Precise echometric cavity measurements for brine, water, air and various gases
We offer comprehensive solutions for monitoring caverns and boreholes using state-of-the-art technology. This includes cavern and borehole surveys, sampling and leak tests to ensure plant safety. Our specialized cavern software, together with advanced visualization and animation solutions, enables a clear presentation of all relevant data. Rely on our expertise for maximum safety and efficiency of your underground storage facilities.
Video of the surveying process
Our echometric cavern surveys utilise advanced ultrasonic and laser systems and are possible in various media such as brine, water, air, hydrocarbons, as well as nitrogen, helium and hydrogen. We select suitable measurement methods to precisely record the conditions on site.
Video of the surveying process
With our sampling tools, we offer a versatile solution for taking liquid and gas samples from caverns or wellbores. The tools can be configured according to requirements and are equipped with extensive sensor technology. The complete documentation during sampling supports the subsequent analysis and evaluation of the cavern condition. On request, the sampling tool can also be combined with a density measuring module to determine additional parameters in a single run.
For safe transport of the samples to the analysis laboratory, the sample bottles are housed in a specially designed case. The in-situ sample analysis is carried out in accordance with ISO methods 6974/6975 to ensure precise and reliable results.
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SoMIT® – Precise and efficient integrity testing
The SoMIT® method (Sonar Mechanical Integrity Testing), developed and patented by SOCON, offers an advanced solution for tightness testing. Using a specially developed ultrasonic tool, the SoMIT® method is used to continuously and accurately record the interface depth. At the same time, temperature and pressure in the test area and, if required, at the well head are recorded with high accuracy.
The temperature and pressure are measured over the entire length of the well at the beginning and the end as a Log and during the entire test period in the vicinity of the interface. The SoMIT® tool is securely fixed in the casing during the entire test to avoid e.g. depth errors due to cable expansion effects.
The SoMIT® method enables more precise results and significantly shortens the test duration in comparison to conventional test methods. This leads to reduced test times, shorter drilling rig times and lower costs.
SoMIT® – Precise and efficient integrity testing
The SoMIT® method (Sonar Mechanical Integrity Testing), developed and patented by SOCON, offers an advanced solution for tightness testing. Using a specially developed ultrasonic tool, the SoMIT® method is used to continuously and accurately record the interface depth. At the same time, temperature and pressure in the test area and, if required, at the well head are recorded with high accuracy.
The temperature and pressure are measured over the entire length of the well at the beginning and the end as a Log and during the entire test period in the vicinity of the interface. The SoMIT® tool is securely fixed in the casing during the entire test to avoid e.g. depth errors due to cable expansion effects.
The SoMIT® method enables more precise results and significantly shortens the test duration in comparison to conventional test methods. This leads to reduced test times, shorter drilling rig times and lower costs.
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Our technology sets standards in cavern surveying. With high-precision tools, state-of-the-art survey trucks and rigorously certified test equipment, we guarantee reliable and accurate results even under the most challenging conditions. Put your trust in our many years of experience and technological innovation for your demanding projects.
Reliable echo sounders for precise cavern measurements under extreme conditions.
SOCON develops its special sonar tools, which are also manufactured in-house, for the exceptional conditions in caverns. These tools, equipped with modular functional units such as a transceiver unit, compass and gyro stabilisation, are controlled by an external master computer. Fibre-optic gyroscopes and sensors for inclination enable precise measurements even through pipes and thus make it possible to record the cavern geometry during the leaching phase without having to remove the leaching completion.
Powerful and safe survey trucks for every challenge.
The SOCON survey truck fleet consists of high-performance vehicles that are equipped for various scenarios.
They offer a robust winch room protected by stainless steel panels, which also provides a hydraulic loading crane and a workbench. Our specially developed winches guarantee a high level of safety and enable particular flexibility thanks to the quickly replaceable cable drums. The centrepiece is the measuring cabin, with workstations for the operator, who operates the winch, and the measuring technician, who can simultaneously work on the evaluation and the report at his computer.
