Analysis of Thermal Behavior of Materials to be Used as Insulators in Logging Tools for Oil Wells

Abstract

Measurements of thermodynamic and geophysical parameters in gradually deeper and hotter wells has driven design modification that enhance the performance in sensors and downhole electronic instruments and their associated thermal protection systems. In Mexico the oil reservoirs are located at mean depths of 6,000 m, hence the requirements for measuring these types of parameters is challenging. This paper describes preliminary work related to thermal protection systems using both three different materials and two equipments. The materials used were ceramic fiber, refractory cement and mineral wool, and the equipments were a borosilicate glass cell and a Dewar vessel. Temperature trials were conducted in the laboratory up to 250 °C. The material compositions, their thermal characteristics and the behavior during the heating tests are discussed. The obtained results are useful in the criteria formulation about the efficient use of each material for a specific objective, such as a sealing system, a protection system or an isolation system.