Swelling Packers; Lab Testing and Field Application

Abstract

TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax +1-972-952-9435. AbstractThe best well completion is the lowest cost one that meets the demands for the well during its life time. There are different aspects that we need to consider when designing completion such as reservoir consideration (Allen and Roberts, 2006).We can have openhole completions, perforated casing completion, or horizontal completions. In this study, we present lab evaluation of oil and water swelling elastomers for potential field application in Saudi Arabia fields.Oil and water swelling packers were examined in the lab (measuring pressure difference across swelling packers in autoclaves at 190°F and testing against various salinity fluids and pH using coupons at 190°F). Crude oils with various properties were used to test the oil swelling packers. Water swelling packers were tested in aqueous fluids with various pH values and salinities.Oil swelling packers showed acceptable pressure drops across the packer for six crude oils. They were resistance against acids and different brines. Oil swelled elastomers were tested with different salinity fluids to simulate the effect of produced water on the oil swelling packers. They were also tested against various acids to simulate possible stimulation treatments. The water swelling packers showed acceptable results for all fluids tested except at high and low pH fluids. This limits their use in wells with potential acid treatments.Oil swelling packers were used successfully in 16 oil producers. Cost saving on the rig time was achieved with swelling packers to cased-hole completions. Up to 22% of the rig time was saved due to the elimination of running casing, cementing, using whipstock and casing milling. To date, all wells completed with oil swelling packers are showing good results for close to three years.

Mechanical and Structural Behavior of Swelling Elastomers under Compressive Loading

“…When an elastomer seal is positioned in the well, environmental conditions initiate the swelling. The material may continue to swell throughout its life, though very slowly after the initial quick-swell period [10,11]. Swelling results in changes in its mechanical properties and sealing response.…”

Characterization of Swelling Packer EPDM Elastomers

“…References [2][3][4][5][6][7] show only a few examples. Some of the tests (performance assessment) on oil swelling elastomers were conducted by Al-Yami et al [8,9].…”