Heavy Oil Wellhead Systems

Efficient wellhead designs for safer and more effective heavy oil recovery

There are several proven methods of recovering heavy oil, such as cold heavy-oil production with sand (CHOPS), cyclic steam stimulation (CSS), and steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD). Our heavy oil wellhead systems provide fluid and pressure control for effective heavy oil recovery.

FC fast-connect HT wellhead system

The FC fast-connect HT wellhead system is a compact system designed for high-temperature applications, such as thermal recovery of heavy oil. It offers an alternative to conventional wellhead systems and can also be used for cold production methods. It reduces HSE risk because most of its components are installed through the BOP stack, reducing installation time and minimizing rig time.

• Horizontal production permits full drift capabilities during workover without having to dismantle the Christmas tree assembly
• Casing head and tubing spool feature other end connectors (OECs), which meet API 6A standards
• All connections are threaded; unlike conventional installations, there is no need to cut, bevel, or weld
• Segmented landing base with holes enables the operator to observe returns or perform top job cementing
• Wellhead is ideal for drilling wells in stages in clusters or pads, using an internally threaded plug to ensure well control while the drilling rig moves off location
• Wellhead enables casing expansion (up to 2 ft) in thermal applications without restricting flow while accommodating wellhead axial and radial stress conditions
• Threaded flange enables quick and easy alignment of the wellhead system with steam lines, flow lines, or both
• Temperature range is 0 to 650 degF, and the maximum working pressure is 3,000 psi
• System accommodates casing program of 13 3/8 in, 9 5/8 in, 5 1/2 in
• Wellhead system eliminates time spent waiting on cement

QC quick-connect wellhead system

The QC quick-connect wellhead system is designed for CHOPS, a technique that enables continuous production of sand with the oil and leads to improved recovery of heavy oil from the reservoir. In many cases, wormholes are formed in the unconsolidated sand reservoir, increasing well productivity. The compact QC wellhead system provides operational flexibility and ease of use; it can also be used with other cold recovery methods. Because the wellhead system uses elastomers, conventional running techniques are applicable.

• System incorporates a horizontal production tree (spool tree), resulting in a more compact profile
• Production wing valves and flowline do not need to be removed for well intervention or progressing cavity pump (PCP) repair
• Casing head and tubing spool feature dual seals for rapid completion and testing
• After cementing, the seal assembly can be run, locked down, overpulled, and pressure tested prior to releasing the running tool
• Annulus is securely sealed and tested prior to rigging down the BOP stack