SPECTRUM® sensors improve milling operation that uses nitrified fluids
Unconventionals
Complete mill-out while ensuring control of milling within strict specifications
Colombia
SPECTRUM® sensor technology, including:
A milling operation in Colombia used nitrified fluids to improve the cleanup process following a well’s stimulation treatment. This multiphase fluid contained a liquid base and gaseous nitrogen, which made it critical to not exceed the milling tool torque specifications (maximum 900 ft/lb). The operator also wanted to complete the objective in fewer than the usual three runs typically needed to complete a mill-out, while being careful not to exceed the tubing string capabilities due to excessive torque.
The use of SPECTRUM® sensors for real-time measurement of torque, internal and external pressure, and gamma ray (GR) and casing collar locator (CCL) sensors, enabled the operator to keep a close watch on downhole parameters and ensure control of milling within strict specifications. Given the nitrified fluid challenges with respect to the milling tool torque restrictions, it was important to be able to observe downhole changes as soon as they happened.
Specifically, the torque sensor measured actual forces on the bottomhole assembly (BHA) while milling; the internal and external pressure sensors evaluated the differential pressure and optimized the milling efficiency of the motor and bit, and the GR and CCL sensors allowed correlation of actual depth of the BHA.
The job was successful in maintaining safe torque levels throughout the milling process, improving efficiency and enabling completion in just one run.
SPECTRUM® real-time hybrid coiled tubing service is a step-change in the industry by integrating fiber optic and electric communication and power.
