse). A gravelpack was recommended for this pay zone to avoid sand
production problems predicted by a rock failure model
incorporating compressional and shear slowness data.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-FE.103 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Geomechanical Applications

Borehole Stability Applications

Borehole boundary stress analysis generates solutions,
including mud pressure window, best drilling trajectory,
etc. Stability contour analysis for any well trajectory
allows controlled breakouts to enhance cost effectiveness
by reducing the need for additional casings.

The figure displays acoustic and resistivity images from a

STAR tool. The left two pictures are acoustic and resistively
images of the same depth, when no breakout nor tensile
fractures are present. Notice that the acoustic image nicely
shows the surface geometry of the borehole, and the resistivity image nicely brings up the lithologic variations. On
the right are acoustic and resistivity images from deeper
depth in the same hole, when both breakout and tensile
fractures exist. Notice that breakouts and tensile fractures
are 90 degrees from each other, and separated by two thin
layers of shale, which is washed out. As these breakout and
tensile fracture images are reflections of local failure of the
formation stress exceeding strength, the information given
here can be used to estimate in-situ stress or formation
strength, if one of them is known.

Baker Atlas

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

Boundary Tangential Stresses

Max Tangential Stress
Min Tangential Stress
Confined Strength

Tangential Stress, MPa

60

50

40

30

20
0

100

200

300

2200

Angle from Low-Side, degree

Minimum Required Mud Pressure

2400

Mud Pressure>Pbmin, no Breakout [psi]

0

Measured Depth (Sub Sea), meter

3400
3200 3000
2800
2600

330

30

300

60

3600

270

90

120

4000

3800

240

150

210
180
10

20
30
40
50
60
70
Borehole Deviation from Vertical, degree

80

Top left: Stress distribution around the borehole used

to determine mud windows by showing minimum and
maximum stress at a given depth.
Bottom left: Mud window plot showing the minimum mud
weight required to avoid breakout, and the maximum mud
weight needed to avoid induced fractures. Often, a controlled
breakout situation is acceptable to avoid setting an extra
casing. Breakouts below 90 degrees are considered
controlled. Breakout larger than 90 degrees would
create well collapse.
Black and red curves show maximum and minimum
allowable mud weights. The fact that they cross in several
sections of the well indicates that this well cant be drilled
in a stable condition. If a controlled (60 degrees) breakout
is allowed, the red curve shifts to the blue curve, and then
the well becomes drillable.

SHmax@N32E

Top right: Maximum, minimum and confined stress around

the borehole
Bottom right: Minimum required mud pressure for no
breakout generation for every deviation and azimuth at
a given depth of the borehole.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.102 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.103 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.301 Section J-5
PETR.GEM.302 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

A minimum required mud pressure contour plot at the same

depth (not shown here) shows that if a horizontal well is
drilled in the direction of 10 degrees, a minimum mud
pressure of about 5800 psi is needed to avoid breakout.
Although a well with 40 degrees deviation and 60 degrees
azimuth provides the lowest bound for mud pressure, we
have also identified that this direction is not suited for
production drawdown. This analysis incorporates acoustic
and other openhole data.

Maximum/Minimum Allowed Mud Pressure

This figure displays a maximum allowed mud pressure
contour plot. Each point represents a well direction. The
contours show that if one wants to drill a horizontal well
in the directionfor example 10 degreesthe maximum
allowable mud pressure would be less than 5000 psi to
avoid fractures. Although a well with 40 degrees deviation
and 60 degrees azimuth will stand mud pressure up to
10,000 psi.

Over balanced drilling is

difficult for these horizontal
wells. Tensile fractures will
be induced.
Carefully
controlled
balanced or
under
balanced
drilling for
horizontal wells

Pmud < Pbmax, no Fracturing [psi]

0
30

330

300

60

270

Although horizontal
wells can be drilled in
these directions, open
hole production in
these wells will lead
to sand production

90

240

120

210

150
180

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.102 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.103 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.301 Section J-5
PETR.GEM.302 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

Mud Windows

The graph on the bottom shows the optimum mud window,

where reaching 1600 psi for a deviated well versus just
600 psi for a vertical well, making the deviated well a
much safer (drillable) option.

The three contour graphs display maximum and minimum

mud window. The minimum MW graph (top left) would
recommend a vertical well to be drilled where mud pressure at that particular depth could go as low as 2000 psi.
The maximum MW graph (top right) would recommend
a deviated well (DEV=45 degrees, AZ = ~400 degrees),
where mud pressure could go as high as 4200 psi (vs.
3100 psi on a vertical well).

