Model 7150 Fluid Migration Analyzer (FMA) : Part Number 7150-0089 Revision P.3 - January 2008

Model 7150
Fluid Migration
Analyzer (FMA)
Part Number 7150-0089
Revision P.3 January 2008

S/N _____________

P.O. Box 470710
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74147
Phone: 918-250-7200 FAX: 918-459-0165
Email: chandler@chandlereng.com
Website: www.chandlereng.com

Copyright 2007, by Chandler Engineering Company L.L.C.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of contents in any manner is prohibited without express permission from Chandler Engineering Company L.L.C.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any
liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

TABLE OF CONTENTS T-1

Table of Contents
General Information................................................................. P-1
Purpose .................................................................................................................................. P-1
Description ............................................................................................................................ P-1
Theory.................................................................................................................................... P-1
Cement Slurry Gel Strength Measurements .................................................................... P-1
Fluid Migration Test Design............................................................................................ P-2
Features and Benefits ............................................................................................................ P-3
Collecting Data during the Test............................................................................................. P-3
Specifications ........................................................................................................................ P-3
Safety Requirements.............................................................................................................. P-4
Where to Find Help ............................................................................................................... P-4
Section 1 Installation............................................................. 1-1
Unpacking the Instrument ..................................................................................................... 1-1
Utilities Required................................................................................................................... 1-1
Tools/Equipment Required.................................................................................................... 1-1
Setting up the Instrument....................................................................................................... 1-1
Installing 5270 Data Acquisition System.............................................................................. 1-2
System Requirements....................................................................................................... 1-2
Upgrading from an Earlier Version ................................................................................. 1-3
Before You Install 5270 DACS....................................................................................... 1-3
Starting the 5270 Installation........................................................................................... 1-3
To install 5270 ........................................................................................................... 1-4
Configuring the Instrument.............................................................................................. 1-4
To configure the instrument....................................................................................... 1-4
Starting and Stopping a Test ............................................................................................ 1-5
Software Setup and Data Display .................................................................................... 1-6
Section 2 Operation............................................................... 2-1
Keys to a Successful Test ...................................................................................................... 2-1
Function of Pressure Regulators and Valves......................................................................... 2-2
Regulators ........................................................................................................................ 2-2
Valves .............................................................................................................................. 2-2
Preparation for a Test ............................................................................................................ 2-3
Initial Cell Preparation..................................................................................................... 2-3
Filling Transducer Lines in Preparation for Testing........................................................ 2-4
Cement Slurry Preparation............................................................................................... 2-5
Loading of the Cement Slurry.......................................................................................... 2-6
Filling Water Reservoirs and Lines ................................................................................. 2-6
Test Setup......................................................................................................................... 2-7
Conducting the Test............................................................................................................... 2-7
Part 1: Fluid Loss............................................................................................................. 2-7
Part 2: Fluid/Gas Migration ............................................................................................. 2-8
Test Duration......................................................................................................................... 2-9
Shutting Down the Test ......................................................................................................... 2-9
T-2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Opening the Cell.................................................................................................................... 2-9
Cleaning the Test Cell ......................................................................................................... 2-10
After Every Test............................................................................................................. 2-10
Flushing the Sample and High Pressure Lines. ....................................................... 2-10
Pressure Cylinder ..................................................................................................... 2-10
Section 3 - Maintenance Schedule........................................... 3-1
Calibration Procedures .......................................................................................................... 3-1
Monthly............................................................................................................................ 3-1
Filter........................................................................................................................... 3-1
Six Months....................................................................................................................... 3-1
Tubing/Fittings........................................................................................................... 3-1
Annually........................................................................................................................... 3-1
Pressure Cylinder ....................................................................................................... 3-1
Temp Controller/Thermocouples............................................................................... 3-1
Section 4 - Troubleshooting Guide.......................................... 4-1
Potential Problems and Solutions.......................................................................................... 4-1
Section 5 Replacement Parts................................................. 5-1
Section 6 Drawings and Schematics ..................................... 6-1

Reference Section
SPE Paper #55650
SPE Paper #19522
Application Notes

PREFACE P-1

General Information
Purpose
The Chandler Engineering Model 7150 Fluid Migration Analyzer (FMA) was developed to
provide a bench-top laboratory device to realistically test cement recipes for use in
controlling formation flow (gas/brine) invasion after the cement job. The apparatus
realistically simulates parameters such as temperature, hydrostatic head, fluid formation
pressures, and pressure gradients driving the flow through a cement column.

Description
The FMA test cell has the same internal diameter as an API HTHP Fluid Loss cell. A hollow
hydraulic piston at the top of the cell is pressurized with water to simulate the effect of the
hydrostatic pressure on the cement. Filtrate from the cement slurry can be collected from the
bottom of the cell through standard fluid loss 325 mesh screens or other desired mesh size
screens. The formation pore pressure and fluid inflow is simulated at the bottom of the cell.
Fluid migration through the cement is monitored using pressure transducers and flow meters.
All pressures, filtrate volume
s, temperatures, and formation fluid inflow rate are automatically measured, computer
logged, and displayed on a continuous basis.

Theory
The Model 7150 FMA is designed to perform the Scale-Down Method testing described by
Beirute
1
and Cheung (SPE 19522) and provides a great deal of operator flexibility for custom
procedures.

The scale-down method is intended to study migration through the cement
column before the cement sets (short-term migration studies).

Cement Slurry Gel Strength Measurements
In order to perform the needed calculations for the test, a measure of the gel strength
development versus time at realistic down hole conditions should to be made prior to the
Scale-Down test.

State-of-the-art acoustic technology allows measurement of the gel strength development of
cement slurry at down-hole conditions using Chandler Engineering Model 5265 Static Gel
Strength Analyzer. Moon and Wang (SPE Paper #55650) describe this methodology. A
copy of this paper is located in the Reference section of this manual.

1
Beirute, R.M. and Cheung, P.R.: "A Scale-Down Laboratory Test Procedure for Tailoring to Specific Well Conditions, the Selection of
Cement Recipes to Control Formation Fluids Migration After Cementing," SPE 19522, 64
th
SPE Annual Technical Conference, San
Antonio, Texas, October 8-11, 1989.
P-2 PREFACE

Fluid Migration Test Design
Table 1, which was calculated using formulas found in Beirute and Cheung (SPE 19522),
shows an example of an FMA test designed using the Scale-Down Method. The assumed
well conditions are also given in the table. As indicated before, the test schedule calculated
using the Scale-Down Method is different for each set of well conditions and for different
slurries with different gel strength development characteristics. In order to prepare the table
below for a particular set of well conditions, it is critical to understand the path of migration
that the invading fluid or gas will take.

Well Conditions
Measured Depth, High Pressure Zone, Ft: 14800
Pore Pressure, High Pressure Zone, PSI: 10900
Measured Depth, Thief (Lower Pressure) Zone, Ft: 13000
Pore Pressure, Thief Zone, PSI: 8800
Measured Top of the Cement Column, Ft: 8000
Pipe O.D., In: 7
Hole Diameter, In.: 9
Equivalent Mud Density (From Mud and Spacer Column Lengths), Lb/Gal: 14.8
Cement Density, Lb/Gal: 15.8

Simulated gas zone pressure to be used in the test, PSI: 300 (This is the backpressure
bottom during the fluid loss portion of the test. During the fluid/gas migration portion
of the test, this is the base inject pressure.) See Table 1 sections A and B below.

Table 1 Pressure Schedule
Fluid/Gas Migration Test Designed Using the Scale-Down Method

A. Fluid Loss Portion of the Test
Time
(min)
Slurry Gel Strength
(lb/100 ft
2
)
Cement pore pressure
(PSI)

Gas Zone Pressure
(back pressure
bottom)
0 1.4 1128 300
6 8.3 1050 300
10 14 985 300
15 21 906 300
20 28 826 300
25 33 770 300
30 42 668 300
35 49 588 300
40 56 509 300
45 63 430 300
50 69 362 300

PREFACE P-3

B. Fluid/Gas Migration Portion of the Test
Time
(min)
Slurry Gel Strength
(lb/100 ft
2
)
Cement pore
pressure (PSI)

Gas Zone Pressure
(Injection Pressure)
Back Pressure Top
55 75 300 300 288
57 98 300 300 286
59 113 300 300 285
60 128 300 300 284
63 166 300 300 281
65 181 300 300 280
68 265 300 300 280
To end of test 394 300 300 280

Features and Benefits
Best features of the industry standard Gas Migration Device developed by Dr. Robert
Beirute.
Accurate temperature control to 400
o
F (205
o
C).
Accurate pressure control to 2000 PSI (14 MPa).
Deviated well-bore simulation.
Ability to test with standard fluid loss screens.
Removable top and bottom of the test cell to simplify sample removal and clean up.
Both liquid and gas flow monitored and recorded.
Multi-channel data acquisition by PC for real-time display.

Collecting Data during the Test
All the pressures, temperatures, linear displacement transducer position, and filtrate volumes
are recorded and displayed using the computer that comes with the instrument. The provided
software continuously displays the data and is very flexible, allowing the display of all
desired information at any time during the test.

