FIELD OPERATIONS MANUAL : Winch Operations

Approved By:
Reviewed By: Rev-1. Date:
Created by:
09-May-18
Subhash C. Rao

Winch Operations Field Operations Manual Risk Analysis – The identified

risks, risk mitigation and contingencies pertaining to this document can be
found at – ..................
GENERAL PROCEDURES ................................................................................................ 2
SECTION 1 - SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 2
SECTION 2 - PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS/COMPETENCY RESOURCES ........................... 2
SECTION 3 - PROCESS REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................... 2
SECTION 3.1 – HOISTS CONTROL ........................................................................................... 3
SECTION 3.2 – BACKUP DEPTH .............................................................................................. 3
SECTION 3.3 -REEL SHUTDOWN AMS4A046 CASED-HOLE PANEL................................................ 5
SECTION 3.4 -DIRECT ACTING LINE TENSION VALVE .................................................................... 5
SECTION 4.0 HOIST OPERATION SAFETY AND COMPETENCE OF PERSONNEL ................. 5
SECTION 5 - PROCESS REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................... 6
SECTION 5.1 - CAPTURE THE MOMENT – KNOW THE REFERENCE DEPTH ......................................... 6
Section 5.2 -Z-Chart Procedures RIH and POOH......................................................... 8
SECTION 5.3 - CONTROL SPEED DURING OPERATION................................................................. 15
Section 5.3.1 - Walking the Line to Prevent Pull Off at the Pack-off Head ............... 17
Section 5.3.2 -Pack-off Head ................................................................................... 19
Section 5.3.3 -Bump up Speed ................................................................................. 19
Section 5.3.4 -Pressure Control Lubricator Operation.............................................. 19
Section 5.4 Toolpusher Winch Operations ............................................................... 20
SECTION 5.5 LINE TENSION AND MOORING VALVE OPERATION – DURING UP-LOG .......................... 21
SECTION 5.6 - ADJUST TENSION ALARMS FOR REEL SHUTDOWN .................................................. 27
Section 5.6.1 - Model 43 - Open Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A043) ............................. 27
Section 5.6.2 - Model 46 – Cased-Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A046) ........................... 32
Section 5.5.3 SDDP Reference – (legacy panel still in use as backup) ...................... 32
SECTION 5.7 - MAINTAIN UP-TO-DATA AND ACCURATE RECORDS................................................ 34
Section 5.7.1 - Maintain a Cable Log Book .............................................................. 34
Section 5.6.2 - Know the Weak-point installed in Cable-head ................................. 34
Section 5.6.3 - Know the Wire-line. ......................................................................... 34
SUMMARY ................................................................................................................. 34
JOB REMINDERS (CONTROL POINT) ................................................................................ 36
 FIELD OPERATIONS MANUAL : Winch Operations

GENERAL PROCEDURES
 Focus on the task at hand – Do not get distracted.
 Understand the job, the risks, the procedures and the objectives.
 Have a clear line of sight and a means of communication.
 Hoist operation shall be conducted by competent personnel.
 Control Speed During Operation – SLOW DOWN when nearing
surface, any down-hole restriction or anything that could potentially
hang up the tool or create a hazard.

SECTION 1 - SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS

 Joystick Controller
 Depth/Drum – Spoke Counter
 Reel Shutdown– AM4SA046 Cased Hole Depth Panel.)
 Direct Acting Line Tension Valve – Properly working Mooring valve
in the Hydraulic System
 Measuring Head assembly – properly maintained in accordance with
the established procedures Depth System Components.
 Wireline Cable-head Weak-point – Proper wire-line cable re-head
according to line size and requirements. Use Weak-point Calculator or
CERBERUS as a reference.

SECTION 2 - PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS/COMPETENCY

RESOURCES
 Hoist shall be operated by a qualified and competent personnel

SECTION 3 - PROCESS REQUIREMENTS

 Capture the moment – know the Reference Depth
 Z-Chart– RIH and POOH (New Z-Chart for Every Run; Capture on the
Z-Chart – Reference Depth, mark line, number of wraps on top layer to
Reference Depth, etc.). Refer to Field Operations
 RIH/POOH –Wireline speeds, Walking the Line, Pack-off Head,
Bump-up Speed, Pressure Control

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 AA Direct Acting Valve (Line Tension Adjustment Operational

Procedures Training Video)
 Adjust Tension alarms for Reel Shutdown
 Maintain up-to-date and accurate cable records: Know weak-point,
number of runs on cable-head, know breaking strength and test for
brittleness.

Failure to abide by these guidelines will result

in continued tool pull offs!
Section 3.1 – Hoists Control
 At 100m from surface, slow down the POOH speed to <10m/min.

