Cementing design and placement methods to optimize seal integrity and lower cost for deepwater wells drilled with non-aqueous drilling fluid

Paul Sonnier, Larry Watters, Dennis Clapper, Baker Hughes, George Scherer, Robert Prod'Homme, Myoungsung Choi, Zhidong Zhang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

The challenges of both primary and remedial cementing in Non-Aqueous Drilling Fluid (NAF) are well known in the deepwater industry. NAFs allow for stable drilling in high pressure high temperature (HPHT) and ultra-deepwater environments. However, mud properties that were beneficial for drilling become detrimental to completions. Fluid incompatibilities resulting from contamination, residue, fluid swapping and other fluid interactions can result in reduced compressive strength, channeling, downhole gelation and a poor cement bond. Incompatibility and incomplete hole cleaning can result in safety and environmental risks including job failure, future operational issues and loss of zonal isolation. Commercially available products are available to assist with mud displacement, however, there is a need for a fundamental characterization of mud-cement interactions on a chemical level to improve the knowledge of related technical risks and the technology required for risk reduction and long-term well integrity. The objectives of this project are to develop fundamental knowledge of mud-cement compatibility issues related specifically to deepwater cementing, to quantify risks associated with cementing in NAF and to develop best practices and derive recommendations in order to reduce the recognized risks.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationSociety of Petroleum Engineers - SPE Deepwater Drilling and Completions Conference
PublisherSociety of Petroleum Engineers
ISBN (Electronic)9781613994535
StatePublished - Jan 1 2016
EventSPE Deepwater Drilling and Completions Conference 2016 - Galveston, United States
Duration: Sep 14 2016Sep 15 2016

Publication series

NameSociety of Petroleum Engineers - SPE Deepwater Drilling and Completions Conference

Other

OtherSPE Deepwater Drilling and Completions Conference 2016
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityGalveston
Period9/14/169/15/16

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Geochemistry and Petrology
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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