Specifications

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non-linear output had the effect of reporting extremely high percentages of gas when the true amount of gas
was much less.
Other techniques were used such as a multiple point calibration. This method employed the storage of
multiple points of calibration in a calibration look-up table. This technique utilized the raw output of the
detector and a processor was used to locate the closest value in the table and report the stored output
percentage. This method fails in practice because the raw output values of the detector can vary widely based
on the types or mix of gases being detected, thereby invalidating the look up multi-point table and also causing
false high readings.
Until recently, there was no known method that would easily or better predict the output of the infrared detector
for use in the raw natural gas detection in the drilling fluid. The current Bloodhound system can emulate the
output of a hot-wire /TCD system to assure consistency of information obtained during the drilling process.
B. Gas Detection Subsystem, the HRM03
The Bloodhound detects the gases using an independent gas
detection module known as the Hot-wire Replacement Module, third
generation or otherwise known as the “HRM03”. This module allows
the system to be highly flexible and easily repaired when in the field.
All calibration parameters are stored on the HRM modules in a non-
volatile memory. This allows the module to be pre-calibrated and
stored until replaced as a whole in the field or as a service item. This
is done without the hassle and down-time associated with replacing
hot-wire or catalyst bead technology based systems. This module
allows for the system as a whole to detect hydrocarbon based gases,
CO
2
, O
2
, and H
2
S. It also has a second detector channel for detecting
gases coming from the chromatograph column. The greatest
innovation of the HRM03 module is the infrared detector. The HRM03 modifies the output characteristics of
the detectors and uses a patent-pending digital signal processing technique to very closely mimic the output
characteristics of a properly operational older hot-wire system in fit form and function without any of the
constant headaches associated with hot-wire systems. It is not uncommon to operate a Bloodhound system
for more than 6 months without the need for calibration. And when checked, usually only needs a tweak.
Attached to the HRM03 module is an electronic flow meter that monitors the gas flow through the system. The
data from the flow meter is given to the Brain Board and the Brain Board then adjusts the amount of power to
the sample motor to constantly adjust the flow rate no matter what vacuum load is on the sample line. In
addition, the HRM03 has an integrated column oven controller that accurately controls the temperature of the
chromatograph column.
C. Brain Board Subsystem
The Brain Board assembly controls all aspects of the Bloodhound system. It sends power and communicates
to the HRM module, communicates to the WITS interfaces and geolograph inputs, controls the analog and
relay outputs, communicates and controls the Ethernet module, communicates and controls the 3G modem,
switches the alarm, controls the chromatograph, monitors the vacuums, sample flow rate, watches for buttons
to be pressed, and dozens of other functions. Truly the heart of the system, it is easily replaced as an
assembly, and by design is robust and rugged.
D. Power Supply Subsystem
The power supply in the Bloodhound is an isolated switching power supply. The AC power that is supplied is
first converted into very high voltage direct current (DC). The incoming voltage and frequency is not important,
as long as there is enough to keep the DC voltage high enough. Generally between 85 and 240 VAC and
between 45 and 65 cycles. This permits the Bloodhound to operate with wildly fluctuating voltage and
frequencies that are very common when running on rig power. The high voltage DC output of the power
supply is inverted to alternating current (AC) and fed to a high frequency transformer, then rectified to generate