The Core Company

Corpro Core Barrels

Advanced Core Barrel
Technology

Coring companies have been operating with predominately

the same technology for over 40 years. Corpro identified this
and seized the opportunity to develop a pioneering new
coring system. This new innovative coring system, utilizing
improved materials technology, has set and maintained
benchmark standards for coring in the petroleum industry.

The Corpro coring concept has been specifically designed to

enable the retrieval of longer, higher quality cores. The new
system features four primary benefits:
 faster rates of penetration
 less incidence of core jamming
 increased reliability
 improved core quality

Corpro believes that correct stabilisation is one of the most

important factors governing a successful coring operation.
Without the outer barrel properly stabilised, bending within
the well bore is imminent. Corpro researched the positioning
of its stabilizers and determined that optimal stabilization
could be achieved using core barrels in 20 ft stabilised
sections. For high angle and horizontal holes, a stabiliser can
be placed midway in the lower section, giving three stabilisers
within the bottom 20 ft.

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 The Core Company

Features

Outer Barrel
Fully stabilized barrel Gyro Head
assembly to reduce buckling A dual, sealed
and improve core quality bearing upper head
to deter rotation of
the inner barrel

Heavy Duty Threads

Premium double
shouldered connections
Thin Sleeve System (TSS) provide industry leading
The basis of Corpro’s barrel system mechanical and hydraulic
which incorporates an innovative specifications
three-barrel system compared to
traditional inner/outer barrel systems.
TSS eliminates thermal expansion
issues, improves core quality through Liner System
ease of handling, and provides a The core is protected by
platform to enhance core analysis
standard, Half Moon or
On Ice liners. Half Moon
and On Ice liners minimize
jamming occurrence and provide
immediate access to the core for
improved handling and analysis

Core Head Lower Bearing

Corpro offers a comprehensive A trademark of Corpro.
range of core heads, exhibiting
features that enhance core quality The lower bearing
and drilling performance provides an additional
measure to ensure the inner
barrel does not rotate with the
outer barrel, thus maintaining the
quality of the core

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The Core Company

Benefits

• Transfer of power through core-barrel to core-head without losses due to

buckling.
• Higher torsion and tensile strengths than any alternative systems in the market
place.
• Stabilisers positioned at 20ft intervals improve hole gauge and concentricity.
• Corpro Tandem and Extended Tandem Assemblies promote increased success in
high angled wells.

Technical Specification

Specifications
Core Barrel Range
Size (in) 43/4 x 29/16 53/4 x 31/2 71/8 x 4 85/8 x 51/4 91/2 x 51/4

Thread Type Corpro HD Corpro HD Corpro HD Corpro HD Corpro HD

Rec. Hole Size (in) 53/4 - 61/2 61/2 - 8 8 - 91/4 91/4 - 11 11 - 121/4

Core Size (in) 29/16 31/2 4 51/4 51/4

Top Connection 31/2 IF 41/2 FH 41/2 IF 65/8 REG 65/8 REG

Outer Tube (in) 43/4 x 33/4 53/4 x 45/8 71/8 x 55/8 85/8 x 7 91/2 x 7

Unit Length (ft) 20 20 20 20 20

Pulling Capacity (lbs) 300000 515000 860000 960000 1550000

Make-Up Torque (ft lbs) 7500 9500 30000 35000 45000

Max. Torque (ft lbs) 25000 35000 70000 75000 120000

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Sealed Bearing Unit

Advanced Core Barrel
Technology

The Sealed Bearing Unit has been designed to further increase

the independency of the inner barrel assembly from the outer
barrel, reducing inner barrel rotation and other forces generated
by the rotation of the outer barrel assembly. The sealed bearing
unit also provides an ideal running environment for bearings
because there is a constant supply of clean lubricant that has not
been contaminated by drilling mud. This is completely different to
conventional coring systems where the bearings have to operate
in a hostile [Link] can lead to bearing damage,
wear and possible failure; all of which is
eradicated by the use of the sealed
bearing system.

Benefits

• Great reduction of the frictional

driving force transmitted by the outer
barrel onto the inner tube.
• Bearing efficiency independent of the mud quality.
• Combined Loads (radial and axial) are efficiently accommodated
• Reduced bearing wear.
• Easy and fast maintenance.
• Compatible with all existing equipment and available for all Core
Barrel Sizes

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The Core Company

Fast Ball Sub

Advanced Core Barrel
Technology

The Fast Ball Sub is a tool that is located at the top of the core
barrel and contains the drop ball needed to seal the inner barrel
before the coring process can begin. Typical method required the
coring engineer to drop the ball from the rig floor and wait for
the ball to travel the entire length of drill pipe before reaching its
seat. The Fast Ball Sub is located directly above the core barrel
and therefore allows the ball to reach its target immediately after
the sub is activated.

Corpro identified the need to integrate the Fast Ball Sub into the
core barrel after realizing the problems, time, and inefficiency
associated with the previous method. Corpro designed the tool
based on the following criteria:

• Reliability of the tool

• Functionality of the tool as a one-way valve to prevent mud
flow through the inner barrel while coring
• Ability of the tool to allow mud to escape from the inner
barrel if required
• Ease of use during operation

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 The Core Company

Operating Principle

• When running in hole, the circulating ball is in the upper part of the
sub and mud is free to flow through the inner barrel assembly.
• When the coring engineer determines that all parameters are
satisfactory for coring, the flow rate is increased until compression
of the activation spring is achieved. The ball then drops into the
recess machined in the bottom part of the sub.
• The pumps are then stopped to allow the piston to move upward.
The ball then lands smoothly on its seat and coring can begin.

