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Halliburton Launches Solution to Equivalent Circulating Density Challenges
01.05.2012
Halliburton announced at the Offshore Technology Conference a comprehensive solution to help operators access reservoirs previously inaccessible due to low equivalent circulating density (ECD) margins. This solution comprises new and existing technologies that enable operators to achieve operational efficiencies and increased safety while managing cost.
ECD occurs when friction in the well from circulating drilling mud and fluids during cementing operations results in increased bottomhole pressure, which can cause challenges in well integrity and safety. Halliburton’s Low ECD Solution addresses these challenges by:
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Maintaining hydrostatic pressure of the fluid column below the fracture gradient while maintaining well control;
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Reducing overall fluid viscosity to reduce frictional forces;
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Allowing drilling fluids, spacer and cement to flow freely into the casing and up the annulus to avoid lost circulation, while also providing excellent hole cleaning;
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Minimizing surge in the formation while running the liner so pressure drop across the hanger is reduced;
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Increasing bypass circulation rate while not exceeding the fracture gradient of the formation due to pressure build-up.
New technologies included in the solution are the Low ECD Fluid Enhancement Package, VersaFlex® Low ECD System, Commander™ 1000 Top-Drive Cementing Head , and the high-pressure shearing unit.
“Wellbore integrity issues, including lost circulation, can account for a significant amount of nonproductive time,” said Chip Miller, vice president of Halliburton’s Baroid business line. “As operators drill more complex wellbores in difficult reservoirs, this Low ECD Solution uses an integrated-technology approach to address our customers’ ECD issues, increase efficiency, and maximize recovery.”