Section 3.2 – Backup Depth

The backup depth counter, shown in Figure 1, was expanded to also capture the
revolutions of the drum based on a sensor to count spokes on the drum flange.
The panel setup includes a provision to input the number of spokes to allow for
different sizes and the manufacturer’s designs.

Figure 1 : Backup Depth/Drum Revolution - Spoke Counter

The backup depth panel is driven by the backup depth encoder and auxiliary
voltage source. The panel provides for counting drum revolutions while RIH and
POOH. The sensor information is provided by a remote spoke counter attached
to the wire-line hoist wire-line drum. The number of spokes on the drum is
entered during panel setup to allow for various types and manufacturers. The
sensor can be set to count bolt heads or teeth on a gear sprocket if needed.

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Panel operation: zero backup depth and drum

rev -when the top of tool (cable-head) is at the
reference depth (rotary floor or pack-off head)
as discussed in this document.
The logging software zero depth will be referenced to the bottom of the logging
tool assembly; however, this backup depth panel displays the depth when the top
of the tool leaves and returns to the rotary floor or the pack-off head (Tool
Catcher if used).

Panel operation: When the top of the tool

reaches five (5) revolutions from the reference
depth, then the panel sounds an alarm for the
remaining distance until it is zero.

Always monitor stand alone and if present, any third party backup
and auxiliary depth panels to ensure that all depths stay within the
logical tolerance of the main system depths.
Resolve any differences before reaching the height of the top wrap
layer of line on the drum.
Section 3.3 -Reel Shutdown AMS4A046 Cased-Hole Panel
The operator steps through the panel setup and enters values for his current well.
If the value is reached, an alarm will sound and the relay will cause the hoist to
shut-down.

Panel operation – The procedure to set the

reel shutdown is discussed in Section 5.5.
Section 3.4 -Direct Acting Line Tension valve
The Direct Acting Line Tension valve along with the Mooring valve must be
functioning and properly adjusted to avoid tool pull-offs. Review the links to the
instructional video clip on valve operation. AA Direct Acting

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 FIELD OPERATIONS MANUAL : Winch Operations

SECTION 4.0 HOIST OPERATION SAFETY AND

COMPETENCE OF PERSONNEL
When picking up and laying down tools, the hoist will be operated by a qualified
and competent hoist operator or by the engineer. The hoist should be under
direct control or supervision of a qualified hoist operator or the engineer at all
times.
The hoist operator must be alert, awake, and qualified to operate the winch. If
anyone is fatigued, exhausted or too sleepy to safely operate the winch, then
another qualified crew member or engineer must take over the operation. The
person operating the hoist must be able to focus on the task and to devote full,
undivided attention to the task of running the hoist, properly control speeds,
monitor tension, and adjust the line tension valve at each layer while properly
spooling the wire-line back on the drum.

Only HLSA employees competent and qualified to operate the hoist

are permitted to do so. No third party or non-HLSA personnel can
operate the hoist.
If the engineer is operating the hoist, full attention must be devoted to the task at
hand, running the hoist. Any other job duties must be delayed while responsible
for the hoist operation and the safety of the crew.
The hoist operator must control speed. One of the consistent causes of tool pull
offs is running too fast for the condition. Always slow down when nearing the
surface, surface casing, any down-hole restriction, shoulder, ledge or ID change.
Basically anything that could potentially hang up the tool-string or anytime a
potentially hazardous condition is observed.

The hoist operator must always know the Reference Depth when
the top of the tool will bump the pack-off head, cable-head catcher
or pull through the rotary floor.

SECTION 5 - PROCESS REQUIREMENTS

Section 5.1 - Capture the Moment – Know the Reference Depth
Capture the moment - Reference Depth is defined here to mean the critical depth
at which the top of the cable-head departs from and returns to the rig floor or
bumps the head catcher or the pack-off head.
At the depth where the top of tool is at the lubricator reference (pack-off) or the
rotary floor, depending on your condition, capture the depth by:

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Placing a strip of colored tape on the Hoist Operator Window, or

 Marking an arrow and record the reference depth using an erasable
marker on the hoist operator window or erasable white board and on
the Z-Chart (discussed later), and
 Count wraps of wire-line on the top wrap to the reference depth Figure
 2 shows twenty-five (25) wraps to the flange and record on the window
 and Z-Chart.




Figure 2
Count Wraps – Top Layer Flange to Reference Depth

Count the number of wraps on the top wire-line layer from the flange to the zero
Reference Depth point. This is a critical reference point when we POOH and the
tool is near surface.
In addition to marking the hoist operator window and the Z-Chart, some units
use an erasable white board installed in the unit to keep track of critical depths
and potential hang up depths.

Remember to confirm this depth reference on every trip in the well.

