Section 320

Schlum berger COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL

Dow ell Rev A - 98

WELLBORE MAINTENANCE

Contents Page
Introduction .................................................................................................... 3
1 FLUID CIRCULATION AND WELL KILL .......................................................... 3
1.1 Design ................................................................................................. 3
1.1.1 Remedial Fluids ................................................................................... 3
1.1.2 Well Control Fluids .............................................................................. 4
1.1.3 Fluid Density ....................................................................................... 4
1.1.4 Fluid Type ............................................................................................ 5
1.1.5 Fluid Placement .................................................................................. 5
1.1.6 Well Control Techniques ...................................................................... 5
1.1.7 Wait and Weight Method ...................................................................... 7
1.2 Execution ............................................................................................ 8
1.2.1 Execution Precautions ........................................................................ 8
1.3 Equipment Requirements .................................................................... 8
1.4 Well Kill Execution .............................................................................. 9
2 WELLBORE FILL REMOVAL ........................................................................ 10
2.1 Design ............................................................................................... 10
2.1.2 Wellbore and Completion Geometry ................................................... 12
2.1.3 Logistical Constraints ........................................................................ 13
2.1.4 Fill Characteristics ............................................................................. 13
2.1.5 Fluid Performance ............................................................................. 14
2.1.5 Deviated Wells .................................................................................. 15
2.1.6 Fluid Selection .................................................................................. 16
2.1.7 Downhole Tools .................................................................................. 18
2.1.8 Junk Removal ................................................................................... 19
2.1.9 Computer Modeling ........................................................................... 20
2.1.10 Fill Removal Operations .................................................................... 21
2.2 Execution .......................................................................................... 21
2.2.1 Execution Precautions ...................................................................... 21
2.2.2 Equipment Requirements .................................................................. 21
2.2.3 Coiled Tubing Equipment ................................................................... 21
2.2.4 Pressure Control Equipment .............................................................. 21
2.2.5 Downhole Tools and Equipment ......................................................... 21
2.2.6 Auxiliary Equipment .......................................................................... 22
2.2.7 Treatment Execution .......................................................................... 22
2.3 Fill Removal Evaluation ..................................................................... 22
2.4 Sand Removal Using Concentric Coiled Tubing .................................. 23
3 SCALE AND ASPHALT REMOVAL .............................................................. 25
3.1 Design ............................................................................................... 25
3.1.1 Design Data ...................................................................................... 25
3.1.2 Scale/Deposit Characteristics ........................................................... 25
3.1.3 Wellbore/Completion Geometry ......................................................... 27
3.1.4 Logistical Constraints ........................................................................ 27

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 Section 320
COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Schlum berger
Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

WELLBORE MAINTENANCE

Contents Page

3.1.5 Chemical treatments ......................................................................... 28

3.1.6 Jetting ............................................................................................... 28
3.1.7 Low Pressure Jetting ......................................................................... 29
3.1.8 High Pressure Jetting ........................................................................ 29
3.1.9 Rotational Drilling/Underreaming ........................................................ 29
3.1.10 Impact Drilling ................................................................................... 30
3.1.11 Scale Inhibition .................................................................................. 31
3.2 Execution .......................................................................................... 31
3.2.1 Execution Precautions ...................................................................... 31
3.2.2 Equipment Requirements .................................................................. 31
3.2.3 Coiled Tubing Equipment ................................................................... 31
3.2.4 Pressure Control Equipment .............................................................. 32
3.2.5 Downhole Tools and Equipment ......................................................... 32
3.2.6 Auxiliary Equipment .......................................................................... 32
3.2.7 Treatment Execution .......................................................................... 32
3.3 Evaluation ......................................................................................... 33

