Recording & Cable Shop

1. INTRODUCTION
Seismic data acquisition is a pivotal process designed to unveil the mysteries of the
Earth's subsurface by meticulously recording and analyzing the propagation of seismic waves
through the ground. This method serves as a crucial tool in the exploration and comprehension of
subsurface geology for multifaceted applications, with a prominent focus on the exploration of
oil and gas reserves.

In seismic surveys, a generation of seismic waves is initiated at the Earth's surface, and
these waves travel through the subsurface layers. As they traverse various geological formations,
the waves interact and reflect back to the surface, carrying valuable information about the
composition and structure of the subsurface. This intricate dance of seismic waves is detected
and recorded by sensitive instruments called geophones, strategically placed on the Earth's
surface.

The collected seismic data forms the basis for creating detailed images of the subsurface,
providing insights into geological features such as rock layers, faults, and potential reservoirs.
This information is particularly critical in the field of oil and gas exploration, where
understanding the subsurface geology is essential for locating and assessing hydrocarbon
reserves.

Seismic data acquisition not only plays a pivotal role in the energy sector but also finds
applications in environmental assessments, civil engineering projects, and natural hazard studies.
The continual advancements in seismic technology contribute to a more comprehensive
understanding of Earth's subsurface, enabling informed decision-making and sustainable
resource management. Basically, exploration seismology is divided into 3 major steps:

i. Seismic Acquisition
ii. Seismic Data Processing
iii. Seismic Interpretation

In this session we discuss about the seismic data acquisition

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 2. 2D Data Acquisition

 In 2D seismic Acquisition, geophones are spread out along the land in a single line.
 Then a source of energy or Charge is set off to penetrate the earth.
 The 2-dimensional array of listening devices pick up reflected energy or seismic signal.
 The charge or energy source is moved to the next position of the line and the process is
repeated at each station, helping us build a 2D image of the subsurface along the position
of the line.
 2D seismic is less expensive and generally has less environmental impact.
 2D seismic is often used for initial reconnaissance of frontier or unexplored areas.

2D (Dip & Strike line)

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 3. 3D Data Acquisition

 In 3D seismic Acquisition, geophones are spread out along the land surface in a dense
grid or array.
 Then a source of energy or charge is set off to penetrate the earth.
 The 3-dimensional array of listening devices pick up reflected energy or seismic signal.
 Every geophone picks up a signal of reflected energy, allowing us to piece together a 3-
dimensional image of the subsurface.
 The charge or energy source is moved to the next position of the array and the process is
repeated at each station, helping us build a 3D image of the subsurface.
 3D is more expensive, involving more hardware on the ground and more computer
processing power to process the large amount of data being collected.

 3D seismic is often used in areas where hydrocarbons are already known to be present and where
greater resolution and better imaging of subsurface geologic features in needed.

3D (inline & crossline)

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 4. Introduction to Seismic Operation
Seismic operations encompass a suite of methods and techniques integral to seismic
exploration, a geophysical approach employed for scrutinizing the Earth's subsurface. This
method involves the utilization of seismic waves, with the primary categories being P-waves
(primary or compressional waves) and S-waves (secondary or shear waves). The overarching
objective of seismic exploration is to construct intricate images and models of subsurface
geological structures, encompassing the identification of rock layers, faults, and potential
hydrocarbon reservoirs.

Seismic exploration revolves around the artificial generation of seismic waves, typically
through energy sources like explosives or vibrating trucks. These waves traverse through the
Earth's subsurface, and their reflections provide crucial information for subsurface
characterization. The exploration process can take the form of 2D or 3D seismic surveys, each
offering distinct advantages in capturing the complexities of the subsurface.

To capture seismic data, sensors known as geophones are strategically placed on the
Earth's surface. These geophones detect the seismic waves that have traveled through the
subsurface and bounced back to the surface, converting these physical waves into electrical
signals. This collected data is then subjected to a comprehensive processing phase involving
filtering, stacking, and various techniques aimed at enhancing its quality.

