QMax EM3

Electromagnetic (EM) measurements are currently in use for deep sea oil exploration and production monitoring, with the most common technique being the Controlled Source EM method. However, the standard receivers used for these applications have some operational challenges that QFS knew we could overcome. Our solution to the industry's problems was the QMax EM3 underwater receiver, the development of which led to the formation of a commercial division of QFS known as Quasar Geophysical Technologies.

The QMax began with QFS's innovative underwater electrodes. Standard underwater electrodes have to be stored wet and, since they rely on a chemical process to make a measurement, degrade rather quickly with use. QFS's electrodes can tolerate dry storage and perform at the same level for long periods of time. In addition, standard receivers use a long baseline to make their measurement, meaning they require arms extending out from the sides of the receiver. These pose operational challenges, as they can sweep across the deck while the receiver's being winched upwards, posing a hazard, and they can prevent the receiver from dropping straight down from where it's released, making precise placement in an acquisition grid challenging.

The compact QMax can acquire data of comparable quality to conventional technology, but its electrodes are built into the unit and no arms are required to obtain data of adequate quality. The electrodes can tolerate dry storage for long periods of time, and their performance will not degrade with long exposure to seawater.