Active Debris Removal Tool

Efficient wellbore debris removal

Both the ReSOLVE instrumented wireline intervention service and ReSOLVE iX extreme-performance instrumented wireline intervention service include an active debris removal tool for efficiently vacuuming wellbore debris and enabling access for further interventions or tractor conveyance.

Conveyance is on wireline or tractor in highly deviated and horizontal wells, requiring only a standard wireline footprint to eliminate surface rig-up complexities. The active debris removal tool does not require additional pumping fluid because localized well fluid circulation generated downhole collects debris into a bailer for capture. Furthermore, its operational efficiency is maximized with its pinpoint wireline depth control combined with surface readout of the tool status and positive indication when the bailers are full.

A novel approach to debris removal

The active debris removal tool uses a powerful downhole progressive cavity pump (PCP) to generate localized circulation of the wellbore fluid for collecting settled and cohesive debris. The PCP pump is used instead of turbine because of its improved performance, maximized debris suction power, and reversible flow. Bailers remove solids from the flow through open bailing and filtration. A check valve embedded in the bottom nose traps debris to eliminate the risk of debris loss as the toolstring is recovered to surface. A wide range of debris particle sizes, from 0.05 mm [0.002 in] to 1.9 cm [0.75 in], can be optimally collected in one run because of the configurability of the multistage bailer module of both ReSOLVE and ReSOLVE iX services.

Bidirectional capability for operational flexibility

The pump can be operated in both the collecting and jetting functions in the same run. This capability makes it possible to unblock the bailer intake or stir up settled debris as needed, and it can also be used to free the toolstring if it becomes impeded by debris. The real-time measurement capability of the debris removal tool enables you to detect when the bailers are clogged or full to appropriately adjust the pumping rate, initiate jetting, or work the toolstring to optimize collection efficiency.

Comparison of PCP for the debris removal application to the industry-standard turbine pumps.

Debris particle sizes from 0.05 mm [0.002 in] to 1.9 cm [0.75 in] can be optimally collected in one run because of the configurability of the multistage bailer module of ReSOLVE and ReSOLVE iX services.