From prototype development to hardware and software training: SOCON covers all aspects of comprehensive testing of complex systems before they are used in the field. Various systems and equipment are used for this purpose. These include, for example
Customised software solutions for cavern construction and operation
SOCON’s specialised software solutions for cavern construction and operation are user-friendly and adaptable. Our flagship product, the CavInfo Software Suite, comprises four perfectly integrated programs: CavViewII, CavLog, CavMap and CavWalk Pro. These enable comprehensive analysis, visualisation and processing of cavern and cavern field data.
Customised software solutions for cavern construction and operation
SOCON’s specialised software solutions for cavern construction and operation are user-friendly and adaptable. Our flagship product, the CavInfo Software Suite, comprises four perfectly integrated programs: CavViewII, CavLog, CavMap and CavWalk Pro. These enable comprehensive analysis, visualisation and processing of cavern and cavern field data.
Precise visualisation and analysis of cavern surveys
Our CavInfo Software Suite offers a comprehensive solution for visualising, analysing and evaluating individual caverns. Powerful functions allow you to visualise measurement results in detail and evaluate them efficiently. The user-friendly graphical interface ensures simple and clear operation.
CavViewII – your solution for the visualisation and analysis of cavern surveys
With CavViewII, the measurement results of individual cavern surveys can be displayed, analysed and efficiently evaluated in a variety of ways.
CavMap – Comprehensive visualisation and processing of cavern sites
CavMap enables the simultaneous visualisation of several caverns as a cavern field, which can be viewed in plan, as a section or from a specific viewpoint. As a central element of the CavInfo software series, CavMap is designed so that CavViewII, CavWalkPro and CavLog can be called up directly.
CavLog – Precise visualisation and analysis of Log data
CavLog – Precise visualisation and analysis of Log data
CavLog is a specialised program for displaying all log parameters recorded with SOCON tools. It enables comprehensive display, analysis and output of measurement data such as temperature, pressure, dew point, etc.
CavWalkPro – 3D visualisation tool for cavern surveys
CavWalkPro enables a virtual ‘walk’ into caverns and through entire cavern fields. It is also possible to integrate user-defined 3D models in DXF format (e.g. geological structures, overburden layers). The programme is compatible with market-leading 3D joysticks for precise viewing angles and allows the creation of screen recordings and animations from different perspectives. CavWalkPro is the ideal solution for 3D analysis of cavern surveys, offering the possibility to explore the cavern field in real time with VR glasses and a controller thanks to the new interface to virtual reality.
CavBase – Relational database systems for cavern fields
CavBase products are relational database systems developed as classic client-server applications. They can be operated both via intranet and internet. They enable the decentralised recording, management and analysis of the daily operating data of cavern systems.
The first system, CavBase Production, was developed in co-operation with DEEP.KBB GmbH and is designed for the construction and operation of caverns during their leaching phase. The second system, CavBase Gas Storage, is specially designed for gas cavern fields and supports the necessary thermodynamic and rock mechanic calculations for operational management. Both systems are seamlessly integrated into the CavInfo programmes and offer a user-friendly interface and short calculation times.
In ultrasonic cavity surveying, it is crucial to capture various physical parameters to ensure accurate sonar data. Layering in caverns affects the speed of sound and temperature, which can deflect the sonar beam and lead to erroneous results if these effects are not considered. Our surveying systems therefore continuously record Log data such as sonic velocity in the medium, pressure, temperature, CCL, M-CCL, tool inclination and, if necessary, natural gamma values. This data is essential for a precise assessment of the cavern situation. For gas caverns, we also offer a dew point module that can be integrated into the ultrasonic tool. This module enables in-situ measurement of the dew point distribution and provides valuable information on moisture distribution and possible hydrate formation. The Log data is also used to determine the depth reference point and forms the basis for thermodynamic calculations and mass balancing. All necessary physical parameters are either integrated into the sonar tool or can be added if required. Special tools or modules are used for special requirements, such as narrow sections in cavern necks. A specially developed tool is available for the precise measurement of density in liquid-filled caverns.
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