After multiple debris-removal runs, the ReSOLVE iX™ intelligent extreme wireline intervention service pulled the >20-lb fish out of hole from a depth of 27,440 ft. The successful operation enabled the operator to resume drilling without mobilizing heavy equipment and with zero HSE incidents.

A deepwater operator in the Gulf of Mexico was executing completion operations in a deep, high-pressure environment. Following a gravel-pack operation, a portion of the wash pipe BHA was left in the hole at a depth of 27,440 ft.

The lost-in-hole toolstring included a nuclear source, which made fishing a high priority. Adding to the urgency, the fish was located in the middle of the gravel-pack assembly and compromised the well completion. For all these reasons—including the high cost of drillship operations—the equipment mobilization had to be completed in less than 24 hours.

After seven debris runs, a grapple was mounted on the wireline fishing string. The first attempt was not successful, but a second run managed to pull the >20-lb fish out of hole.

The 3-day operation enabled the operator to resume well construction activities in a very challenging well without mobilizing heavy equipment, and the entire operation was accomplished with zero HSE incidents. Teamwork, resilience, and dedication—coupled with the reliability of SLB technology—clearly made a difference in saving the well.