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 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
Introduction
This manual section outlines the equipment and processes
commonly used in resolving wellbore conditions which may
inhibit productivity or prevent wellbore access. Wellbore
maintenance activities are frequently conducted prior to
other matrix or reservoir treatments to ensure that fill or
materials are not relocated into the producing formation.
1 FLUID CIRCULATION AND WELL KILL
Many types of fluid are commonly circulated through CT
workstrings. Fluid characteristics depend on the intended
application. Most fluids may be classed as:
• Remedial fluid
• Well control fluid
In addition, function, fluids may be pumped to prevent
collapse of the workstring while in the wellbore.
Conventional workover activities performed using a rig
require a column of kill-weight fluid as a primary well control
barrier. Consequently, the most important aspect of workover
well safety is the placement and maintenance of the fluid-
column barrier. To enable this to be achieved reliably and
safely, a number of industry accepted well-kill and pressure
control procedures have been developed.
On CT conveyed services, the stripper(s) serves as the
primary pressure-control barrier, thereby allowing operations
to be performed safely on live wells. The check valves,
generally fitted to the downhole end of the CT prevent
migration of wellbore fluids inside the workstring and should
also be regarded as pressure control equipment. This
configuration provides a high level of protection but
complicates the application of established well control/well
kill procedures.
Regardless of the application or type of fluid, the density
and volume of fluids pumped on all CT operations must be
closely monitored and recorded.
1.1 Design
The placement and maintenance of a fluid column barrier
against reservoir pressure is often conducted to
specifications set by regulatory authorities and/or operating
Section 320
Rev A - 98
company standards. Therefore, all such requirements
must be known before the operation commences.
The configuration of CT equipment enables well control and
kill operations to be more easily undertaken than is generally
possible using a rig or snubbing unit. The CT stripper
provides the great advantage of being able to run or retrieve
tubing under pressure. In addition, the reel swivel allows
fluids to be pumped continuously while running into, and out
of the wellbore.
Additional factors which must be considered when designing
CT conveyed operations include the following.
• Friction Pressure
Due to the relatively small diameter (ID) of the CT, high
friction pressures and the corresponding reduced pump
rates must be considered.
• Tubing Length
In conventional drillpipe and tubing conveyed operations,
the tubing length is equal to the depth of circulation. On
the CT conveyed operations, the CT workstring length,
and therefore volume remains constant regardless of
depth.
• Check Valve
Because the majority of CT operations are performed with
downhole check valves fitted, special procedures are
required to determine the tubing shut in pressure used in
well control calculations.
The design and use of remedial and well kill fluids is
principally determined by the intended application and
availability/cost. To achieve the necessary fluid properties,
additives are commonly used.
1.1.1 Remedial Fluids
Remedial fluids may be water-based, oil-based or gaseous,
and may be further categorized as treatment fluids, power
fluids or kick-off fluids.
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 Section 320
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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
• Treatment fluids
These may be injected into the formation, or circulated
around the wellbore. Treatment fluid characteristics are
designed to suite the intended treatment and conditions
under which it will be applied.
• Power fluids
Used to power hydraulically actuated downhole tools (e.g.
motors, impact hammers or orientation devices). Power
fluids are designed to be compatible with the tool require-
ments, workstring/toolstring configuration and cutting
carrying ability. In addition, they should be compatible
with the wellbore fluids production facilities as required.
• Kick-off fluids
Circulated to restore or initiate production. Kick-off fluids
are designed to suite the reservoir and completion condi-
tions. In addition, they should be compatible with down-
stream production facilities.
The desired characteristics or features of the above fluid
groups can include the following.
• Stability
Stability and a predictable performance over the range of
conditions under which the fluid may be used. The effects
of pressure, temperature and extended time should be
considered, e.g. fluids containing suspended solids such
as weighting agents, or the risk of brine crystallization at
surface conditions.
• Compatibility
Fluids must be compatible with other fluids and materials
which it may contact during the treatment/operation. The
use of spacer fluids is a common technique of overcom-
ing compatibility or contamination conflicts. Additives,
such as inhibitors, may be used to increase compatibility
with wellbore equipment or materials.
• Solids content
Some applications require clean fluids, i.e., fluids which
have been filtered to remove damaging solids.
• Cost
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The relative efficiency of fluids when compared to substi-
tute fluids of lesser cost should be considered.
• Safety and Environment
Remedial fluids are frequently corrosive or toxic. Conse-
quently the handling, preparation and disposal of such
fluids must be performed with regard for the safety of
personnel and the environment.
1.1.2 Well Control Fluids
Well control fluids used in CT operations are used to kill the
well and provide a well control barrier, generally to allow
subsequent operations to be completed safely. The fluid
characteristics are designed or modified to suit the reservoir
and wellbore conditions. In the majority of cases,
characteristics similar to those shown for remedial fluids
are required.
In most cases, the objective of the operation will be to
render the well in a balanced condition i.e., no formation
fluid can enter the wellbore, and wellbore fluid is not lost to
the formation. Fluid loss to the reservoir is undesirable for
reasons of economy (i.e., the cost of the product lost) and
the potential of near-wellbore damage.
1.1.3 Fluid Density
Kill-weight fluid denotes the density of fluid required to
balance the bottom hole hydrostatic pressure with the
reservoir pressure in the producing formation. In reality, a
slightly higher hydrostatic pressure is maintained for safety,
with provision being made to avoid losses.
If the reservoir pressure is known (e.g., wireline conveyed
shut-in pressure survey) the required kill-fluid density is
easily calculated.
If no reservoir data is available, it is necessary to assess
the bottom hole conditions. Conventional well control
techniques use the shut in drill pipe pressure (SIDPP) to
help assess the bottom hole pressure (BHP). However, the
check valve fitted on most CT operations can prevent the
pressure indicated at the reel from indicating a true shut-in
tubing pressure.
A true shut-in tubing pressure can be determined through
 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
the following procedure.
a. With the annular choke closed, start the pump at a slow
rate and observe the pressure build up in the reel. The
pressure will gradually rise then level off as the check
valves open, thus indicating an approximate tubing shut
in pressure.
b. If the pressure does not level off, continue to pump until
the annular pressure increases slightly (50-100 psi)
then shut down the pump.
c. Slowly bleed the increased pressure until the formation
pressure closes the check valve. The pressure indi-
cated at the reel is the approximate shut in tubing
pressure.
1.1.4 Fluid Type
Well control fluids used in wells which are to be returned to
production are generally solids-free and water-based (e.g.
filtered brines). Such fluids are generally readily available,
easier to mix or handle and are formulated to minimize
damage to producing formations. The fluids must be
compatible with the formation fluids and wellbore/completion
equipment.
1.1.5 Fluid Placement
To successfully place a column of fluid in a wellbore
several factors should be considered.
• Contamination
Contamination of the fluid column can reduce the density,
and therefore the efficiency of a well control fluid. The
contamination can be due to the commingling of wellbore
fluids with the kill fluid, or continued influx of reservoir
fluids during the kill- fluid placement process.
Using CT to place the fluid column overcomes many of
the difficulties associated with bullheading kill fluids.
Circulation of a denser fluid into the wellbore through CT
can normally be achieved with a small fluid interface and
minimal contamination. In all cases consideration must
be given to controlling the wellbore returns and bottomhole
pressure during placement.
• Fluid Losses
Section 320
Rev A - 98
Loss of kill fluid to the formation is undesirable for reasons
of economy and potential damage to the formation. Lost
circulation materials are commonly included in the fluid
design of well kill operations. The requirement for such
materials are determined by the formation characteristics
and wellbore conditions. Appropriate materials can be
dispersed in the kill fluid or spotted separately as a fluid-
loss control pill.
• Surface Equipment
In addition to the normal CT and well control equipment,
several other key items of equipment may be required. A
surface choke must be used to control wellbore pressure,
thereby enabling static conditions to be maintained at the
formation face.
The capacities of the mixing, storage and pumping
equipment must be sufficient to allow the operation to be
completed as designed.
1.1.6 Well Control Techniques
Several well control techniques have been developed,
principally for conventional rig equipment. Since no specific
procedures have been developed for CT operations an
understanding of the conventional techniques is
recommended.
Key to the success of well control operations is preventing
further influx of reservoir fluids into the wellbore as the
operation progresses. Since conventional well kill methods
are intended for drilling operations, they typically rely on
increasing the density of an existing fluid column. In such
conditions, circulation in excess of one wellbore volume is
generally required due to fluid slippage and bypassing.
In the majority of cases, CT well kill operations are
performed in producing wellbores which have completion
tubulars in place. The completion tubulars reduce the
wellbore volume and also make placement easier since the
smaller fluid interface reduces the likelihood of
contamination. However, since the returned fluid cannot
generally be treated and reused, more than one wellbore
volume of prepared fluid is generally required.
Most well control techniques derive the BHP from the
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 Section 320
COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Schlum berger
Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

