Enabled live FeS scale removal under subhydrostatic conditions through controlled annulus pressure and secure hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) handling.
The ACTive Xtreme tool and the CT acquisition and monitoring software stabilized ECD and optimized cleanout performance, resulting in up to 30% higher production compared with CT foam-based descaling.
Underbalanced conditions were maintained throughout the intervention, delivering more than 20% cost savings compared with slightly overbalanced CT descaling operations.
An operator in the Middle East required a reliable live-well intervention to remove FeS scale from subhydrostatic, sour gas wells. The operation needed to maintain underbalanced conditions throughout CT descaling while ensuring secure surface handling of solids, liquids, and H₂S.
The operator faced multiple technical and operational challenges:
Conventional slightly overbalanced or foam-based descaling approaches increased risk, cost, and operational complexity.
SLB delivered an integrated, custom-fit underbalanced descaling solution combining real-time downhole intelligence, digital decision support, and enclosed surface equipment.
Key elements included:
The underbalanced CT descaling operation delivered measurable improvements compared with conventional approaches:
By integrating real-time telemetry, digital workflow optimization, and enclosed surface systems, SLB helped the operator improve production while reducing cost and operational risk. The outcome demonstrates how tailored live‑well intervention solutions can improve performance in technically demanding sour gas environments.
For more information, read SPE-220885-MS.
