When the operator experienced losses in fractured carbonate formations in the Egyptian Western Desert, conventional loss-of-circulation solutions and cement plugs were attempted but achieved limited success. Lost-circulation events can require multiple cement plugs, leading to more than a week of delays before reaching TD. As a result, the operator sought a loss-control method that would avoid cementing and nonproductive rig time.
To address the challenge, Losseal Natural Fracture treatment was pumped through a circulation sub in the BHA. The treatment was implemented in a different well and managed to decrease the rate of losses, allowing the rig to continue drilling to the section casing point. Furthermore, in three wells, the first pill managed to fully cure the loss of circulation. This solution has been proven successful in curing the loss point without the need for additional loss-control pills or cement plugs, saving significant time and costs. After treatment, the losses were reduced or fully cured, enabling drilling to continue to the casing setting. The Losseal Natural Fracture treatment has proven effective in multiple instances for mitigating losses while drilling, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming trips out of the hole for cementing solutions. By reducing rig time and enabling the operator to meet the targeted drilling duration, the treatment also offers a more sustainable, ecologically sound solution that aligns with industry-wide environmental initiatives.
