Device balances steam injection for SAGD
Halliburton has introduced the EquiFlow OptiSteam flow control device (FCD), for steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) injectors. This flow control technology helps operators maximize production efficiency, and improve the steam-oil ratio, by balancing steam injection throughout the length of a completion. The EquiFlow OptiSteam FCD is field-adjustable, allowing wellsite changes to flow settings. An optional sleeve provides operators control of steam injection, promoting uniform steam chamber growth. Over 100 EquiFlow OptiSteam devices have been installed through first-quarter 2015.
Gamma ray tool identifies elements in pay zones
The Weatherford Compact Spectral Gamma Ray tool is an efficient, cost-effective means of obtaining petrophysical data where conventional wireline tools are ineffective, including horizontal and high-angle wellbores. The tool measures potassium, uranium and thorium—the three most common elements found in radioactive sands and shales—and total gamma radiation. These data are used to determine stratigraphic sequencing and correlation, and to calculate porosity and clay volume. The tool’s spectral component helps to distinguish hot sands from shale, to identify organic carbon, and to differentiate clay types for assessing formation permeability. The 2.25-in. OD of the tool enables advanced conveyance techniques in memory mode, without the need for expensive—and time-consuming—wireline, pipe-conveyed operations. The tool also reduces tool-string length, and operates in small-diameter wellbores.
Next-generation CT design improves strength, lengthens string life
Tenaris has developed a CT string that is stronger and more fatigue-resistant. The BlueCoil CT technology is based on new steel designs, and new manufacturing processes. The bias weld and base tube fatigue performance of a BlueCoil string remain comparable for high-strength CT grades, allowing for greater utilization of the entire string, giving additional strength and reliability, and a longer string life to CT applications. BlueCoil products are compatible with conventional CT equipment.
Cementing centralizer reduces drag
Antelope Oil Tools has launched the CentraMax cementing centralizer design. The CentraMax improves efficiency by maximizing stand-off percentage and, reducing drag, with minimal impact on flow area and equivalent circulating density. The centralizer passes through tight spots without compromising stand-off. Designed with 100% heat-treated steel, the CentraMax is ideal for all well conditions, onshore or offshore.
CT perforator can fire up to 10 times on a single run
Schlumberger has released the ACTive OptiFIRE CT perforating and activation system. This system provides precise downhole depth and hydrostatic pressure control—all in a single run. The perforating guns can be activated up to 10 times in a single run, and do not require a ball drop, pressure pulse system or fluids, to detonate. The system can be used during underbalanced perforating, in low-pressure wells or unconsolidated reservoirs.
Drill pipe suited for sour environments
Grant Prideco, a Business Unit of NOV Wellbore Technologies, has launched the HS3-125 drill pipe, for drilling in sour environments. The drill pipe addresses sulfide stress cracking, a form of hydrogen embrittlement caused by the presence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which drastically reduces the tensile capacity of the steel. The pipe can increase yield strength by as much as 19%.
New caliper brake for top-drive applications
Twiflex has introduced the T30, a new caliper brake for top-drive applications. The hydraulic pressure-applied, modular caliper brake provides greater braking force, and withstands greater operating pressures in a compact assembly. The T30 features a split housing for side, or center, mounting flexibility, and accommodates a variety of disc thicknesses. The T30 offers a self-adjusting mechanism that maintains a constant air gap for the life of the friction linings. Units have a 1,740-psi operating pressure, producing 5,710 lb. ft. of braking force.
Subsea hydraulic unit provides underwater wellsite power
Siemens and Statoil have jointly developed a subsea hydraulic power unit, providing power right at the well site. The Subsea Hydraulic Power Unit (SHPU) supplies low-pressure and high-pressure control fluid to the subsea control module. The subsea control module operates the hydraulic valves, the downhole safety valve and downhole chock/sliding sleeve. The hydraulic power unit can be used in the event that the umbilical fails, and also as an alternative to the hydraulic lines in the umbilical. The power unit has successfully completed the qualification process, and has passed function tests under hyperbaric pressure equal to a water depth of 500 m.
