Published: 01/04/2017
Published: 01/04/2017
In a new well in the Eagle Ford Shale, US, the cement between the 9 5/8-in casing and the wellbore was incomplete, requiring perforation of the casing before recementing. The major concern of the operator was to cover the perforations and then be able to pass through with the directional drilling BHA (2° bent-angle motor on a 8 3/8-in drill bit). The depth of the zone to seal was 560 ft [170 m]. Setting a standard 9 5/8-in patch was not possible due to the small ID of the set patch.
After completing an analysis of the job, Saltel Industries manufactured a customized 9 5/8-in patch with the thinnest sealing element possible, reducing its thickness to 0.0509 in [1.5 mm] from the standard 0.088 in [2.25 mm]. Positioned by wireline and expanded within 2 hours, the patch was then pressure tested up to 1,500 psi [10.3 MPa] for half an hour.
The 8 3/8-in drill bit and 2° motor bend passed through the customized 12-ft [4-m], 9 5/8-in patch, and the well was successfully drilled as planned. In this specific case, the Saltel expandable steel patch was the only product capable of completing this operation effectively.
Challenge: Shut off casing perforations without compromising drilling operations
Solution: Manufacture and set a customized Saltel expandable steel patch at a depth of 560 ft [170 m]
Results: Sealed the perforations and passed the drilling BHA through the patch
