Optimizing CT Milling Efficiency with the Use of Real-Time CT Modeling Software

摘要

In the last decade, the number of horizontal wells drilled in North America has risen dramatically. As a result, there has been an associated increase in the use of the plug and perforation system and the ball-drop system used to complete these horizontal wells. After the fracturing treatment has been completed, the bridge plugs or ball seats are subsequently milled out via the use of coiled tubing (CT). During the plug or ball-seat milling phase, it is difficult to control weight-on-bit at the end of the CT. If the injector releases too much weight at surface, then the weight-on-bit is too high and the downhole motor can experience a stall. Alternatively, if the injector is not releasing enough weight at surface, then there is insufficient weight-on-bit to mill out the plug or ball-seat. Given that these operations are performed in horizontal wells, it is difficult to predict the optimal weight-on-bit without the presence of real-time downhole measurements.