FORM-A-SQUEEZE

High-solids slurry

Schlumberger Oilfield Services

The FORM-A-SQUEEZE high-solids slurry is a cost-effective solution to lost circulation in all types of fractures, vugular formations, matrix, and underground blowout events. When placed in and/or across a loss zone, the liquid phase squeezes from the slurry, rapidly leaving a solid plug behind. This process can cure losses instantly, without time or temperature dependency.

Application

The recommended concentration of FORM-A-SQUEEZE slurry is 80 lbm/bbl [228 kg/m³] in either water-, oil-, or synthetic-based fluids. The slurry can be weighted to the desired density with barite or calcium carbonate.

The slurry should be pumped to the annulus, covering at least 50% in excess of the loss zone. The drillstring is then pulled slowly 90 ft [27 m] above the pill. The slurry should be gently squeezed in the range of 100–300 psi [6.9–20.7 bar] to the maximum of the anticipated mud weight required for the interval, holding the pressure for 10 to 20 min.

Applications

The FORM-A-SQUEEZE slurry lost-circulation (LC) plug can be used to stop losses occurring in any water-based and nonaqueous-base fluid and can be easily mixed in freshwater, seawater, or oil- or synthetic-based fluids. It was designed to be used as

  • an openhole remedial and preventive lost-circulation squeeze
  • a plug to run in front of cement squeezes
  • a plug to improve casing shoe integrity
  • a preventive LC material for seepage losses, up to 20 lb/bbl [57 kg/m3] in the whole active system
  • a cased-hole squeeze for sealing perforations and casing leaks.

Quick-acting plug for fractured, vugular formations and underground blowout events
Temperature stable up to 450 degF [232 degC]
Easy to mix through a standard hopper in water-, oil-, or synthetic-based fluids

Advantages

  • Quick-acting plug for fractured, vugular formations and underground blowout events
  • Single-sack product
  • Extremely easy to mix through a standard hopper in water-, oil-, or synthetic-based fluids
  • No special equipment required to spot the pill
  • No spacer is required – contaminant friendly to both water- and nonaqueous-based fluids
  • Not dependent on time, temperature, activator and retarder formulations, or pH
  • Temperature stable up to 450 degF [232 degC]
  • Complies with LC50 requirements
  • Can be mixed in a rig slugging pit up to 17 lbm/galUS [2 kg/L]
  • Can be used in whole circulation system up to 10 lbm/bbl [28.5 kg/m3] for seepage loss

Limitations

  • Approximately 28% acid soluble
  • Pill should not be left in drillstring
  • Pill should be continually agitated after mixing

Toxicity and handling

Bioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions described in the safety data sheet (SDS).

Packaging and storage

The FORM-A-SQUEEZE slurry is packaged in standard 40-lbm [18.18-kg] sacks. Store in a dry, well-ventilated area away from sources of heat or ignition. Avoid generating dust. Follow safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrink-wrapping, and stacking.