Overcoming Challenges and Optimizing Liner Deployment in Long Laterals

Abstract

This article, written by Special Publications Editor Adam Wilson, contains highlights of paper SPE 181288, “Overcoming Challenges, Improving Understanding, and Optimizing Liner Deployment in Long Laterals,” by Kim Daniel Mathisen, SPE, Tore Sørheim, SPE, and Tom Rune Koløy, SPE, Trican, and Neil Decker, SPE, Hess, prepared for the 2016 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, Dubai, 26–28 September. The paper has not been peer reviewed. A North Sea field development included installation of long 4½-in. completion liners in the horizontal reservoir sections of each well. To minimize overall risk, the operator planned to use managed-pressure drilling (MPD). Despite the expected positive effects of MPD, a strong understanding of the downhole dynamics during deployment of the lower-completion liner was needed. To address this challenge, the operator installed a newly developed work-string-dynamics logging tool directly above the liner-hanger-running tools. Logging-Tool Technology Overview The logging tool is a compact and robust memory-based surveillance tool made for drillpipe-conveyed well operations. It is designed, manufactured, and maintainde to be used without being a weak point in the string. The tool is equipped with an electronics package consisting of sensors, batteries, and memory. The logging tool records Axial loads (tension and compression) Torque (left/right) Pressures (absolute internal pressure, absolute external pressure, and differential pressure) Temperature The logging tool is typically shipped to the rigsite ready to be run in the well. The rig crew treats the tool as though it is a standard drillpipe pup joint, eliminating the need for dedicated field personnel and increased personnel on board. After starting logging, the tool can log for 36 days continuously, enabling multiple installations on a single battery package. Logging Tool Description The tool consists of three major components—a main body, housing, and a tool joint. The main body (inner mandrel) contains the electrical package with sensors. The housing protects the electrical package and is installed on the outside of the main body. The tool joint is mounted on the lower section on the main body. Axial loads on the tool are transferred through the main body and the tool joint; the housing is not exposed to axial loads. Torque is transferred through a robust spline system. Results The logging tool was placed directly above the liner-hanger-running tool in the installation string on seven liner deployments in this campaign. For all installations, both the primary logging tool and the backup were started at the base before shipment to the rigsite. This allowed for testing and field verification of the tool’s memory and battery lifetime. After completion-liner installation, the operator recovered the deployment string to surface with the logging-tool memory sub, which was then shipped back to the workshop onshore. The vendor then downloaded the data for analysis.