Low ECD Solution Features Four New Technologies to Address Wellbore Instability and Safety Issues
HOUSTON April 30, 2012 Halliburton announced today at the Offshore Technology Conference a comprehensive solution to help operators access reservoirs previously inaccessible due to low equivalent circulating density (ECD) margins. This solution comprises new and existing technologies that enable operators to achieve operational efficiencies and increased safety while managing cost.
ECD occurs when friction in the well from circulating drilling mud and fluids during cementing operations results in increased bottomhole pressure, which can cause challenges in well integrity and safety. Halliburtons Low ECD Solution addresses these challenges by:
Maintaining hydrostatic pressure of the fluid column below the fracture gradient while maintaining well control Reducing overall fluid viscosity to reduce frictional forces Allowing drilling fluids, spacer and cement to flow freely into the casing and up the annulus to avoid lost circulation, while providing excellent hole cleaning Minimizing surge in the formation while running the liner so pressure drop across the hanger is reduced Increasing bypass circulation rate while not exceeding the fracture gradient of the formation due to pressure build-up
New technologies included in the solution are: Low ECD fluid enhancement package Low ECD fluid Enhancement Package, VersaFlex Low ECD System, Commander 1000 Top-Drive Cementing Head, and the high-pressure shearing unit.
Existing technologies included in the solution are: SuperFill Surge Reduction Equipment, Protech CRB Centralizers, iCem service and Drilling Fluids Graphics (DFG) software.
Wellbore integrity issues, including lost circulation, can account for a significant amount of nonproductive time, said Chip Miller, vice president of Halliburtons Baroid business line. As operators drill more complex wellbores in difficult reservoirs, this Low ECD Solution uses an integrated-technology approach to
address our customers ECD issues, increase efficiency, and maximize recovery. About Halliburton Founded in 1919, Halliburton is one of the worlds largest providers of products and services to the energy industry. With nearly 70,000 employees in approximately 80 countries, the company serves the upstream oil and gas industry throughout the lifecycle of the reservoir from locating hydrocarbons and managing geological data, to drilling and formation evaluation, well construction and completion, and optimizing production through the life of the field. Visit the companys website at www.halliburton.com.