Features and Benefits

• Saves rig-time
• Allows efficient cleaning of the inner barrel even in cases such as orientated
coring.
• Prevents inner tube collapse due to excess over pressure when the ball seats.
• Allows efficient cleaning of the core barrel even when an obstructive tool is run
above the barrel. (e.g. mud motor, logging tools, etc.).

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Thin Sleeve System (TSS)

Advanced Core Barrel
Technology

The TSS inner barrel forms the basis of Corpro’s barrel

system which incorporates an innovative three-barrel system
compared to traditional inner/outer barrel systems. TSS
eliminates thermal expansion issues, improves core quality
through ease of handling, and provides a platform to enhance
wellsite processes and core analysis.

The TSS includes two components, a threaded steel jacket and

a disposable liner in which the core is housed.

The presence of two independent tubes allows the

disconnection process to take place without transmitting the
torque to the core, therefore without inducing any rotation
core damage.

The liners are made of aluminum or fiberglass and can be

upgraded for enhanced coring services. The liners ease the
core entry due to lower friction compared to conventional
steel inner barrels. Each material offers the best compromise
between structural integrity, temperature rating, friction
coefficients, and cost. Corpro provides the following liner
options which are further described below:

• Half-Moon Liners for core visualization

• On-Ice Half-Moon Liners for reduced jamming and core
visualization
• Aluminum Liners
• Fiberglass Liners

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 The Core Company

Half Moon Liner

Half Moon liner technology provides a safe, efficient, and

non-damaging means to visualize the core at the rig site.
By viewing the core at the rig site, real time decisions can
be made concerning subsequent operations associated
with coring, drilling ahead, core preservation, and future
analysis. As well, surface processing services such as
plugging and waxing are expedited. In the absence of
Half Moon liners, the only means to view the core
include manually sliding the core out of the inner tube or
cutting the entire length of the inner tube with a longitudinal
saw. These techniques are destructive and expose the core to damage.
The Half Moon Tube™ safely provides a quick and easy way to visually examine the
core on the rig site without affecting the quality and characteristics of the core.
• It provides a conclusive decision on whether
the reservoir is completely cored and could
reduce the number of coring runs.
• It provides valuable information as to any
alterations which may be needed on
subsequent runs in terms of core head
selection, barrel lengths, and operating
parameters to optimize the process.
• In terms of core handling, the ability to see the
core provides valuable information in terms of
cutting the core for preservation and
transport. Well site personnel are able to
ensure a cut is not performed in a critical
section of the core such as at a fracture where
damage would be possibly induced into the
core itself.

The Half Moon Tube is used in conjunction with the Thin Sleeve System (TSS)
where the Half Moon Tube is used as the liner. The Half Moon Tube is extracted
from the steel inner barrel like a normal liner and clipped together. Once the core is
positioned on the cradle, the upper portion of the Half-Moon is removed and the core
is available for inspection.

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The Core Company

On-Ice Half-Moon Coring

'On Ice' is an innovative technology designed to improve

efficiency and combat the problem of core barrel jamming.
Jamming is the primary problem associated with coring
cost and the degradation of core quality. It occurs
primarily in unconsolidated formations, fractured
formations, and in areas of swelling clays. In general,
jamming is more likely to occur where the core is
unstable or can no longer support its own weight and
the downward forces exerted as it enters the inner tube.

The mechanics of jamming must be understood in order to

minimize the problem. Jamming occurs when the compressive strength of the core is
less than the combined weight of the core and friction forces acting downward as it
enters the inner tube. The only solution is to reduce the friction forces or limit the
length of core cut.
Embarking on a comprehensive research program, Corpro developed the
breakthrough ‘On Ice’ inner tube system, supported by the Thin Sleeve System. ‘On
Ice’ uses a proprietary technology and is a significant step towards reducing the
friction forces that inhibit smooth entry of core. The ‘On Ice’ development focused on
reducing the frictional forces between the inner barrel and the core, achieving the
lowest friction coefficient in the industry.

A thorough experiment of lab tests was

performed in order to measure the friction
coefficient of industry standard disposable
inner tube systems in comparison with the
proprietary ‘On Ice’ system.

The ‘On Ice’ system results in a 61%

reduction in resistance to core entry over
the next best available system. This is
demonstrated in the following table.

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 The Core Company

Aluminum Liners

Aluminum is the most widely used disposable liner in

that it provides ample benefit at an economical value.
Most importantly, it offers a lower friction coefficient
compared to steel while maintaining integrity to avoid
structural damage. The aluminum liner can be dry cut
with the use of special blades to avoid unnecessary
core contamination.

