Perforating with Pressure Pulse Initialization

July 2003

An under-balanced well needed to be perforated and it was decided to use a CT Well Tractor to apply the required pull force. We carried out the operation by using pressure pulses through the CT Well Tractor.

In the first run, gun length was maximised for under-balanced perforation, while the remaining guns were carried in the second run. Over the course of the two runs, 1,912 ft of guns tractored a distance of 2,434 ft of guns (approximately 32,250 lbs).

The result was that more pay zone was perforated under-balanced and that improved perforation with increased production was achieved. Furthermore, the total number of runs was reduced, which saved the operator time and subsequently substantial cost.
The alternative to the Coiled Tubing Well Tractor operation would have been to conduct 6 runs of 320 ft guns that would have required several additional work hours.

As a consequence of fewer required runs, the operation exposed the environment to fewer hazards while also increasing job safety.
 

Well Data

Equipment used:                      318 CT Well Tractor in tandem, E-fire, 3 3/8” guns
Accumulated running distance:  4,900 ft
Maximum Well Tractor depth:    11,155 ft
Maximum deviation:                 92º
Maximum temperature:            239º F
Coil:                                       2” tapered