Geophysicists play a pivotal role in the subsequent interpretation of the processed seismic
data. This involves extracting meaningful insights from the intricate patterns of the seismic
waves to create detailed subsurface models and maps. The culmination of seismic exploration
and data processing is crucial for making informed decisions, especially in the selection of
optimal drilling locations. Ultimately, seismic operations represent a sophisticated and
indispensable tool in the field of geophysics, facilitating a deeper understanding of the Earth's
subsurface for a range of applications, from resource exploration to environmental assessment.

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 5. Ground Electronic Equipment
The ground electronic equipment are those that are used to retrieve subsurface data and
transfer them through fiber optic to recorder. The ground electronics for 3D are as following:

 Geophone

 508XT-FDU LINK

 CX-508XT Concentrator

 TFOI-508

a. Geophones:
A geophone is a device that converts ground movement (velocity) into voltage, which
may be recorded at a recording station. The deviation of this measured voltage from the base line
is called the seismic.

SG-10. Geophone spike

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 b. 508XT FDU Links
The FDU-508 analog node is a combination of FDU (field digitizer unit) and lightweight
cable. The FDU-508 performs data filtering, compression and time stamping. It converts the
analog signal into digital signal. The length and type of cable as well as the number of FDUs and
their intervals are user-defined. The sensors connect directly into the FDU eliminating any
significant analogue path within the recording system. Once data has been processed the FDU-
508 transmits data to the CX-508 with CRC control. It supports the low cut filter down to
0.15Hz.

508XT FDU

c. CX-508 Concentrators
CX 508 XT is directly connected to an acquisition line, usually after every 50 – 60 FDUs,
powered by a 12V standard battery. It performs the main line management functions for the 508
XT systems. This includes power management of the line on both sides, data recovery from
FDU-508 as well as field & instrument test management. It contains GPS for line
synchronization and a circular memory for the data storage. In addition, the CX-508 provides QC
status for battery level, the GPS status and detection of connected nodes. A secondary transverse
hot connection is also possible for additional redundancy.

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 CX-508 XT

d. TFOI-508 XT
Transverse Fiber Optic Interface is used for the data transmission and assists the 508 XT
Concentrators. It has the tendency of handling data of 1Gbps. the maximum length of the TFOI-
508 is 2000m.

Transverse Fiber Optic Interface (TFOI - 508)

e. Recording System
508 XT is Sercel’s new cross-technology (X-Tech) powered land seismic acquisition
system, driving productivity, data quality and adaptability to a new level. 508 XT offers 1
million channel real-time recording capability, resulting in unparalleled image resolution. 508
XT allows access to data with zero downtime and in real time. All its data handling elements

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communicate with each other to transmit data seamlessly, at high speeds and without interruption
while specific features for local data storage, automatic re-routing, and new levels of redundancy
and quality control ensure non-stop production.

f. ShotPro HD
It is the latest impulsive source controller. The software selection in the SPHD allows to be
configured as Encoder or Decoder. The encoder is connected within the Recording System
whereas decoder is connected with the cap leads at the shot points. Shot Pro HD is a shooting
system for dynamite operation. The Controller has an auxiliary serial port for transmitting the
up-hole geophone waveform to a personal computer.

Shot Pro HD Shooting System

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 6. CABLE SHOP

 Cable shop plays a crucial role in supporting field operations for the recording crew.
 Ground electronics were collected from the field and entrusted to the cable shop for
necessary procedures.
 A meticulous maintenance procedure was implemented for all ground electronics before
they were redeployed in the field.
 Geophones maintenance included physical and leakage checks, followed by testing with the
SMT geophone tester.
 In case of damaged strings, technicians identified issues and forwarded them to the repair
section for resolution.
 Highly skilled technicians conducted thorough checks and repairs on geophone strings.
 The Cable Repair Section addressed damages in 508XT Cables through visual check.
 Professional technicians execute repairs, and all cables underwent scrutiny with Field
Testers (FT) to meet manufacturer specifications.
 An essential battery charging room is established to recharge batteries used in the field for
recording instruments.
 Nightly recharging of batteries by authorized staff ensured continuous and reliable recording
operations.
 Batteries brought back from the field underwent a thorough checking process in the morning
using meters.
 Each battery is verified to have sufficient power, ensuring they were field-ready for the day's
operations.