Fiberglass Liners

Fiberglas liners are made from fibrous strand roving,

which are impregnated with epoxy resin and helically
wound, under tension, onto a polished mandrel. The
combination of material and manufacture provide a
polished internal wall with a low coefficient of friction
which allows smooth transfer of core into the inner
tube. Core jamming is reduced and higher core
recovery can theoretically be achieved. Fiberglass has
limitations in that it is limited in its structural integrity
while acquiring the core, cannot be used above 180C,
and cannot be used in all drilling fluids. A safety
hazard exists in that the fiberglass and resin can be
toxic while cutting the core at surface and require
special care and PPE equipment.

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Soft Pro
Reliable Drop Ball Activated Full
Closure System

Unconsolidated formations present the risk for the core to

slide out of the inner tube during the trip to surface.
Purposely designed equipment is required to fully close the
inner tube in situations where a spring core catcher will not
suffice. Corpro’s Soft-Pro technology utilizes a proprietary
upper head and a full closure lower shoe to achieve this easily
downhole.

The Soft-Pro design pioneers a consistent and reliable full

closure mechanism to retain unconsolidated core. The
system is activated hydraulically and is not sensitive to
pressure fluctuations like other systems. The activation cell,
located in the Gyro Head, utilizes a sealed column of
hydraulic fluid which holds the weight of the inner barrel
during normal coring procedures. When it is time to activate
the full closure shoe, a ball is dropped to vent the oil column
which supports the TSS inner tube above the lower shoe. The
TSS inner barrel is then free to move down and activate the
full closure shoe. Within the shoe, either a basket catcher or
inverted clamshells close and trap the core inside the barrel.
As a backup, a spring catcher is included to ensure a
successful recovery in the instance a harder formation is
encountered.

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 The Core Company

Operating Principle

The full closure shoe is available in two

configurations; Soft-Catch and the Orenoc
Shoe.

Soft-Pro utilizes a hydraulic, dual-bearing upper head Soft-Pro

called the Gyro-Head. The Soft-Pro Gyro Head is an Gyro Head
innovative upper head design which allows the inner barrel to
rest freely within the outer barrel, ensuring total
independence between the inner and outer barrels. The
design incorporates dual bearings in the upper head allowing
the inner barrel to remain static while the outer barrel
rotates. Additionally, the Gyro Head provides the hydraulic
mechanism to activate the full closure shoe. Combined with
the lower bearing of the core head, the Soft-Pro system
delivers the necessary stability to both cut and retain core in
challenging environments.

The Soft catch contains a cage/basket style

catcher which collapses in the center. Once
Soft-Pro is activated, the core is caught by a
basket which forms at the bottom of the core.
This system suffices in most unconsolidated,
offshore applications.
Soft Catch

The Orenoc shoe is an inverted clam shell

which closes completely when activated.
The shells pinch together and secure the core.
The Orenoc shoe has applications in highly
unconsolidated formations such as heavy oil
sands where there is virtually no mechanical
structure and the core is held primarily
by the viscous reservoir fluids. Orenoc

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The Core Company

Coreheads Technology
Millenium Series

Corpro offer a comprehensive range of core heads, exhibiting numerous unique

features that enhance core quality and coring performance.

Core head development is a continuous process and many of our improvements

result from adapting and improving our designs to overcome specific coring
challenges.

The extensive product range enables the selection of a core head that, for a
particular formation, will deliver optimum performance in terms of core quality,
low mud filtrate invasion, core recovery, penetration rates and efficiency.

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 The Core Company

Design Basis

Corpro utilise the latest enhancements in drilling bit

technology customised to the coring application with the
priority of core quality (physical integrity and low mud
filtrate invasion), recovery and performance driving the
process.

Cutter Distribution
Computer-based algorithms are used to determine ideal
cutter distribution and modelling of each core head design.

Profile
Corpro’s core head designs make full use of load enhancing
features. The use of optimised profiles to increase cutting
loads for a given WOB, coupled with the gradual transition
from cutting face to gauge area, provide maximum resistance
to premature wear, whilst maintaining rapid ROP and good
core quality.

Flow Patterns
The flow channel geometry and laterally directed porting
are designed to enhance core head cleaning, provide
effective cutter cooling, and reduce core damage and
invasion by the drilling fluid.

Spiral Blade
Available on selected core heads, set with natural diamonds
for improved vibration control and cuttings removal.

Impact Arrestor
When required, Impact arrestors can be strategically placed
on the core head cutting face and adjust the aggressiveness
of the core head. Experience has shown that in many cases
they will limit over-torque and stalling, resulting in reduced
coring time and enhanced core quality.

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The Core Company

Cutter Technology

In order to provide the most effective cutting structure Corpro select the type,
quality, quantity and size of PDC required for each core head. Exposure, angles, co-
ordinates and densities at the core head cutting face are all optimised.
Cutter technology undergoes continuous review by Corpro ensuring that latest
advances are incorporated in new designs.
Extensive research in diamond interface design, diamond table thickness, and diamond
geometry has led to cutter technology that provides a new level of impact and
abrasion resistance and resultant performance improvement.

