Nmr logging tool with hi-tc trap field magnet

Abstract

Trapped field magnets (TFMS) on an NMR logging tool are used to produce a static magnetic field in a formation surrounding a borehole. The TFMs are made of material having a high T , so that the magnetic field can be sustained for the duration of the well logging by enclosing the TFMs within a cryostat containing liquid nitrogen as a coolant. By using the TFMs, the field strength within this region is much higher than is attainable with conventional magnets, giving an improved signal to noise (S/N) ratio for the NMR signals. The magnetic field strength within the TFMs is kept at a low enough value that instability problems associated with these materials do not arise. The field strength may be selected based upon knowledge of the resistivity and dielectric constant of the formation and the associated skin depth for electromagnetic signals. This makes it possible to use the TFMs in both wireline and measurement while drilling (MWD) environments. In one embodiment of the invention, the TFMs are magnetized outside the borehole environment using conventional high field strength electromagnets prior to emplacement within the cryostats. In another embodiment of the invention, vortex currents within the TFMs are induced in situ over a period of time, so that the power requirements for the inducing field are attainable in a borehole environment. A pulsed radio frequency (RF) magnetic field is produced using an RF antenna in the NMR tool that is orthogonal to the direction of the static magnetic field. The NMR pulse echo signals induced in the formation indicative of a parameter of interest in the formation is received by a receiver on the tool