Specifications
Operating Conditions: 75F - 400F (24C - 204C)
Maximum Temperature: 400F (204C)
Maximum Pressure: 2000 PSI (14 MPa)

Input Voltage: 200-240 VAC; 50/60 Hz
Power: 1000 Watts

Dimensions: 45 (114cm) high x 63 (160cm) wide x 24 (61cm) deep
Shipping Dimensions: 47 (119cm) high x 57 (145cm) wide x 48 (122cm) deep

Net Weight: 205 lbs (93 kg)
Shipping Weight: 455 lbs (206 kg)

P-4 PREFACE

Safety Requirements
Note: Before attempting to operate the instrument, the operator should read and
understand this manual.

The Chandler Engineering Model 7150 Fluid Migration Analyzer is designed for operator
safety. Any instrument that is capable of high temperatures and pressures should always be
operated with CAUTION!!

To ensure safety:

Locate the instrument in a low traffic area.
Post signs where the instrument is being operated to warn non-operating personnel.
Read and understand instructions before attempting instrument operation.
Observe caution notes.
Observe and follow the warning labels on the instrument.
Never exceed the instruments maximum temperature and pressure ratings.
Always disconnect main power to the instrument before attempting any repair.
Turn off the heater at completion of each test.
Locate an appropriately rated fire extinguisher within close proximity.

After conducting a test, there is a strong possibility of trapping pressure inside the cement
matrix in the cell. In some cases, it will take time for the gas to permeate through the cement
in order for this pressure to be released. To make sure that the pressure in the cell is fully
bled off prior to opening the cell, read Opening the Cell in Section 2 - Operation of this
manual, and carefully follow the instructions.

Note: All Chandler Engineering equipment is calibrated and tested prior to shipment.

Where to Find Help
In the event of problems, the local sales representative will provide assistance, or contact the
personnel at Chandler Engineering using the following:

Telephone: 918-250-7200
FAX: 918-459-0165
E-mail: chandler@chandlereng.com
Website: www.chandlereng.com

Contact Chandler Engineering with all other inquiries, orders for spare parts, and technical
support.

SECTION 1 - INSTALLATION 1-1

Section 1 Installation
Unpacking the Instrument
Carefully remove the instrument from the packing crate. The unit comes fully equipped with
all of the necessary components and ordered spare parts. Make sure that no parts are lost
when discarding the packing materials. Place the instrument on a firm table, close to the
water source and required electrical outlets. Make sure that the location permits easy access
to the nitrogen bottles required to conduct the tests.

After the instrument is removed from the shipping crate, the equipment and spare parts
should be checked against the packing list to ensure that all parts have been received and
none are damaged.

Note: File an insurance claim with your freight carrier if damage has occurred
during shipping. Verify all parts shown on the enclosed packing list have been
received. If items are missing, please notify Chandler Engineering
immediately.

Utilities Required
Filtered tap water source filtered to 7 micron
Chilled water/coolant source
Nitrogen bottle
220V outlet
Drain

Tools/Equipment Required
Standard hand tools including wrenches

Setting up the Instrument
Refer to Figure 1 below for illustration of the installation.

1. Attach water out bulkhead to a drain source.
2. Attach water in from a filtered tap water source to the water in bulkhead.
3. Attach coolant in from a tap water source (does not need to be filtered), or chiller if
desired.
4. Attach coolant out from bulkhead to drain, if using tap water, or back to chiller if desired.
5. Plumb nitrogen from the source to the nitrogen bulkhead.
6. Place balance A and balance B underneath the instrument and plug them into the
corresponding connections at the rear of the instrument.
7. Attach the data cable from the computer to the rear of the instrument.
8. Plug the power cord into the rear of the instrument and then into a proper electrical outlet
source.

1-2 SECTION 1 - INSTALLATION

Figure 1: Depiction of Rear of Fluid Migration Analyzer with Bulkhead Connections

Installing 5270 Data Acquisition System
If a computer was purchased from Chandler Engineering with the FMA, the computer
software needed to conduct the tests comes already loaded. The computer is ready to be used
during the tests. Refer to Model 5270 - Data Acquisition and Control Software (5270
DACS) manual for details.

This section describes the 5270 DACS installation process.

Before installing 5270 DACS on the computer, read the system requirements section below
to familiarize yourself with the hardware and software requirements.

System Requirements
The following table (Table 2) outlines the recommended system requirements for installing
and running 5270 DACS under Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT4.0.

Table 2: Recommended System Requirements
Equipment Recommended
Operating System Windows 95/98/2000/XP
Windows NT 4.0
Computer Pentium processor computer, mouse, CD-ROM drive,
SVGA graphics display (1024 x 768), and a LAN
connection
The computer must be dedicated to the 5270 DACS
system to avoid possible interference from other
software
Internet Explorer 5.0 or greater (5270 uses advanced
graphics support in IE5.0.)
Computer Memory Minimum 128 MB
Hard disk space - Typical
Installation (approximate)
Minimum 2MB for 5270 files
Minimum 1 MB additional free space for data files
Additional space for temporary installation files

Equipment Recommended
Email Microsoft Outlook 97, 98, 2000, XP or other MAPI
compliant email software
Internet access
Serial ports One or more unused serial communication ports
Parallel port One unused parallel communication port to be used with
the software security key and printer
Printer Windows-compatible printer that supports graphic output
- HP Color Inkjet or LaserJet products (network printer or
printer on parallel port)
Power An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is recommended

Upgrading from an Earlier Version
If you are upgrading from an earlier version of 5270 DACS, you do not have to uninstall
your previous version since the setup program automatically detects and upgrades the
previous version. In addition, when you upgrade by installing over a previous version, 5270
DACS retains your data and customizations.

If you want to install 5270 DACS without your prior customizations, uninstall the older
version of 5270 DACS before upgrading. In either case, the 5270 installation software will
not normally delete the data files.

Before You Install 5270 DACS
To ensure a smooth installation, we recommend you follow the procedure below before
installing 5270:

1. Exit all programs.
2. Check for sufficient disk space. See Reviewing System Requirements.
3. If you are upgrading from a previous version of 5270, see Upgrading from an Earlier
Version.
4. Verify that an unused serial port and parallel port are available. Locate them at the back
of the computer.
5. If using LAN resources, verify that the computer is logged into the network.

Starting the 5270 Installation
The setup program guides you through the installation process by prompting you for
information and automatically determining your system configuration and available disk
space.

Note to Windows NT users: If you are installing 5270 under Windows NT, you must have
administrative privileges.


To install 5270
1. Start Windows.
2. Insert the 5270 DACS installation CD into the CD-ROM drive.
3. If the installation does not start automatically, you can start the installation manually.
Click the Windows Start button and click Run. The Run dialog appears. In the Open
field, type D:\SETUP.EXE, where D is the letter of your CD-ROM drive.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen. Click Next to proceed. Unless absolutely
necessary, choose the default options and file locations for the program.
5. Attach the software security key to the LPT1 parallel port on the computer. Note that the
key may be placed inline to the cable to the printer.

Configuring the Instrument
Once the program is installed, it is necessary to connect the serial port(s) to the instrument
and configure the instrument(s).

To configure the instrument
1. Locate the serial port to be used to communicate with the instrument (COM1, COM2,
and COM3).
2. Connect the serial cable to the COM port at the back of the computer and the RS232C
port on the first instrument.
3. Turn on the instrument.
4. Verify that the communication hardware addresses of the Analog Devices modules are
configured properly. Each signal must have a unique hardware address.

Note: The addresses are normally pre-configured by Chandler before the instrument
is shipped.

5. Start the 5270 DACS program.
6. Select the Tools I/O Connection option (see Figure 2 below). Select New as specified
in the documentation for the particular instrument. Configure a New I/O Connection
using the Analog Devices protocol.

Figure 2: Configuring I/O Connections


7. Select the AD6B protocol name.
8. Select Tools Configure. Select New. Choose the Instrument Type Cement Fluid Gas
Migration Analyzer (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Selecting Instrument Type

9. Assign a name for the instrument to be displayed on the main screen.
10. Assign the serial number of the instrument.
11. Select the signals that will be used with the instrument. Uncheck any signals that are not
used.

For Example: For the Model 7150 FMA, 11 signals are used to indicate temperatures,
pressures, flow rates, and fluid volumes. Digital outputs are not used.

12. One at a time, double-click each signal and assign the I/O connection that was previously
created in Step 6, and the hardware I/O address.
13. To verify that the serial communication is functional, select the calibration button for
each signal and confirm that live data is displayed. If not, check the serial
communication cable and the I/O address configurations of the devices (controllers, etc.).

Starting and Stopping a Test
Once the system is configured, selecting File New, Ctrl-N, or clicking on the instrument
graphical icon will start a test.

Verify that all signals are active as evidenced by a green light to the left of each active signal.

Select the test profile for the Cement Fluid Migration Analyzer. The user will be prompted
to choose a file name and to enter pertinent data for the test. The test information may be
updated after the test is started by selecting the Test Properties button on the menu bar.