Gamma
The diamond grit is Large Diamond Grit encountered.
formulated to supply the Residual Stress Control Medium Diamond Layer
best impact properties. Thickness
Gamma cutters are Delta Medium Grade Diamond
applied in soft formations The diamond grit is Residual Stress Control
with conditions formulated to supply the
producing impact damage best combination of Alpha
such as hard stringers or impact and abrasion Alpha is the designation
unstable drilling properties. Delta cutters for cutters with the
conditions. are applied in applications highest abrasion
Medium Diamond Layer where impact damage is resistance with good
Thickness possible and some impact properties. Alpha
abrasive formations are cutters are applied where
the formations are highly
abrasive and high rates of
PDC wear are expected.
In addition, the diamond
grit is formulated to
resist the high levels of
thermo mechanical wear
seen in high abrasion
applications.
Thicker Diamond Layer
Abrasion Resistance
Diamond Grit
Residual Stress Control

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 The Core Company

Coreheads Technology
Millenium Series

You will find here below a small selection of our corehead range. For further
information, please contact us at ops@[Link]

MCP 372 MCP 580 MCP 501

1/2” PDC 3/8” PDC Oblong PDC
Step Profile Parabolic Profile Parabolic Profile
7 Blades 8 Blades 10 Blades

MCP 662 MCP X42 MCT 443

1/2” PDC 1/2” PDC TSP – 1SPC
Shallow Cone Custom Profile Round Profile
6 Blades 4 Blades

MCT 543 MCD 485 MCI 905

TSP – 1SPC Natural Diamond Impregnated
Parabolic Profile Round Profile Flat Profile

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

SEEIN IS BELIEVING
Redefining the economics
of formation evaluation.

The crux of coring is to understand what happens inside the

barrel during the core cutting process. This primarily concerns
the ability to identify core jamming which can be difficult to
detect from the surface. As a result, it can jeopardise the quality
and the recovery of the core sample.

With the introduction of iCore™, Corpro is moving towards

trouble-free coring runs with improved recovery and core value.
Furthermore, by analysing what is happening downhole, iCore™
offers the opportunity to optimise barrel length and maximise
quality recovery. This totally redefines the economics of
formation evaluation through coring.

iCore™ is a major breakthrough in the coring industry.

Until now, it was difficult for coring engineers to fully evaluate
the impact of coring parameters on the core. iCore™ provides
the solution needed to fine tune their approach. With well
geometries becoming more complex and operating costs
continuing to grow, iCore™ offers operators the solution to
maximise coring efficiency as well as core quality.

iCore™ is a significant game changer in the

world of formation evaluation. By understanding
what is happening inside the barrel and
offering a substantial cost-effective solution,
coring system designs and operating
procedures will be improved and
subsequently, run length will be extended,
making coring an increasingly viable and
economic formation evaluation technology.

iCore – 2.5Ft sub located

on top of the inner barrel
assembly

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 Description
iCoreTM is a 2 ½ft compact
instrumented sub, which is
positioned inside Corpro Heavy
Duty core barrel at the top of the
inner-assembly. The iCoreTM
continuously records, through a
large set of sensors, an extensive
volume of coring associated data.
When analysed, this information
provides visibility on the good
conduct of the coring operation.
These measurements currently
include temperature, pressure
(inside and outside the inner
barrel), tri-axis vibrations, inner
tube load solicitations (torque,
tension, compression), outer tube
and inner tube true rotation. This
data is collected in the tool and
studied on surface to identify
exceptional events during the
coring process.
iCoreTM is currently available for
the 7 1/8” barrel and can be
accommodated in any core barrel
configuration (TSS Half-Moon
System, Soft-Pro, Liquid Trapper,
etc). The system is fully
compatible with existing Corpro
equipment.

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Liquid Trapper
Seamless and cost-effective sampling of both
reservoir rock and fluids

During the core pull out trip to surface, the mud hydrostatic pressure
decreases gradually and the gas comes out of solution inside the core.
During its escape from the core, the expanded gas can drive the
formation fluids, expelling oil and/or water out of the core. Using
standard core barrels, the expelled core fluids are totally lost during
core barrel retrieval to the surface.

This phenomenon has always been considered a shortfall of

conventional coring techniques particularly in situations where oil or
water saturations are critical. The industry has made many attempts to
overcome this challenge but the technologies developed so far have all
failed to come up with a cost-effective and reliable solution.

Considering the increased industry demand to produce hydrocarbons

through secondary and tertiary recovery, a new technology aiming to
trap either oil or water escaping from the core was becoming an Oil
Industry’s specific and urgent requirement.

Corpro is proud to introduce the Liquid Trapper™ device, a new

saturation coring system, QHSE compliant allowing a seamless, cost
effective sampling of both reservoir rock and fluids.

Patented inflatable joints allow core to pass

during coring but close on the core after
activation, providing fluids seal that traps expelled
oil and water while releasing the gas.

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 The Core Company

Description

During the trip to surface, as pressure drops, gas is liberated from the oil and expands in
accordance with Boyle’s law. The gas drives out a portion of liquids present in the core depending
of the reservoir and fluid characteristics. The liberated fluids flow into the core/inner tube
annulus and, with a conventional barrel, disappear within the mud system.
Supported by the Corpro TSS™ Triple-Tube system platform; the
liquid trapper consists of a specifically designed liner assembly
which, through a inflatable seal system, “traps” the liquids, oil
and/or water escaping from the core. The Liquid trapper
inner tube system is pre-saturated with a selected fluid
before it is run in hole. This barrel saturating-fluid is selected
depending on the information targeted from the core.
The saturating- fluid can eventually be doped using a mud
tracer and it is maintained inside the inner tube using an inner
tube plug, which is made of a special ceramic plate that breaks as
soon as the corehead tags bottom. The specifically designed ceramic
plate would shatter in minuscule pieces to avoid any obstacle to the
core entry. The coring then proceeds as standard.
After the coring, during the pull out trip, some of core fluids are expelled out of the core. These
fluids then get separated based on their specific gravity. First gases rapidly travel upward, followed
by the oil and ultimately by the core water which will move upward or downward depending on
the saturation fluid density.