Mud windows can be shown continuously (for a given

well trajectory) or at a certain depth (in the form of a contour plot like the ones above). This analysis incorporates
acoustic and other openhole data.

Minimum Mud Pressure Contours @Depth 4200.00 ft

Minimum Mud Pressure Contours @Depth 4200.00 ft

Unit: psi, Allowed Breakout Size = 0.00 degree

Unit: psi, Allowed Breakout Size = 0.00 degree

0
2800
330

30

4200
330

30
4000

2700
300

3800

60

2600

300

3600

60

3400
2500
3200
270

90

3000

2400
90

270
2300

2800
2600
2400

240

2200

120

2200

210

120

240

2100

2000
1800

150

1600

180

210

150

Mud Pressure Window Contours @Depth 4200.00 ft

180

Unit: psi, Allowed Breakout Size = 0.00 degree

0
330

1800

30

1600
1400
300

1200

60

1000
800
600
270

90

400
200
0
-200
-400

120

240

-600
-800

150

210

-1000

180

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.102 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.103 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.301 Section J-5
PETR.GEM.302 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

Over pressurized zones detection

Normal overburden pressure will create a linear trend of
tc vs. depth. When the trend is non-linear, like in the displayed example, the shift to the right of the tc is a sign
of the presence of an over-pressurized zone. The amount
of shift can be related with a pressure increase and the
increase can be accurately computed.

18.25
4751.9

37.5

5751.9

56.25

75.00

6751.9
93.75

112.50
7751.9

131.25

8751.9
150.00
40

50

60

70

80

90

100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200

TC vs depth graph showing a deviation from the natural

trend (light green) over an over-pressurized interval.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.100 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-GEM.203 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Geomechanical Applications

Design of optimum mud window with controlled break-outs

1.80

Normal overburden pressure will create a linear trend

of tc vs. depth. When the trend is non-linear, like in the
displayed example, the shift to the right of the tc is a
sign of the presence of an over-pressurized zone.

Swab EMW
Swab ECD 100|pm
Swab ECD 1000|pm
Surge EMW
Surge ECD 1000|pm
MW (sg)

1.75
1.70

EMW (sg)

1.65

5500
4000
4500

1.60
1.55
1.50

5000
5500

1.45
6000
6500

1.40

7000
DEPTH

1.35

7500

20

40

8000

60
80
Seconds/stand

100

120

8500
9000
9500
10000
10500
11000

12

15
18
MPMNI

21

24

27

30

The effect of over-pressurized zones can easily be noticed

in the log above. In this mud window log (red = minimum
MW, blue = maximum MW), an over-pressurized zone creates a negative mud window condition, indicating that
this well can not be drilled in stable conditions. Special mud
will need to be used to avoid fracture (move blue curve to
the right), or different trajectory will have to be chosen.
Breakout extension contour graphs can be generated
showing the angular extension (in degrees) for breakouts,
at a given depth and mud condition. Interpreting such
graphs can help define a new well trajectory with controlled break outs. The result of such an interpretation of
above mud window log would be to move the red curve
to the left, i.e. creating a larger mud window by allowing
some controlled breakouts.

Swabbing/piston effects while moving pipe or turning

on/off pumps can create pressure spikes (positive or negative) large enough to break down a formation (if positive:
fracture and then fluid loss, then the lack of column will
collapse the well, sticking the pipe; if negative: collapse
the formation and stick the pipe). This is very important
for drillers and also shows synergy with ECD subs
(INTEQs MWD).

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.102 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.103 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.106 Section J-5
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Sand Production Prediction

During the exploration phase of the field, it is very important to assess the need for gravel packing (or other sand
control measures) by the use of logs. This is much more
economical than using DSTs, and requires a much simple
logistics (logging tools vs. DST equipment), more so in
remote operations.
During the development phase, water cut effects will have
to be assessed, as well as the effect of the pressure drop
(depletion). Oriented and other perforation strategies can
be used to minimize those effects.

finger through the softer sections of the rock. When water

cuts increase several fold, the chance of sand production
also increases. In those instances, perforating soft areas
near water table levels should be carefully studied since
the problem is irreversible.
Sand production occurs when the draw down pressure is
large enough to have the formation fail, and it gets worse
when the flow rate of the produced fluid is large enough to
drag the loose grain or even to loosen those grains from
the structure (friction effect). Completion strategies should
be evaluated to reduce the draw down (reduce fluid velocity
and/or increase flow are for a given flow rate).