Once the test is started, three graphs are used to display different groupings of the data
values. Each graph is accessible by selecting the correct tab at the bottom of the graphical
display (see Figure 4 on the following page).
Cement Fluid Gas Migration
Analyzer

Figure 4: Graphical Display

To change the graph formatting during a test, right-click within the graphical area and select
from the options that appear.

Permanent changes to the test profile are made using the Tools Configure Test Profiles
features (see Figures 5 and 6).

To stop a test, click on the Stop Test button on the menu bar, or close the window. In either
case, the user will be prompted to save the data file.

Figure 5: Configure Test Profile Figure 6: Editing Test Profile Configuration

Software Setup and Data Display
Please see installation and setup information in the accompanying 5270 DACS manual.
Graph Tabs
Test Start, Stop, Pause Buttons
Test Properties Button
SECTION 2 OPERATION 2-1

Section 2 Operation
Keys to a Successful Test
The industry consensus indicates the following cement properties are necessary for fluid/gas
migration control cement: non-settling, low fluid loss, and short transition time. Before
running a fluid migration test, other standard cement tests should be run to verify that the
slurry formulation is acceptable. These other tests may include fluid loss, static gel strength,
and thickening time. If the results of any of the preliminary tests are unsatisfactory, the
cement should be re-formulated before proceeding to the Fluid Migration Test. The Fluid
Migration Test should be the final double-check that a cement formulation is performing as
desired. The most crucial step in performing a good fluid migration test is the selection of
the cement slurry to be tested. This instrument was designed to test true gas migration
control cement slurries with the characteristics listed above. Testing of standard cement
slurries, which are not designed to control migration, will typically provide unsatisfactory
test results.

It is critical that a static gel strength test is run on the cement prior to the fluid migration test.
The results of the static gel strength test are used to calculate the pressure differentials on the
scale-down method presented in the theory section of this manual.

If the slurry being tested exhibits poor fluid loss control, it will be impossible to maintain the
cement pore pressure schedule indicated in Table 1. The cement pore pressure will drop
rapidly as the slurry loses fluid. If this occurs, the migration portion of the test can be started
when the cement pore pressure reaches the formation pore pressure. The bulkhead fitting on
the side of the cylinder is used to measure the pore pressure and must be completely filled
with grease in order to prevent cement from plugging the line and causing pore pressure
readings to be inaccurate. We have suggested using glass wool in addition to the grease to aid
in preventing cement intrusion into the lines. However, some cement formulas may tend to
form a pressure blocking structure very rapidly with the glass wool in place. If this happens,
the pore pressure will drop off prematurely. In these instances, remove the glass wool and
use grease only.

If the slurry being tested begins to settle, this may be indicated by several different test
results. First, the cement pore pressure may decline as a filter cake is formed near the
measurement port. Second, when the migration stage is started, excessive fluid leak-off may
be seen from the top of the cylinder. This can be an indication of free water at the top of the
column due to settling.

If pre-heating of the test cylinder is desired, the pre-heat temperature should be the same
temperature that the slurry is conditioned at. For best results, the slurry should be the same
temperature as the cylinder when it is introduced to the cylinder. If the cylinder has been
pre-heated to a temperature higher than the cement, the heat may shock the cement causing
it to set prematurely.

2-2 SECTION 2 OPERATION

Function of Pressure Regulators and Valves

Figure 7: Front of Model 7150 FMA with Valve/Regulator Layout

Refer to Figure 7 for the following descriptions:

Regulators
Cell base inject pressure regulator
Used to adjust the nitrogen or water injection pressure during the Fluid/Gas Migration
portion of the test.

Back pressure nitrogen regulator
Used to control the two back pressure regulators.

Confining pressure regulator
Used for applying pressure to the top of the piston and holding it against the cement slurry.
(Also called the hydrostatic pressure.) The confining pressure applied to the sample is
displayed on the Eurotherm pressure controller readout on the front panel of the Model 7150.

Valves
Cell discharge valve (Base)
Used to apply or remove backpressure from the bottom of the cell.

OFF

Cell discharge valve (Top)
Used to apply or remove backpressure from the top of the cell.

Cell supply water valve
Used to fill and drain water lines.

Cell base effluent valve
Allows fluid loss from the cement slurry to be collected.

Cell base inject valve
Used with the cell base inject pressure regulator to select either nitrogen or water injection
during the fluid/gas migration portion of the test.

Cooling water valve
Used for cooling the cell after a test, or when attached to a chiller to simulate deep water or
artic conditions (located on the left side of the instrument).

Cylinder Injection Valve
Used for injecting gas or liquid through the cement column (unlabelled, located at the bottom
of the cylinder).

Back pressure valves
Used with the back pressure nitrogen regulator (located at the bottom of the front panel of the
instrument).

Water reservoir vent valves
Used for filling the two water reservoirs and for maintaining confining pressure (located on
the right side of the instrument).

Preparation for a Test
Initial Cell Preparation
The cell and all of its parts, including the piston, bottom and top lids, screens, etc., must be
clean and dry prior to each test.

1. Grease the thermocouples before they are inserted into the cell at the beginning of each
test. Remove the Cylinder Side Top Line from the cylinder shown in Figure 8. Remove
the bulkhead fitting and pack the fitting completely with grease (supplied) in order to
prevent cement intrusion into the pressure line. This fitting also needs a small ball of
glass wool (supplied) to prevent cement migration.
2. Assemble the bottom of the cell with the bottom screen as indicated. Refer to drawing
7150-0007 Fluid Migration Cell Assembly located in Section 6 - Drawings and
Schematics section of this manual for a schematic of the cell assembly.
3. Lightly grease the O-Rings and threads as needed.


4. Assemble the piston with the top screens, as indicated on the drawing (7150-0007), and
lightly grease the O-Rings and threads as needed.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Successful operation of the FMA has a great deal to do with
proper initial setup of the system as well as correct
maintenance and preparations made between tests. A very
important item to remember is that all transducer lines
should be fluid-filled before starting a test. Do not grease the
inside of the cylinder

Filling Transducer Lines in Preparation for Testing

Figure 8: Depiction of Lines on the Cell

CYLINDER T/C
SLURRY T/C

Figure 9: Rear of Instrument

5. Unscrew the cap from the top of the Oil Fill Tee shown in Figure 9.
6. Using a syringe, inject oil into the line until it fills the line up to the Oil Fill Tee. Replace
the cap on the tee and re-connect the line to the cylinder.
7. Follow the same procedure for the water lines shown in Figure 8. (The unlabelled Cell
Base Valve should be closed for this procedure)

Warning: Before placing cement in the cell, be sure that there is NO OIL on the
inside of the cell. If necessary, place some solvent on a paper towel and
clean the inside of the cell.

Cement Slurry Preparation
1. Prepare the cement slurry according to API RP 10B.
2. Condition the slurry in an atmospheric or pressurized consistometer at the desired BHCT
or 190F, whichever is lower.
3. The length and schedule for the conditioning period should simulate as closely as
possible the expected cement job conditions.
4. The test cell requires approximately 550mls of cement per test.
5. Turn the main power switch ON.
6. Connect the thermocouples to the cell. The cement slurry thermocouple is the top
thermocouple while the cylinder thermocouple is the bottom thermocouple on the cell
body.
7. Set up the temperature controller for the desired temperature profile.
8. Start the heater and pre-heat the cylinder to the desired temperature. The cylinder should
be pre-heated to a temperature equivalent to the conditioning temperature for best results.
If a higher temperature test is desired, pre-heat the cylinder to the conditioning
temperature and then heat to the desired test temperature AFTER the cement is
introduced into the cylinder.


Loading of the Cement Slurry
1. Check to ensure that the unmarked valve at the bottom of the cell is closed before pouring
the cement slurry in.
2. After conditioning the slurry, pour it into the cell and fill to about 2.0" or 5 cm below the
inner shoulder. Be careful not to get any cement on the threads or sealing surfaces. Use
the funnel in order to avoid contaminating the threads with cement.
3. Clean the threads and sealing surfaces as needed if they are contaminated with cement.
4. Slightly tap the sides of the test cell to help remove any air trapped in the cement slurry.
5. Add more slurry as needed.
6. Using a syringe, gently place about 10 ml of water on top of the cement slurry. This
volume of water will be used later in the assembly of the piston to fill the piston shaft to
keep the top screen (on the piston) submerged in water, and to prevent plugging of the
screen during the early stages of the test.
7. Put a thin film of grease on the piston O-Rings.
8. Insert piston in the cell until you feel a slight resistance when it reaches the surface of the
cement slurry.
9. Lightly grease the threads and O-Ring before assembling the top cap and retaining nut.
Tighten using the spanner wrench (supplied). The caps need only be tightened adequately
enough to bottom out. Over-tightening will not aid in sealing. (See Piston Assembly
drawing 7150-0007).
10. Keep your thumb over the top of the piston while screwing on the cap in order to keep the
cement from exiting the cell and filling the top piston.
11. Mount the position transducer assembly on the top of the piston shaft. The transducer
shaft should be fully extended and will not contact the cylinder plug until confining
pressure is applied and sample is being collected.