The inner tube of the liquid trapper consists of stacked modules, one meter in length each, that
represent closed ‘cells’ in which expelled fluids would separate naturally based on their specific
gravity. These cells are sealed around the core, thanks to specifically designed seal joints that hold
liquids, impeding them to move upward.
The seals will still allow core gases to escape upward, thus eliminating a trapped gas hazard by
discharging gases into the mud system through a modified inner head.
Within the closed cells, oil and water from the core are trapped in the annulus between inner and
outer cell wall.
On recovery, the core is laid down normally using the core cradles.
The Liquid trapper cells are cut in 1m sections, sealed and stored
vertically in special core containers. The natural separation of
oil and water continues during storage and transport.
In the lab, the fluids surrounding the core are collected.
Whole core analyses are conducted and actual material
balance is re-built, based on core and fluid analysis.
The collected oil (or water) bleeding from the core is
reconstituted back into the core porosity to correct the fluids
saturation for bleeding. The combined amount of oil in the core
and liquid-trapper is converted to in-situ conditions by applying the
current oil formation volume factor. Pore volume in the core is adjusted
for compaction using the stress correction factor.

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The Core Company

Features & Benefits

• Trap either oil or water escaping from the core.

• Sampling by meter of produced fluids.
• Provide direct measurement of So and/or Sw.
• Optimised core quality thanks to specific barrel design features and pre-saturation
fluid.

Applications

• Accurate determination of oil left in place.

• Secondary and tertiary recovery projects.
• Accurate Sw in gas fields.
• Reservoir characterisation.
• Reservoir compartmentalisation studies.

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Pressure Core Sampler

Advanced Core Acquisition Solution
to Ensure “No-Lost-Gas”

Introduction

While the protocols for evaluating conventional reservoirs using

core and core data were established decades ago, unconventional
reservoirs have now become a viable energy source facing a steep
learning curve in terms of understanding reservoir properties.

Determining accurate gas volumes, content and deliverability, are

critical when attempting to assess the economics of an
unconventional gas play. These determinations rely heavily on the
analysis of freshly cut core. The total gas content and gas
composition derived from cores are known to contain
uncertainties as a result of the lost gas which escapes the core
during the ascent out of the hole. The escaping gas lost to the mud
system leaves a data gap which must be accounted for theoretically
in conventional core analysis.

The Pressure Core Sampler provides an effective means to obtain a

direct measurement of total gas content by encapsulating the core
in a pressure vessel downhole. Once the core is cut, the core
chamber is sealed at hydrostatic pressure to prevent gases from
escaping the vessel while pulling out of the hole.
At surface, the gas is extruded in a controlled manner allowing for
accurate determination of both gas-in-place volume and
composition.

Conventional core data is utilized to calibrate log data for

understanding and developing reservoir models. The evaluation of
unconventional reservoirs requires innovative methods including
the need for advanced coring technology. The Pressure Core
Sampler is designed to overcome the lost-gas issues associated
with shale gas, coal bed methane, and gas hydrate reservoir
evaluation.

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Pressure Core Sampler

Benefits

• Retrieve pressurized core and fluid samples with no lost gas

• Direct measurements of total gas content and gas composition
• Direct measurements of all free, adsorbed and absorbed gases
• Reduce uncertainties associated with lost gas extrapolation methods and gas-in-place volume
estimates
• Determine evolved gases based on composition and fractionation over time
• Obtain indication of gas relative diffusivity at near in-situ condition
• Improve evaluation of gas storage mechanism and completion solution effectiveness
• Better understanding and determination of shale classification
• Obtain accurate rock mechanical property data on compressibility, shear strength and porosity
• Options to wireline retrieve the PCS for multiple runs
• No limitation on core barrel tripping speed evaluation.

Schematic of PCS gas desorption hook up at wellsite.

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The Core Company

Pressure Core Sampler

Tool Description and Features

The Pressure Core Sampler (PCS) is comprised of

the actuator assembly and a detachable pressure
core chamber with a full closure ball valve. These
components are assembled inside a standard
corebarrel and tripped in and out of the hole on Activation Drop
Ball
drill pipe. The system offers the option to wireline
retrieve the PCS assembly without pulling the bottom
hole assembly when a suitable drill string is used.

The PCS core barrel system is able to recover a 3.2 ft

core of 1.6 inch diameter under pressures up to 10,000
psi. Prior to pulling out of hole, hydraulic pressure is
applied against a drop ball to close the PCS. Closing of the
PCS ball valve is enabled by telescopic action of the
actuator assembly which secures the core inside the
pressure chamber. Once the valve is closed, the core is Quick Release
sealed at hydrostatic pressure. The core barrel is
then ready to be tripped to surface or wireline
retrieved depending on the configuration.