During the field development phase, water cut effects on

sand production can be evaluated. Water will more likely

Non-Darcy

Darcy

8760 8750 8740 8730 8720 8710 8700 8690 8680 8670 8660 8650

Depth, ft

Critical Drawdown Pressure, psi

0

500

1000

The graphs above show the calculated critical draw down

for a given fluid, assuming Darcy or Non-Darcy (turbulent
bubbling etc.). Notice that if Darcy flow can be established,
a much larger draw down can be accepted without sand
production. This can be used as justification for Big Hole
or Super Big Hole perforating or even Gravel Packing.

1500

2000

2500

3000

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.102 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.103 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.105 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.304 or .305 Section J-5 (Liquid or Gas production)
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Perforating for Sand Control and for Hydraulic Stimulation

Perforating for Sand Prevention and Hydraulic

Fracture Stimulation: XMAC anisotropy measurement
provides the direction of maximum horizontal stress. In
the example figure, the advice is to use the orange perforation orientation (X-pattern perforating) shown in the slide,
parallel to max. In the most cases X-pattern perforating
will provide a large enough shot density to allow for drawdowns below critical drawdown pressure. At the same time
it will increase tunnel-to-tunnel separation compared to the
0-180 degree phasing. This will avoid tunnel interference
leading to a potential collapse of the formation or tunnel
integrity. For hydraulic fracturing, the advice is to perforate parallel to max. This will reduce the tortuosity pressure drop, thus leaving more energy available for fracture
development.
As a further benefit, while hydraulic fracturing, a large
amount of fluid will move through the perforations. The
more holes are available the smaller the pressure loss
(larger open area). If a 0 or 0-180 degree charge phased

gun is used, shot density rarely goes over 4 or 6 shot

per foot. By using an X-pattern, more charges per foot
can be accommodated, reducing the pressure drop by
increasing the area open to flow. Casing damage while
perforating can be decreased by using the X-pattern
perforation procedure.
The max direction value is a product derived from XMAC
anisotropy measurement.
Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Perforating Optimization
PLOT 1
Inflow Parameter = PERF GUN (
AWS12

PORTED AWS

AWS12

3500

3000

3000

DP
1500

2000

1500

1500

1000

1000

1000

GRAVEL PACK DP psi

1000
Drawdown generated
by
different gun systems
IDEAL IPE

FLOWING BTM PRES psig

2500

500

BH

500

500

SBH
0

1000

2000

3000
FLOW RATE bbl/d

Once the maximum allowable draw down has been

established (see Sand production Prediction Critical
Drawdown Determination above), WEM can be used to
calculate the open area need (gun type) to stay below
said raw down with the expected production rates. The
product is the recommendation of a gun with optimum
charges, phasing, shot density and entry hole size, as well
as perforating conditions (over or underbalance, WL or
TCP, etc.).
Oriented perforation can be used to avoid perforating the
likely to break out sections of the well.
LMP uses XMAC as an input and can also be used to avoid
perforating in zones that are determined to be too soft.
Geomechanical data and data from XMAC is used as an
entry to WEM to calculate charge penetration, etc.

4000

[ - - - -]

[ - - - -]
5000

In this example, DP charges are ruled out since the tunnel

draw down will be much larger than the recommended
<200psi.
Looking at production, the use of BH or SBH will provide
about the same production, but the SBH is the only one
that will stay below the 200 psi draw down.
Tunnel/Hole plug-ins produce an increase in
per hole flow rate, that in turn produces a larger draw
down, which in turn produces sanding...this is known as
the sanding spiral.
Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.200 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-GEM.101 Section J-5
PETR-GEM.304 or .305 Section J-5 (Liquid or Gas production)
PROD-MOD.251 Section J-21
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Oriented Perforation (1 of 3)
Oriented Perforations have several applications in todays
oilfield scenarios. Sand Control, hydraulic fracturing optimization and connecting natural fractures are some of the
more common ones. The product below can be used to
define the extension (angle) of breakouts (to be avoided
by oriented perforating) for different well trajectories at
a certain depth.

Breakout Location Contours @Depth 4764.00 n

Clockwise to Borehole Lowside [degree]
0
330

200

30

180
300

160

60

140
120
90

270

100
80
60

120

240

40
20

150

210
180
This contour graph shows the break out extension (in
degrees) for different well trajectories. This graph helps
select the direction for oriented perforating.

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.300 Section C-3
GeoScience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Section J-4
PETR-AC.103 Section J-4
PETR-AC.201 Section J-4
DATA-IO.310 Section J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Oriented Perforation (2 of 3)
Another application is to perforate in the preferential
permeability direction. The case below refers to a naturally
fractured reservoir where permeability is related to the
fractures system. The direction of max is detected by
XMAC anisotropy measurement, and is supposed to
coincide with the maximum permeability direction.

