Nitrogen Leak Test of Department of Energy Strategic Petroleum Reserve (DOE/SPR) Well 102A at Bayou Choctaw

摘要

A nitrogen leak test was made of the Department of Energy Strategic Petroleum Reserve Well 102A at Bayou Choctaw in May to June 1982. The test indicated a well leak rate of 32 bbls/yr of nitrogen at a pressure of 1844 psia, well within the SPR leak rate criterion of 100 bbls/yr. The test was made with a layer of oil above the 14-inch casing hanger seal because previous tests had indicated considerable nitrogen leakage past this seal. If the hanger seal is not repaired or if a layer of oil above the seal is not maintained during operation with a nitrogen or other gaseous blanket, the leak rate past the seal is expected to be much higher than the well leak rate measured. 3 figures. (ERA citation 08:025541)