The PCS assembly is instrumented with a downhole

sensor module powered by a lithium battery. Sensor Module
The sensor module continuously measures pressure,
temperature and conductivity while tripping and coring.
The raw data is stored in memory downhole and
subsequently retrieved upon recovery of the core at
surface.

At surface, the pressure core chamber is safely

disconnected from the actuator assembly via a quick
release. The core chamber is then transferred to the Rotating Ball
wellsite core analysis unit for further handling and Valve
desorption processing.

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Pressure Core Sampler

Specifications

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Gas Trapper
Advanced Core Barrel
Technology
During the core pull out trip to surface, gases escape from the core
toward the annulus. Identifying these gases has been thought to be a
very useful and valuable source of information for either safety related
matters or for a better reservoir and fluids characterisation purpose.
Until now the coring contractor’s only concern was to evacuate these
gases either through valved inner tubes or half moon™ liners. It was
rightly thought that these represented a hazard during core recovery.
As a matter of fact in various occurrences pieces of core have been
violently expulsed from the top of the inner barrel generating a serious
safety hazard for the crew handling the core recovery. Obviously in
the event of potential H2S presence this risk is further enhanced and
implies the systematic utilisation of gas masks on the rig floor.
The newly engineered Gas Trapper™ system allows a rapid and safe
assessment of eventual gases presence as well as to identify their
nature.

Operating Principle

The Gas Trapper™ tool utilizes the Corpro TSS platform and benefits
from the triple tube core barrel configuration. The escaping gas is
channelled between the liner and the steel inner tube toward the top
of the barrel where a special trapping device has been located.
The gas is caught into an annulus created between the extended ball
seat and the inner tube extension. This “gas reservoir” has a 5.6 litres
capacity and any gas excess will just escape via the ball seat as in a
normal barrel configuration. A valve at the top of the system maintains
the gas and when the barrel reaches the rig floor the gas pressure
inside the reservoir is very close to the atmospheric one.
On surface, a special device is connected to the Gas Trapper and all
trapped gas is safely collected in a gas bottle for analyses.

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 The Core Company

Features and Benefits

• Secure the identification of the eventual presence of gases in the core.

• Permits an immediate identification of potential gas hazards when the core
reaches surface thus greatly reducing the risk of H2S related accidents.
• Determine immediately through the mud logging chromatograph the nature
of these gases and allow differentiating between hydrocarbons and non-
hydrocarbons gas.
• Through further special chromatography analysis (i.e. detailed High
Resolution Gas Chromatography – HRGC - and/or Isotopic analysis)
facilitates reservoir understanding and mapping particularly as regard to
compartmentalization.
• Available for all Core Barrel Sizes

Applications

• Core handling safety

• H2S – HPHT or Shallow gas coring operations.
• Cap rock coring (checking for hydrocarbon leaks)
• Reservoir characterisation
• Reservoir compartmentalisation studies

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Core Quick View

Advanced Surface Processing

Corpro’s Core Quick View provides a visual log representation of the core at
wellsite. This can only be achieved thanks to Corpro’s Half-Moon technology.
Rather than waiting days, weeks or even months in some remote locations for core
analysis to be performed, CQV data is made available in both hard and electronic
copy within hours of the core being retrieved at surface.

Half-Moon enables the inner tube to be immediately and harmlessly opened at

wellsite. With the core exposed, further processing can be performed which will
allow the core to be represented in an easy to understand log format. The data
presented includes a minimum of:

• Rate of Penetration
• Spectral Gamma Ray log
• White Light Photography
• Blue Light Photography
• Well-site geologist comments
and description

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Operating Principle

At surface, the core is cut in easy to handle three foot sections and placed under
the CQV kit where both normal and ultraviolet photos are taken. Once the CQV
processing is complete, the core is then packaged, plugged, or preserved based upon
geological requirements.

All acquired information is then combined in a continuous electronic log with

flexible formats. A hard copy of the log is provided on the rig site and electronic
copies are subsequently forwarded to all designated end users. With CQV, all
necessary parties are swiftly made aware of the primary core information for
further decision making.

Features and Benefits

• Allows a quick view of the whole core main features combined in a single
adaptable log.
• Facilitate and accelerate decision process.
• Help communication and common understanding between field and office.
• Secure data acquisition from full size core preserved for SCAL.
• Improve overall Core operation effectiveness and value.

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Laydown Cradle
Protect the value of your coring investment

CORPRO Lay-down Cradles are designed to ensure that core

quality and integrity are maintained, whilst providing a system that
is easy and safe to use within the rig floor environment.

Recovery of core at surface can result in damage through bending

of the inner barrels during the lay-down procedure. This results in
mechanical damage to the core, in most cases rendering the core
useless for analytical purposes.
Experience has shown that, thanks to its highly rigid structure, the
use of the Corpro Laydown Cradle will aid in the prevention of
mechanical damages due to surface handling and thus increase the
analytical value of the core.

The upper end of the cradle utilizes a dog

collar clamp which latches the core in
tapered notches. This allows the core to be
safely and quickly locked into the cradle
without requiring personnel to be hoisted
up the derrick.

The length of core is supported by rollers

which provide flexure support and allow
the core to be moved effortlessly across
the saw for cutting.

