Electrical Engineering

Torpedo

The Torpedo: Connecting the Electric Line Logging Cable to the Electrical Bridle

In the realm of electric line logging, the torpedo plays a critical role, acting as the crucial connection point between the logging cable and the electrical bridle. This seemingly simple device is responsible for ensuring a reliable and secure transfer of power and signals between the logging equipment and the downhole tools.

Understanding the Torpedo:

The torpedo is essentially a specialized connector, usually a robust and waterproof housing containing a series of electrical contacts. It allows for the quick and easy connection of the logging cable, which carries power and data, to the electrical bridle. The bridle, in turn, houses the various electrical components that connect the logging equipment to the downhole tools, such as sensors and actuators.

Components and Construction:

A typical torpedo consists of the following components:

  • Housing: A robust, waterproof enclosure that protects the electrical contacts and ensures a reliable seal.
  • Contacts: A set of precisely aligned and securely mounted electrical contacts within the housing, ensuring a low-resistance and reliable connection.
  • Cable Entry: A sealed entry point for the logging cable, ensuring water and dust ingress is prevented.
  • Bridle Attachment: A mechanism, usually a threaded connection, for securing the torpedo to the electrical bridle.

Function and Importance:

The torpedo serves several critical functions:

  • Electrical Connection: The torpedo provides a reliable and secure connection between the logging cable and the electrical bridle, ensuring a continuous flow of power and data.
  • Mechanical Strength: The robust housing protects the electrical contacts from damage, ensuring durability in challenging environments.
  • Waterproof Sealing: The waterproof construction prevents ingress of water, dust, and other contaminants, ensuring the integrity of the electrical connection.
  • Ease of Connection: The torpedo design allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection of the logging cable, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

Conclusion:

The torpedo is an essential component in electric line logging, facilitating the secure and reliable connection between the logging cable and the electrical bridle. Its robust construction and secure design ensure the uninterrupted flow of power and data, enabling efficient and accurate logging operations. The torpedo's simple yet vital role in this intricate process underscores the importance of even seemingly insignificant components in achieving complex and critical tasks.

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: The Torpedo

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary function of the torpedo in electric line logging?

a) To connect the logging cable to the electrical bridle. b) To transmit data from the downhole tools to the surface. c) To provide power to the downhole tools. d) To secure the logging cable to the wellhead.

Answer

a) To connect the logging cable to the electrical bridle.

2. Which of the following is NOT a typical component of a torpedo?

a) Housing b) Contacts c) Cable Entry d) Downhole Tool

Answer

d) Downhole Tool

3. What is the main advantage of the torpedo's waterproof construction?

a) It prevents the electrical connection from overheating. b) It protects the electrical contacts from corrosion. c) It allows for easier connection and disconnection of the cable. d) It ensures the torpedo can withstand high pressures.

Answer

b) It protects the electrical contacts from corrosion.

4. How does the torpedo contribute to operational efficiency?

a) It allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection of the cable. b) It reduces the need for specialized personnel. c) It minimizes the risk of data loss. d) It ensures accurate readings from the downhole tools.

Answer

a) It allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection of the cable.

5. What is the significance of the torpedo in electric line logging?

a) It enables the efficient and accurate transmission of power and data. b) It reduces the risk of mechanical failure during logging operations. c) It simplifies the connection process, saving time and resources. d) All of the above.

Answer

d) All of the above.

Exercise:

Scenario: You are working on an electric line logging operation. During the process, you encounter a problem with the torpedo connection. The logging cable is not making proper contact with the electrical bridle, resulting in intermittent power and data transmission.

Task: Identify at least three possible causes for this problem and suggest solutions for each.

Exercice Correction

Possible causes and solutions:

  • **Dirty or corroded contacts:** Clean the contacts thoroughly using a suitable cleaning solution and a soft brush.
  • **Loose connection:** Tighten the connection between the torpedo and the electrical bridle.
  • **Damaged cable or torpedo:** Visually inspect the cable and torpedo for any signs of damage. If damage is found, replace the damaged component.
  • **Incorrect alignment:** Ensure the contacts are properly aligned within the torpedo. If necessary, adjust the position of the cable or the torpedo.
  • **Water ingress:** If the torpedo is suspected of water ingress, it may need to be dried or replaced.

Books

  • "Electric Line Logging: Principles and Applications" by [Author Name], [Publisher Name] - This would be a comprehensive textbook on the subject, likely containing detailed information on the torpedo and its role.
  • "Downhole Tools and Technology" by [Author Name], [Publisher Name] - This book might contain a chapter or section dedicated to electric line logging and the associated equipment, including the torpedo.

Articles

  • "A Review of Electric Line Logging Technology" by [Author Name], [Journal Name] - Search for articles discussing the technology in general, as the torpedo is a fundamental part of the process.
  • "Design and Development of a New Torpedo for Electric Line Logging" by [Author Name], [Journal Name] - Look for publications that focus specifically on the torpedo and its design.
  • "Field Testing and Validation of a Torpedo for Electric Line Logging" by [Author Name], [Journal Name] - Search for articles highlighting practical applications and the torpedo's performance.

Online Resources

  • Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) website: The SPE is a professional organization with a vast library of technical papers, presentations, and online resources related to oil and gas exploration and production, which likely includes electric line logging and associated equipment.
  • Schlumberger: Schlumberger is a leading provider of oilfield services, and their website often features technical articles and information on their equipment and services, including those related to electric line logging.
  • Halliburton: Similar to Schlumberger, Halliburton is another major oilfield service provider. Their website can be a valuable source of information about electric line logging and relevant technologies.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords: Combine keywords like "torpedo", "electric line logging", "downhole tools", "connection", "connector", and "electrical bridle".
  • Refine by search terms: Use quotation marks around exact phrases, e.g. "electric line logging torpedo", or specify the type of document (e.g. "pdf", "ppt", "doc") to narrow your search.
  • Explore related websites: Use "site:spe.org" or "site:slb.com" to limit your search to specific websites relevant to the topic.
  • Check academic databases: Explore databases like IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, or Google Scholar to access peer-reviewed research papers on the topic.

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