Simplicity

The SRA is half the size of comparable units. The cutting-edge design utilizes a single oven and single IR cell instead of two ovens and two IR cells. Communication between the SR Analyzer™ and the Computer Data System is simplified utilizing one Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. This allows fast and responsive instrument control and data acquisition even in a PC notebook environment. Additionally, the heart of the SR AnalyzerTM is comprised of a single electronic circuit board measuring only 5.5 in (14 cm) X 9 in (22.9 cm).

Accuracy & Reproducibility

Historically pyrolysis instruments have used a pedestal to lift the sample into a heating oven and then begin to purge the sample before the sample is adequately sealed in the oven. The result can be the loss of light hydrocarbons that negatively affect both accuracy and reproducibility of light hydrocarbon measurements. The SRA design utilizes a double-seal technology to tightly seal the sample. Purging of the sample does not begin until the sample is securely sealed in the oven. Thus, there is no opportunity for loss of volatile components.

Ruggedness

Not only is the SR Analyzer™ rugged, reliable and light weight, it is smaller and more compact than any other instrument of its kind. The basic unit weighs only 40 lbs (18.1 kg) with dimensions of 17 in (43.2 cm) wide by 20 in (50.8 cm) deep by 21 in (53.3 cm) high. The TOC unit is 10 lbs (4.5 kg) heavier and 4 in (10.2 cm) taller. This unit can be easily transported from site-to-site with ease and confidence. Some of the leading-edge advancements that allow the unit to be the only mobile full service pyrolysis instrument in the industry include an innovative drop-in replaceable spring loaded coating FID and oven stage that allows semi-free movement, virtually eliminating leaks due to heat expansion and contraction. Additionally, Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) detection is accomplished using light weight state-of-the-art solid state NDIR gas detectors with no moving parts to wear out or drift out of calibration due to mechanical failure. These features are critical when engineering held-ready pyrolysis instrumentation.

As a testimony to its reliability the SRA unit has been used on-site in the deserts of Saudi Arabia for several years on over 94 wells representing over 10,000 man-hours. In the midst of these harsh conditions the instrument has endured wind storms and sand storms and has often come back to the laboratory filled with sand. Yet, even in these unforgiving conditions the SRA has provided reliable reproducible data.

Well-site testing

The Source Rock Analyzer™ is the first full-service on-site pyrolysis instrument. Geochemical logging of active or previously drilled wells can aid in the determination of pay zones. In conventional or unconventional reservoirs, particularly those with long horizontal legs, the pay zones can be assessed in terms of hydrocarbon type and physical characteristics. Thus the instrument can provide real-time information that addresses reservoir properties and provides information on the most appropriate intervals to stimulate and complete, which can have a dramatic impact on drilling operations.