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Remote Well Monitoring Using Creowave C-site Technology
Introduction
The oil and gas industry requires continuous, reliable well monitoring to ensure operational safety, optimize performance, and reduce unplanned shutdowns. Creowave’s C-site technology offers a state-of-the-art solution for remote well monitoring by utilizing wireless Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices and advanced analytics.
Coupled with Creowave’s powerful M7 software, the system provides key data insights through the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), enabling operators to make proactive, data-driven decisions. This innovative solution helps the oil and gas industry to enhance well integrity management, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.
Use Case Example: Onshore Remote Well Monitoring at Oil & Gas Customer In The Middle East
Several wells in remote locations have been distributed over a large area. Distance between the wells is several kilometers. There is no data from the field, this means site visits and routine well inspections are needed. This is challenging due to no infrastructure and time and cost it takes for a person to check data on location.
Solution to this is to install C-site S7 measurement units to the wells to measure. Three S7 units are installed per well. The S7 units will measure wellhead temperature & pressure and annulus A & B pressure. A R7 gateway is setup with SKID solar powered station that powers the gateway – no need for energy infrastructure.
The well’s S7 pressure sensor detects a gradual pressure build-up in the annulus, which could indicate a potential tubing leak. This data is collected with the S7 measurement unit that transmits the data to the R7 gateway. Data communication from R7 unit to the M7 server via 3G/4G network by using R7’s integrated modem.
The M7 platform analyzes this data, comparing it with historical trends, and predicts that the well may experience a significant failure within a week. The system sends an alert to the operator, recommending an inspection and preventive action. The maintenance team, using the mobile app, inspects the well data and addresses the issue before it causes downtime or environmental damage.
Using the C-site system removes the need for manual data collection by providing real-time data which leads to early detection of problems and this in turn results in less damage, less cost.
How It Works
The C-site system consists of the S7 sensor unit, the R7 gateway and M7 software.
Battery operated, self organising sensor unit
Intelligent access point for wireless sensor units
Complete management software
Creowave C-site technology uses a variety of IIoT sensors to monitor critical well parameters:
- Pressure Sensors: Measure wellhead and casing pressure to detect fluctuations that could indicate well integrity issues.
- Temperature Sensors: Monitor thermal gradients that can signal leaks or structural failures.
- Acoustic Sensors: Detect abnormalities such as casing damage or leaks by capturing and analyzing vibrations and noise.
- Corrosion Sensors: Measure the rate of corrosion on wellbore casings and pipes, providing early detection of material degradation.
- Gas Detectors: Identify hazardous gas leaks, reducing environmental and safety risks.
The C-site system employs low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) communication, such as LoRa, to transmit data from the sensors to a R7 gateway. This wireless communication ensures long-range, secure data transmission without requiring extensive cabling, making it ideal for remote locations. The data from the R7 is transmitted wirelessly to C-site cloud-based software, the M7 for further processing and analysis.
Data Analysis & Alerts on the M7 Software
The C-site system M7 software analyses incoming data to detect abnormal patterns using predictive analytics. The system displays well parameters, allowing operators to monitor conditions effectively. Abnormalities that can be measured, for example, are sudden pressure spikes that indicate risks such as blowouts or gradual temperature changes that can suggest potential casing or tubing failures. Alerts are sent to operators through email, SMS, or app notifications, ensuring rapid response to potential threats.
Proactive Maintenance
Predictive algorithms identify potential integrity issues before they escalate. The AI/ML algorithms enable data analysis to predict any possible failures before they occur. Maintenance teams can be dispatched based on real time data insights, reducing unnecessary site visits and enhancing operational efficiency which leads to an increase in production and sales.
For critical alarms, such as high casing pressure, the system triggers automated safety protocols such as emergency response teams are notified with precise GPS coordinates and operators receive actionable guidance through the mobile app.
Regulatory Reporting
Historical data is stored securely for audits and regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Key Benefits of the C-site System
Increased Production
By predicting maintenance needs and preventing equipment failures, C-site solution reduces unplanned shutdowns which in turn increases production time and profitability. Enhanced well & reservoir management could yield $3 savings in per barrel of oil equivalent, increasing sales.
Reduced Costs
Wireless C-site technology eliminates the need for extensive cabling, lowering installation costs and complexity. The M7 software insights improve decision-making and optimize maintenance scheduling. Predictive maintenance can reduce unplanned downtime by 20%-30%.
Enhanced Safety
Sensors enable early detection of issues (e.g. well leakage) & predictive analytics minimize risks to personnel and environment. With less site visits safety & efficiency is increased.
Increased Efficiency
The M7 software’s AI and machine learning capabilities provide operators with actionable insights, enabling data-driven decision-making that increases efficiency. The system continually learns and improves, ensuring accurate and timely detection of issues which improve operations, e.g. minimizes engineering and field work.
Actionable Insights with AI/ML
The M7 software’s AI and machine learning capabilities provide operators with actionable insights, enabling data-driven decision-making. The system continually learns and improves, ensuring accurate and timely detection of issues.
Regulatory Compliance
Automated reporting simplifies adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements. This reduces the administrative burden.
Conclusion
Creowave’s C-site remote well monitoring solution, combined with the M7 software platform, delivers a comprehensive, advanced toolset for managing well integrity in the oil and gas industry.
The use of wireless IIoT devices, real-time data analytics, AI, and machine learning allows operators to improve safety, efficiency, and operational performance.
This scalable solution transforms traditional well monitoring methods, offering unparalleled insights and proactive management capabilities to ensure smooth and sustainable operations.