This reference depth point should remain constant for the

continuous running operation unless the unit is repositioned, the
cable is re-headed or the rig traveling blocks are raised or lowered.

Section 5.2 -Z-Chart Procedures RIH and POOH

Complete the Z-Chart operation to track reference depth and tension at each
time the wire-line changes to the next wrap.

Create a new Z-Chart for every run in a well.

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Line tension changes with tool-strings and Z-Chart depth reference can change
with improper cable spooling; other well bore parameters, comparisons are
made from run to run.
First Flange going Downhole

Count Wraps on Top Layer –

Reference Depth to First
Flange Going in the Well
Use tape as a marker or erasable marker
to write the Reference Depth on the
Hoist Window and on the Z-Chart.

Figure 3
Typical Drum – Showing Top Wrap Details and Basic Z Chart Depths

Use a Z-Chart to keep track of depth and normal line tension as the wire-line
reaches each flange running in the hole (RIH) and pulling out of the hole
(POOH). Note the same relative position as the tape and reference depth on the
Hoist Operator window.

Record the depth and tension when the wire- line reaches each.
Flange – not two or three wraps. Pay attention to the minor details,
the difference could prevent a pull off!

Bad line spooling can change the Z-Chart reference depths. Therefore,
create a Z-Chart for each run. A bad spooling from a previous well or
run can be corrected on the way out of the hole.
The chart is to be completed while going in the well (RIH) and also when
coming out of the well (POOH).
The blank Z-Chart can be printed from the WL INSITE software, HLS Utilities,
Depth Control Z-Chart as needed. Figure 4 and Figure 5 are example Z-Charts
from WL INSITE software. On the left side, mark the information that applies to
that well and run. On the center drawing, mark the relative position of the

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reference depth (point where the top of cable-head/tool reach the floor or bump
up against the pack-off head.

It is recommended to always have 3 layers of wire line on the drum;

any less and the cable may be damaged or may not spool properly.
Refer to Halliburton Reels & Cable Capacity

Figure 4
Typical Z-Chart – Showing Top Wrap Details and Basic Z Chart Depth and Tension Blanks
for Running in Hole (RIH)

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Figure 5
Typical Z-Chart – Showing Top Wrap Details and Basic Z Chart Depth and Tension Blanks
for Pulling Out Of Hole (POOH)

Figure 6

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 FIELD OPERATIONS MANUAL : Winch Operations

Typical Z-Chart – Showing RIH Information

The notes on the lower left side of Figure 7 include Dogleg and Kickoff Depth,
are both restriction depths with the potential to hang up. Whether pulling back
into the casing from the open hole or back into the tubing liner from the casing,
the hoist operator will reduce speed, reduce the Line Tension – Mooring valve
level and be very alert of the potential to hang up.

Figure 7
Typical Example of Z-Chart for POOH

Some units, especially on permanent platform mount as illustrated in Figure 8

may combine all important depth information for that well on the Hoist Operator
window. The window may tend to be a bit busy for some operations with less
than ideal rig up conditions, but it does illustrate the type of information that the
hoist operator must be aware of.

The lower left side of Figure 8 illustrates the Zero reference point on
both the drum and the Z-Chart, the number of wraps from the flange
to the reference depth indication.

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Figure 8
Hoist Operator Window with all Information Displayed

Figure 8 illustrates a combination of all relevant information available to the

host operator. Some of the most common restrictions for Cased Hole and Slick
Line include:
 Nipples
 Wireline valve stacks
 Packers
 EOT (End of Tubing/pipe)
 Casing Shoe, Casing Liner Hanger
 ANY Restriction or diameter Change

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Section 5.3 - Control Speed during Operation

Slow down when nearing the surface, surface casing, down-hole restrictions,
square shoulders, ledges and anything that could potentially hang up the tool-
strings or anytime a potentially hazardous condition is observed.
Slow means, at a speed that allows a safe stop before a snag causes a pull off.
For safety reasons it is not advisable to move the cable faster than 75 m/min in
open hole and 150 m/min in cased hole. Always ensure that there is a positive
tension at the cable head when running in (tool must never “float”). Always
monitor the down hole tension and the down log in a deviated hole to ensure that
the tool is moving.

Cable speed guidelines (vertical wells)

Depth Running-in Pulling-out
0 to 100 m 10 m/min 10 m/min
100 to 150 m 30 m/min 30 m/min
* Less than 1.2 (120%) of
* 0.8 (80%) of the
the static tension, not to
static tension, not to
In casing or in cased hole. exceed 150 m/min or 50%
exceed 150 m/min
break strength.
In open hole 0.67 (67%) of the static * Less than 1.33 (133%)
Best practice is the 80/120 tension not to exceed of the static tension not to
rule not to exceed 75 m/min exceed 75 m/min or 50%
0.67/1.33% break strength
* Lower Speed (<30 m/min) should be used whenever in gas wells or pulling
out after a long time in the hole (above 6 hrs).