Filling Water Reservoirs and Lines
This procedure will also purge air from the backpressure regulators and lines to the cell.
Refer to drawing 7150-0057 for the following steps.

1. Apply 100 PSI backpressure by setting both of the backpressure regulators to 100 PSI
and opening both backpressure valves (Base and Top). These valves are located on the
front of the instrument below the front panel.
2. Close the backpressure valves.
3. Set the confining pressure regulator to 100 PSI.
4. Turn the water switch ON.
5. There are two Water Reservoir Vent valves on the right side of the machine. Turn the
valve closest to the front of the instrument to the VENT position. Wait until there is only
water flowing through the sight tube then close the valve.
6. Turn the second Water Reservoir valve to the VENT position. Wait until there is only
water flowing through the sight tube then close the valve.
7. Turn the cell supply water valve to the Fill/Vent position.
8. Turn the cell base effluent valve to the Fill/Flush position.
9. Turn the cell discharge valve to the Base position.
10. Wait about 2 minutes. Water should be seen flowing through the sight tube on the right
side of the FMA.
11. Turn all valves OFF and then turn the water switch OFF.


Test Setup
Note: Test conditions used in these directions are from the test example given in the
theory section of the manual. Your actual test schedule must be designed to
simulate the cement job at your particular site.

1. Open the Base Backpressure valve and set the backpressure regulator at the pressure used
to simulate the gas zone pressure (300 PSI in the example of Table 1).
2. Apply the initial simulated confining pressure (1128psi in our example) using the
confining pressure regulator. This pressure will appear on the digital pressure display on
the front panel.
3. Turn the front water reservoir valve on the right side of the instrument to the Confining
Pressure position. The piston shaft will move down and the position sensor shaft will
contact the cell.
4. For deviated well-bore simulations, the cell may be rotated at this point.

Conducting the Test
Part 1: Fluid Loss
1. Place effluent flasks 1 and 3 on the balances. Fill effluent flask 2 with water and
place in the middle, not on a balance. The line going into flask 2 should be below the
level of the water. Be sure that all the flasks are tightly capped.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Flask 1 located on top of scale A collects the filtrate
from the bottom and top of the test cell. Flask 2 located in
between the scales allows water displacement into flask 3
located on top of scale B. The tube going from flask 2
to flask 3 must be located below the water level. If gas is
produced through the cement specimen, the gas displaces
water from flask 2, and the weight of the displaced water
is recorded via scale B. The gas flow meter and scale
B are calibrated to show gas flow in ml at atmospheric
conditions.

2. Tare the balances.
3. Turn on the computer control software and start the test.
4. Observe the cement pore pressure displayed on the computer. Adjust the confining
pressure as needed in order to achieve the required 1128 psi cement pore pressure.
5. Open the cell discharge (base) valve.
6. Turn the cell base effluent valve to sample. Open this valve slowly.

Note: Fluid should now be entering the flask that is on the right side scale. The rate
of fluid collection will depend on the fluid loss characteristics of the cement.
As fluid is collected and the cement begins to develop gel strength, the cement
pore pressure will naturally begin to decrease. In order to follow your test
schedule, you must continually adjust the confining pressure in order to
maintain the required cement pore pressure at each specific time interval. The
confining pressure will be approximately 10% less than the pressure applied
to the top of the piston. This is due to the force balance across the floating

piston and the fact that part of the piston on the topside is not exposed to the
applied pressure (due to the rod that exits the top of the cell). Decrease the
confining pressure until you have reached your predetermined gas zone
pressure. In this case, the confining pressure should not be reduced below
300 psi. Even though the piston pressure is easily calculable, the actual
observed pressure through the piston will always be somewhat lower, due to
the fact that this pressure is measured through a filter cake formation on the
piston screen.

When the fluid loss portion of the test is complete, perform the following steps:
1. Close the cell discharge (base) valve.
2. Close the backpressure (base) valve.
3. Turn the cell base effluent valve to OFF.

Part 2: Fluid/Gas Migration
1. Open the backpressure (top) valve.
2. Set the backpressure regulator as required (initially 288 psi as in Table 1 example). Set
the base inject pressure regulator as required (300 psi as in Table 1 example).
3. Turn the cell base inject valve to the N2 or water position.
4. Open the cell discharge (top).
5. Open the cell base valve (unlabeled, see figure 8).
6. Slowly turn the cell effluent valve to the sample position.
7. In order to follow the requirements on the test schedule, you must continually adjust the
backpressure (cell discharge pressure) at the required time intervals (following the
example of Table 1).

Note: During a test, care must be taken to make sure that the pressure inside the
cell is never higher than the pressure on top of the piston. Also monitor
the pressures and the position of the piston by watching the graph of the
piston location versus time, particularly around the time of the start of the
application of pressure differential across the cement specimen. It is
critical to maintain the downward force on the floating piston such that the
pressure of the fluid (nitrogen or water) injected at the base of the cell
does not cause the floating piston to move upward. The piston must never
move in the upward position. If this happens, the cement will be
artificially allowed to move. If for any reason during a test (generally due
to operator error) the piston moves up, formation fluid or gas can
artificially enter the cell. If the cement moves artificially, the test should
be immediately terminated.

Caution: There is a drain tube from the hydrostatic regulator to the tray containing
the fluids to be pumped. If the pressure is released too quickly, water will
be forced from the regulator into the pan holding the fluids to be pumped.
Some air and water spattering may be heard.


Test Duration
Carry through with the test for as long as it takes to make sure that flow migration through
the cement is taking place, flow from the simulated formation is fully detected and
stabilized. FMA tests may take several hours past the time the pressure differential across
the cell (using the Scale-Down Method) is brought to a constant level. High temperature
tests may require approximately 4 to 6 hours to reach a slurry temperature of 400F,
depending on the starting temperature of the cement.

Since flow through the cement will most likely occur during the cement gelation stage, the
very minimum duration of the test needs to be the time needed for the cement slurry to
develop at least 1000 lb/100ft
2
of gel strength. However, often the test needs to be conducted
for longer periods if the test is indicating that migration is beginning to take place or if the
influx of formation fluid is not stabilized (often influx starts and increases with time until it
becomes stabilized).

Shutting Down the Test
1. Close the 5270 test and turn off the heater.
2. Set the temperature controller to 0.
3. Close all three regulators and turn all the valves off.
4. Wait until the temperature is 190F or 87C.
5. Turn ON the cooling water.
6. Turn the cell supply water valve to the fill/vent position.
7. Turn the cell base effluent valve to the fill/flush position.
8. Turn the two reservoir vent valves on the right hand side to the vent position.
9. Run water through the cooling coil to allow the cell to cool down.
10. Cycle the cell water supply, cell base effluent, and water reservoir vent valves repeatedly
from vent to off position. Repeatedly cycle the unlabelled valve at the cylinder base open
and closed. This procedure gives the best assurance that any residual pressure in the
cylinder and lines has been relieved.

Warning: The cell supply water valve should never be turned to drain/vent base
position if there is confining pressure on the cell.

Opening the Cell
1. After the cell has cooled, unplug the top plug piston pressure line and remove the linear
displacement transducer from the top of the cell.
2. Back out both thermocouples from the cell and remove the two-side mount and bottom
plug pressure lines.

Note: There are residual pressure pockets in the cell that cannot be relieved,
especially, the side thermocouple and side pressure ports. If the knurled
threaded rings are tight and the plug tends to follow the ring as they are
loosened, there must still be some pressure trapped in the cell pushing the plug.
In that case, you must wait until this pressure is dissipated before attempting to

open the cell. Check each of the ports on the cell for plugging. If necessary,
clear the opening with a small tool.

3. Rotate the cell assembly 90 degrees and remove the cell assembly.
4. Loosen the large knurled threaded rings at each end.
5. Provided no pressure has been detected, open the cell and remove the piston. Remove
the bottom plug of the test cell.
6. Press the cement sample from the cell and record the force required. This value can be
used for comparing relative shear bonds between samples.
7. Inspect the sample for evidence of channels, etc., that would contribute to fluid
migration.

Cleaning the Test Cell
After Every Test
Flushing the Sample and High Pressure Lines
See drawing 7150-0057 sheets 6 and 7. This drawing schematic shows a suggested method
for circulating water through the sample lines and back pressure regulators which will
pressure flush out any residual gray water from the system. The cylinder does not need to
be in place to flush out these lines. Tube fittings are provided in the accessory kit. As an
alternative, flush out each water fill line via a syringe inserted into the tee on the back of the
unit.

The braided stainless steel high pressure lines should be removed and cleared of cement by
inserting a 1/8 tube through the braided line repeatedly until the cement particles are
cleared. The braided tubes are lined with Teflon to facilitate cement removal.

Pressure Cylinder
1. Refer to the cell assembly drawing 7150-0007 for the following cleaning and
maintenance procedures. Thoroughly and completely clean all cement residue from the
test cell, end plugs, screens, etc. Be very careful not to scratch the bore of the cell or any
sealing surfaces on the bottom and top portions of the test cell. Clean the screens
thoroughly using a fine brush and/or muriatic acid. Inspect them for any damage. The
screens must be in perfect condition to prevent cement particles from fouling the tubing
connections to the cell. If a screen is damaged in any way, replace it before the next test.
Inspect and replace the O-Rings on the cylinder plug and piston if cuts, damage, or
imbedded particles are present. If none of these conditions are noted, wipe the O-Rings
and the plug grooves free of cement particles or other foreign matter and lubricate the O-
Rings with a light film of grease. Chandler Engineering recommends that you change the
seals after each test, which has met or exceeded 250 degrees, or after every third test.

