MWD Data: How the .BOR Format Facilitates Data Interoperability-Paper

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The article presents the Borehole Open Recording (.BOR) format as a solution to fragmented, proprietary data formats used by measurement-while-drilling (MWD) and other geotechnical recording systems. These formats can hinder data sharing, analysis and integration, while large measurement files slow transmission.<br /><br />A .BOR file is a compressed archive containing two complementary components: `description.xml`, which stores static metadata such as project, borehole, location, operator and equipment details; and one or more netCDF files, which hold dynamic measurements such as depth, torque, pressure, rotation speed and flow. This structure supports compact storage, traceability and consistent processing across different tests and equipment.<br /><br />With a dedicated library, .BOR data can be decompressed and converted into widely used formats including JSON, DIGGS, AGS and IREDES. These conversions connect field measurements to web applications, GIS, cloud platforms, analysis tools, reporting systems and other geotechnical software. The format is intended to preserve data and reduce the need for manual reformatting.<br /><br />The article also describes potential future API connections that could enable applications to retrieve and use data in real time, supporting live dashboards, automated alerts, updated ground models and equipment monitoring. Such capabilities could improve operational responsiveness and predictive maintenance.<br /><br />Developed and managed by LIM, .BOR is documented and freely available for use. The format is intended to evolve to support additional measurement types while maintaining backward compatibility. Overall, the authors position it as a standardized, interoperable foundation for managing and sharing drilling and geotechnical data throughout connected digital workflows.

Keywords

Borehole Open Recording

BOR format

measurement-while-drilling

geotechnical data

netCDF

description.xml

data interoperability

compressed archive

real-time API

drilling data sharing