HPHT Test Packer for Use in WBCU Applications; Reduce Trips, Increase Performance, Protect the Wellbore

Abstract

Abstract A liner-top test packer is a device that is used to verify the integrity of a liner top and cement job in the annulus of a liner. This operation can detect a liner top leak that could result in hydrocarbons migrating into a wellbore. One method to save a trip is to run a liner-top test packer in combination with casing cleanup tools in a combined test and wellbore cleanup run. This enables an operator to verify liner integrity, remove scale, debris, and metal shavings from a wellbore, polish a liner top, and displace fluids all in one trip. As well integrity assessment becomes increasingly important, liner-top test packers must perform with reliability at higher temperatures and pressures, often in deviated wells, under high flow rate situations, and in aggressive muds and completion fluids. These high pressures require a tool that removes hydraulic loads from the liner top, while testing with up to 11,000 psi differential pressure. Historically, liner integrity testing has been performed as an independent operation prior to running wellbore cleanup tools and displacing the well. Today, test packer tools are designed so these two independent operations may be combined into a single trip. Though value is added through reduction in operating time and risk, liner-top test packers must perform reliably while minimizing debris that could compromise subsequent completion operations. This presentation will discuss typical high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) test packer applications and case studies for wellbore cleanup jobs. HPHT objectives were met by reliably sealing 11,000 psi pressure at 400° F and eliminating harmful loading on the liner top.