Abstract
Abstract Gas-lift valves (GLV) by definition are designed to allow influx of the annular gas into the tubing and prevent any backflow even when a pressure differential exists toward the annulus. However, elements, such as erosion, corrosion, scale, fatigue, vibration, and temperature and pressure effects may cause the GLV to leak, thereby posing a serious safety issue. Because of the well-integrity concern, suspected GLVs are often retrieved with a wireline from the side-pocket mandrel for inspection. Proactive testing is a way to minimize such costly intervention. This paper details a methodology for determining a GLV’s integrity that avoids retrieving the valve and relies on examining the annular transient-pressure response. Based on the models developed, we propose a robust, nonintrusive test procedure saving time and expense. The proposed method is validated with field data from three offshore wells. We also present a forward model that helps design test methodology.
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