WELLBORE GEOMETRY
Measured depth (MD) (ft) Kickoff point (ft)
True vertical depth (TVD) (ft) Deviation (deg)
Casing Top (ft) Bottom (ft) Size (in.) Weight (lb/ft)
Capacity (bbl/ft) CT annular capacity (bbl/ft)
Liner Top (ft) Bottom (ft) Size (in.) Weight (lb/ft)
Capacity (bbl/ft) CT annular capacity (bbl/ft)
Production tubing Top (ft) Bottom (ft) Size (in.) Weight (lb/ft)
Capacity (bbl/ft) CT annular capacity (bbl/ft)
Production tubing Top (ft) Bottom (ft) Size (in.) Weight (lb/ft)
Capacity (bbl/ft) CT annular capacity (bbl/ft)

BOTTOMHOLE CONDITIONS
Bottomhole pressure (BHP) (psi) Bottomhole temperature (BHT) ( F)
Fracture gradient (FG) (psi/ft)Pore pressure Pp (psi)
Reservoir fluid Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
Current wellbore fluid Density (lbm/gal)

COILED TUBING AND PRESSURE CONTROL EQUIPMENT

Workstring size (in.) Length (ft) Capacity (bbl/ft)
Total volume Displacement volume (bbl/ft)
Maximum allowable wellhead pressure (MAWP) (psi)

PUMPING EQUIPMENT
Available hydraulic horsepower (HHP) Maximum pressure (psi) Pit/tank volume (bbl)

KILL FLUID REQUIREMENTS

Overbalance required1 (psi) Required density (lbm/gal)
Type of fluid Volume required (bbl)

1
A safety factor should be included in the hydraulic calculations to ensure that the kill-fluid hydrostatic pressure exceeds
the reservoir pressure. This overbalance pressure is typically specified by the client

Figure 1. Job design data for wait and weight well kill method.

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 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Section 320
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

surface tubing pressure. This requires consideration of the
friction pressure induced while pumping through the
drillstring. Typically, on conventional operations, the
circulation pressures (kill rate pump pressure) is noted at
a predetermined pump rate (kill rate). On CT operations the
friction pressures are considerably higher, and are generally
modelled or calculated.
Two common well kill techniques are:
• Wait and weight method
• Driller's method
the preferred method of killing a well. The drillers method
requires two wellbore volumes to be circulated.
1.1.7 Wait and Weight Method
So called because the well is shut in (wait) while sufficient
fluid of the correct density (weight) is prepared. In
conventional operations, the kill fluid is circulated into
place with the annular back-pressure adjusted to follow a
predetermined graph which gives the tubing circulating
pressure for the volume pumped. The required adjustments
are carried out at the annulus choke, thus ensuring a
constant BHP.

The wait and weight method is more applicable to CT
applications since only one wellbore volume circulation is
required. Also, sufficient fluid, of the correct density, is
prepared before the well kill operation begins. It is generally
A modified version of this method is recommended for well
kill operations performed through CT. The basic procedure
is:
a. Determine the BHP and fluid density necessary to

BOP kill port

Pumping Tee or well-
head production facil-
ity used for fluid circu-
lation

Production tubing
Process/recirculation
Coiled tubing
Process/disposal

Figure 2. Typical equipment configuration for well kill or fluid circulation operations.

