Liner Rotation While Cementing: An Operator's Experience in South Texas

Abstract

Summary The literature is replete with papers emphasizing the use of pipe movement while cementing to improve the opportunity for a successful primary cement job. Most operators, however, are reluctant to use liner movement, either reciprocation or rotation, while cementing. This paper reviews experiences with nine rotating liners in south Texas since Dec. 1983. The liner hanger system and procedure used in rotating while cementing is discussed. Mud types and weights, hole sizes vs. bit diameter, cement slurries and volumes, hole deviation, and torque encountered are reviewed. A postanalysis of each job, pressure and differential tests performed, and typical cement bond logs will be presented. Good primary liner cementing minimizes problems in production and stimulations and reduces cost. Liners were rotated throughout cement displacement on 77% of the jobs, while rotation was initiated on 88%. Liner rotation while cementing has improved the cement jobs and reduced the remedial cement work.