Downhole fluid analysis (DFA) is a critical aspect of well development that helps operators identify key reservoir fluid characteristics, such as hydrocarbon composition, gas/oil ratio and CO2. The capabilities of DFA have been expanded to include a real-time, in-situ wireline method for measuring formation fluid viscosity, a parameter that influences fluid mobility, which is directly related to productivity and fluid displacement.

By understanding the viscosity of downhole fluids, operators can more accurately analyze compositional gradients as well as vertical and lateral reservoir connectivity to estimate the economic value of a reservoir—an important factor in appraisal and early field development. The new wire viscosity sensor represents an important step-change in DFA, providing operators with a stable and precise method to better understand the reservoir’s petroleum system and develop wells economically with reduced risk, cost and uncertainty.