Cylindrical probe with a constant temperature—determination of the formation thermal conductivity and contact thermal resistance

A new technique has been developed for determination of the formation thermal conductivity and contact thermal resistance. It is assumed that the volumetric heat capacity of formations is known and the instantaneous heat flow rate and time data are available for a cylindrical probe with a constant temperature placed in a wellbore. A semi-theoretical equation is used to approximate the dimensionless heat flow rate. The accuracy of the basic equation is discussed. A simulated example is presented. # 2003 CNR. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.