Maximize Well Integrity During Plug and Abandonment Through Perforate and Wash Operation

Abstract

Abstract This paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of implementing Perforate and Wash operations as a proposed solution for maximizing well integrity during single and dual lateral well abandonment operations. The objective is to analyze the efficacy of these operations in preserving the structural integrity of the wellbore and preventing potential issues such as fluid migration or tubing-casing annuls communication after the abandonment. Through a comprehensive analysis and evaluation, this paper seeks to provide insights into the benefits and challenges associated with the proposed solution, contributing to the optimization of well abandonment practices and ensuring the long-term integrity of wells. The primary methodology involves studying and comparing different examples where the technique has been employed. Additionally, the approach integrates an experience-based methodology, complemented by direct observation of the implementation results and its impact on well integrity. The basic idea of implementing a Perforate and Wash operation is comprised of three key steps. It starts with perforating the casing at the desired interval. Then it includes washing and cleaning the annulus by removing unconsolidated solids behind the perforated casing. Lastly, cement is pumped in the newly cleaned annulus, creating a barrier that meets the standards for plug and abandonment of a well or a lateral. The advantage of implementing this approach than conventional plug and abandonment operation is that it maximizes the well integrity by eliminating any pressure communication through channels and achieve radial zonal isolation, minimizing the risk of cement contamination. Another advantage is that in multi-lateral system, it eliminates the risk of an abandoned lateral to have any pressure communication with other laterals. Depending on the results, this technique could open a new approach to be applied widely with higher rate of success and with a much higher confidence in terms of Well Integrity to achieve proper Zonal Isolation, even this technology has the potential to be used to correct Primary Cement jobs when Zonal Isolation was not achieved and other methods like squeeze cement are not successful.