Near-Bit Measurement

Inclination and gamma measured close to the cutting structure, with a published 12-inch sensor offset.

Near-Bit Measurement MWD Solutions campaign artwork
12 insensor offset
175°Ctemperature rating
250 rpmcombined motor + string

Where is the measurement relative to the bit?

Positioned between the motor and bit, Near-Bit Measurement measures inclination, azimuth, gamma and azimuthal gamma near the cutting structure. An EM short-hop carries data to a receiver in the MWD string for transmission to surface.

A changing interval

Bring near-bit formation response into the steering discussion when sensor position affects how the team interprets a boundary.

A casing-point decision

Review inclination and gamma close to the bit alongside the geological prognosis and the other measurements available.

A dipping target

Evaluate near-bit directional and azimuthal gamma information with the planned trajectory and formation context.

Follow the data path.

Near-bit subInclination, azimuth and gamma measurements
MWD receiverData received through the EM short-hop
Surface systemData sent through the selected MWD telemetry

Simplified communication sequence. The short-hop and the surface telemetry are separate links; both need to be reviewed for the application.

Confirm the fit before the run.

Review these interfaces and limitations with MWD Solutions as part of the tools-and-personnel package.

Review your configuration

Between the motor and bit

The transmitter sub sits below the motor. Confirm tool size, connections, makeup torque and the applicable sliding and rotating dogleg limits.

Short hop, then surface telemetry

An EM short-hop sends data to a receiver in the MWD string. The MWD system then transmits it to surface; this is not a direct bit-to-surface link.

Review the recovery path

The receiver arrangement supports retrieval of the MWD. The near-bit transmitter sub itself is not made retrievable by that arrangement.

Technical specifications.

Published product parameters and configuration notes. Confirm the current assembly rating before use.

Read the original PDF

Sensor measurements

ParameterPublished value
Inclination accuracy±0.25°
Inclination range0–180°
Sensor / gamma offset12 in
Gravity accuracy0.0005 G
Gravity range0–2 G
Gamma resolution1 AAPI
Gamma range0–1023
Temperature175°C / 347°F

Operating considerations

ParameterPublished value
Formation resistivity2–200 ohm·m optimal
Mud systemWater- or oil-based
Differential pressureAvoid spikes above 300 psi
TorqueAvoid spikes above 1,500 ft·lbf
Rotary measurement limit250 rpm, motor + string combined
Axial shock20 G maximum
Agitator separation800 m / 2,625 ft behind
ReamingKeep to an absolute minimum
Battery, inclination + gamma160 hours per 14 V cell
Battery, inclination + azimuthal gamma128 hours per 14 V cell

Battery figures are published per-cell figures, not guaranteed run duration.

Transmitter configuration

Scroll horizontally to compare tool sizes

Nominal tool size4.75 in6.5 in8 in
Length34 in34 in34 in
Diameter5.0 in6.5 in8.0 in
Makeup torque (ft·lbf)14,20023,00057,000
Max drilling torque (ft·lbf)9,90022,50047,000
Surface RPM305050
Max sliding dogleg (°/100 ft)282012
Max rotating dogleg (°/100 ft)12107

Confirm connections and use the limits for the selected tool size and assembly.

Near-Bit Measurement documentation

Use the technical reference for an organized specification review. The original brochure is retained alongside it and may use the product’s earlier name.

The bit is there. Where is the measurement?
MWD Solutions campaign artwork. View full artwork

The bit is there. Where is the measurement?

The short-hop signal, receiver configuration and operating limits need to be reviewed as part of the complete BHA.

More field perspectives

Review near-bit measurement for your well.

Bring the well objective, expected conditions and the measurements you need. We’ll work through tool selection and field-personnel scope with you.

Talk with Corey