In the continued development of an iconic North Sea oil field, the operator faced the critical issue of thermal contraction affecting the integrity of the mid-completion in a multilateral (MLT) well.

The design prompted the need for an anchoring solution to mitigate the axial movement of seal stingers caused by said thermal contraction, which would otherwise lead to seal wear and eventually a loss of pressure and integrity.

To address these concerns, the client opted for a Welltec® Expandable Anchor (WEA), anchoring the completion to significantly reduce the impact of thermal contraction and thereby extend life-of-well.

An 812 WEA was integrated into the existing completion design to provide cased hole anchoring as close to the MLT window as possible, above a previously installed Welltec Light Packer (WLP) being utilized to anchor a drop-off liner in open hole.

Procedures of tagging, orienting, and stinging in seal stingers into both laterals were completed, with a 2,000 psi pressure test to validate the seal stingers' structural integrity. The electronic valve in the running tool was closed, liner hanger set, and the running tool released to secure the fixture. The running string was subsequently withdrawn, and a well pressure test conducted at 5,000 psi to simultaneously set the WEA.

The flexibility of the Welltec Expandable Anchor enabled hassle-free integration of a solution with an existing completion design.

The primary objective of enhancing the robustness of the completion was achieved in order to nullify challenges presented by thermal contraction induced by high-rate reservoir stimulation.

The strategic placement of the WEA near the MLT window minimized (and continues to minimize) seal stem travel during thermal contraction, fortifying well integrity for running the upper completion.

The client expressed satisfaction with the added robustness delivered by the WEA; the success of this project has prompted plans for repeat applications on scheduled wells. This deployment highlights Welltec's adaptable and reliable technology, addressing operational challenges and enhancing well performance and longevity.