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 Section 320
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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
control the producing formation.
b. Prepare a sufficient volume of kill fluid (wellbore volume,
from point of circulation + CT workstring volume +
safety factor for contamination or fluid slippage).
c. Fill the CT workstring with kill fluid while running in to the
lowest circulating point.
d. Select an appropriate pump rate which can be constantly
maintained throughout the operation (kill rate).
e. With the CT nozzle at depth, start pumping at the kill rate
and establish the circulating (pump) pressure. This
circulating pressure must be maintained for the duration
of the operation. Control of the circulating pressure is
achieved by adjusting the surface choke .
1.2 Execution
The principal objective during well kill operations is to
maintain a constant bottomhole pressure, sufficient to
prevent the influx of reservoir fluids into the wellbore. To
achieve this safely and efficiently, accurate monitoring and
recording of key parameters (weight, depth and pumped
fluids) is essential during all phases of the operation.
1.2.1 Execution Precautions
Execution precautions to be observed during CT circulation
or well kill operations principally relate to the maintenance
of adequate barriers against well pressure and fluids. The
consequences of incorrectly assuming a well is dead can
be severe, therefore, adequate checks must be conducted
to ensure the stable condition of the well before pressure
control equipment is removed from the wellhead
Personnel
All personnel involved in the design or execution of CT well
kill operations must be familiar with requirements detailed
in the relevant Standards of Operation.
Well Security
The control of well pressure and fluids must meet the
requirements of relevant Standards of Operation. In addition
the requirements of the operating company and applicable
regulatory authorities must be known. Well security, or a
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sable wellbore condition must be confirmed by performing
necessary flow checks before the well can be regarded as
dead.
Equipment
All treating and monitoring equipment must be spotted and
operated in accordance with the requirements of the relevant
Standards of Operation. In addition, equipment certified for
use in hazardous areas, must be operated and maintained
in accordance with the operating zone requirements (e.g.
Zone II equipment).
1.3 Equipment Requirements
Coiled Tubing Equipment
One of the essential parameters to be monitored is tubing
surface pressure (pump pressure at the reel manifold). A
high degree of accuracy and reliability is required. If
possible/practical, two gauge readings should be made at
the reel manifold.
Pressure Control Equipment
The configuration of CT pressure control equipment allows
well control operations to be completed safely and efficiently
with a high degree of flexibility. Presure control equipment
should be configured to allow easy and safe flow checks to
be performed.
Auxiliary Equipment
The fluid mixing, handling and pumping equipment must
be:
• Of adequate capacity.
• Configured to provide the necessary volume of fluid at the
required density. Density variation throughout the treat-
ment volume is undesirable.
A choke and gauge array is required to control and monitor
wellbore fluid returns from the annulus. Typically, a manifold
independent of the production equipment is used, although
in some cases the production choke may be used.
Returned fluids are generally routed to normal production
facilities. If returned fluids are to be stored on surface,
 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Section 320
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

precautions must be taken to ensure safe and
environmentally compatible handling and storage practises.
1.4 Well Kill Execution
The steps required to successfully kill a well depend on the
conditions encountered. The following is a rough guide.
provision must be made to keep the wellbore full of kill
fluid while the CT is being removed. Failure to do so may
result in swabbing reservoir fluids into the wellbore or
reducing the fluid column below a safe hydrostatic pres-
sure.
Flow Check

Wellbore Preparation • Confirmation that the well is in a balanced and stable

• Operations associated with the well kill should be re-
viewed to determine the most appropriate sequence of
events. For example, the production capability of the well
may assist in fill removal or scale removal operations.
• In many cases, prior to placing a column of kill fluid in the
wellbore, it is necessary to spot a lost circulation pill
across the producing formation.
condition should be made before rigging down the coiled
tubing and pressure control equipment . Generally, this is
achieved by observing the fluid level at surface.
Flow check conditions specified by the operating com-
pany or regulatory authority must be used when determin-
ing the condition of a well which has been killed.
Circulation Kick-off Execution

• In low pressure or sensitive formations, it may be
necessary to circulate the wellbore to a known fluid
density before attempting to load the wellbore.
Fluid Mixing and Pumping
• Wellkill fluids must be thoroughly mixed to provide an
accurate and consistent density over the entire volume.
Recirculation lines or agitators should be used to prevent
stratification of different density fluids.
Well kick-offs initiated by circulating lightweight fluids can
be regarded as reverse well kill operations. A similar
equipment configuration is required to maintain balanced
conditions at the producing interval while the fluid column
is placed. This is often necessary to reduce the loss of
costly brines or well control fluid to the production system.
Fluid pumped, and fluid returned volumes must be closely
monitored to help ensure the premature production of
reservoir fluids.

• Dense fluids should be placed in wellbores from the

bottom up to minimize channeling or contamination. This
generally easily achieved using CT.

• The progress of the kill fluid through the CT reel and around
the wellbore should be monitored by observing pressures
and volumes.

• Continuous monitoring of fluid volume in vs. fluid volume

out is vital.

• Pumping of kill fluid should normally be continued until a

satisfactory, uncontaminated sample is returned at sur-
face.

• A clear line of communication must exist between CTU

operator, pump operator and choke manifold operator.

• If the kill fluid is placed with the CT string in the wellbore,

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 Section 320
COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL
Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
2 WELLBORE FILL REMOVAL
The removal of fill material from producing wells is histori-
cally the most common application of CT services. The
process is commonly known by several names, including,
sand washing, sand jetting and wellbore or fill cleanouts.
The aims of fill removal are to:
• Restore the production capability of the well.
• Permit the free passage of wireline or service tools.
• Ensure the proper operation of downhole flow control
devices.
• Maintain a sump (space) below the perforated interval to
allow complete passage of tools or as a contingency tool
drop area.
• Remove material which may interfere with subsequent
well service or completion operations.
When designing a fill removal treatment, the source of the
fill material should be thoroughly investigated. This helps to
determine the most appropriate removal technique, and
may indicate that a secondary treatment at the source will
prevent further production of fill material.
Common types of fill material include:
• Formation sand or fines
• Produced proppant or fracturing operation screenout
• Gravel-pack failure
• Workover debris (e.g. scale particles)
For the purpose of fill removal operations, fill materials can
be broadly divided into three categories:
• Sludge or very fine particulates
• Unconsolidated particulates
• Consolidated particulates
In most cases, CT provides the only viable means of
removing fill material from a wellbore. The ability to continu-
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ously circulate through CT while maintaining a high level of
well control enables fill removal to be completed efficiently
with minimum disruption to production.
In most cases, fill is removed by circulating a fluid through
the CT while slowly penetrating the fill with an appropriate
jetting nozzle. The fill material is entrained in the fluid flow
and is circulated out of the wellbore through the CT/
production tubing annulus. It is crucial that the annular fluid
velocity is greater than the settling velocity of the fill
material in the fluid.
Chemical or mechanical techniques can be used to assist
removal. Chemical removal of fill may not be a viable
method due to the low solubility of common fill materials.
Mechanical removal may simply involve jetting and circu-
lation. Where consolidated fill is present, the assistance of
a drill motor or impact drill and bit may be required.
A technique has been developed using concentric coiled
tubing to remove sand from horizontal wells.
2.1 Design
The initial steps for designing an appropriate fill removal
technique require thorough investigation of the following:
• Wellbore and completion geometry
• Reservoir parameters
• Surface equipment/logistical constraints
• Fill characteristics
A summary of data required is shown in Figure 3.
2.1.1 Reservoir Parameters
The following reservoir parameters affect the choice of fill
removal technique:
Reservoir Pressure
This is the most important consideration when determining
an appropriate fill removal technique. Accurate bottomhole
pressure (BHP) data is needed to design a pumping
schedule to carry the fill material to the surface without
incurring losses. Under ideal conditions, the annular fluid
 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Section 320
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