2. Clean out the pressure ports and thermocouple ports on the side of the cell and replace the
glass wool and repack the side pressure port fitting with grease. Clean and check the
condition of the bulkhead fitting O-Rings (See Figure 8).


3. Unscrew the cell base manifold assembly from the bottom of the cylinder and clean any
residual cement from the fittings. Disassemble the filter and dip the element in muriatic
acid or another cleaner to remove residual cement.
SECTION 3 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE 3-1

Section 3 - Maintenance Schedule
Calibration Procedures
Periodically calibrate components as recommended by the manufacturers instructions
included with the instrument.

Monthly
Filter
Replace the filter on the cell base injection line.

Six Months
Tubing/Fittings
1. Replace the plastic high-pressure lines.
2. Replace the bulkhead fittings on the cylinder.

Annually
Pressure Cylinder
Have the test cell factory pressure tested and certified for pressure integrity.

Temp Controller/Thermocouples
Calibrate by a qualified factory service technician.

Note: If you must replace a thermocouple due to damage or failure, note the position
of the ferrule on the original thermocouple. The slurry thermocouple ferrule is
positioned to allow the probe to extend into the cylinder approximately . The
cylinder thermocouple ferrule is positioned to allow the probe to flush with the
cylinder wall. Position the ferrule on the replacement thermocouple
accordingly.

3-2 SECTION 3 MAINTENANCE AND SCHEMATICS

Maintenance Schedule
COMPONENT EACH TEST MONTHLY 6 MONTHS ANNUALLY
Cell Assembly and all
Internal Components
Disassemble,
Clean,
Inspect
Pressure Test and
Certify by Factory for
Pressure Integrity
Screens Clean,
Inspect
Replace
Screens

Cell Base Inject Filter Replace Filter
Pressure Lines Clean, Flush,
Inspect
Replace
Plastic Lines
Replace Pressure
Lines
Temperature Controller
Thermocouples
Calibrate by Qualified
Factory Service
Technician
Cylinder Side Ports
Glass Wool
Replace
Wool

Cylinder Side Port
Bulkhead Fittings
Clean,
Inspect
Replace
O-Rings
Replace
Fittings

Back Pressure
Regulators
Disassemble,
Clean, Inspect
diaphragm

SECTION 4 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 4-1

Section 4 - Troubleshooting Guide
Potential Problems and Solutions

Problem Cause Solution
Pressure transducers not
accurately recording pressure
in the cell
Transducer lines may be
cemented up.

Transducer lines may not be
properly filled with oil or
water voids may exist in the
lines.

Flow lines may not be full of
water.

Clean out lines completely
Re-fill with oil following the
procedure outlined in Flushing the
High Pressure Lines in Section 3
Maintenance.

Re-fill with oil following the
procedure outlined in Filling the
Transducer Lines in Section 2 -
Operation

Follow the detailed instructions
included under Filling Water
Reservoirs found in Section 2
Operation of this manual.

Weight from the balances is
not reading correctly
Balance may not have been
zeroed before the test was
started.

Specific gravity of the
effluent is not entered into the
software correctly.

Flask 2 is not full of water or
the line is above the surface
of the water.
Check to see that the balance was
zeroed at the beginning of the test.

Adjust the specific gravity of the
effluent in the software if necessary.

Check to see that Flask 2 is full of
water and the line entering the flask
is below the surface of the water.

Piston moves up during the
test
Confining pressure is less
than the injection pressure.
Test must be immediately
terminated.

Check to see that the hydrostatic
(confining pressure) is greater than
the fluid injection pressure. It
should be the calculated level plus
an additional 10%.

Thermocouple is not reading Thermocouple(s) are not
properly attached.
Check to see that both
thermocouples are plugged into the
cell.

4-2 SECTION 4 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Problem Cause Solution
Heater is not heating Thermal overload is tripped The thermal overload trips when the
thermocouples are unplugged (as
when the cell is disassembled).
Perform the following steps to clear
the overload:
1. Plug in the thermocouples.
2. Push the red reset button on
the side of the instrument.
3. Power down the instrument
using the main power switch.
4. Power the instrument back
up.
The overload should now be cleared
and the heaters should function
properly.

SECTION 5 REPLACEMENT PARTS 5-1

Section 5 Replacement Parts

PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
70308-53 Nut and Ferrule
7150-0041 Heater
7150-0042 Drilled Bulkhead Fitting
7150-0056 Piston Screen
7150-0065 Back-up Screen
7150-0073 Coil Top, Cylinder Side
7150-0074 Coil Bottom, Cylinder Side
7150-0094 Diaphragm
C00596 O-Ring (Bulkhead fitting)
C03318 Check Valve
C08033 Anti-seize Compound
C08984 Peek Tubing
C09421 O-Ring
C09427 Regulator
C09467 O-Ring
C09473 2-Way Valve
C09699 Retaining Ring
C09726 O-Ring
C09731 Seal, Poly-pack
C09750 Potentiometer, Linear
C09751 Plunger, Spring
C09777 Filter Housing
C09778 Pressure Differential Transducer
C09779 Pressure Transducer
C09784 Gauge
C09787 Flask
C09793 Mass Flow Meter
C09794 Balance
C09834 O-Ring
C09862 Glass Wool
C09872 Filter
C09873 Flexible Metal Hose
C09990 Funnel
C10395 Rubber Stopper
P-0308 Needle Valve
P-1663 O-Ring
P-2137 Spanner Wrench
P-2298 3-Way Valve
P-2747 Thermocouple Assembly
P-2839 Fluid
P-3107 Solenoid Valve
P-3156 Screen Assembly
P-3217 Lithium Grease
P-3554 Tygon Tubing
SECTION 6 DRAWINGS AND SCHEMATICS 6-1

Section 6 Drawings and Schematics

Drawing Number Description
7150-0001 Assembly, Fluid Migration Analyzer
7150-0007 Fluid Migration Cell Assembly
7150-0017 Plumbing Diagram
7150-0030 Wiring Diagram
7150-0057 Flow Schematic
7150-0060 Assy, Back Pressure Regulator

SPE 55650
Acoustic Method for Determining the Static Gel Strength of Slurries
Jeff Moon, P.E., Steven Wang, Chandler Engineering
Copyright 1999, Society of Petroleum Engineers Inc.

This paper was prepared for presentation at the 1999 SPE Rocky Mountain Regional Meeting held in Gillette, Wyoming, 1518 May 1999.

This paper was selected for presentation by an SPE Program Committee following review of information contained in an abstract submitted by the author(s). Contents of the paper, as presented, have not
been reviewed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers and are subject to correction by the author(s). The material, as presented, does not necessarily reflect any position of the Society of Petroleum
Engineers, its officers, or members. Papers presented at SPE meetings are subject to publication review by Editorial Committees of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Electronic reproduction, distribu-
tion, or storage of any part of this paper for commercial purposes without the written consent of the Society of Petroleum Engineers is prohibited. Permission to reproduce in print is restricted to an abstract
of not more than 300 words; illustrations may not be copied. The abstract must contain conspicuous acknowledgment of where and by whom the paper was presented. Write Librarian, SPE, P.O. Box
833836, Richardson, TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435.

Introduction Abstract

Well cement slurries are complex substances that must be
tested and characterized prior to use in a well cementing op-
eration. The reasons are numerous and often determine the
success or failure of the cement job. Test methods and in-
struments have been developed over the last 50 years to meas-
ure cementing characteristics such as thickening time, com-
pressive strength, fluid loss, settling, rheology and many oth-
ers. Almost all of these methods involve mechanical meas-
urements under HP/HT conditions to simulate well conditions.
Complex chemical reactions are occurring within a cement
matrix as it becomes a solid. During the initial phase of the
cement hydration, the cement exhibits polymer characteristics
that exhibit a shear yield point that has been described as
static gel strength (SGS). Due to this behavior, the cement
slurry develops SGS after it has been pumped downhole. The
start of gel strength development signals the point at which the
cement slurry begins to change from a true hydraulic fluid that
transmits full hydrostatic pressure to a solid material that has
measurable compressive strength. The cement gel strength is
important for two reasons:

More recently, non-destructive test (NDT) methods have
been developed for use in measuring the compressive strength
(Ref. 8) and static gel strength of well cement. These instru-
ments provide nearly continuous measurements as the proper-
ties and testing conditions change.

The static gel strength development determines the
shut down safety factor on the job. If the cement
slurry is stopped prior to placement, then the static gel
strength allows the calculation of the pressure required
to restart circulation.

The Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer (UCA) was developed
for measurement of the compressive strength of a slurry using
acoustic velocity measurement and, through the use of pro-
prietary algorithms, the velocity is related to compressive
strength. (Ref. 2)

The static gel strength affects the hydrostatic pressure
distribution and the flow of gas or water into the ce-
ment filled annulus, known as fluid or gas migration.

