CRAFT & HAWKINS DEPARTMENT OF PETROLEUM ENGINEERING

What does a Well-log Analyst do?

In the process of drilling a well or once a well is drilled, a well-log analyst takes measurements to evaluate the wells potential to produce. Sometimes it is possible to cut core samples from the formation. If this is done, the core sample is tested in a lab to determine its lithology, porosity, and permeability. Many more specialized tests may be run on the core sample once it is retrieved from the well. However, many times costly core sample can not be taken from the well, thus sophisticated electron, nuclear, and acoustic tools are sent down the well on a wire-line. Information from these tools is sent up the well-bore to a computer system on the surface. Trained engineers retrieve and interpret the data. This can prove to be valuable information, helping the petroleum engineer determine if it is financially feasible to drill deeper, produce the well from explored zones of interest or take additional measurements. Working in conjunction with geologist, reservoir, and production engineers the well-log analyst will work with the team to decide where the next well should be drilled.

Updated: 8/24/07
3516 Patrick F. Taylor Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Tel: 225.578.5215 / Fax: 225.578.6039
Copyright © 2007 LSU Craft & Hawkins Dept. of Petroleum Engineering