Artur Schlinker, Marcos Correa Weidlich & Patrick Ferreira
Petrobras (Brazil)
Digital transformation challenges in subsea well operations
Language: Portuguese
Date: October 6th, 15h30
Abstract
Offshore oil well drilling represents a convergence between traditional technologies and cutting-edge computational, electronic, and mechanical innovations. The drilling tools that comprise the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) generate relevant real-time information, with transmission performed through pressure pulses to the surface. Our tool portfolio includes gamma rays, resistivity profiles, ultrasound, neutron density, and ultra-deep azimuthal resistivity, among others. These tools are fundamental for decision-making in exploratory and production development operations, enabling everything from reserve estimation to geosteering within thin reservoirs.
Despite significant advances in recent decades, critical technological gaps persist in well operations, which are predominantly based on indirect measurements. Confirmation of equipment installation, such as casing hangers and seal assemblies, relies primarily on three surface-measured parameters: (1) mechanically measured depth; (2) weight measurements; (3) torque measurements. While these traditional methodologies are well-established in the O&G industry, they require modernization to enable more agile and precise decision-making, thereby avoiding well integrity issues or high repair costs.
In this context, Petrobras is currently developing the intelligent wellhead project, implementing advanced sensors for precise measurement of internal wellhead equipment positioning, also including vibration and axial/lateral displacement sensors. A pioneering project aims to generate internal images of the Subsea Wellhead System (SWHS) using external sensors.
Within the same challenging context of deep-water operations, we face the challenge of precise landing of tools weighing over 300 tons in wells whose heads are installed at depths up to 3000 meters, demanding the development of real-time image processing systems integrated with ROVs for automated alignment through vessel movement.
Research lines include: digital video processing for optimized reading of analog sensors with parallax correction; development of subsea data transmission protocols; creation of digital twins for automated operational envelope management of equipment such as ANM, DHSV, and PDG; and fiber optic implementation for structural failure identification in wells. These initiatives represent the digital transformation necessary to enhance the safety and efficiency of subsea drilling operations.
Biography
Artur Schlinker holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul and a Master’s degree in Engineering from École Centrale de Nantes. He has a specialization in Petroleum Engineering from Petrobras University and has been working as a Senior Petroleum Engineer at Petrobras since 2009, bringing over 16 years of professional experience in Well Design and Construction.
Marcos Correa Weidlich holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (2006) from Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ). He has a specialization in Subsea Engineering from Petrobras University and has been working as a consultant in well structure at Petrobras since 2015.
Patrick de Carvalho Tavares Rezende Ferreira holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (2020) and a Master’s degree in Computer Science (2022), both from Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). He currently works as an engineer at Petrobras, with professional experience in inertial navigation and automation systems.