Publications

Objectives/Scope: Reviving idle gas wells in reservoirs with high sand risk presents significant challenges, especially in reservoirs that require sand control for safe production. In this case study, the Peciko field attempted to open reserves in a shallow zone where Sand Consolidation (SCON) was initially applied as the sand control method. However, after the SCON treatment, the well showed no flow. The suspected cause was the inability of the reservoir properties to lift diesel fluid left in the tubing after the SCON job. A startup job is needed, but there was an additional risk of sand production at surface due to the incomplete clean-up following the SCON job. Therefore, start-up operation with Micro Coiled Tubing (MCT) and Sand Filter (SF) were required to be performed simultaneously to minimize costs and time, while ensuring proper flow initiation and verifying the SCON's ability to prevent sand production.

Method, Procedures, Process: The operation was carried out simultaneously using Micro Coiled Tubing (MCT) and a Sand Filter Unit (SF). The stack-up of MCT was installed as in a normal operation. However, the difference was that the flow return passed through the sand filter equipment to prevent sand production from reaching the production facilities. Several mitigations were implemented during the operation, including monitoring sand levels at the sampling points and controlling the choke return until the Wellhead Pressure (WHP) reached 250 psi, which is 50 psi above the back pressure from the production line. This was done to minimize the risk of erosion in the surface lines or equipment. Additionally, the well was not shut in to avoid sand fall-back, which could lead to the potential risk of MCT becoming stuck in the wellbore.

Results, Observations, Conclusions: As a result, the simultaneous start-up and clean-up operation successfully revived the well. This was beneficial as it saved approximately USD 30,000 in operational costs and reduced operational time by 72 hours. With the mitigations in place, the operation was conducted safely. Therefore, the simultaneous use of Micro Coiled Tubing and Sand Filter has a high potential to be applied again in future interventions.