The first 5 to 10 jobs for a new cable should be made at 25 m/min or

on the 80/120 rule, whichever is slower on a well with less than 20
degrees deviation.

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The 80/120 rule is a guideline which says:

 When going into the hole, the tension while descending into the well
should not decrease more than 20%. If the static tension is 1,000 lbf,
then the down hole speed must be limited to maintain at least 800 lbf
tension.
 Stop every 3,000 feet (1,000 m) and wait 30 seconds or so to let the
tool rotate and therefore equalize the torque in the armors of the cable.
Slowly pull up 150 feet (50 m), which will allow the tool to rotate and
which may be necessary in deviated wells or with eccentered tools.
 When changing direction or starting after being stopped, start moving
slowly and limit the tension to 20% above the static tension. If the
static tension is 1,000 lbf, then the up hole speed must be limited to
maintain no more than 1,200 lbf tension. Pack off pressure and well
deviation friction is included in the above tensions.

Remember, readjust the Line Tension valve

every time the tool is stopped and started up
the hole.
POOH – Open Hole
POOH speed – Should generally be at the published logging speeds for the tool-
string in the well. While logging out (and pulling out) of the well, monitor the
tension and try to maintain approximately not more than 120% of tension
reading (tool weight plus cable weight per 1,000' in fluid) during the trip in the
hole.
Using the same example, if the static tension is 1000 lb., then the up-hole, non-
logging speed should be limited to 1,200 lb. tension or 120% of static value.
Remember that normally the maximum line tension valve setting will be at the
bottom of the well and should decrease with each wrap of the wire-line cable
spooled back on the drum. The line tension valve setting should be checked and
adjusted to maintain a safe operating range. Remember that line tension values
for a given tool-string will be less in straight holes than in deviated holes
(greater than a 20° deviation) due to the difference in drag on the cable and tool-
string. Therefore, establish a tension base line for the tool-string in that well.

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Mechanical Depth Counter

Some measuring head assemblies include a mechanical depth counter or a
mechanical cable to a remote depth counter as an auxiliary depth reference. Use
all available devices and zero at the proper time for the operation. Monitor
primary and auxiliary depth devices to determine if they stay logically close
when running in and out of the well.

Section 5.3.1 - Walking the Line to Prevent Pull Off at the Pack-off
Head
A common practice used for some time in most areas with lubricator operations
is called “Walking the Line.” This term refers to the practice of standing beside
the wire line and gently pulling down, or to the side and holding a constant
tension as the line is slowly spooled back onto the drum. In some instances,
where the wire line cannot be reached, a Bump up Tool (102167622) can be
used on the line to accomplish the task.

Figure 9
Bump up Tool

Walking the line when retrieving down hole assemblies into the lubricator is a
best practice. This slow speed, along with manually holding the line down,
mitigates the risk of pull offs by creating a safe, slack zone. This practice allows
the person walking the line toward the hoist to signal the hoist operator to stop
when they feel the top of tool bump the pack-off head.

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WALKING THE LINE – DO NOT BOUNCE the

logging cable up and down or side to side. At this depth, there is no
slack and it could generate enough force to cause a pull off. Cable
movement should be slow and easy, no fast jerking motion on the
wire line.
The speaker should be placed where the operator will be positioned
when walking the line. This will allow the operator to issue
immediate verbal confirmation that the tools have latched when
POOH or are released before RIH from the tool catcher.
After releasing from the tool catcher before RIH, open the tool trap if
in use, move the tool- string below the tool trap and close both tool
catcher and tool trap.
Note the depth of the tool trap.

WALKING THE LINE - DOES NOT mean

standing on or physically walking on the wire line cable, but rather
the practice of standing beside the wire line and holding it down to
create a safe slack zone while slowly walking toward the hoist. The
actual distance traveled is only a few feet as the tool enters the
lubricator.

The practice of WALKING THE LINE is NOT embraced by all areas

due to safety and operational issues. Check the policy with local
management and the client before rig up.

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Section 5.3.2 -Pack-off Head

If the lubricator is not under pressure, then stop between 30 feet and 50 feet
before the reference depth. Unscrew the pack-off head and lift and hold it
above the top of the top of the riser, or lift and cock it to the side.

Ensure that the pack-off head is not resting on

the top of the riser or the threads might
engage and cause a pull off.
For pressure operation, prepare to close the tool trap once the tool is in the
lubricator.

