Borehole-cement-evaluation logs are used to verify the quality of the cement bond to the casing and formation and identify any defects that could compromise the quality of the annular seal. This study used ultrasonic logging to evaluate reference barrier cells constructed with known defects. The cell concept was developed with an emphasis on low cost and ease of use. Comparison of ultrasonic tool response against reference barrier cells validates the measurements, which are crucial in the decision-making process during well construction and abandonment.
Background: Barrier Verification
In 2013 and 2014, full-scale experiments were performed to investigate the sealing ability of annulus cement for a plug-and-abandonment design in which the tubing is left in hole (TLIH). The experimental configurations used 9⅝-in.
