LWD engineer explaing the operation of the logging tools to the scientists, Dr. Saneatsu Saito (IFREE/JAMSTEC) and Ayumu Miyakawa (Kyoto University). >>Expedition 314 Photo Gallery

IODP NanTroSEIZE Stage 1:
Expedition 314: NanTroSEIZE LWD Transect
Weekly Report #1
Date 28/Sept/2007

The Expedition 314 science party boarded the ship on 19 September after taking the Helicopter Underwater Escape Training and Sea Survival Trainings at JAMSTEC Headquarters on 18 September. Prior to the daily science party meetings, ship safety induction and ship tour were conducted on 20 September, LWD tools introduction was briefed by LWD engineer on 21 September.

Chikyu departed the Shingu port for the first site at 16:00 on 21 September 2007. The 44 nm transit was traveled at an average speed of 5.0 knots. Upon arrival to the first site at 01:00 on 22 September, set ship in Dynamic Position mode.
After confirming the site location with ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), drilling began at Hole C0001A at 12:15 of September 25. Faster control ROP (Rate of Penetration) after jet in to the depth 70 m, drilling went smoothly up to the depth of 498 mbsf (meter below seafloor). Tools getting stuck from that depth even spotting HiVis drilling fluid at connections. After changing more circulation and slower ROP, drilling continued to the Target Depth of 1000 mbsf at 12:45 of September 27. Preparation for the GeoTech coring was started and maintenance at various instruments on the drill floor and derrick.

Logging data analysis software trainings were conducted, and then scientists practiced in their available time in later days. Science seminar began on 23 September with daily schedule covering topics on previous Nankai Trough LWD drilling review, lithostratigraphy, structural and physical properties, log-seismic integration and modeling of accretionary prisms. Since the start of the pilot hole drilling, science party closely monitored on the real-time data in the lab area and at the lab-roof area while discussing with OSI, drilling engineer and well-site geologist.

As part of the preparation for the next coring expeditions, Lab technicians are working in the lab area for maintenance, instrument setup and rearrangements. Training for the core flow for the Geo-Tech core was also done.