Integrated barrier monitoring system improves well intervention

Overview

During a well intervention for a major operator, Halliburton delivered a wireless barrier monitoring solution that allowed for pressure testing and verification in real time. This would mark the first global installation of an integrated barrier system that combines the Evo-Trieve retrievable bridge plug with the DynaLink wireless acoustic telemetry system.

Challenges

The operator needed to complete well intervention operations, which included removing and re-installing the Christmas tree on a CO₂ injection well. This required a verified shallow-set barrier to secure and control the well.

Solutions

Halliburton teams from Testing and Subsea (TSS) and Completion Tools (HCT) recently began collaborating to develop an integrated barrier system that provides a reliable barrier using the Evo-Trieve retrievable bridge plug and wireless monitoring and verification using the DynaLink telemetry system. After meeting with the operator and carefully considering the job objectives, Halliburton recommended installing a 4.5-in. Evo-Trieve retrievable bridge plug equipped with a DynaLink system single quartz gauge.

The bridge plug/gauge combination was installed below the tubing hanger and pressure tested. A DynaLink system repeater with surface wireless kit was mounted onto the wellhead base and the signal sent to the data acquisition unit located in an air-conditioned container.

Results

Through collaboration between product service lines (PSLs), Halliburton delivered a reliable technology-driven solution that allowed the operator to monitor shallow barrier integrity wirelessly, maximizing asset value. Access to real-time data and diagnostics mitigated risks to personnel working in the well bay area, enabled quicker decision making, and helped eliminate uncertainty with pressuring up gas volume to conduct a positive test. In addition, the barrier monitoring system provided valuable data prior to equalizing and retrieving the bridge plug.