The fundamental objective of a coring operation is to obtain core samples that are representative of the reservoir rock properties. Therefore, core handling procedures and transportation methods should provide protection against core damage from environmental changes, mechanical vibration and mishandling.

Kirk Petrophysics™ uses the latest, proven methods of core handling from the moment the core reaches the surface to its arrival at the core laboratory and through all subsequent processing. Expert supervision and quality control of all core handling is provided, whether at the wellsite or laboratory.

All our methods and recommendations are based on our extensive experience in the field of international core analysis, with particular involvement in friable/soft sediment handling, analysis and research.

Core Container

The use of specially designed and tested containers with shock absorbent polythene pre-shaped layers to support the core is the most modern method to transfer core from the wellsite to the core laboratory. The boxes may be adapted to cater for all core sizes and the protection they afford the core makes this method the most reliable and user friendly in the coring industry. Intensive research has been conducted in development of the pre-shaped foam layers that support the core within each box to maximise the isolation of the core from shocks and vibrations – ensuring core integrity is maintained.

Transfer of full length core

The use of a “basket” to transfer the core as the full inner barrel length provides many advantages. It is recommended that prior to being moved the core is stabilised by full length Lithotarge injection. The core may then be transferred into the basket using a multi point spreader bar. Using this method the core may be processed more quickly at the wellsite, minimizing excessive wellsite handling and limiting operations required to be performed in the more hazardous wellsite environment, especially when offshore. The core can then be processed onshore in a more benign environment and with less pressure. The full core sections may be forwarded to the laboratory directly or core can be processed using the core processing module which provides a secure environment remote from the wellsite to allow processing - plugging, slabbing, photography, etc.

Tracking

Whichever method is used to transfer core overseas or to a nearby laboratory, the use of the Lithotrack™ device provides a deterrent against potential mishandling but also an audit trail of the transportation.

Any possible damage to the core resulting from shock or vibration during transit may be identified and quantified and may then be incorporated into the analytical program if required.

Special applications

Kirk Petrophysics™ has developed a specialised core container called “Frost Box” for transportation of frozen core- Lithofreeze™. The box is able to maintain a temperature of -50 degrees Celsius for up to 14 days ensuring the thaw cycle remains undisturbed. A full audit trail of the shipping is provided.