Local Lecture: Localized Casing Expansion Technology Case Study: First Metal-to-Metal Seal

When:  Jan 18, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM (ET)
Associated with  Pittsburgh Petroleum Section

Abstract: 

Fluid migration behind liners can be a refrac well operation-ending problem. In this case, it resulted in refrac operations being stopped due to the inability to convey perforating guns and plug tool string to the desired depths. In the past these liner sealing failures could be very difficult to remedy with the prospect of further well damage. Until recently, traditional methods for treating annular fluid loses and liner seal failure were not numerus and those methods available typically increased the likelihood of risk to the operational goals. The main disadvantage of the earlier mitigation methods centered around the need for a workover rig or other tubing/tool conveyance methods. With the Local Expander technology processes and intervention utilizing the same E-line unit preforming refrac operations.

Casing expansion is a recent alternative remediation technology in which hoop straining and bending are the predominant deformation mechanisms. This deformation is inhomogeneous along the pipe circumference due to the cyclic symmetry in the tool geometry. To explain more simply, we impose a permanent radial expansion of the liner and casing, with the purpose of mechanically closing problematic pathways for pumped fluids. Only the basic well information such as, annular void, the liner, and casing details are necessary for the local expander remediation treatment to be initiated. These are all commonly reviewed prior to refract operations being conducted. 

Expansive laboratory experiments and field trials have shown metal to metal seal expansion to be a promising alternative to traditional mitigation methods. We built on these insights and performed a controlled treatment with the expandable liner involving a 3.62” Local Expander tool and from these results in a live well operation the operator was able to document a full annular metal to metal seal thereby allowing refrac operations to continue.

Speaker Bio: 

Jeff Bartulla, Senior Technical Sales Engineer, Renegade Services

Jeff has more than 20 years of oilfield service industry experience in both completions and production services, with most of his emphasis in e-line cased hole logging and interpretation. He was a trained specialty logger and senior general services engineer when in the field that brought new services and technologies to the industry serving with Comptalog, Pioneer and now Renegade Services. He holds a BA in Business Administration and Finance from Sam Houston State University.

Lecturer Luncheon

Location

Cefalo's Banquet and Event Center
428 Washington Ave
Carnegie, PA 15106
United States

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