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Surface Handling and

Processing
Maximise the value of your coring investment

Coring is a necessary part of understanding the reservoir. A coring operation

however does not end when the core reaches the surface. If the core is not
handled and processed correctly, critical information can be lost forever.

Corpro has developed a range of services to ensure that, once the core safely
reaches surface, all care will be taken to maximise the value that can be
extracted from the core and thus providing additional insight to reservoir
quality and producibility and facilitating the decision making process.

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Shear Plate

Once the core is brought to surface, careful processing will

preserve the quality of the core and allow it to be prepared
for analysis. The shear plate is the first device which must
cut the core into sections which will allow the core to be
moved out of the derrick itself. The core is cut at each
joint of the Thin Sleeve System.
The Corpro shear plate mechanism is designed to operate
easily and safely while maintaining the integrity of the core.
The shear plate operates on a guillotine principle with the blade slowly advancing
through the core itself. The drive mechanism is achieved with a mechanical screw or
a hydraulic piston. As it closes, the blade supports the core and does not allow it to
fall.
The shear plate is purposely designed to clamp on the TSS barrel. Support is
provided to the TSS barrels to act as a backup as the blade shears the core. Once
the cut is complete, the shear plate protects the core from slipping out of the inner
barrel.

Core Laydown

Once the core is cut into the twenty foot lengths of the
TSS system, the core is attached to a lay down cradle. The
lay down cradle ensures the length of the core remains
rigid as is moved to the catwalk and/or core processing
site. Without a proper lay down cradle, the core is
susceptible to bending and suffers mechanical damage
which could render the core useless.
The dimension of the cradle is specific to the TSS system and
provides the means to transport the core to the processing site and efficiently move
the core through a wellsite cutting saw. The lower end of the lay down cradle is
fitted with a base plate to house and protect the shear boot. The upper end of the
cradle utilizes a dog collar clamp which latches the core in tapered notches. This
allows the core to be safely and quickly locked into the cradle without requiring
personnel to be hoisted into the derrick.
The length of the core is supported by rollers which provide flexure support and
allow the core to be moved across the saw for cutting. The core and cradle is moved
via a four-point lift which is certified for onshore and offshore operations.

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Core Cutting Service

The Corpro Core Cutting Service is a purposely designed

coring saw. The saw is designed in such a way that it
combines efficiency, safety and a special layout to avoid
any induced core damage when processing the core. The
service includes a qualified operator with experience in
handling and processing the cores.
The saw is self-contained inside a steel box to maximize
safety for the operator and personnel in the surrounding area.
The blade is mounted on a rigid frame and the power is transmitted by means of a
fully contained drive belt. The belt drive avoids vibration being transmitted to the
core. Thanks to its powerful air driven motor and specialty blade, the saw is able to
cut any type of disposable inner tubes. Roller guides ensure the alignment of the
inner barrel with Corpro’s Lay-Down Cradle, which further reduces the risk of
induced stress fractures in the core. When cut, the core securely rests on rollers
positioned at the same level of the cradle and thus prevents any damage created by
falling to the rig deck.

Wellsite Plugging and Plug Trimming Services

Corpro supply and operate a plugging tool and a subsequent

plug trimmer to improve and expedite core analysis. The
Corpro Plugging Tool is capable of cutting plugs from
sleeved core. The tool is stationed within a core processing
cabin and is able to cut through all types of standard inner
barrel before sampling the core.

The plugging tool is mounted on a drill stand for added stability.

While cutting the plug, the core is stabilized by a clamp and a pump provides cooling
and cleaning to the plug as it is being cut. All types of fluid can be utilized to lubricate
the cut (oil, water, brine, liquid nitrogen, etc.).

The Corpro Plug Trimmer is a system of ensuring perfect ends to plugs taken with
the Corpro Plug Taker. It guarantees that every cut will be at 90 to the plug axis and
clean faced. With the plug trimmed and marked at the wellsite, it is ready for
immediate analysis.

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Core Preservation Service

The Corpro Wax Bath Service allows improved accuracy

in core analysis by preserving core characteristics. The wax
provides a high level of protection by furnishing a
complete hermetic seal against invasive contamination and
helps maintain the physical characteristics of the core
sample.

All Corpro wax dip tanks are supplied with full offshore
certification. Tanks are robustly constructed using stainless steel externally for
corrosion protection and mild steel internally. A flameproof immersion heater warms
an oil jacket, which is insulated with rock wool.

Both full gauge cores and plug samples are able to be waxed for preservation and
must be fully prepared to ensure integrity of the specimen. In the preservation
process, the core is wrapped in a plastic film to avoid direct contact of the wax
material with the core. A second layer of foil is then placed around the sample to act
as a heat shield which deters heat transfer to the core. Two thin pieces of wire are
then tied around the core to enable safe handling. The core is then fully immersed
into the wax to ensure complete coverage of the sample. The specimen is then
removed from the bath, and the wax is allowed to cool. A label is then attached to
the sample and dipped a second time. Multiple coats ensure a complete hermetic
seal and positively affix the label to the sample.

Core Stabilisation Service

It is widely acknowledged that core stabilisation is the only

measure that prevents damages to the core during its
transportation from the field to the lab.
The Lithotarge process was developed by Kirk Petrophysics
as an alternative to the stabilisation of core using either
resin or [Link] method consists of introducing a closed
cell foam into the annulus between the core and the inner liner.
A coloured version (Lithopink) is available for fracture application
in order to differentiate minerals from the stabilization product.