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 Schematic Representation of the testing procedures adopted for 508 XT Cables and Geophones

Test for Geophone String

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 i. Leakage test (Leakage checking and tracing)
ii. SMT test

1. Leakage Checking

In leakage test, we put the whole geophone string including geophone cable in water tub,
the plug of geophone relates to mega meter, if the resistance of geophone cable is less than 5
Mega ohms then it is considered bad and if reading shows more than 5 Mega ohms than it is
considered good. It basically shows the water leakage, and the same test goes for trace test to
trace the leakage point.

Leakage Test Point

2. Leakage tracing

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 It is the test that is used to locate the cut or fault in the geophone string.

Trace the cut

3. SMT Test

The geophones which is tested bad, move to the repairing shop. In case the leakage test is
passed, the strings are moved for the final essential test using Sensor Multi Tester. This test is
used to measure different parameters of geophone.

SMT Procedure

Connect each string one by one with SMT AIU-II and test the physical properties.
Connect one plug planted string in a sand plant with SMT AIU-II and Tab geophones one by one
which produces a dim beep sound and checks the string properties. Now connect the 2nd plug of
same string with SMT AIU-II and repeat the procedure for all strings. If a geophone from any is
not planted correctly nor has any other fault it produces a different loud sound beep while it is
taped. A (*) sign will appear before the property that has some fault, and we press “(+/-)” button

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install the geophone and test it again. There will be no (*) sign if the fault is removed, and it will
give a different loud sound beep. If there is still a problem, then it is sent to the cable shop for
repair and again tested by SMT AIU-II.

7. Recording Operation
The recording crew plays a key role in the operations. The proper planning is done to
acquire the data with the contribution of several sub departments. Based on the recommended
parameters, the seismic data was acquired by the highly qualified team of recording crew.

Cycle of the Recording Operation

1. Layout

The SG-10 introduced a totally new concept in ground equipment designed to maximize
productivity and reduce the weight of cables and electronics. The LINK is an integrated unit
consisting of the seismic cable and numerous single channel electronics spaced at the group
interval. Seismic cable is used to transmit geophone signals to recording system. One SG10
geophones string is composed of 12 geophones (6s2p). One Link 508 XT consists of 3 / 4 –
FDU. CX 508XT is connected after every (60) sixty-receiver point with the help of 12V Battery.
Due to different terrain or ground conditions, total three kinds of sensors are mainly used as a
sensor. i.e. Geophone, Marsh Phone, and Hydrophone. More emphasis was given to normal
Geophones layout Nareli 2D 2024 project. If there is any obstacle in layout direction, then
geophones are planted in cross pattern and cable is crossed from road. To protect the cable from
vehicles, it is covered by rubber mat.

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1. Geophone Type SG-10

2. Geophone array linear, in-line

3. Geophones per array 2 string (24 geophone)

Cable layout by Front Crew

For Geophone plantation in, following layout procedure and patterns will be used
depending upon ground situation.

Option-01: If surface condition is flat and in good condition, normal linear layout pattern will
be used. The inline distance between two geophones is 0.833 meter.

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Option-02: If some obstacle (House/Highway/Cemented Platforms etc.) is encountered or
elevation difference is more than 2 meter, short/compress linear pattern will be used. The
distance between two geophones is 0.4165 meter.

Option-03: If short pattern fails, rotational/angular array of geophone with normal with normal
spacing 0.833m will be used.

