During pre-frac stage operations to establish well circulation, the foremost operator in Argentina was experiencing difficulty in the Vaca Muerta formation when attempting to open the toe sleeve.

Suspecting that a prior cement job was the root cause of the issue, the client needed a rapid response contingency capable of running in a long lateral of 14,321 ft, to a target depth of 25,492 ft.

A comprehensive contingency package was mobilized including conveyance and clean-out services. This e-line conveyed tool package brought the assurance of Welltec’s impeccable track record in the region, and the added benefit of rapid deployment capability as opposed to the longer setup time of a snubbing unit or coiled tubing option.

It was expected that the operation would be challenging due to the great distances involved, and the unknown amount of cement stringers (debris).

After the equipment was mobilized to the wellsite, full surface checks and cable tests were performed.

The toolstring consisted of a Well Tractor® 318, and a Well Miller® 318 with Reverse Circulating Bit (RCB), which included four integrated bailer sections each capable of holding ~ 4.2 liters of debris.

Two clean-out runs were performed, recovering a total of 20.6 liters of debris to the surface. The third and final run involved the conveyance of 10 perf guns to a depth of 25,492 ft.

The total tractoring/conveyance distance from all three runs was 44,354 ft.

Welltec provided an efficient and robust solution to mitigate the uncertainty surrounding the enormity of the clean-out task in the lateral.

The fast response facilitated by Welltec’s large fleet of equipment meant that the client was able to maintain their frac schedule despite having to carry out this contingency, receiving a timely and efficient service.

In comparison to the alternatives available, such as a snubbing unit, the operation was completed with a minimal footprint from the lightweight equipment. As communicated by the client, the successful operation represents 50 to 75% in cost savings, with a priceless HSE improvement for personnel.