Challenges in Well Construction Design and Operations
The complexity and challenges in well construction design and operations have significantly increased due to factors such as well trajectory complexity, depth, pressure, temperature, and cost. Particularly in unconventional shale wells with long horizontal laterals, liner drilling, extended reach wells, and both cemented and uncemented liners, the need for high-performance liner hanger systems is crucial. These systems must be capable of rotating to reach total depth, featuring robust setting mechanisms tolerant of higher solids content. Additionally, liner top packers with sealing elements that can withstand the run-in-hole process, circulating and cementing at higher rates to lift and mix the mud around the liner while controlling the equivalent circulating density (ECD) are essential. This ensures the prevention of approaching fracture gradient and damaging the formation. Furthermore, maintaining seal integrity during high-pressure fracturing operations in the case of some uncemented liner applications, and years of pressure and thermal cycling during production adds another layer of complexity.
Enhancing Well Integrity and Reducing Costs
Schlumberger's DrillPlan offers a comprehensive range of liner hanger systems, equipment, and accessories that can enhance well integrity and reduce costs in well construction, whether on land or offshore. With over six decades of experience, the liner hangers, liner top packers, and mechanical and hydraulic set and release running tools are engineered to suspend, support, isolate, seal, and anchor in various applications and environments. The available equipment and services include the Xcelis™ high-performance liner hanger systems, designed for the most challenging environments, and the COLOSSUS™ liner hanger systems, offering versatile options to suit different well conditions. These solutions aim to reduce costs and speed up well construction across different scenarios from deepwater to land applications.
Innovative Equipment and Solutions
Schlumberger's liner hanger systems provide a wide range of options to enhance well stability and protect casing, catering to both cemented and uncemented well conditions. Additionally, the expandable systems offer the deployment of long, heavy liners in challenging conditions like deepwater, extended-reach, and HPHT wells, ensuring metal-to-metal sealing for the life of the well. For high-temperature thermal applications, the company offers robust liner hangers that are specifically designed for wells undergoing extreme temperatures and temperature cycling. These innovative equipment and solutions provide a reliable and efficient way to address the complexities and challenges of modern well completions.