Section 5.3.3 -Bump up Speed

 Bump up speed against the head catcher or pack-off should be at 1' to 2'
per minute and the Line Tension valve so that hoist will slip and stop at
slightest increase.
 When the top of the tool bumps up, then the pack-off may be removed.
 If a head catcher is included in the lubricator assembly then ensure that
it has latched the tool before loosening the union. The operator shall
communicate verbally with the hoist operator when latching or
releasing the tool-string from the tool catcher. The winch-operator shall
confirm the verbal statement from the operator.

Verify the fishing neck has been fit tested into the tool catcher to
confirm the tool catcher is functioning properly and the fishing neck
is in acceptable condition prior to lifting the lubricator with the tool-
string.

Section 5.3.4 -Pressure Control Lubricator Operation

Well pressure, tool weight, height of rig floor, height of lower sheave and height
of the line above the catwalk, or working space area limitation may restrict
activities as the cable-head (top of tool) gets back to the reference depth.
Whether the lubricator is suspended, stood off against a stand or completely laid

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down, be very alert to the potential for a pull off, for dropped objects and for
injury to anyone working near the wire-line.

Section 5.4 Toolpusher Winch Operations

 Once Clamp has been installed (recommend use at least 3 shear bolts at
1,800 lbs. per).
 Turn Mooring valve counterclockwise all the way out.
 Put in gear (High Speed for downhole, low speed for uphole).
 Pull back joystick in uphole direction slowly. Drum should not move.
 Clear rig floor around SES
 Slowly turn mooring valve clockwise (in) until drum begins to move
 While watching winch tension continue to turn in mooring valve until
1,500 -2,000 lbs is reached.
 Verify that the SES Clamp has not moved and holds the tension.
 Dial the mooring valve back until the winch tension drops to about 100
lbs.
 Get driller to creep down with drill pipe while maintaining
communication.
 Adjust mooring valve as needed to maintain 1,500 – 2,000 lbs while
winch spools off line.
 If set right, the brake should not be used RIH and POOH.
 Increase tension using mooring valve every once in a while to maintain
2,000 at the SES plus line weight in fluid.
 Ex. If SES is 5,000 ft. below the rig floor then winch tension should be
~3,500 lbs. with slammer line.
 For Log Up operations, low gear should utilized in a similar manner.
 While pipe moves uphole winch should automatically feed off line at
~2,000 lbs. plus line weight above SES.
 Note: Maintaining tension is vital for smooth winch motion and good
data quality.
 Back off of mooring valve occasionally while POOH to lower line
weight decreases.
 Once at surface backoff mooring valve and use standard winch
controls when removing SES Clamp.

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Section 5.5 Line Tension and Mooring Valve Operation – During

Up-log
Accidental pull off due to sudden tension increase can be prevented by proper
adjustment of the Line Tension valve and by setting Differential Tension
threshold values in the respective depth panels.

The winch operator shall be properly trained

and competent in winch operations.
 The Direct Acting Line Tension value working with the Mooring valve
determine the amount of hydraulic pump pressure required for a given line
tension (tool weight plus cable weight) to retrieve a tool from the well.
When the setting of the Line Tension valve on the hoist operator console is
reached, then the Mooring valve will de-stroke the pump and stop the
upward motion of the hoist.
 Picking up tools on the surface: The Line Tension valve should be
backed out all the way (counter clockwise) then screwed in only a few
turns clockwise prior to picking up the individual tools on the surface.
Worst case this way if something hangs up during rig up there will not be
a pull off. The Line Tension valve may have to be adjusted in
(clockwise) a turn at a time as the tool-string grows in length in order to
safely pick up the string off of the makeup plate.
 Lowering Tools string from the surface - The line tension valve must
continue to be used in the manner above until the tool string has cleared the
wellhead, this will help to prevent unintentional pull offs while
working at surface.
 Running in the hole – The Line Tension valve should be turned all the way
in (clockwise) when the tool-string is zeroed to prevent an accidental free
wheel condition while tripping in the well with the increased tool and
line weight and slowly decreased when POOH.

The Line Tension valve setting must be readjusted (checked) every

time stopping and starting the tool upward – whether to check the
line tension and torque, or after a sudden tool stoppage or when
coming off bottom. (This is not a “set it and forget operation”!)
 Maximum Line Tension valve setting should be coming off bottom
with total tension (drag, plus tool weight plus logging cable at that
depth).
 Valve operation - to adjust the valve, start the tool coming up slowly and

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rotate the tension adjustment knob counterclockwise (CCW) until the

drum starts to slow (also indicated by a drop in pressure showing on the
gauge next to the control knob). Once the drum is slowing down and
about to stop, then adjust the knob back clockwise (CW) between two and
three turns until normal smooth speed and tension values are observed.
The purpose of the Mooring valve is that if tension increases beyond that
Line Tension valve setting, then the hydraulic system will effectively
bypass and the drum will stop.
 If the drum has stopped due to line tension - mooring valve settings,
then to recover, slowly increase driving pressure by slight CW turn of the
Tension Adjustment valve knob. If the tool is does not come free, then it
may be necessary to stop the hoist, close any caliper tool, and go back
down-hole to try and free the tool.