FILL REMOVAL DESIGN DATA

Completion

- Production casing/liner and tubing details, e.g. size, weight, grade, depths, deviation, nipples
or restrictions, material/alloy, etc.
- Perforation details, depth, interval, shot density, etc.
- Completion or wellbore fluid details, e.g. type, density, losses, etc.

Reservoir

- Reservoir temperature and pressure

- Porosity and permeability
- Formation sensitivity
- Gas/oil contact, water/oil contact

Production and Surface Equipment

- Production logs/history
- Configuration of production and surface equipment
- Storage and disposal facilities/limitations

Fill Characteristics

- Particle size and geometry

- Material density
- Solubility
- Consolidation
- Estimated volume of fill material
- Presence of viscous material

Figure 3.

Reservoir Temperature

column hydrostatic pressure plus friction pressure should
balance the BHP.
Additional system pressure can be applied by adjusting a
surface choke located on the fluid returns line. If the
reservoir pressure is insufficient to support a full liquid
column, fluids such as foam, nitrified fluids or nitrogen and
liquid slugs should be considered.
Due to the relatively low circulation rates associated with
CT, the bottomhole static temperature (BHST) should be
used when designing treatments.
Accurate reservoir temperature data are essential for the
design of treatments containing foam or nitrogen slugs. In
addition, the rheology and density of many fluids are
affected by temperature.

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 Section 320
COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL
Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
Formation Sensitivity
The potential to damage the producing formation must be
minimized during any treatment. The sensitivity of the
formation may preclude the use of some fluids, requiring
the use of compatible fluids or fluids with a low fluid loss.
2.1.2 Wellbore and Completion Geometry
Tubular Size
The tubular, or minimum restriction size, will determine the
maximum OD of CT string that can be safely used. Using
a CT work string with the largest possible OD increases the
annular velocity and available treatment fluid pump rate.
Fill removal in larger tubulars is complicated by two factors
• Pump rates required to achieve efficient fill removal are
increased
• Larger tubing can potentially contain higher volumes of fill
material
Production packer
Figure 4. Conventional and uphole packer completions.
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Restrictions
Nipples and other internal restrictions in the completion
tubulars should be regarded as possible bridging points and
areas of possible localized erosion.
In completions where fill is to be circulated through a small
annulus or restriction, it may not be possible to maintain
adequate annular velocities without overpressuring the
reservoir.
Deviation
The ability of fluids to successfully carry and remove fill
from the wellbore decreases as the deviation increases.
Highly deviated and horizontal applications require special
design and execution considerations.
Production packer
Nitrogen from destabilized
foam
Foam
 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Section 320
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

Completion Packer STANDARD MESH/PARTICLE SIZE

The oil contained in an uphole completion packer can US Standard Particle
destabilize foams. Design and execution techniques must Mesh Size diameter (in.)
take account of this.
3 0.2500
4 0.1870
2.1.3 Logistical Constraints
5 0.1320
Logistical constraints include the use or placement of
8 0.0937
equipment, and the disposal of the fill or carrier fluid.
10 0.0787
12 0.0661
Equipment
16 0.0469
Generally, complex job designs require more equipment. If
20 0.0331
space at the wellsite is a constraint (e.g. offshore), some
30 0.0232
job design options may be precluded. An additional space
constraint can be included if the returned fill/fluid is not to
35 0.0197
be processed by normal production facilities, and additional
40 0.0165
surface equipment is required.
50 0,0117
Disposal
60 0.0098
100 0.0059
Disposal of the resulting fill material/carrier fluid must be
200 0.0029
considered. Straightforward circulation treatments can be
designed to reduce the volumes required and minimize
270 0.0021
subsequent disposal. However, more complex job designs
325 0.0017
can result in large volumes of fluid for disposal.