Corpro consider that this method has several advantages over alternative
stabilisation methods.

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Core Packaging and Transport Services

Corpro provide specialized containers to properly package the

core for transport. The containers are offshore certified and
include pre-shaped, Styrofoam spacers to protect the core.
The spacers deter the core from moving and act as a
cushion should any shock occur in transport.

A tracking device, Lithotrack, is available to record the history

of the transport to identify times when the core may be
subject to adverse conditions. The Lithotrack is a small device which is capable of
recording shock, vibration, temperature, humidity, and pressure. A GPS tracking
system is also available to ensure the valuable core can be located at any time.

Gamma Logging Service

The Core Gamma unit measures the naturally emitted gamma

ray radiation from the recovered core at the well-site. The
equipment is a sourceless device which records the natural
gamma rays radiated from the core itself.

In order to prepare a log, the inner barrel is typically laid in

a horizontal position. The operator will mark the depth
intervals on the inner barrel.

The Corpro core gamma logging tool is a hand held device which takes readings at
each intervals. The average readings are taken as per the required sampling interval
and the values are recorded relevant to depth.
Following the logging operation, the gamma ray counts and their respective depth
readings are processed on a portable computer. This data is then used to plot and
print a finished graph of gamma ray counts versus depth, similar to those produced
by core logging companies. Clear trends can be seen between sandstone and
claystone. The Core Gamma unit distinguishes any sand, shale and clay intervals in
the core sample. It can be subsequently used to cross reference with wireline logs
upon completion of the drilled section.

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Core Quick View

Corpro’s Core Quick View provides a visual log representation

of the core at the wellsite thanks to Half Moon technology.
Rather than waiting days, weeks or even months in remote
locations, CQV is made available within hours of the core
being retrieved at surface.
Half Moon enables the inner tube to be immediately and
harmlessly opened at the wellsite. With the core exposed,
further processing can be acquired which will allow the core to
be represented in an easy to understand log format.
At surface, the core is cut in easy to handle, three foot sections and placed under the
CQV kit where both normal and ultraviolet photos are taken. Once the CQV
processing is complete, the core is then packaged, plugged, or preserved based upon
geological requirements.
With CQV, all necessary parties are swiftly made aware of the primary core
information for further decision making.

Core Imaging Services

Corpro’s strategic alliance with Corias provides the means for

on-site reorientation and structural analysis of the core. The
combination of Orient-Pro or Mag-Pro oriented coring with
Corias AS3D technology allow reorientation, structural and
fracture analysis to be completed before degradation of the
core occurs during transport to a lab.
The AS3D structural analyzer provides computer aided 3D
digitization of geometric measurements of linear and planar
structures. The portable equipment allows core studies to be made
at the wellsite in a timely manner. The orientation of the various sedimentary and
tectonic structures are first calculated in relation to a reference scribe line and then
reoriented in geographic position. Along with structural information, analyst can
more easily distinguish between stress induced and natural fractures. The fractures
can be properly understood and described before unrepairable disturbance occurs
due to further handling and transportation of the cores.
The data is processed and displayed in various formats including dip meter logs, rose
diagrams, frequency histograms, and stereonet plots. Each of the displays is further
enhanced with color coding and descriptions of the various features encountered.
Image logs can be inserted into a Core Quick View log.

[Link] [Link]
The Core Company

Corpro Core Container

Protect the value of your coring investment

With an on-going quest for core quality, Corpro provide specialized containers
to properly package the core for transport.

A common misconception in the coring industry is to believe that a coring job is

complete once a good quality core is brought to surface. Obviously, this is an
important step in the coring process, but it is certainly not the last. Core can
easily be spoiled and become completely useless if care is not taken after its
return to surface.

The Corpro Core Containers include pre-shaped spacers to protect the core.
The spacers prevent the core from moving and act as a cushion should any
shock occur in transport.

A tracking device, Lithotrack, is available to record the history of the transport

to identify times when the core may be subject to adverse conditions. The
Lithotrack is a small device which is capable of recording shock, vibration,
temperature, humidity, and pressure. A GPS tracking system is also available
to ensure the valuable core can be located at any time.

[Link] [Link]
 The Core Company

Features and Benefits

• The core containers are made out of light, high impact resistant
polyethylene and thus are easy to ship securely either by air or sea
• Dimensions:
 External: 1200 x 1000 x 765 mm.
 Internal: 1135 x 935 x 600 mm
• Can hold up to:
 45 meters of 2 9/16” core,
 20 meters of 4" core,
 12 meters of 5 ¼” core,
• Very cost effective due to unlimited reusability.
• The protective foam has several effective properties:
 shock absorbent material
 low thermal conductivity and flame retardant
 no permeability
 environmentally safe
• Improves efficiency in the laboratory as there are no nails in the container
and a hammer claw is not necessary
• Environmentally Friendly.

For further information contact

Corpro Systems
(A Reservoir Group Company)
Muirtonside, Whitecairns,
Aberdeenshire, AB23 8UP
Scotland
Telephone: +44 (0) 1651 863000
Facsimile: +44 (0) 1651 863050
ops@[Link]

[Link] [Link]