The amount of pull to be placed on the system is determined by the

logging engineer and client guidelines and depends on depth,
borehole fluid parameters, tool-string assembly and borehole
deviation.
Tension Valve Adjustment is a link to a video clip on how to adjust the Line
Tension – Mooring valve.
Sudden Line Tension increase (differential tension) – provision is included in
the respective depth panels.
The Line Tension valve should be checked – decreased after each wrap of the
logging cable is spooled onto the drum. Depending on initial settings, the depth
panel Over Tension alarm setting value may also need readjustment as the tool
depth is decreased.

Check and decrease Line Tension adjustment valve at each wrap of

wire-line pulling out or logging out of the hole so that winch will
slow or safely stop if tool hangs up.
RECOVERING THE WIRELINE TOOLSTRING
When the tool string is 50 ft. (or 15 m) below the Sub Surface Safety Valve
(SSSV), the hoist operator should stop the hoist and apply the brake.
The hoist operator should inform the Field Engineer that the tools are just
below the SSSV so that a depth correlation can be performed across the SSSV.

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The Field Engineer should call the Well Services Supervisor (WSS) to
inform of the tool proximity to surface. Depending on client specific
rules, it may be necessary for the WSS to be present at the winch
before pulling the tool-string above the SSSV).
From this point onwards, the crew chief or field engineer must be in
control of all winch movements.
Once the depths have been correlated to the SSSV, the hoist operator must
again stop the winch and apply the brake.
Before moving the winch again from its current position, the Field engineer
should take a few minutes to ensure the winch is correctly configured for
coming back to surface. The main considerations at this point are to be:
Tension Alarm Set-up: Ensure that the Over tension alarm is set up in order to
shut down the winch movement when an increase in line weight is measured.
During logging the alarm should always be set to a value less than 66% BS of
the current weak-point + line weight. On approach to the Tool Catcher this will
be reduced to ~200 lbs. over the current tool string weight. Also ensure that both
the Surface Tension alarm and Differential tension alarms are set accordingly
for coming back to surface. The surface tension alarm should always be set to a
value lower than the Over tension and less than 66% BS of the current weak-
point + line weight. The differential tension alarm should be set to +/- 250lbs
during logging. On final approach to the catcher the Over tension is the primary
alarm and over rides the other 2 audible alarms.
Line Tension Valve/Double 'A' valve: During the POOH from TD, the line
tension valve should have been continually adjusted and confirmed at each drum
flange so if an obstruction was encountered the system would stall under applied
load. Ensure valve is set correctly before moving the winch.
Tension Recording: If the depth has no facility to continually record
depth/tension data, the Field Engineer should ensure that this data is being
recorded on the data acquisition software. This will ensure that any tensions
pulled on the weak-point can be verified in data.
Minimum personnel: non-essential personnel should be removed from the
logging unit so that the Field Engineer and hoist operator can fully focus on
the task in hand. It is the Field Engineer’s responsibility to minimize the
people present in the logging unit.
Check Valve Status: Ensure all the necessary checks on the wellhead &
intervention valves, particularly the pressure on the hydraulic master valve to
ensure clear passage of the tool string.
Check Tool-catcher Status: Ensure the lever on the hydraulic control module
is in the catch position. If it is a 3rd Party operation, check with the wire-line

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supervisor that the tool-catcher is in the catch position.

Utilize Unit Intercom System for improved Communications: If the unit is
equipped with an intercom system, the speaker should be positioned where the
operator will be situated when walking the line. This will allow the operator to
issue immediate verbal confirmation that the tools are engaged into the Tool
Catcher as well as the hand signal to stop pulling on the winch.
PULLING TOOL STRING INTO THE TOOL CATCHER
When the tool string is 200 ft. (60 m) from the tool catcher depth the winch will
be stopped again and the Over-tension alarm shutdown will be set to +200 lbs.
of the tool string weight noted. The hoist operator will then pick up at ≤30 ft.
/min (≤10 m/min). When the tool string is 50 ft. (15 m) from the tool catcher
depth the winch will be slowed to ≤3 ft/min (≤1 m/min) while closely
monitoring the weight indicator with the reel hand brake ready to be applied.
If an increase in weight is noticed or the hoist operator is signaled by operator
monitoring the tool trap, the hoist operator should stop the winch and apply the
hand brake immediately
When the tool string is within 15 ft. (5 m) of the tool catcher, a member of the
wire line crew should be utilized during the operation to walk the line to feel
when the rope socket is engaged in the tool catcher.