Certain types of fill or scale are classed as low specific
activity (LSA) radiation sources (e.g. strontium and barium
sulfates). Appropriate monitoring and protection measures
must be taken to ensure safe operations. The local or
national requirements or regulations associated with the
processing and disposal of LSA solids must be adhered to.
2.1.4 Fill Characteristics
To ensure the greatest efficiency of any fill removal
operation, the physical properties of the fill material must be
known. A sample of material should be obtained for
physical and chemical analyses. The fill characteristics
required for the job design include the particle size and
density, solubility, and compressive strength.
Particle Size and Density
To enable a fluid to carry fill particles in a vertical wellbore,
the velocity of the fluid must exceed the settling rate of a
particle in the carrying fluid. The particle settling rate can be
Figure 5. Standard mesh sizes.
estimated using particle size and density data, fluid prop-
erties and completion and work-string geometry (Figure 5
through Figure 7). By comparing the settling rate with the
minimum annular velocity anticipated during the operation,
the design feasibility can be checked.
Particle size and density are generally determined by
laboratory analyses or estimated from well/field historical
data. The size range of particles in a recovered sample can
be extensive. To design for total removal of all fill material,
the particle settling velocity of the largest particles should
be used for annular fluid velocity design calculations.
Particle Solubility
Fill removal operations can be simplified if the fill can be
chemically dissolved by acid or solvents. However, totally

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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

TYPICAL WELLBORE FILL MATERIAL PARTICLE

SIZE AND DENSITY
Drag Buoyancy
Fill US Standard Density
Material Mesh Size Range (SG)
Proppants

Sand 12 to 70 2.65
Resin-Coated Sand 12 to 40 2.56
ISP 12 to 40 3.20 Weight
Sintered Bauxite 16 to 70 3.70
Zirconium Oxide 20 to 40 3.15
Figure 7. Forces acting on particles during removal.
Drilling/Workover Fluid Solids

Barite - 4.33
Bentonite - 2.65
Calcium Chloride - 1.75
Sodium Chloride - 2.16
Calcium Carbonate - 2.71
Since obtaining samples of such compacted fill material is
often impractical, determining the level of mechanical
Wellbore debris
assistance required is generally based on experience or
availability of tools.
Steel - 7.90
Brass - 8.50
2.1.5 Fluid Performance
Common Elastomers - 1.20
In considering various fluids for removal of a fill material,
Formation Materials
several mathematical models may be used depending on
the fluid type. The fluid types commonly encountered are
Sand and Fines 100 to 350 2.65
Newtonian, non-Newtonian and foam. Additionally, nitro-
gen and a liquid (Newtonian or non-Newtonian) can be
Figure 6.
pumped in alternate slugs.

These models, if used correctly, can provide an approxima-

tion of the fluid (or particle) performance. They provide an
soluble fills are uncommon and are generally the result of understanding of the factors which affect fluid or particle
plugs or pills placed during previous workover operations. performance in fill removal operations.

Nonetheless, some chemical action can be beneficial in the Newtonian/Non-Newtonian Fluids

removal of compacted fills by jetting special fluids. Since
obtaining samples of such compacted fill materials is often
impractical, the formulation of treatment fluids is com-
monly based on local experience and well history.
Compressive Strength
Heavily compacted or consolidated fill often requires some
mechanical means of breaking or loosening of the material.
Newtonian fluids have a constant viscosity, and a shear
rate proportional to the shear stress. Water, brines and light
oils are Newtonian fluids. Such fluids have a low viscosity
and are relatively easy to place in turbulent flow.
Non-Newtonian fluids have a nonlinear shear rate - shear
stress relationship. Gelled water- and oil-base fluids are
commonly used non-Newtonian fluids.

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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

52% 85% 96%

Nitrified Liquid (Slugs) Wet Foam Dry Foam Mist
Foam Viscosity

Stable foam range

suitable for fill removal
operations 80 to 92% FQ.

Liquid
Viscosity Gas
Viscosity

25 50 75 100
Foam Quality (%)

Figure 8. Foam quality versus foam viscosity.

Liquid and Nitrogen Stages

Fill removal operations should be conducted with an annu-
lar fluid velocity at least twice (x2) the settling velocity of
the particles.
Foam
Foams are formed by combining nitrogen gas with a base
fluid and a foaming agent. In fill removal operations, the
base fluid can have a water or oil base. Higher viscosity
foams can be generated by foaming a gelled base fluid.
Two factors influence the properties of the foam — the base
fluid composition and the proportion of gas added to the
liquid.
The types of fluid/foam generated in various foam quality
ranges are shown in Figure 8. Fill removal operations
should be designed with foam in the 80 to 92% FQ range.
Foam quality is highly dependent on pressure and tempera-
ture. For this reason the foam returns to the surface must
be choked to maintain the annular fluid below 92% FQ.
A common fill removal technique involves pumping liquid
and nitrogen in alternating stages, rather than simulta-
neously when generating foam. The principal advantage of
this technique is increased annular velocities caused by
the expansion of the gaseous nitrogen. In addition the
hydrostatic pressure of the fluid column is significantly
reduced.
The particle carrying ability of the fluid system is based
solely on the carrying ability of the base fluid.
2.1.5 Deviated Wells
Fill removal techniques in highly deviated and horizontal
wellbores require several special design and execution
considerations.
During production or attempted fill removal operations,
material can rapidly accumulate on the low side of the
wellbore. Once the fill has settled, it is difficult to re-
establish particle transport.

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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

Dunes formed as fill

material drops from
the circulated fluid Wellbore fill to be
removed

Figure 9. Particle behaviour in horizontal wellbores.

In some cases, the fluid velocity may be sufficient to carry 2.1.6 Fluid Selection
the fill along the horizontal section, but insufficient to lift it
through the build angle into the vertical wellbore (Figure 9). Fluids used in the removal of wellbore fill material are
This is due to the gravitational effects which cause the selected following consideration of the following criteria:
particles to accumulate and slide down the low side of the
tubular. Such effects are most evident at inclinations of 30 • Bottomhole pressure
to 60°.
• Particle carrying ability
Studies have shown that hole cleaning in a horizontal
wellbore is optimized when the fluid is in turbulent flow. • Friction pressure
However, in many cases, turbulent flow is not possible due
to the flow and pressure restrictions imposed by the CT • Logistical constraints
work string, or the relative size of the completion tubular.
• Disposal
To compensate, the rheology of the fluid must be modified.
Alternatively, in some cases, the annular velocity can be • Compatibility
maintained above the critical rate by pumping slugs of
nitrogen and liquid. In such cases, the liquid selected • Cost.
should be capable of achieving turbulent flow at relatively
low rates (i.e. Newtonian fluids).

