Location
Offshore UK
Well type
Gas
Pressure
<12 kpsi / 830 bar
Wellhead temperature
300°F
Completion type
Cased
In a gas well, offshore UK, barium sulphate scale build-up from the tubing hanger prevents removal of the Wireline Retrievable Surface Controlled Sub-Surface Valve (WR-SCSSV) which is failing to close and required changed.
Additionally LMMV bonnet and stem requires changed-out, 2 plugs are required to complete this work scope (1 being set in the downhole safety valve nipple).
It was a Normally Unmanned Installation (NUI) Platform, so there was limited space, and only day shift operations.
Tubing hanger ID restriction limited milling bits (3.9” hanger restriction, WR-SCSSV No-Go 3.86”).
3.88” OD Tapered milling bits were manufactured to comply with well ID restrictions and size of replacement sleeve. The tool strings run included 2 x Release devices.
Tapered milling bit was replaced with the expandable milling bit which cleared the path. The expandable milling bit closed has 3-1/8” OD, and for this well their maximum opening was limited to 4.1” (tubing ID 4.126”).
The WR-SCSSV depth was achieved, this was clearly confirmed on surface by current draw down and milling response.
Successfully milled scale from below the tubing hanger to the WR-SCSSV.
Safety valve and LMMV were changed as planned.
Operator praised success and professionalism of the crew and support received.
The expandable bit was the key to opening up a path through the scale to allow us to pull the safety valve. Just so you know the new valve is installed & tested. It has taken us 3 years to get to this point with numerous unsuccessful interventions, the alternative was coiled tubing or possibly a workover. Needless to say there are a few happy faces in here.
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