A Bump up Tool can be used to hold a bow in the line if it is above

head height.
The operator shall verbally notify the hoist operator when the tool-string is latch
in the tool catcher. The hoist operator will confirm the operator’s statement.

Two members of the crew may be required if tool weight dictates.

When the tool string is latched in the Tool Catcher, place the winch control in
neutral and apply the reel brake. Remove the reel brake and then slowly run in
hole to slacken off wire line and confirm tool is engaged in catcher. Leave
approximately a 1-2ft. bow in the wire line between the wire line unit and
bottom sheave. Again set winch controls in neutral position and apply the reel
hand brake.
In the event that the tool-string does not engage into the tool-catcher at the first
attempt, run in hole with the wire line approx. 15 ft. (5 m) and repeat the
previous operation. DO NOT attempt to pull straight back into the tool-catcher
from a close proximity after a failed attempt as this can increase the risk of a
pull-off.

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RELEASING TOOL STRING FROM THE TOOL CATCHER

All personnel should be kept clear of the area when releasing the tool string
from the Tool Catcher.

After bleeding down the pressure in the well or after a successful lubricator
pressure test, equalize lubricator and well pressure.
With the tool string in the catcher, and if there is slack in the wire-line, pick
wire-line tension to the tool hanging weight.
A member of the wire line crew should be used to release the tool from the tool
catcher using the hydraulic control module.
Ensure that all depth counters have been set correctly prior to exiting the tool-
catcher, including the back-up depth display counter.

A member of the wire line crew should be

utilized during this operation to lean/hold
down the wire line to feel when the tool string
release from the tool catcher (Two members of
the crew may be required if tool weight
dictates).
After tool string is released from tool catcher, open the well and run in-hole,
tying-in to the SSSV on the way to depth of concern.
STATIONARY WIRELINE
At any time the wire-line is required to be stationary, the hoist operator must
ensure the controls are set as below:

Directional control lever should be placed in the neutral position

and locked where applicable. Gear lever should be in the neutral
position. Hand brake applied. Back off Double 'A' valve to ensure
no system pressure is present.
Section 5.6 - Adjust Tension Alarms for Reel Shutdown

Section 5.6.1 - Model 43 - Open Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A043)

Model 43 – Open-Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A043) Touch Screen Menu
Use the options displayed on the Hoist-man Display to access control function,
set the depth and alarm values.

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Figure 10
WSDP – Model 43 – Touch Screen Display

In Figure 11, the Reel Shutdown has been enabled and would be activated due to
a tension increase. Press the Alarm Silence button to turn off the audible alarm.
Press the Reset button to release and clear the reel shutdown flag.

Figure 11
Hoist-man Display – Main Screen

Figure 12 shows the basic depth control options. SEC Depth refers to a
secondary depth in the system, which could be the bottom shot of a gun, the
height of the tester pad, etc. (This is not to be confused with the Reference
Depth – Top of Tool.)

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Figure 12
Depth Screen Options

Figure 13 illustrates the various alarm options. Select each Alarm that applies to
the well, and then set or update values for the current needs. The Test Shutdown
and Release Shutdown provide a way to test the relay that controls the hoist
operation.

Figure 13
Alarm Setup Screen

For ALL safety features to work properly, including the Reel

Shutdown, all alarm values must be properly set for the current well.
Each alarm has a default value set during initial panel testing, but

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the operator must step through the alarms and enter values
appropriate for that well. Values are retained in flash memory in the
WSDP.
Make sure this number is not greater than 66% of your calculated
weak point + the Line weight.
This should never exceed 50% of the cable breaking strength.

Alarm will sound when 2,400 lb. is reached (Figure 14). Notice the Range
criteria that the value entered must be less that the S/D Alarm value. The Max
Tension value must be entered before the Shutdown Tension can be set.

Figure 14
Tension Alarm Screen (Default Value)

An alarm will trigger the shutdown relay when the default 3,500 lb is reached
Figure 15.

Figure 15
Tension Shutdown Alarm Setting

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In Figure 16, the differential tension alarm will sound when 500 lb. is reached.

Figure 16
Differential Tension Shutdown Alarm Setting

In Figure 17, the alarm will activate the relay and the drum will stop when 750
lb. is reached.

Figure 17
Tension Shutdown Alarm Setting

Section 5.6.2 - Model 46 – Cased-Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A046)

Model 46 – KMSD – Case- Hole Depth Panel (AMS4A046)
Use the Menu button to access and set various functions to set depth and alarm
values (Figure 18).