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Option-04: In case Option-03 could not be implemented, the rotational/angular array of
geophone with compressed spacing 0.4165m will be used.
Option-05: If above mentioned 04 options fails, geophone array was used cross line with normal
spacing in-between geophones (0.833m).

Option-06: In this case, cross array i-e at 900 or perpendicular to receiver lines with compress
spacing 0.4165m will be used.
Option-07: If all the patterns fail, bunch pattern will be used. But the distance between two
geophones should be kept at least 0.2m.

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 The sequence of pattern must be followed sequence wise & proper record should be maintained
for each receiver point having layout pattern other than normal.

2. Trouble Shooting

Troubleshooters of cable crew make the seismic line clear for recording and overcome the
noise factor by removing the faulty and disconnected cables, geophone strings, batteries, FDU
508 XT and CX 508XT etc.

3. Daily Test

Instrument Test:

508 XT cables are segregated by executing the visual inspection. The cables having cuts
moved to the cable repairing shop to repair the joints. The cable cuts were repaired through the
Cable Joint kit, including heat shrinks, silicon tape, rubber tape and scotch coat. The good and
repaired cables are checked with Field Tester (FT-508). In case of any transmission, the cable is
sent back to the repairing shop.

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 Sensor Test:

The Geophone leakage is checked at the leakage point by using mega meter (Figure 4.2).
The bad leakage geophones moved to the Geophone leakage tracing point where leakage is
traced through the analog meter (Figure 4.4). The good geophones are moved to the SMT plant
for 12 hours.

Shooting Crew

Shooting Crew comes to blast the hole when the order is being given to him by the
observer sitting in the recorder. It is very sensitive job. The source points list is being given to
shooter and holes are being scouted by the Forman first. When the lines are cleared there is no
distortion, they can easily reach the point and blast the hole. The shooter makes connections with
the blaster cable and charges the hole from Shot Pro HD blaster and then recorder blast the hole
from the recorder by transmitting the radio signals. Shooter places a geophone near 1m of the
hole so that the up-hole time of the hole can be measured.

Working of Shooting Crew

 First the shooting group scouts the source point which needs to be blasted.
 Every shooting crew has its own source points group which they are responsible to blast
during the recording.
 Shooting crew have blaster, the wire of detonator which relates to the dynamite relates to
the blaster by pressing the blaster button the blaster produces a charge which shoots the
dynamite.
 A single geophone is also connected with the blaster by a geophone cable which records
the Up-hole time. The shooting crew records the up-hole time and gives it to geo office.

4. Production

When the seismic spread is completed, the production was started by doing dynamite
blasting on the source points. There are shooters scattered in the active block being shouted. The
ShotPro HD shooting system was used in the project for 2D. There are total of 520 SPs shot to

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acquire 2D seismic data in Seismic Project by keeping the recommended parameters under
consideration. As Seismic Project comprises of the undulating land features including high rise
hills and deep, narrow valleys, there has been some communication issues that made hindrance
in the operation. For that reason, Repeaters are made for the Blasters. They are utilized on the
principle that the Repeater used should be at the top location and surrounding the shooters,
making the communication possible with the Recorder. This approach has saved a lot of time in
the operation and leads to the increase in the production.

5. Data QC

The next step in the production phase is to do the real time data QC. It is one of the most
crucial and important step to perform for gaining ultimate results. The step is critical to recognize
for any unwanted noise and the bad stations, which would be rectified by the trouble shooters in
the field. Real time QC is conducted to mitigate the unwanted noise and bad stations, incase if
any noise or bad station is unreachable due to permitting etc. it is then indicated in the observer
log.

6. Pick Up

This is the final step of recording operations. When the seismic data is acquired, all ground
electronics i.e., 508 XT cables, geophones, concentrators (CX 508 XT), are picked up by Back
Crew safely without damaging any equipment.

Once data has been acquired, the job of restoration was performed with deep care. For the
reason, a green team has been created and assigned a task of restoring all the shot holes to
comply with environmental protection.

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