A Success Story: Utilizing Different Variables in Design and Execution of Coiled Tubing Extended Reach Milling Operations

Yekta, Kaveh; Stang, Benjamin; Hilling, Scott; Schwartz, Chris; Cheung, Bettina; Elliott, Kevin J.; Williams, Cedric D.

doi:10.2118/199802-ms

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 6 publications

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“…Nevertheless, it is essential to note that this may be applicable when there are logistics issues. [14] Showed that the use of generation four CT and the use of fluid rheology improved cleaning efficiency. The study demonstrated that optimizing well trajectory, string design, incorporating real-time monitoring.…”

Section: Authors Study Findingsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Bridge Plug Drillouts Cleaning Practices—An Overview

Trabelsi¹,

Seibi²,

Liu³

et al. 2021

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Horizontal fracture-simulated completions remain the most reliable method of producing hydrocarbons from shale formations. The vast majority of unconventional wells are completed using the "Plug and Perf" method. This method involves using either a coiled tubing (CT) with a positive displacement motor or a jointed pipe to mill out composite plugs after fracturing operations are completed. An estimated average of 120,000 composite plugs is installed in the US alone each year. Bridge plug drillouts from milling operations tend to accumulate in horizontal wells and can cause stuck pipe incidents and loss of well control. Efficient removal of composite plugs' debris is crucial in achieving operational efficacies and full production potential. This paper provides an overview of the various bridge plug drillouts cleaning practices adopted in horizontal wells. It discusses several case histories, showcasing how operators solved cleanout challenges. Developed mechanistic models to better understand hole cleaning are also reviewed. As more unconventional wells are being set at more extensive depths, an economical and optimized coiled tubing process becomes increasingly important. This paper focuses on delivering a more conclusive set of recommendations to increase efficiency and improve current composite plug coiled tubing cleaning-milling practices, increase operational efficiency and reduce cost.

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Section: Authors Study Findingsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Bridge Plug Drillouts Cleaning Practices—An Overview

Trabelsi¹,

Seibi²,

Liu³

et al. 2021

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A Paradigm Shift in Drilling Frac Plugs in Extended Laterals – A Permian Basin Case History

Krane

DeFriend

Garza

et al. 2020

SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition

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Wells in the Permian Basin continue to increase in technical complexity and lateral length, testing the limits of traditional completion practices in unconventional wells. Coiled tubing has been the standard method for drilling out frac plugs in the basin but has mechanical limitations in extended-reach and high-pressure laterals. Due to the increasing well complexity operators have begun using high technology hydraulic completion units (HCU), also known as a snubbing unit, to drill out frac plugs in certain Permian Basin wells. By using the HCU in wells with longer laterals, higher pressures, and downhole uncertainty/complexity some of the additional risk can be mitigated. The HCU system can provide a reliable and cost-effective means to cleanout laterals in the Permian Basin while reducing mechanical risk. The purpose of this paper is to present case histories that illustrate the positive impact of the HCU on field operations. This paper will also detail the evolution of the HCU over time to its current state of the art stand-alone rigless system.

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Application of Real-Time Solid Measurement and Return Flow Rate During Coiled Tubing Milling Operations

Yekta

Phung

Stang

et al. 2021

Day 4 Thu, March 25, 2021

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Among the many applications of Coiled Tubing (CT) services, milling plugs and wellbore sand cleanout are two of the major applications. The transport of solids to the surface, as well as monitoring the return rates, are two sources of information which can have a significant impact on the execution of these jobs. Traditionally the flowback crew communicates this information to the CT control cab upon request. However, by utilizing an acoustic monitor and ultrasonic flowmeter, it can reduce the dependence on flowback operators and provide real-time solid measurement and return flow rate. The acoustic monitor is a passive, non-intrusive device that is designed to measure the acoustic noise induced into the pipe wall as solids impact the inside wall of the pipe. The ultrasonic flowmeter is a clamp-on device that is designed with two transducers that serve as both a transmitter and receiver. In order to prove the concept, five stages of trials were planned and executed. In stage one, CT was rigged into a 150m vertical test well. The equipment included CT mast unit, CT pump, choke manifold, and acoustic monitoring device. Several debris piles from previous milling operations were introduced to the test well, and a CT cleanout was performed. The acoustic monitor system measured the amount of solid to surface, and the results were evaluated. Solids retrieved were then compared to the initial debris piles and correlated to the data received by the acoustic monitor. On the 2nd stage, the acoustic monitoring device was utilized in actual milling operation. The 3rd stage was a yard trial of ultrasonic flowmeter using a CT pump and data acquisition system to evaluate the working envelope of this device, followed by a field trial, in stage 4, utilizing the flowmeter in actual milling operations. The final stage of this trial was planned and executed in milling operations on a five wells pad, utilizing the combined applications of acoustic monitoring (solid measurement) and ultrasonic flowmeter (return rate) devices. All five stages contributed to proof of concept for the applications of solid measurement and return flow rate devices. These trials were successfully planned, executed, and evaluated. The acquired data throughout the five stages of these trials were utilized during and post job operations as lessons learned to optimize the process for future applications. The real-time measurement of solids and flow rate monitoring, independent of flowback operators, enables the CT operator to make informed decisions throughout milling and cleanout operations. The real-time streaming of solids to surface and return flow rate enables the operator and service company’s Engineering team to evaluate and optimize the execution of milling and sand cleanout operations.

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A Success Story: Utilizing Different Variables in Design and Execution of Coiled Tubing Extended Reach Milling Operations

Cited by 3 publications

References 6 publications

Bridge Plug Drillouts Cleaning Practices—An Overview

Bridge Plug Drillouts Cleaning Practices—An Overview

A Paradigm Shift in Drilling Frac Plugs in Extended Laterals – A Permian Basin Case History

Application of Real-Time Solid Measurement and Return Flow Rate During Coiled Tubing Milling Operations

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