Expandable liner hanger solution reduces Repsol’s cumulative NPT

Overview

In 1997, Repsol Bolivia S.A. began drilling in the Caipipendi Block located in the Bolivian Sub-Andean Zone, kicking off development in 2003. Operations in this highly complex zone can be challenging due to intercalations of hard and abrasive formations. In addition, well depths with high pressure require appropriate liner hanger equipment to avoid excessive loads on the rig and high casing costs.

Repsol initially selected conventional liner hangers but soon experienced problems — all of which resulted in significant non-productive time (NPT).

As drilling continued and well depths increased, exposure to higher pressures and temperatures necessitated a more robust and efficient liner hanger system than the conventional system could provide.

Solutions

Halliburton approached the operator and proposed the VersaFlex expandable liner hanger (ELH) portfolio, noting the number of successful installations and previous experience deploying ELH technology in the region.

For the HP/HT wells, Halliburton recommended the XtremeGrip ELH system, which offers enhanced capabilities and a simplistic design that minimizes the operating steps typically required to set a liner in elevated pressure and temperature environments.

Results

Halliburton delivered the planned ELH installations flawlessly. Compared to the competitor’s conventional systems, using VersaFlex and XtremeGrip ELH technology improved operation efficiency, saving Repsol significant time and maximizing asset value.

The proven reliable technology delivered with superior service quality exceeded Repsol’s expectations, increasing confidence in Halliburton ELH solutions and ultimately displacing the conventional system provider. Subsequently, based on Repsol’s experience in Bolivia as a leverage Halliburton has been awarded an expandable liner hanger contract in a major project with similar well conditions in the same LA region.

The engineered liner hanger solution addressed the reservoir conditions on a short timescale, while reducing the impact of future NPT, helping the customer to maximize asset value.