Retrieving dummy valve for wax prevention operation

Completion for a producing well in the Republic of the Congo required chemical injection to treat wax buildup. However, the operator's previous attempts using a kickover tool (KOT) were unsuccessful in locating and retrieving the dummy valve insert from the side pocket mandrel for chemical injection. A full day of operations with a conventional slickline unit was unable to locate the mandrel because of wax in the mandrel and uncertainty in the mandrel's depth.

Locating the completion element and retrieving the valve

The operator selected LIVE digital slickline services to improve operational effectiveness through real-time data acquisition and surface control of the downhole tools. A CCL was run using LIVE services to locate the mandrel. Real-time confirmation of retrieval by LIVE Act mechanical services was obtained with the LIVE services real-time measurements. Pressure, temperature, and shock were monitored before, during, and after the retrieval operation, and the successful retrieval was easily confirmed using these measurements.

Optimizing retrieval operation with surface readout

Using the real-time LIVE services measurements enabled the CCL to easily identify the chemical injection mandrel at 689 ft, not 3,940 ft as indicated on the completion sketch. With a positive location identified, it was possible to retrieve the mandrel. The retrieval operation was optimized using LIVE digital slickline services, which monitored shock and provided feedback on jar performance in combination with head tension. Positive indications of the successful retrieval were then seen as a change in the bottomhole temperature response. Only 4 hours of operating time was necessary to successfully perform this job.