Unconventional/complex reservoirs

Wireline-Perforation Strategy Aims for Depleted HP/HT Reservoirs

This work demonstrates that a carefully engineered wireline perforation strategy can address the challenges of long-interval high-pressure/high-temperature completions with large intrareservoir-pressure differentials safely and effectively.

Fig. 1—Comparison of cable structures. Left: conventional cable with unfilled voids that create potential gas-migration pathways. Right: polymer-filled MP35N cable with void-free structure that seals armor interstices and blocks gas migration.
Fig. 1—Comparison of cable structures. Left: conventional cable with unfilled voids that create potential gas-migration pathways. Right: polymer-filled MP35N cable with void-free structure that seals armor interstices and blocks gas migration.
Source: SPE 230027.

Perforating in high-pressure, high-temperature (HP/HT) wells requires extensive engineering preparation, particularly in multizone completions where perforation order is critical. Historically, coiled tubing has been the default conveyance under live-well conditions, but multizone HP/HT settings typically force a single-run interval that can expose depleted zones to damage as a result of high overbalance while adding cost, complexity, and surface footprint. This paper describes the engineering and execution of a wireline perforation program in a deep HP/HT completion.

Conveyance Alternatives and Selection

Perforating long intervals in HP/HT wells under pressure requires a conveyance method that balances mechanical strength, pressure containment, operational flexibility, and offshore deployment limitations. These include limited deck space, crane capacity, and accommodation for additional personnel.

In the featured case, wireline was selected as the optimal conveyance method after evaluating mechanical requirements, operational risks, and rigsite limitations.

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