Operator saves time and costs using HP/HT drillstem test

Overview

A major operator in India needed to conduct drillstem testing (DST) in a high-pressure /high-temperature (HP/HT) offshore well. The well presented extreme conditions, with bottomhole temperatures that exceeded 436°F at the packer setting depth and approximately 460°F at total depth. Initially, the operator considered a permanent packer solution, which would have required additional time and cost for milling and retrieval. Halliburton worked closely with the operator to design and execute a solution that reduced operational time and costs and established a new benchmark for retrievable packer deployment.

Challenge

The operator faced a complex HP/HT environment that demanded a robust and reliable DST solution. Bottomhole temperatures exceeded 436°F, which created significant risk for tool integrity and operational efficiency. The initial plan to use a permanent packer would have required multiple runs and extended rig time, have increased costs and exposure to operational hazards.

Solution

Halliburton implemented comprehensive pre-job planning and engineering analysis to help ensure safe and efficient operations. The team ran the CHAMP® V retrievable packer, designed for heat-challenged environments and equipped with an integral bypass ideal for DST applications.

This packer was deployed with an annulus pressure-operated, multicycle DST string rated for HP/HT conditions, which allowed the operator to perform the test safely in a single trip. The solution helped eliminate the requirement for milling and retrieval operations, reduced operational risk, and optimized rig time.

Result

The operator successfully completed the DST program using a single-trip retrievable packer and annulus pressure-operated multicycle DST system. The operation established a new benchmark for temperature performance for retrievable packers at 436°F, which demonstrated that this approach  provides reliable solutions in extreme environments. By avoiding multiple runs, the operator reduced rig time by approximately 100 hours and significantly lowered associated service costs. The success of this operation reinforced confidence in retrievable packer technology for HP/HT wells and showcased Halliburton’s commitment to safety and efficiency.

The operator was pleased with the success of the operation, and it was highlighted at the Asia Offshore Technology Conference (OTC-30369-MS).