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Figure 18
Model 46 – Cased Hole Depth Panel

Panel Operation – Press Menu button until desired function is displayed. The
D-Zero and T-Zero buttons will zero depth and tension respectively. Press the +
/ - switch to select parameters options and values, and then press Menu again to
accept and continue.
Surface Alarm - When POOH, at 200' (60 meters) an alarm will sound and the
red APPROACHING SURFACE LED will blink. (The RED LED is located to
the left side of panel face next to the panel handle.) To silence the Alarm, press
the RED blinking LED. The LED will continue to blink as a constant reminder
that the tool is less than 200' from the surface.
Over Tension Alarm – The connector from J-9 on the rear of the panel has two
wire output to control reel shutdown. Pin ‘A’ is normally open, but closes when
the over tension value is present and closes to stop the winch. Press the Alarm
button to reset and continue the operation.
Panel Tension Alarm Setup – The same principle applies to the Model 46
Cased Hole panel setup as with the Model 43 Open Hole panel.

Section 5.5.3 SDDP Reference – (legacy panel still in use as backup)

SDDP – Halliburton Depth Panel (Legacy Depth Panel – limited utilization but
it is included here because it is backup to the WSDP for Open Hole units.)

Panel operation – from the main screen, choose menu selections and functions,
and access by pressing number selections on the keypad and press Enter. The
sequence to activate the SDDP reel (hoist) shutdown is listed here as an example
of the dialog process for this panel.
Operation of the SDDP Reel Shutdown
The Reel Shutdown can be engaged for a variety of conditions (over tension,
minimum depth, etc.) and can be set via menu selections on the SDDP panel.
Reel Shutdown with the SDDP Panel
To arm the shutdown feature for tension is as follows:
1) Press 3 for the tension menu.

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2) Press 2 for the Tension Alarm settings.

3) In selections 1, 2 and 3 set the tension parameters
4) Press 4 to save and exit.
5) Press 3 for the tension menu.
6) Press 6 to enable tension alarms.
7) Select the alarm to enable.
8) Example: Select Max Tension by pressing 2 and Enter.
9) Select the type of alarm desired.
 0 = No Alarms
 1 = Alarm Only (Beeper)
 2 = Shutdown Only
 3 = Both Shutdown and Alarm
If the max tensions are set to 5,000 lb. in Step 3, and alarm type 3 is selected in
Step 9, then the reel should shut down at 5,000 lb.
To reacquire control over the winch, center the joystick, then clear the shutdown
status by going to the menu 1 (1 --> 5 --> 4 -->1 -->7). This does not disable the
alarm settings, but does reset the shutdown circuit.

Failing to place the joystick in the neutral

position will cause the reel to move when the
shutdown status condition is reset.
Section 5.7 - Maintain Up-to-Data and Accurate Records

Section 5.7.1 - Maintain a Cable Log Book

Record keeping is mandatory and a critical step in a successful well-site
operation. The Cable Log record should include, but not limited to the following
information: cable manufacturer’s specifications, footage, re-head information –
number of inner and outer armors used, number of runs, breaking strength, weak
point installed, borehole fluid, and bottom-hole temperature, etc.

Section 5.6.2 - Know the Weak-point installed in Cable-head

Review of the applicable field operations manuals;
 Mono Conductor Cable Head FOM
 Multi Conductor Cable Head FOM
For further information on cable-head assemblies for both Mono-conductor and
Multi-conductor cables, refer to the General Equipment -> Logging Heads page

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in Hal-world.

Section 5.6.3 - Know the Wire-line.

Refer to the following documents related to cable head testing and wire line
evaluation
 Cable Installation and Maintenance
 Type II Cable Head Weak Point Tests
 OEB-2000/008 Evaluation of Used Wireline Cables

SUMMARY
Each item identified and discussed in this document when used properly and
followed faithfully are the safeguards to prevent accidental pull offs.

 The new joystick controller and the backup depth/drum counter provide
the main hardware safeguard features.
 Competent, dedicated, diligent hoist operators who focus on the task of
operating the hoist, spooling the wire-line on the drum and safely
controlling the hoist speed are essential to the operation.
Follow all the operational processes, such as using the Line Tension and
Mooring valve, accurately completing the Z-Chart, identify the top wrap layer,
count the wraps between the flange and the Reference Depth and mark that spot
on the Hoist Operator’s window (with piece of tape or erasable marker) and on
the Z-Chart.

Remember that even if the depth measuring

wheel completely quit working - a total depth
system failure at the bottom of the well, the
Line Tension settings, the Z-Chart and
knowing the number of wraps on the top layer
between the flange and the Reference Depth
will help return the tool safely out of the well
without pulling off!

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JOB REMINDERS (CONTROL POINT)

 Hoist operations tested and functional
 Depth and Tension Alarms set and enabled
 Contingency depth control (drum counter and Z-Charts)
operational and in place
 Wire line and cable head conditions known
 Tool catcher fit tested and function tested

Date Issued Rev Summary of Key Revisions

10-May-18 A Original Release

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