Understanding Post-Expansion Properties of Solid Expandable Tubulars

摘要

As an enabling technology, solid expandable tubulars continue to revolutionize the design and construction of oil and gas wells. Although solid expandable systems are now widely accepted as a viable casing alternative, some operators do not apply the technology in their wells. Limited information regarding the tubulars' post-expansion performance properties creates uncertainty in the application of solid expandable tubulars. A better understanding of how the pipe properties are affected by the expansion process is imperative to optimizing the benefits of system application. Using American Petroleum Institute (API) performance equations on post-expanded tubulars do not clearly identify the limits of the pipe. Testing is underway to create accurate predictive models for expansion force and post-expansion collapse. These full-scale laboratory tests, using API methods where applicable, determine how the expansion process changes collapse resistance and residual stress. Pre and post expansion mechanical and material properties are analyzed using American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) methods. Testing for H2S and CO2 environments employ the NACE methods. This paper describes the testing procedures and results of the post-expansion performance property testing. These findings will be compared and contrasted to API standards for conventional pipe. In addition, the paper will discuss industry implications for determining solid expandable tubular standards.