Problem
In early 2024, Coretrax was mobilized to support drilling operations for an operator working on a fractured, and heavily depleted reservoir located offshore Angola. Based on the initial well review, the team quickly identified a number of risks including stuck pipe, pack offs and complex well control.
Solution & Achievements
Coretrax deployed the DAV MX Circ sub and HyPR HoleSaver solutions to support well recovery. These technologies were selected as safeguards, based on the reservoir risks identified, if a string could not be worked free. This would give the ability to sever the BHA without the need for explosives. Similarly, in the event the team incurred a pack off situation, the DAV MX Circ sub also provided the ability to spot fluids both above and below the pack off to aid with working the string free.
The subs were run by the directional drilling company with Coretrax providing technical support to the operator throughout the planning and operational phases
During drilling, as suspected, issues were faced when drilling ahead, with a torque spike and subsequent string stall experienced. While numerous attempts to free the stuck pipe were made, losses were noted down both the annulus and drill string. With the DAV MX already in place, the circulation sub was activated to identify the pack off location, allowing a decision to be reached on steps forward. Despite the high vibration drilling within the section, the system functioned with ease. A freshwater pill was pumped, in an attempt to both lubricate the zone and, if cuttings were present from exposed salt section, dissolve the pack off. The pill was displaced in the annulus, enabling the string to work free.
Finally, the Circ sub was closed and well circulated clean, allowing drilling to resume and safe completion of the reservoir.