In this example, water injection strategies were defined

based on the direction of the preferred Permeability
(parallel to max). XMAC was run in several key wells,
and the sweeping strategy (what well injects and what
well produces) was optimized. After 10 months of injecting
water, the recovery was much better than what was common
for the area. New locations were selected for infield drilling
(injector and producer wells) using this data as well.

GPI Acquisition Codes

XMAC-C.300 Page C-3
GPI Geoscience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Page J-4
PETR-AC.103 Page J-4
PETR-AC.201 Page J-4
RESR-DES.097 Page J-23
RESR-DES.101 Page J-23
RESR-DES.106 Page J-23
RESR-DES.108 Page J-23
DATA-IO.310 Page J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Oriented Perforation (3 of 3)
In wells where the combination of borehole trajectory,
mud pressure and regional stress do not generate break
outs, XMAC can still detect the fast azimuth, unlike image
or caliper logs.
In this example, perforations were oriented towards the
fast azimuth (~N90E degrees). Data was integrated with
NMR, Imaging, Resistivity, GR and SBT.

In this composite plot, XMAC was used to determine the

main horizontal stress direction, as well as mechanical
properties, mud window, and lithology.

GPI Acquisition Codes

XMAC-C.300 Page C-3
GPI Geoscience Codes
PETR-AC.097 Page J-4
PETR-AC.103 Page J-4
PETR-AC.201 Page J-4
PETR-FE.102 or .104
PETR-GEM.102 Page J-5
PETR-GEM.106 Page J-5
DATA-IO.310 Page J-25

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Reservoir Engineering/Production Applications

Conventional Cement Bond

The Acoustic Cement Bond Log is a valuable source of
data pertaining to the effectiveness of the cement sheath
surrounding the casing. These data are obtained by evaluating the effect of the casing, the cement sheath, and the
formation on an acoustic wave emanating from the
Cement Bond Log instrument. The Amplitude Curve of
the reflected acoustic wave is maximized in unsupported
casing and at the minimum in those sections in which the
cement is well bonded to the casing and the formation.

VDL (MICS)
200

1200

Free Pipe

Top of Cement

Part of the log presentation is a recording of the reflected

acoustic waveform either as a half-wave or full-wave
(Signature) or a Variable Density Display. These waveforms are used to identify the wave path and confirm the
interpretation of the Amplitude Curve. When complete
bonding is indicated, the through-the-formation wave is
identifiable and can be used much like the open hole
acoustic log.

Partial Bonding

Service applications are determination effectiveness of

cement bond in casing-formation annulus, identification
areas of zonal isolation, and detection of presence of
microannulus.
Fast
Formation

Good Overall
Cement Job

Figure CBL-VDL Log generated with XMAC Elite

Acquisition Codes
XMAC-C.450

Acoustic Logging
Baker Atlas

Appendix A: Synergy with other technologies:

Open Hole Logging:

Cased Hole Logging:

Resistivity (WL or LWD):

Sw can be derived from porosity with Archie (or similar
equation). Porosity can be improved by the use of
cross-plots with other porosity logging tools.

CN, RPM:
Gas detection by overlays with tc or ts or Poissons
Ratio.

3DEX, HDIL (1ft):

Thin Bed Analysis: High resolution analysis can be
used in conjunction with 3DEX to identify laminations
or turbidites. With HDIL at 1ft resolution, a petrophysical
analysis can be performed since tc/ts can be calculated
at 1ft as well.
Imaging/Oriented Calipers: tc/ts/Azimuthal Anisotropy
data is used in conjunction with imaging to quantify stress
values. These values are in turn used in different geomechanical studies like drilling optimization, production
optimization, sand production, etc. Imaging tools are
also used to verify/quantify in laminated zones (thin
bed analysis).
NMR:
NMR permeability can be integrated with Stoneley
Perm to validate both of them and to detect fractures
and mud cake. Grain size distribution can also be combined with mechanical properties to optimize bit design.
RCI, FMT:
Effective stress is affected by pore pressure. For this
reason, it is critical that the pore pressure used is as precise as it can be. This is a selling point for RCI to avoid
supercharging and other effects that could mask the
actual P* value.
ZDL, GR (SL):
Acoustic Impedance (ZA= /tc) has a large effect on
acoustic transmission, and hence density measurement
becomes a need. Several mechanical properties equations
are corrected by lithology effects. As an additional
synergy to compute synthetic seismograms, reflection
coefficients are required. A reflector occurs where large
changes on ZA can be measured.

