E-Line Powered Mechanical Tool Technologies Provide Efficient, Reduced Risk Solutions in Complex Intervention Operations
Authors: Kalwar Ghulam Murtaza , Hamid Saad , Kishore Sharat , Aljughayman Abdulrahman A. , Abulhamayel Nahr M. , Qahtani Nasser F. 
Published: March 2021

Latest developments in drilling and wellbore completion technologies lead to even more complex intervention conditions. Conventional techniques using slickline or coiled tubing are ill-suited for many of these conditions due to operational complexity, effectiveness, or efficiency. Powered mechanical intervention with e-line alleviates some of these limitations and opens lower risk intervention applications. This paper details two applications: a fishing operation that could not be performed with slickline or coiled tubing and a completion disk rupturing operation where the operator saved 1.5 days.

Powered mechanical intervention is a combination of complementary technologies that enable "intelligently controlled intervention operations." Downhole tractors enable access into complex well trajectories. Surface-controlled, powered anchors coupled with a linear actuator can generate very high axial forces with precise and real-time downhole measurements of forces and displacement. Operating parameters can be monitored in real time to prevent damage to damaged completion components. Uncontrolled tool movement due to high differential pressures is prevented. Such precise control of downhole forces and movements enables complex intervention operations previously done with coiled tubing or a full workover.

The first application example details a fishing operation. A retrievable plug along with its setting tool was stuck in the production tubing after prematurely setting. Multiple fishing attempts with heavy-duty slickline jars were unsuccessful. Coiled tubing was not deployed as its lack of force precision could have generated excessive downhole force and sheared the fish. An e-line-conveyed linear actuator tool was used to latch onto the fish with the help of an overshot and was released from the retrievable plugs by application of optimal, highly controlled, linear force to minimize damage. The second case involved rupturing a ceramic disk installed in completion. High differential pressure across the disk restricted the use of slickline which could have been damaged due to the high expected differential pressure. The alternative with coiled tubing milling requires a larger personnel and equipment footprint in addition to the associated HSE exposure and lack of efficiency. An innovative technique using the e-line linear actuator and a pointed chisel was devised and deployed. Real-time feedback from the tool sensors gave confirmation of the rupturing of various components of the ceramic disk, and the anchors eliminated any tool movement during pressure equalization. The operation was completed in 12 hours, resulting in time savings of almost 36 hours.

An e-line intervention is a low risk, effective, and efficient solution while having an accurate depth and positioning, coupled with controlled downhole operations. With precise control of operating parameters, operations which were previously possible with coiled tubing or workover can be done on e-line more efficiently.