Publications

With a view to addressing the challenges of future offshore platform evolution, smaller footprint of coiled tubing set is required for pumping work in minimalist platform. Although coiled tubing (CT) is the most efficient service method for multiple wellsite operations, it can be difficult to capture all the benefits of applying it to some offshore wells. Limited crane capacity and platform’s upper deck space often present challenges to efficiently execute CT operation. Minimalist and crowded platforms may not allow a perfect condition to properly set up conventional CT system. As part of the continuous improvement in Well Intervention, smaller size of CT called Micro CT is deployed to unload the completion fluid using nitrogen pumping. This is in order to provide sufficient drawdown prior to clean up or perforation works. Micro CT is a small coiled tubing with an outside diameter of 1” and a length of 10,000ft. It is 46% lighter and 39% smaller compared to conventional CT. The firtst Micro CT start-up project in Indonesia was initiated with unloading jobs in Bekapai and South Mahakam wells. There were five unloading jobs and they were successfully performed within the allocated time frame and budget. There were no major safety issues occurred. Total 60% cost savings can be generated from reduced supply boat mobilization trips prior to equipment mobilization while 40% cost savings came from efficiency in diesel consumption. From an operational aspect, less annular friction can be achieved and gives us 35% efficiency in N2 consumption. Moreover, it saves 10 – 20% rig up time in comparison to conventional CT. On top of that, those five unloading jobs were completed with an efficiency of more than 70%. In conjunction with this paper, we would like to share Micro Coiled Tubing experience where this was the first application in Indonesia with safety and measurable milestones.