Annular Forensics / Source Identification

Assessing Escalation Potential in Leak Scenarios

Using advanced tools like ScanWell and complementary laboratory techniques, operators can efficiently identify the source of a leak and accurately assess its escalation potential. This proactive approach not only enhances safety and operational reliability but also minimizes environmental risks and financial losses.

Importance of Identifying the Source of a Leak

Understanding the source of a leak is fundamental to assessing its potential to escalate into more significant issues, such as equipment failure, safety hazards, or environmental damage. Pinpointing the origin allows engineers and operators to address the root cause effectively and prevent further complications.

Techniques for Source Identification

1. Compositional Analysis:
   • Initial onsite or online compositional analysis of the leaked fluids provides a rapid understanding of the fluid properties. Parameters such as chemical composition, phase behavior, and pressure-temperature relationships are evaluated.
   • This analysis helps determine whether the fluid is oil, gas, or water, and provides clues about the conditions of the reservoir or pipeline where the leak originated.
2. Advanced Laboratory Testing:
   • When onsite or online measurements are insufficient, advanced laboratory techniques can be used to identify the fluid’s origin with high precision:
     • DNA Fingerprinting: This method compares the genetic signatures of microbial communities in the fluid with those from known reservoirs, pipelines, or other potential sources.
     • Isotope Testing: The isotopic composition of elements such as carbon or hydrogen can reveal the geological source of the fluids and help differentiate between multiple potential leak origins.
3. Pathway Analysis:
   • By correlating the source data with structural and operational information about the infrastructure, engineers can trace the leak path. This is crucial for assessing risks of escalation, such as the likelihood of further leaks or worsening environmental impact.

Real-Time Leak Assessment with ScanWell

ScanWell technology offers a cutting-edge solution for real-time compositional analysis of fluids. Here’s how it supports leak source identification and risk assessment:

1. Real-Time Measurements:
   • ScanWell delivers immediate insights into fluid properties and composition, reducing the time required to evaluate potential risks.
   • The technology operates safely from the surface, eliminating the need for intervention into the wellbore or disruptions to production operations.
2. Non-Invasive Process:
   • Unlike traditional sampling methods, ScanWell avoids intrusive procedures, making it a safer and more cost-effective solution.
   • The ability to perform measurements without production deferment ensures that ongoing operations remain unaffected, preserving output and minimizing downtime.
3. Data for Risk Mitigation:
   • By quickly determining the source of the leak, operators can take targeted corrective actions to prevent escalation.
   • The rapid availability of reliable data enables better decision-making under time-sensitive conditions.

Assessing Escalation Risks

Once the leak source and pathway are identified, the escalation potential can be evaluated. This includes:

• Determining the potential impact on surrounding equipment or infrastructure.
• Estimating the likelihood of further leaks or failures in the system.
• Assessing environmental and safety hazards posed by the leak.