KickStart valve provides a reliable, cost-effective alternative
Schlumberger proposed use of the award-winning KickStart rupture disc
valve to stimulate the first stage. The valve's outstanding record of
reliability convinced the operator to use this technology to enhance the
efficiency of stimulation operations and save both time and money.
The closed valve is run to the toe of the well as part of the casing
string. Casing pressure is then increased to a predetermined value, causing the
valve's rupture discs to burst, shifting a sliding sleeve and opening the
valve, thereby exposing the formation to the fracturing fluid. The first
stimulation treatment can then begin and subsequent pumpdown operations can
follow.
Operator saves USD 5.4 million in less than one year
The valve performed smoothly as per its design the first time the
operator tried it in the SCOOP play. Pleased with the efficiency of the
operation and savings in excess of USD 50,000, the company elected to continue
its use. 100 installations in less than one year have brought the total savings
to USD 5.4 million, with a 100% success rate and zero NPT. The valve continues
to form an essential component of this operator's plug-and-perf
designs.