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A software tool (hydraulics/wellbore simulator) should be
used to determine the ideal fluid for a particular operation,
and to establish an estimated flow rate which provides the
necessary transport of fill.
Water/Brine
The general availability, low cost and generally straightfor-
ward handling requirements of water and light brines make
them popular as a basic fluid used in most workover
operations.
Water and light brines are commonly used as fill removal
fluids in applications where the BHP is greater than the
hydrostatic pressure exerted by the fluid column, and the
annular space is small enough to ensure the high annular
velocities required by such fluids.
Newtonian fluids can be easily placed in turbulent flow
which provides a useful scouring action. In addition,
Newtonian fluids generally provide the best jetting action if
compacted fill is to be removed.
Formation sensitivity and compatibility with wellbore fluids
should be checked prior to introducing aqueous-base fluid
into the wellbore. Compatibility problems can generally be
overcome by the use of stimulation fluid additives.
Under static conditions these fluids exhibit no particle
suspension capabilities. Therefore, it is vital that an ad-
equate annular fluid velocity is maintained throughout the
operation.
Oil/Diesel
Light oils used in fill removal operations possess Newtonian
fluid characteristics similar to those discussed for water/
brine. The most significant advantages of light oil are
improved compatibility and the reduction in fluid density,
extending its suitability for operations in wells with a lower
BHP.
Operations involving such flammable fluids require safety,
logistical and environmental concerns to be addressed.
Personnel involved with the design or execution of flam-
mable fluid operations must be familiar with the require-
ments of the applicable Standards of Operation.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
Compatibility problems with oil-base fluid systems are
likely to be less restrictive than those of water-base
systems. However, compatibility should never be as-
sumed, and basic laboratory compatibility tests should be
performed when possible.
Disposal of the carrier fluid is generally handled by normal
production facilities. However, separation of the fill material
may require that fluids are rerouted to temporary separa-
tion/production facilities. Separation and recirculation of
flammable fluids are generally impractical for safety rea-
sons. Consequently, larger volumes of fluid than would be
necessary on recirculated water-base systems are re-
quired.
Similar to water/brine, light oils exhibit no particle suspen-
sion properties under static conditions. Therefore, it is vital
that an adequate annular fluid velocity is maintained for the
duration of the operation.
Gelled Fluids
Water-base gels are the most common fill removal fluid
used in applications which require improved particle carry-
ing and suspension ability.
The viscosity of gelled fluids is dependent on formulation
and temperature. Therefore, it is important that the fluid
design accurately reflects the anticipated wellbore tem-
peratures, and the field mixing procedures closely follow
the designed formulation.
The high viscosity of gels results in increased friction
pressures, which can restrict the pump rate. However, the
improved particle carrying ability of gelled fluids adequately
compensates for the reduction in annular velocity.
Formulations and rheology data for most gel types are
shown in the Stimulation Manuals. However, laboratory
tests should be run to obtain rheology data for the designed
gel at the applicable temperature.
Liquid and Nitrogen Stages
Staged treatments are effective in several applications
where conventional fluid treatments are at the limit of their
effectiveness:
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• The CT/tubular annulus size is at the extreme range of the
fluid’s capability.
• The length of the CT work string limits the desired pump
rate due to friction pressure.
• The hydrostatic pressure exerted by a conventional fluid
column is too great.
• Foam is not a practical alternative.
The pumping schedule should ensure that the fill is pen-
etrated only when liquids are at the nozzle. When N2 is at
the nozzle, the CT should be stationary or withdrawn.
Foam
A good quality stable foam provides the best particle
carrying capability of any fluid. Provided a high degree of
backpressure control is exercised on annular returns, foam
may be used on a wide range of BHP conditions. Although
foam treatments are closely associated with low and very
low BHP treatments, the technique can be successfully
applied to fill removal in very large tubulars.
However, foam treatments are subject to more logistical
and operational constraints than most other fill removal
techniques. Also, foam is a poor jetting fluid and is
unsuitable for many applications where the fill is com-
pacted and requires some jetting action to ensure complete
removal.
Water-base foams are destroyed by hydrocarbons, conse-
quently, treatments must be performed without reservoir
fluids entering the wellbore.
Stable foams can only exist in the foam qualities shown in
Fig. 6. An approximate measure of foam stability is foam
half-life. The foam half-life is defined as the time required
for 50% of the foam liquid to separate. However, such tests
have poor reproducibility and the results cannot be extrapo-
lated to conditions other than those under test.
To improve the stability of a foam, it is necessary to
increase the strength of the bubble walls. This is achieved
by increasing the viscosity of the base liquid.
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Nitrogen Gas
Fill removal operations using only gas as a transport
medium are applicable in low BHP or liquid-sensitive gas
wells. Such applications generally use the production
capability of the gas well to assist the nitrogen achieve the
critical annular velocity required to initiate solids transport.
In such applications, erosion of the CT or completion
equipment is a concern due to the high annular velocities
required. An additional concern exists in that pumping
operations must be uninterrupted.
2.1.7 Downhole Tools
The downhole tools referred to here are those required over
and above the primary CT downhole tools normally required
(e.g. check valve/connector).
Small fill particles that are not compacted can usually be
successfully removed by fluid action alone. However, in
some cases, it is desirable to use a tool string equipped to
provide some mechanical assistance as a contingency
measure. This can be provided by jetting tools, drill motors
or impact drills. Additional tools may also be required to
support the operation (or provide contingency release) of
the tool string.
Removal of very large particles or workover debris con-
tained within the fill may require the use of specialized
fishing tools.
The following are some basic requirements of tools to be
used in association with fill removal operations:
• The flow rate through the tool string should not be
restricted below that required to provide the desired
annular velocity.
• Tools must be capable of operating in the high-solids-
content annular fluid.
• The operation and components of the tool must be
compatible with treatment fluids.
• The OD profile of the tool string should be as slim as
practical. In addition, the profile must not contain sudden
or large changes in OD which can induce sticking.
 COILED TUBING SERVICES MANUAL Section 320
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

