Technology Update: Fit-For-Purpose Sand Screens Address Cost-Benefit Balance

Abstract

Technology Update The pursuit of hydrocarbon reserves and increased oil production means that operators continue to look to prolific high-permeability, clastic reservoirs that can be found in basins around the world. The use of high-deviation and horizontal well trajectories in these fields increases the amount of reservoir contacted by the wellbore, which improves productivity but increases the challenges of sand control. Practical sand-control options for these wells include gravel packs, standalone screens, and slotted liners. The lower flux rates in extended-reach wells, and the high cost of gravel packing mean that operators are increasingly turning to standalone screens as the solution. However, the choice of screen will depend on the particular application to ensure that the well completion can retain the sand, avoid plugging and erosion, and maintain mechanical integrity. Subsea deployments, exits through milled windows, and long horizontal wells with swelling shales or unstable boreholes require a more robust and mechanically stronger solution. Other, less challenging wells may not require this level of mechanical performance yet still may need a sturdier sand-control solution than the use of standard screens. Weighing costs and benefits has become increasingly important in the current economically challenging environment. Operators cannot afford to use over-engineered solutions and demand a more focused option to fit their needs. Specifically, there is an increasing need for screens that are engineered to reduce cost and maintain performance but are stronger than a traditional screen. Sand-Control Screens An effective sand screen is designed to allow the larger formation particles to bridge across the openings to offer maximum fluid flow area and reduce plugging. Smaller formation particles are then retained behind the larger “bridged” particles. Premium screens incorporate layers of metal mesh or weave to handle a larger range of particle sizes while increasing the fluid flow area and providing greater mechanical strength and erosion resistance.