Recently, the Static Gel Strength Analyzer (SGSA) was
developed for the measurement of the static yield point, also
known as the "static gel strength of a slurry. Similar in na-
ture to the UCA in some respects, acoustics, digital signal
analysis and proprietary algorithms are used to perform the
measurements.
This paper describes the discovery that as some slurries de-
velop static gel strength, the attenuation of a high frequency
acoustic signal transmitted through the slurry decreases. This
change in amplitude correlates with the actual static gel
strength of the slurry.

An acoustic method and system for determining the static gel
strength of a cement slurry sample has been developed that
provides nearly continuous, accurate, non-mechanical meas-
urements of the static gel strength of cement slurry samples.
The measurements are made at wellbore temperatures and
pressures up to 400F, 20000 psig.
Static Gel Strength

As cement changes from a slurry to a solid, the matrix de-
velops a structure that behaves neither as a liquid or a solid.
This process occurs before any measurable compressive
strength has developed. This gelation characteristic must be
2 JEFF MOON, P.E., STEVEN WANG SPE 55650

Understanding gas or fluid migration in a cement slurry
can be accomplished either though the use of large physical
models (ref. 1, 3, 8), or through the measurement of one of the
fundamental controlling properties, Static Gel Strength. The
first approach requires large-scale models as described by
Jamth in Ref. 8. The second approach involves laboratory
scale instruments that are used to quantify the parameters gov-
erning the gas/liquid migration behavior into the annulus. In
the first case, large-scale models provide a means for simulat-
ing gas/liquid flow behavior but are constrained by the large
sample volumes and have temperature and pressure limitations
due to the size of the apparatus. In the second case, laboratory
instruments are used to quantify the significant parameters,
such as SGS. Although designed to be specific to the parame-
ter being measured, the laboratory instruments allow the use
of a manageable sample and can provide extreme HP/HT test-
ing conditions. There is a need for each type of instrument,
but for day-to-day slurry testing and practical reasons, the
laboratory approach must take precedence.
understood and measured since it determines the gas or liquid
in-flow potential and it may cause lower formations to be sub-
jected to high pressures if the job is halted and restarted.

As a cement slurry develops static gel strength, it may be-
come self supporting in the annulus. In some respects, during
the gel phase, cement may be considered as a material with
similarities to a polymer. This is true since the cement matrix
exhibits non-newtonian rheological behavior and exhibits a
yield point, also known as static gel strength (SGS). Com-
monly expressed in units of shear stress (lbf/100ft
2
), the term
may be considered as the shear stress that exists at the wall
boundaries at the onset of movement of a column of cement in
an annulus due to the presence of a head pressure.

Previous investigators (Ref. 1,3,4) studied static gel
strength and developed laboratory models and methods for
measurement of SGS. The following equation may be used to
predict the pressure required to overcome the effects of SGS
in a column of cement:

Clearly, there was a need for a laboratory instrument that is
capable of making measurements of the cement static gel
strength prior to the development of compressive strength.

D
LS
P
gs
300
=
Equation 1 Instrument Development

where,
The acoustic characteristics of cement that relate to com-
pressive strength were determined as a part of the develop-
ment of the Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer (UCA). Using this
instrument, the acoustic velocity through the sample indicates
the compressive strength of the sample using correlations de-
scribed by Rao et al over 15 years ago (Ref. 2, 6).
P = differential pressure to overcome SGS, psig
S
gs
= static gel strength, lbf/100ft
2

L = length of column, ft
D = diameter, inches (hole diameter pipe diameter)

One model for use in studying SGS involved measuring
the differential pressure across a cement column as the cement
is moved at an infinitesimal rate within a known internal di-
ameter and length tube (Ref. 1). A constant pressure is ap-
plied at the head of the column and a motorized screw pump is
used to withdraw volume from the bottom of the column at a
rate ranging from 0.020 5.0 ml/min. The column is main-
tained at a known temperature using a constant temperature
bath. The differential pressure is measured and used to calcu-
late the development of SGS.

A development project was undertaken with an independ-
ent consulting firm to develop an instrument capable of meas-
uring the SGS of a cement slurry under HP/HT conditions
using ultrasonics. During the proof of concept phases, initial
experiments indicated that the attenuation of a signal that is
transmitted through the slurry changes in a predictable manner
prior to the onset of compressive strength. Further experi-
ments were conducted to find the optimum acoustic frequency
at which to make these measurements.

Another approach involves API slurry cup geometry used
in adapted HP/HT cement consistometers to measure the static
gel strength of the slurry (Ref. 7). The paddle is rotated at a
rate of 0.5 - 2.0 degrees/minute using a stepper motor drive
and the torque on the paddle due to the gel structure is meas-
ured. The assumption that the rotating paddle induces plug
flow of the slurry within the cup justified a calculation of the
SGS using the swept area and length of the paddle. The rota-
tional rate of the paddle is adjusted to be slightly less than the
rate of development of the SGS. However, this approach to
measuring SGS lacks sensitivity and resolution due to friction
in the magnetic drive system and the continuous shearing of
the sample may bias the measurement of SGS.
Early in the project, most of the effort was directed to-
wards developing mathematical relationships between the sig-
nal attenuation and the SGS of the sample. To determine
these equations, the slurries listed in Table 1 were tested using
the apparatus in Figure 1. Simultaneously, each sample was
placed in a modified acoustic vessel and the signal attenuation
characteristics were measured as a function of time. A variety
of slurry designs were chosen to represent the spectrum of
designs that are in common use, as shown in Table 1.

The tube apparatus shown in Figure 1 was not used for
every comparison. A shearometer, consisting of a known di-
SPE 16550 ACOUSTIC METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE STATIC GEL STRENGTH OF SLURRIES 3
ameter tube upon which a varying mass is placed to induce
motion in the sample, was used for some of the data values.

Additionally, the effects of temperature (T) and pressure
(P) on the new method were studied. The objective was to
establish that the methods used to measure the cement charac-
teristics were independent from the effects of T & P. As a
result of the studies, as summarized in Figure 4, the effects of
temperature on the cement measurements were judged to be
negligible. Additional studies indicated that the effect of pres-
sure on the measurement was greatly reduced when the sample
was pressurized to a minimum pressure of 500 psig to elimi-
nate the effects of entrained air.

An acoustic pressure vessel similar to that used in the
UCA was chosen for use in the new instrument (Ref. 6).
Changes were made to the end plugs in the vessel to improve
the acoustic coupling between the piezo transducers and the
sample.

Although the vessel is similar in design to that used in the
UCA, the captured signal analysis is much more complex.
The UCA design measures the acoustic velocity, whereas, the
SGSA measures the signal content. Consequently, the SGSA
incorporates an embedded system that performs digital proc-
essing of the signal to determine the signal attenuation. This
process involves high speed sampling of the signal, FFT
analysis, and calculation of intermediate signal attenuation
values. Once this process is complete, each attenuation value
is transmitted to the host computer. When the data set is com-
plete, post-analysis of the data calculates the SGS values as a
function of time. Refer to the system block diagram and sam-
ple report in Figures 5 and 8.

Due to the nature and content of the stored data, the acous-
tic velocity (transit time) is also determined. Using the pro-
prietary UCA algorithms developed by Rao et al (Ref. 2), the
compressive strength of the sample is calculated after the SGS
development is complete. Consequently, the new instrument
provides SGS data and compressive strength as a function of
time (Figure 8).

Basis for the Measurement

Intuitively, one could suggest that the Static Gel Strength
Analyzer (SGSA) is a viscometer that uses acoustic signal
analysis as a basis for the SGS measurement. This is not the
case. A viscometer measures the shear stress corresponding to
a known fluid shear rate. From this data, the viscosity of the
sample is determined. One of the advantages of an acoustic
measurement is that the sample is not sheared, thereby provid-
ing a fluid property measurement at zero shear rate. Research
of existing literature discovered comparable techniques for
fluid property measurement used in the polymer industry.
There are precedents where acoustic signal analysis provides
measurements of the gelation characteristics of epoxy samples
and curing agents. Interestingly, based on the data presented
in Ref. 5, the signal waveforms are similar to those found with
a cement slurry analysis.

Additional study of the process suggests that the change in
the transmitted signal energy occurs due to the chemical reac-
tions in the slurry. For example, as the amount of the unre-
acted water decreases during hydration, the transmitted signal
energy increases. From this observation, it is expected that a
continuous measurement of the unreacted water within a
slurry will be achieved.

Once the gelation phase of the cement is complete and pre-
sumably, most of the water has been absorbed by the reaction,
the signal attenuation characteristics are no longer of interest
with respect to SGS measurements. In fact, the acoustic ve-
locity begins to change rapidly as the sample develops com-
pressive strength. Intuitively, one would expect this to be true
since a substance that exhibits compressive strength is no
longer a gel. Note from Figures 8 and 9 that the initial devel-
opment of compressive strength coincides with the peak value
of the SGS.

