In some cases, it is not possible to use a Measurand supplied SAAF Install Kit. In these cases you should create your own Install Kit prior to going to the field to install the SAAF.



Step 1 - Assemble the Materials Required


For each Slot Cut Install Kit you will need the following:


  • 27 mm I.D. PVC conduit - The PVC conduit should have approximately 27 mm I.D. with a wall thickness of approximately 3 mm. 
  • 1 PVC coupler
  • 1 PVC End Cap for the bottom of the PVC conduit used to house the SAAF
  • At least 2 gear clamps - Gear clamp should fit around the 27 mm I.D. PVC conduit and be able to tighten down to approximately 20 mm




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Figure 1: Materials required for creating a custom install kit using slot cuts and gear clamps




Step 2 - Cut a Short Piece of PVC


PVC conduit should be cut to a length between 150 mm and 200 mm.  Make sure the inside of the conduit is free of burrs which could snag the ShapeArray (SAA).



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Figure 2: A piece of PVC cut to a length between 150 mm and 200 mm




Step 3 - Cut Slots on One End of the PVC  


Cut two slots into the PVC.  Each slot should be approximately 100 mm long. The slots should be located approximately 90 degrees apart along the circumference of the PVC conduit and form a cross when viewed from the top.



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Figure 3: Slots cut into the PVC at 90 degrees in the form of a cross




Step 4 - Assemble the Slot Cut Install Kit


Each Slot Cut install kit will contain the following items from the previous steps:


  • Slot cut PVC conduit
  • At least 2 gear clamps


Note: As mentioned in Step 1, it is also handy to have extra PVC couplers available


Loosely place the gear clamps over the end of the conduit with the slot cuts as shown in Figure 4 below.



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Figure 4: An assembled slot cut install kit




Step 5 - Install the Slot Cut Install Kit  


Glue the slot cut install kit at the top of the PVC conduit using PVC primer and cement. If necessary, use a coupler to join the install kit to the PVC conduit. It is best to attach the slot cut install kit after you have inserted the SAAF, but it can be done prior to installing the SAAF.



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Figure 5: Slot cut install kit installed on PVC conduit used to house the SAAF




Step 6 - Compress the SAAF


Once the SAAF in inside the PVC conduit, and the slot cut install kit is attached to the conduit, compress the SAAF using 20 kg force (approximately 50 lbs) and tighten gear clamps around PEX tubing. 

Note: If the ShapeArray is installed in an area with heavy vibration or blasting, it is possible that the screws on the gear clamps will loosen with time. You should take steps to ensure that the screws remain tight.



Step 7 - Finishing Off the Top  


Measure and record azimuth offset using the steps shown in the SAA X-mark Protractor guide. Cut PEX down to approximately 50 mm to 75 mm length.

 

Make a loop of cable to create strain relief and run cable going from the borehole to the data acquisition system through electrical conduit for protection and easier removal. 


Secure any cable unprotected by conduit so that it will not cause unwanted movement of the SAAF.