Control line wet-mate connector
For fiber-optic downhole monitoring systems
Pressure rating
6,000 psi [41.37 MPa]
Temperature rating
300 degF [150 degC]
Applications
- Fiber-optic measurements at the sandface in multitrip completions
Benefits
- Enables 24/7 well monitoring in real time
- Eliminates workovers to replace optical fiber
- Increases reliability by eliminating downhole optical splices
- Enhances workover efficiency by facilitating retrieval of the upper completion
Features
- No orientation requirement
- Protective sleeves to isolate fluid in control lines during completion installation and workovers
- Ability to operate with or without contraction joints
How it improves performance
The SLB control line wet-mate (CLWM) connector is a self-orienting device that connects control lines across junctions in multitrip completions. A continuous optical fiber is subsequently pumped down the control line into position, enabling acquisition of DTS measurements for analyzing reservoir performance while avoiding downhole splices.
Eliminating more complicated downhole optical connectors helps operators maintain consistency in their multitrip completion designs that require fiber-optic DTS measurements along the sandface.
Replacement of degraded or damaged fiber and deployment of newer optical interrogation technology is now possible without costly, time-consuming workovers, minimizing production loss.
How it works
This fiber-pumping method, developed and patented by SLB, is the premium optical fiber deployment option. It expedites initial installation, saving rig time, and subsequently streamlines fiber replacement. Deploying a continuous length of fiber eliminates optical splices, which is ideal for performance.
The CLWM connector comprises a stinger and receptacle; the former is run with the upper completion and stabs into the receptacle in the lower completion. Protective sleeves prevent entry of wellbore debris into the control line, facilitating optical fiber deployment. Contraction joints can be used to compensate for expansion of downhole tubulars if the CLWM is anchored in place.
