Express Lateral Identification and Entry Using an Autonomous Electrical Intervention Tool

Abstract

Accessing extended reach multilaterals for logging or stimulation operations can be challenging from the standpoint of equipment capability, resource and time utilization. Field experience has shown that hydraulic access methods require a lot of time and large volumes of fluid from surface, leading to higher operational costs per job. The current work showcases an autonomous electric system that can achieve lateral access with significant cost and resources savings. The lateral access intervention tool has 2.125-in. outer diameter and is made from corrosion resistant alloy to withstand harsh operating conditions. Some of the components include sections for telemetry, sensing, electronics, rotary/linear actuator and a bendable arm. The tool is capable of accessing lateral diameters up to 8.5 in. Three field trials were performed with the tool in different multilateral wells, which also included cleanout and stimulation operations. During the field trials, the tool was run on electrified coiled tubing with two-way communication between the tool downhole and surface. The field trial results showed outstanding capability of the tool. When running in hole through the motherbore, the tools’ sensors detected the lateral. Based on the deviation and azimuth sensors the bendable arm was activated to tilt towards the lateral direction while engaging with the inner wall surface of the motherbore. Upon lateral entry detection, the tool completed a series of mapping sequences to firmly confirm lateral entry. Subsequently, the tool was run till total depth. A similar operation was performed for the other laterals, which was followed by a cleanup run and stimulation run. The tool was able to access all the laterals in a single run during each job. Only when the downhole operation had been completed was the tool retrieved to surface. The benefits observed were significant reduction in operating time with lateral access in about five minutes, no use of large fluid volumes to perform lateral mapping, overall enhanced safety and much lower carbon footprint. All these benefits translated to huge savings in time, resources, and increased job execution efficiency for field operations. Incorporating electrical means of lateral detection and access pushes the envelope over conventional hydraulic methods. The current work showcases how simple modifications to downhole intervention tools can go a long way in scoring huge benefits to field operations. This translates to significant recovery from the field asset and major value-add opportunities for stakeholders.