What is MWD? Measurement While Drilling

MWD operators measure the trajectory of the hole as it is drilled. (Inclination and Azimuth) This information is then used to drill in a pre-planned direction into the formation which contains the oil, gas, water or condensate. Additional measurements can also be taken of natural gamma ray emissions from the rock; this helps broadly to determine what type of rock formation is being drilled, which in turn helps confirm the real-time location of the wellbore in relation to the presence of different types of known formations (by comparison with existing seismic data). MWD operators work closely with geologists to help determine where they are and what direction they need to drill.

Measurement While Drilling (MWD), also known as Logging While Drilling (LWD), is a measurement taken of the well bore (the hole) inclination from vertical, and also magnetic direction from north. Using basic trigonometry, a three-dimensional plot of the path of the well can be produced.