Down-Hole Fluid Sensor Launched

Optoelectronic components and systems designer Avo Photonics, in collaboration with an optical-sensor group at oil and natural-gas service company Weatherford International of Geneva, has validated the performance of a down-hole multichannel photometer that performs fluid analysis in deep boreholes.

A down-hole multichannel photometer, developed by Avo Photonics and Weatherford International. Courtesy Avo Photonics.

The sensor has completed several field trials and is being volume manufactured by Avo Photonics for commercial deployment by Weatherford.

The reservoir fluid analyzer (RFA) sensor fits in a 4.5-in.-diameter hole, performing down-hole fluid analysis up to 5 km below the Earth’s surface. The sensor design allows the device to perform photometric analysis while withstanding operating temperatures from −20 to 177 °C and total differential pressures up to 30,000 psi.

“Designing and manufacturing an optical fluid analyzer for down hole is challenging, and Weatherford’s extended long-wavelength requirements compounded the difficulties of high-temperature performance,” said Thomas Haslett, chief technology officer for Avo Photonics. “We created an original design from our unique perspective.”

Avo Photonics is a Halma company.

For more information, visit: www.avophotonics.com