As evidenced by each UCA test, there are changes to the
acoustic velocity, or transit time, during the initial phases of
the cement reaction prior to the onset of compressive strength.
Based on additional observation of the data, one finds that
monitoring the signal attenuation provides a much higher reso-
lution measurement of the gelation characteristics. Refer to
Figure 3 as well as Figures 9 as examples of this observation.

Analytical Results

Once the technique of correlating signal attenuation to
static gel strength was established, many cement samples (Ta-
ble 1) were evaluated to test and optimize the correlation(s).
A typical example of these numerous data sets is provided in
Figure 9. In all cases, the results were compared with data
obtained from the tube rheometer apparatus and shearometer
with good results.

An example of the fit between measured SGS and the cor-
related result is found in Figure 6. The comparison results for
most slurries were similar and allows one correlation to be
used for most slurry compositions. Ongoing efforts to en-
hance and extend the applicable range of the correlation are
underway.

The data presented in Figure 10 represents part of the de-
sign verification testing of the completed instrument. Five
slurries where chosen for testing in the production model of
the instrument and for comparison with earlier results.

Additional data is presented in Figure 11 that indicates the
effect of worn mixer blades on the development of static gel
strength. Although not the subject of this paper, this data il-
lustrates the type of information that may be obtained using
the SGSA instrument.

Results that illustrate differences in Class H API cement
from different manufacturers is shown in Figure 12. For this
study, the same slurry design and temperature and pressure
schedules were used. The API Class H cement used as sam-
ples was obtained from separate manufacturers.
The data shown in Figure 13 indicate the excellent SGS
measurement repeatability that is possible using the SGSA
instrument when identically prepared slurries are tested under
the same conditions.

Conclusions

1. The characteristic of a cement slurry to develop a gel
structure as a function of time prior to setting has been
studied and modeled extensively. The term static gel
strength (SGS) is used to quantify this characteristic
behavior.
2. SGS is one of several variables that are being evalu-
ated in attempts to model gas or liquid migration after
well cementing operations.
3. Existing methods to measure SGS as a function of
time involve large-scale laboratory models or the use
of rotating paddle type instruments.
4. Ultrasonic measurements may be used to measure
SGS using correlations that relate signal attenuation to
SGS.
5. A new laboratory instrument has been developed that
provides SGS measurement as a function of time un-
der HP/HT conditions (Figures 7, 8).

Nomenclature

P Pressure, psig
S
gs
Static gel strength, lbf/100ft
2

L Length of column, ft
D Diameter, inches (hole diameter pipe di-
ameter)
NDT Non-Destructive Testing
SGS Static Gel Strength
HP/HT High pressure, high temperature
UCA Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the management of Chandler
Engineering for permission to publish this paper. Addition-
ally, the cooperation with Fred Sabins and Voldi Maki with
Westport Technology Center International during the devel-
opment of this instrument is acknowledged and appreciated.

References

1. Sabins, F.L., Sutton, D.L., The Relationship of Thickening
Time, Gel Strength, and Compressive Strength of Oilwell Ce-
ments, SPE Paper 11205, 1986
2. Rao, P.R., Sutton, D.L., Childs, J.D., Cunningham, W.C., An
Automatic Device of Nondestructive Testing of Oilwell Ce-
ments at Elevated Temperatures and Pressures, SPE Paper
9283, 1982
3. Bannister, C.E., Shuster, G.E., Wooldridge, L.A., Jones, M.J.,
Birch, A.G., Critical Design Parameters To Prevent Gas Inva-
sion During Cementing, SPE Paper 11982
4. Bannister, C.E., Rheological Evaluation of Cement Slurries:
Methods and Models, SPE Paper 9284
5. Matsukawa, M., Nagai, I., Ultrasonic Characterization of a
Polymerizing Epoxy Resin with Imbalanced Stoichiometry,
Journal Acoustical Society of America, April 1996
6. Rao, P., Moon, J.J., High Pressure-High Temperature Auto-
clave System for Testing Fluid Samples Ultrasonically, U.S.
Patent #4,567,765, 1986
7. Moon, J.J., Surjaatmadja, J.B., Ehlert, M.C., Consistency and
Static Gel Strength Measuring Device and Method, U.S. Patent
#4,622,846, 1986
8. Jamth, J., Justnes, H., Nodland, N.E., Skalle, P., Sveen, J.,
Testing System to Evaluate the Resistance of Cement Slurries
to Gas Migration During Hydration, CADE/CAODC Spring
Drilling Conference, 1995

Metric Conversion Factors

Inch
3
x 1.648706 E01 = cm
3

Feet x 3.048 E-01 = meter
(F 32)/1.8 x 1.0 E00 = C
inches x 2.54 E00 = cm
lbf/ft
2
x 4.788026 E00 = kPa
psi x 6.894757 E00 = kPa


Table 1
Cement Compositions
Slurry
Number
Slurry Composition Density,
lbm/gal
Temperature, F
1 H, neat 16.5 85
2 H, 1% CaCl 16.5 85
3 H, 8% Bentonite, 2% CaCl 12.5 85
6
Figure 9
H, 35% sand, 0.5% Halad-344 17.0 120
7 H, 15% NaCl 16.4 120
8 H, 35% Sand, 18% Hematite, 0.5% Halad 344,
0.5% HR-12
18.5 230
9 H, 0.1% HR-5 16.5 120
10 H, 35% Sand, 0.5% CFR-3, 1% Halad 22A 17.0 120
11 H, 2gps Latex, 0.2gps S-434B, 0.1% CFR-3 16.5 150
12 H, 35% Sand, 0.5% CFR-3 17.0 120
Comparison
Study
Varies, See notes on plot Varies Varies
Force
Transducer
Stepping Stepping
Motor Motor
Torque
Time Time
PULLEY ROTATES PADDLE
SAMPLE
SHEARING
0.50 - 2 DEGREES/MIN
ROTATIONAL SPEED
SCREW PUMP
CONSTANT
PRESSURE
SOURCE
HEATING/COOLING BATH
dP
TRANSDUCER
TEST COLUMN
dP = SGS/300 x L/D
Figure 2 Rotating Paddle SGS Measuring Device
Figure 1 dP Static Gel Strength Measurement Apparatus

Signal Amplitude
Time, minutes
Figure 4 Temperature Effect Study using Water
Figure 3 Acoustic Velocity versus Signal
Amplitude Study
Acoustic Velocity
Signal Amplitude
Cement
Slurry
Transducer
Pulsing
Electronics
Acoustic
Waveform
Capture
Measurement of
Signal
Amplitude
Digital
Signal
Processing
Calculation
of SGS
Value
Figure 5 SGSA Block Diagram Figure 6 Verification of the Accuracy of the
SGS Correlation

Figure 7 Static Gel Strength Analyzer
Figure 8 Static Gel Strength Analyzer Report

H, 35% sand, 0.5% Halad-344
Calculated Static Gel
Strength
Signal Amplitude
Acoustic Velocity
Figure 9 Typical Data Sets of Signal Amplitude, Transit Time,
and Calculated SGS
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0 30 60 90 120 150 180 210 240 270 300
Time(minutes)
Sample 1 : Class H, Neat, BHT 85F
Sample 2 : Class H, 0.1% Retarder, BHT 120F
Sample 3 : Class H, 2% CaCl2, 8% Gel, BHT
85F
Sample 4 : Class H, 35% Sand, 39% Hematite,
0.5% Fluid Loss, BHT 120F
Sample 5 : Class H, 0.1% Retarder, 18.44%
Latex, BHT 150F
Sample 1
Sample 5
Sample 4
Sample 2
Sample 3
Figure 10 Comparison of Results from Various Slurries
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
0 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 165 180 195 210 225 240
Time(minutes)
S
G
S
(
#
/
1
0
0
f
t
^
2
)
Class H, 2% CaCl2, 8% Gel, BHT 85F
New Mixer Blade
Worn Mixer Blade
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1 31 61 91 121 151 181 211 241 271 301 331 361 391 421
Time(minutes)
S
t
a
t
i
c

G
e
l

S
t
r
e
n
g
t
h
(
l
b
/
1
0
0
f
t
2
)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
T
r
a
n
s
i
t

T
i
m
e
,

m
i
c
r
o
s
e
c
/
i
n
c
h
Compressive Strength
Static Gel Strength
Manufacturer #1
Manufacturer #2
Class H, Neat, 85F, 3000 psig
Figure 11 Comparison of Results using New versus Worn Mixer Blades
Figure 12 Comparison of Results using Cement from Different Manufacturers

0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
17
1
3
1
9
2
5
3
1
3
7
4
3
4
9
5
5
6
1
6
7
7
3
7
9
8
5
9
1
9
7
1
0
3
1
0
9
1
1
5
1
2
1
1
2
7
1
3
3
1
3
9
1
4
5
1
5
1
1
5
7
1
6
3
1
6
9
1
7
5
1
8
1
1
8
7
Time, minutes
S
t
a
t
i
c

G
e
l

S
t
r
e
n
g
t
h
,

l
b
/
1
0
0
f
t
2
Class H, 0.1% Retarder, BHT 120F
Delay in starting temperature ramp
Figure 13 Repeatability Study using Identical Slurries

Application Note

Model 7150 FMA Application Sheet

BACKGROUND ON FLUID MIGRATION IN CEMENTING

A cementing job is typically performed with a pressure differential going into the formation in
order to maintain control of the well. The diagram below depicts a typical cement job in which
migration would be a concern.

