CASE STUDY Efficient Live Well Cleanouts

KEY EQUIPMENTCoiled Tubing Hammer Technology

This mechanical tool delivered precise and efficient removal of mineral scale while the well remained in production, avoiding the need for quenching. Its ability to target specific problem areas and achieve effective cleanouts in just hours drastically reduces downtime, restoring well internal diameters and flow capacity in record time.

The Project

Mineral scale deposition within the wellbore was causing a reduction in the internal diameter of the casing, impeding flow rates and overall well performance. Traditional rig-based workovers to remove these scales were time-consuming, taking up to 42 days, and required quenching the well, which led to extended downtime and increased operational costs.

There was an urgent need for a more efficient method to clean out the well while keeping it in production and avoiding the complications associated with quenching.

We implemented a combination of diagnostic XY calliper runs and worldleading coiled tubing hammer technology to design and execute well specific live well workover programmes. The diagnostic XY calliper runs allowed for precise identification of zones with significant scale buildup within the wellbore.

Using coiled tubing hammer technology, we mechanically cleaned the mineral scales from these targeted zones while the well remained flowing. This approach enabled a downhole cleanout in as little as 5 hours, with an average total workover time of 3 days on site, including rig up and rig down.

Our innovative method significantly reduced the workover time from an estimated 42 days to just 3 days, eliminating the need for quenching and minimising downtime. The mechanical cleaning effectively restored the casing to its maximum internal diameter, allowing the well to return to its maximum flow rate.

The combination of precise diagnostics and targeted mechanical cleaning ensured maximum efficacy of the workover, resulting in improved well performance and operational efficiency. This integrated approach also established a robust baseline for future scale management strategies, enabling predictable maintenance schedules and facilitating long-term production stability.