Wireline formation tester supercharge correction method

Abstract

An improved formation testing method increases the accuracy of in-situ formation pressure measurements by characterizing the mudcake properties. Specifically, after a formation tester is lowered to a desired depth within a wellbore, a pad is extended to gently abut and seal against the mudcake without disturbing the mudcake. When pressed against the mudcake, the pad experiences momentarily higher pressures, which are measured by a probe housed by the pad. These pressures may be enhanced by briefly rejecting fluids through the probe, so as to avoid disturbing the mudcake. The probe continues to measure pressure, which eventually decreases relative to hydrostatic pressure in the wellbore, due to the flow of high-pressure wellbore fluids through the mudcake. Since the rate of fluid flow outward into the formation is governed by the permeability of the mudcake, measuring the rate of pressure decline during this initial period provides useful data to more accurately estimate properties such as formation compressibility. Additionally, indicia of the mudcake properties themselves may be generated. After the initial mudcake tests, the formation tester may be used to perform drawdown and/or buildup tests, by a process of withdrawing or injection fluids into the formation through the mudcake.