Low Pressure Zone (Thief)
C
a
s
i
n
g

Cement
Impermeable Barrier Between
Zones (typically shale)
High Pressure Zone (Source)

In the diagram above, the cement must control flow (migration) from the high pressure zone to
the low pressure zone before it sets. When the cement is initially placed in the well, the
cement pore pressure will be greater than the formation pressure by design. However, as the
cement develops gel strength and simultaneously leaks-off into the formation, the cement pore
pressure decreases. When the cement pore pressure reaches the formation pressure, then
migration can occur. A general guide is that if the cement has greater than 500 lb/100ft
2
of gel
strength when the cement pore pressure reaches the formation pressure, than migration will
not occur. However, if the gel strength is not yet that high, then migration may occur.

The plot below shows the cement pore pressure decline with time for a theoretical job. The
critical time shown below is the time when migration can begin if it is not properly controlled by
the cement.

P.O. Box 470710, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74147-0710 U.S.A.
Telephone: 918-250-7200, FAX: 918-459-0165, Email: chandler@chandlereng.com

Application Note

Illustration of Critical Time
Time (min)
P
r
e
s
s
u
r
e
Formation Pressure
Cement Pore Pressure
Tc
(Critical
Time)

METHOD DESCRIPTION

The Model 7150 FMA is designed to perform the Scale-Down Method testing described by
Beirute and Cheung (SPE 19522) and provides a great deal of operator flexibility for custom
procedures.
1
The scale-down method is intended to study migration through the cement
column before the cement sets (short-term migration studies).

The scale-down method is a standard test method developed in an attempt to closely simulate
real well conditions in the laboratory. Previous gas migration testing methods have been
unable to realistically simulate hydrostatic head, gas formation pressure, and pressure
gradients driving the gas through the cement column. Some test methods have used a
constant hydrostatic pressure during testing that is not a realistic representation of what
happens in the well. Finally, other methods have not allowed leak-off of the cement to occur.
The scale-down method is tailored to each individual well and more closely represents actual
well conditions than previous test methods.

In order to properly test a cement slurry with this instrument, it is essential to know the well
conditions for which the slurry is being designed, particularly the path of expected migration.
The well conditions are used to design the test schedule for a fluid migration test. The method
also requires that the exact cement slurry proposed for the job be tested in the test device.

The scale-down method is a worst-case scenario for testing. It assumes that the invading gas
has enough permeability, thickness and volume to fully invade and pressure-charge the
cement column. The pressure decline that is used for the testing, represented in the figure

Application Note

above, is the MAXIMUM pressure decline that the cement could experience in the well. In
reality, the pressure decline in the well may be less.

In the laboratory procedure, the gel strength development of the slurry is used to estimate the
maximum potential pressure decline in the cement column. The maximum possible
hydrostatic pressure decline with time due to gel strength development is normally calculated
using the following equation:

P = (GS/300) x (L/D)
Where:
GS = Gel strength of the given proposed cement slurry vs. time in lb/100 ft
2
P = Pressure head decline in PSI
L = Length of the cement column in feet
D = Mean diameter of annulus (Hole-Casing) in inches.
300 = Conversion factor

The calculated pressure decline schedule is then used to allow dehydration from the cement
into the simulated gas formation and to predict when a pressure differential needs to be
applied across the slurry to potentially drive gas through the sample. The magnitude of the
pressure differential placed across the cement specimen is calculated using Darcy's Law,
assuming that equal "bulk permeabilities" exist in the well and in the test cell. The gas influx
into the cement is measured. At the end of the test, it is possible to tell if the proposed slurry
formulation will control the gas migration problem in the given well across the zone of interest.
FLUID MIGRATION TEST DESIGN
Table 1 shows an example of an FMA test designed using the Scale-Down Method. The
assumed well conditions are also given in the table. As indicated before, the test schedule
calculated using the Scale-Down Method is different for each set of well conditions and for
different slurries with different gel strength development characteristics. In order to prepare
the table below for a particular set of well conditions, it is necessary to predict the path of
migration that the invading fluid or gas will take. In addition, the GS development vs. time of
the proposed cement slurry needs to have been measured at downhole conditions, prior to
making the calculations. The following sequence of calculations must be made. Complete
definitions for these equations are explained in SPE 19522, included in the owners manual.
Confining pressure (mud weight) on the cement column.
Initial confining pressure (mud & cement).
Cement pore pressure drop (due to gel strength development).
Confining pressure and resulting cement pore pressure at a given time and zone.
Pressure differential into a cemented zone at a given time.
Discharge pressure (pressure differential across the cell) and injection pressure.

Application Note

Well Conditions
Measured Depth, High Pressure Zone, Ft: 14800
Pore Pressure, High Pressure Zone, PSI: 10900
Measured Depth, Thief (Lower Pressure) Zone, Ft: 13000
Pore Pressure, Thief Zone, PSI: 8800
Measured Top Of The Cement Column, Ft: 8000
Pipe O.D., In: 7
Equivalent Mud Density (From Mud and Spacer Column Lengths), Lb/Gal: 14.8
Cement Density, Lb/Gal: 15.8

Simulated gas zone pressure to be used in the test, PSI: 300 (This is the
backpressure bottom during the fluid loss portion of the test. During the
fluid/gas migration portion of the test, this is the base inject pressure.) See
Table 1 sections A and B below.

Table 1 Pressure Schedule
Fluid/Gas Migration Test Designed Using the Scale-Down Method

A. Fluid Loss Portion of the Test
Time
(min)
Slurry Gel Strength
(lb/100 ft
2
)
Cement pore
pressure (PSI)

Gas Zone
Pressure (back
pressure bottom)
0 1.4 1128 300
6 8.3 1050 300
10 14 985 300
15 21 906 300
20 28 826 300
25 33 770 300
30 42 668 300
35 49 588 300
40 56 509 300
45 63 430 300
50 69 362 300

B. Fluid/Gas Migration Portion of the Test
Time
(min)
Slurry Gel Strength
(lb/100 ft
2
)
Cement pore
pressure (PSI)

Gas Zone
Pressure
(Injection
Pressure)
Back Pressure Top
55 75 300 300 288
57 98 300 300 286
59 113 300 300 285
60 128 300 300 284
63 166 300 300 281
65 181 300 300 280
68 265 300 300 280
To end
of test
394 300 300 280


Application Note

Test Description

The FMA is designed to be the last step in a series of tests to verify that a particular cement
formulation will perform as desired in a particular well. A static gel strength test must be run on
the cement before the migration test is run. The static gel strength development is used to
calculate the pressure decline schedule for the migration test.

The industry consensus indicates the following cement properties are necessary for a fluid/gas
migration control cement: non-settling, low fluid loss, and short transition time. Before running
a fluid migration test, other standard cement tests should be run to verify that the slurry
formulation is acceptable. These other tests may include fluid loss, static gel strength, and
thickening time. If the results of any of the preliminary tests are unsatisfactory, the cement
should be re-formulated before proceeding to the Fluid Migration Test. The Fluid Migration
Test should be the final double-check that a cement formulation is performing as desired.

The FMA is designed to test cements that are formulated specifically for migration control.
Cements with high fluid loss and settling problems will not perform well with the FMA. The
choice of cement formulation is one of the most critical steps in performing a successful test
with the FMA.

If the slurry being tested exhibits poor fluid loss control, it will be impossible to maintain the
cement pore pressure schedule indicated in Table 1. The cement pore pressure will drop
rapidly as the slurry loses fluid. If this occurs, the migration portion of the test can be started
when the cement pore pressure reaches the formation pore pressure.

If the slurry being tested begins to settle when the migration stage is started, excessive fluid
leak-off may be seen from the top of the cylinder. This may be an indication of free water at
the top of the column due to settling.

The pre-heat temperature of the cylinder should be the same temperature at which the slurry is
conditioned. For best results, the slurry should be the same temperature as the cylinder when
it is introduced to the cylinder. If the cylinder has been pre-heated to a temperature higher
than the cement, the heat may shock the cement causing it to set prematurely.

The instrument uses a 550 ml sample of cement to perform the test. The sample is heated to
the bottom-hole temperature of the well and a confining pressure is placed on the column that
is equivalent to the hydrostatic head on the cement column in the well being simulated. Leak-
off from the cement is collected and recorded until the cement pore pressure reaches the
formation pressure. As the cement pore pressure reaches the formation gas pressure,
invasion of a gas or fluid from the formation can occur. After the leak-off portion of the test

Application Note

has concluded, a gas or fluid is injected into the cement column with a pre-calculated pressure
differential and the flow rate through the column is measured. At the conclusion of the test, the
cement is cooled and removed. The cement sample may then be visually inspected and/or
cored for further analysis.

Model 7150 Fluid Migration Analyzer (FMA) : Part Number 7150-0089 Revision P.3 - January 2008

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