Challenge: Acquire 10 uncemented liner hanger systems rated to 600 degF [316 degC] and incorporate liner top packers capable of withstanding up to 18 hours of acid treatment before setting
Solution: Deploy thermal COLOSSUS™ liner hanger systems manufactured and tested in local SLB facility—a first for Oman
Results:
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) was planning to use cyclic steam stimulation (CSS) for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in the Thayfut oil field in southern Oman. During this thermal recovery process (also called steam soak or huff 'n' puff), steam generated at surface is injected into the reservoir. The well is subsequently shut in for several days to allow uniform heat distribution to thin the oil. Finally, the thinned oil is produced through the same well. The cycle is repeated as long as the oil production is profitable.
Bids were invited for the supply of liner hanger equipment that could withstand the steam temperature of 600 degF. After setting the liner hanger, the well plan required circulation of acid through an inner string for up to 18 hours to improve well injectivity. The return path of the acid past the unset liner top packer necessitated a packer capable of withstanding the prolonged exposure.
PDO has traditionally imported liner hanger equipment, but it is keen to advance its strategy of enhancing in-country value (ICV) by increasing the use of local products and services as well as by improving the capability of Omani nationals and companies to manufacture and supply key items.
SLB proposed manufacturing a thermal, uncemented COLOSSUS liner hanger system comprising a hydraulically set pocket-slip (HPS) hanger and a liner top packer at its manufacturing facility in Nizwa, Oman, increasing ICV while reducing both costs and delivery time. Equipped with modern precision machines using computer numerical control, this facility is consistent with the SLB commitment to a multimillion dollar enhancement in ICV for Oman.
The proposal was accepted and resulted in doubling of the award to a total of 20 thermal liner hanger systems. Work commenced without delay to meet the 3-month deadline for the first system. Engineering and manufacturing files were developed locally, a dedicated manufacturing and quality engineer assigned, raw materials ordered, specialized equipment sourced, and components manufactured and assembled under expert supervision to form an integrated system, which subsequently passed the stringent SLB qualification process.
In addition to increasing local content, the operator achieved significant cost savings compared with importation and a reduction of about 8 weeks in delivery time, enabling timely commencement of the drilling phase. All liner hanger system installations to date have been flawlessly executed in accordance with SLB Standard Work Instructions, which maximize successful outcomes. The systems have successfully withstood the extended acid treatments and the superheated steam temperatures in the wells where CSS has commenced, earning formal recognition from PDO and generating considerable interest among other operators in Oman.