Oriented Perforating:
Anisotropy data can be used to define the fast and slow
ts azimuth, helping to orient perforations depending on
the objectives (sand control or hydraulic stimulation).
Prism:
This different technology helps validate fracture growth,
added to its through tubing capability and the option to
log gas wells.
CMI, PLT:
Stress calculations can derive in compaction models
while the field is depleted. The compaction can actually
be measured by CMI and the depletion by PLT (P*)
Other Technologies:
Sand Control:
Critical draw down data can help design a sand control
strategy, and eventually define screens placed in the
borehole.
ESP:
Critical draw down will define the maximum ESP
pumping rate.
MWD:
Drilling Trajectory Optimization can be adjusted real
time with MWD.
ECD measurement is critical to observe the required
mud windows.
Surface Seismic:
Anisotropy correction () derived from TI anisotropy.
AVO analysis requires precise tc modeling.
Synthetic seismograms (already discussed on ZDLSL section).

Acoustic Logging
Appendix A: Synergy with other technologies:

Coring:
Cores are used to calibrate permeability and porosity.
Stress can also be quantified by core analysis and
improve the BIAS/LMP database.
OASIS:
OASIS technology utilizes geomechanics for drilling
optimization, sand production, perforating optimization,
ECD control, and other disciplines that can help to
drill/complete a well, as well as to develop the field.
Mechanical properties are critical for such studies.
Stim Gun:
Stimulation modeling requires rock mechanics data as
input.
Perforating:
Productivity/Injectivity can be analyzed by simulators
that require rock mechanics data for perforating design.
Leak Off Tests/Mini-Fracs:
LOTs and mini-fracs are required to quantify stress values and drilling/fracture optimization.

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Acoustic Logging
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Appendix B: Applications sorted into user groups

Many earth science disciplines benefit from information

derived from acoustic logging data. With this material,
we want to raise the awareness of various geoscience
applications and help clients utilize all recorded data.
Some of the products and their discipline of application
are shown below:
Petrophysics
Fluid identification can be obtained from Vp /Vs and
from Young Modulus
Fracture evaluation from ts and Shear anisotropy

Geophysics
Anisotropy: from DTSF and DTSS
Seismic Image Correction: from ts and DTST (TI
anisotropy)
Synthetic seismograms from tc and ts
Time-depth conversions from tc and ts
Drilling
Mud Window and ECD control: from ts, tc and
anisotropy to avoid circulation loss and stuck tools
Casing design from ts, tc and anisotropy to avoid
circulation loss and stuck tools
Optimized well trajectory: ts, tc and anisotropy to
avoid circulation loss and stuck tools
Overpressurized zones detection and mapping for
location selection from tc
Geology
Stress measurement/direction: from tc/ts/
Anisotropy for structural/depositional models
Fracture detection: from tc/ts to help on creating
field model
Depositional environments: from tc/ts to help on
creating field models
Field Studies: from tc/ts and DTST to help on
creating field models

Reservoir Engineering
Fracture characterization: from tc, ts and anisotropy
providing fracture height and orientation to help
design future well placement for better reservoir
drainage
Thin Bed Analysis: form tc to asses laminated
reservoirs
Fluid Identification: from tc/ts and Young Modulus
Cased Hole Logging: porosity, fracture height and
orientation, casing integrity, cement evaluation
Compaction analysis vs. depletion

Acoustic Logging
Appendix C: Quick Reference to Product Codes

Wellsite products:
Curves marked with (*) are optional.
XMAC-C.100 DT24
Sfan1 (*) Surface Pick 1st arr. T2R1
Sfan2 (*) Surface Pick 1st arr. T2R2
Sfan3 (*) Surface Pick 1st arr. T2R3
Sfan4 (*) Surface Pick 1st arr. T2R4
Sddt (*) Std. dev. Delta-T
Nrej (*) Number of rejections
Dt24
Delta T 2ft
XMAC-C.101 = .100 + FullWave
tnwv05
Monopole Short Waveform
tnst05
Monopole Short Waveform Start time
tngn05
Monopole Short Waveform Gain
XMAC-C.200 = .100 + DTC + DTS (Monopole and in
line Dipole)
DT24(*), Semblance(*), (DTxx or DTS )(*), SFAs(*)
XMAC-C.300 = .200 + (X-dipole)
DT24(*), Semblance(*), (DTxx or DTyy or DTS )(*),
SFAs(*)
XMAC-C.400 = Monopole, Stoneley + In Line Dipole DTs
DT24(*), Semblance(*), (DTxx or DTS )(*), SFAs(*)
XMAC-C.500 = Monopole, Stoneley and X-Dipole DT,
DT24 (*), Semblance(*), (DTxx or DTyy)(*)
XMAC-C.X01 = Includes Waveforms Digital

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