Best Practices for Multizone Isolation

Using Composite Plugs

 Doug Lehr

   Baker Hughes

Abstract:

Treatment isolation using composite plugs (CPs) has been practiced for about two decades in North America and continues to be among the most economical ways to stimulate horizontal and multi-layer vertical wells.  Despite this long experience, many end users still experience problems in these applications because of sub-optimal choices regarding product selection, run-in and removal options, and unrealistic expectations regarding plug life in downhole environments.

 This presentation identifies Best Practices for using CPs, based on technical literature, field experience, and manufacturers’ published data. These practices maximize the chances of successfully installing CPs in multi-zone treatment applications, and improving the economics of oil and gas plays requiring multiple stimulation treatments per well.

 As multi-zone completion activity increases in emerging regions of the world, treatment applications using CPs will also increase in those regions. Those who use CPs in multizone stimulation in emerging regions will conclude that consistently high mechanical success will be achieved by applying the Best Practices identified in this presentation.

 
Biography: 

Doug Lehr is an engineering manager at Baker Hughes in Houston, and has over 30 years experience in the development of downhole tools for production and well servicing applications. Doug has held management positions in engineering and quality assurance, and has worked both internationally and domestically.  He holds a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas and a masters degree in finance and marketing from the University of Houston. Doug has also been awarded 16 U.S. Patents and is a Meritorious Engineering Award recipient.