Jetting 2.1.8 Junk Removal

Jetting provides a simple and effective aid in removing
slightly compacted fill. Most applications are treated with
low-pressure jetting through fixed nozzles or jetting subs.
Low-pressure jetting can generally be conducted with a
minimal effect on annular velocity. High-pressure jetting
can be effective in removing compacted material; however,
the high-pressure drop at the nozzle can effectively reduce
the flow rate below that required for a suitable annular
velocity.
The jetting sub should be designed to provide good jetting
action and sufficient coverage of the tubular wall. Swirl or
rotating nozzles can improve coverage and optimize re-
moval.
All forms of jetting have two main disadvantages - full bore
cleaning cannot be assured, and large cuttings can be
produced which cannot be transported by the annular fluid.
Wellbore fill that contains workover debris or large solids
(e.g. cement lumps) can require special fishing equipment.
A variety of magnetic tools, junk baskets and custom-
designed tools are used in such applications.
If a wellbore is known or suspected of containing junk or
particles which cannot be removed by circulation, the BHA
must be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of sticking. In
addition, an appropriate release tool must be included in the
tool string. The risk of sticking the CT in such applications
can be high.
Tubing Movement
Fluid requirements are dependent on time in the wellbore,
and time in the wellbore is determined by tubing movement.
Tubing movement must be closely aligned to the pumping
schedule.

Drill Motor Tagging Fill

Motors, bits and underreamers can be effective in the
complete removal of compacted fill materials. However,
the use of motors can be constrained by temperature, fluid
type and cost.
Impact Drill
In many cases the top of the fill will be known as a result
of a wireline survey. In this case, the CT can progress to the
fill quickly.
When the top of the fill is not known, an assumed top of fill
point must be identified.

Impact drills are suited to a wide variety of fill removal
operations, which include the following advantages:
• The impact drill does not operate until resistance is met
by the bit, allowing full circulation while running in the hole.
Penetrating Fill
The rate of fill penetration must never exceed the rate at
which the maximum fluid loading occurs (Fig. 10).

• A wide range of fluids may be used to power impact drills. RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM FLUID LOADING
Fluid Type Maximum weight of
• Impact drill assemblies are relatively short, facilitating rig
fill material per gallon
up and deployment.
of fluid (lbm)
• Impact drills are capable of operation at higher tempera- Water 1
tures than conventional motors.
Gelled Fluid 3
A significant disadvantage of impact drills is their inability
to underream below a restriction. Foam 5

Figure 10.

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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

During staged treatments (i.e. nitrogen/gelled fluid), pen-
etration should only be attempted when the fluids designed
to carry the fill material are exiting the CT nozzle or tool.
2.1.9 Computer Modeling
With a given set of conditions, the WBS uses the equations
for conservation of mass and momentum to determine the
distribution of the fluids, continuous and dispersed fluid
velocities, and pressures encountered when those condi-
tions are met in the field.

Wellbore simulator (WBS) software models the flow of
fluids in a wellbore environment. Although it has been
developed to design, execute and evaluate fluid circulation
procedures performed via CT, it may be applicable to a
general set of pumping conditions.
The user inputs information about the well, tubulars, reser-
voir and fluids as well as a pump schedule, and allows the
simulator to determine the effectiveness of that schedule.

Nitrogen/foam
generation
package

BOP kill port

Pumping tee below

pressure control
equipment

Sample point

Production tubing

Choke
Process and CT nozzle/tools
manifold
recirculate

Disposal

Figure 11. Typical foam equipment configuration for fill removal.

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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
2.1.10 Fill Removal Operations
In removing fill from the wellbore, it is necessary to ensure
that materials are transported to an appropriate point for
separation/disposal. It is important to ensure that fill
materials are not displaced into areas which may interfere
with the operation of the wellhead, production or pressure
control equipment. In addition, it is important to ensure that
wellbore conditions are maintained in conditions which
avoid formation damage by the introduction of the fill
material.
2.2 Execution
2.2.1 Execution Precautions
Personnel
All personnel involved in the design or execution of CT well
kill operations must be familiar with requirements detailed
in the relevant Standards of Operation. In addition, the
requirements for the handling and disposal of LSA materi-
als must be known.
Well Security
The control of well pressure and fluids must meet the
requirements of relevant Standards of Operation. In addi-
tion the requirements of the operating company and appli-
cable regulatory authorities must be known.
Equipment
All treating and monitoring equipment must be spotted and
operated in accordance with the requirements of the rel-
evant Standards of Operation. In addition, equipment
certified for use in hazardous area must be operated and
maintained in accordance with the operating zone require-
ments (e.g. Zone II equipment).
2.2.2 Equipment Requirements
Operations that involve the circulation of particulate mate-
rial from the wellbore must be carefully planned and
executed. The consequences of stopping or losing circula-
tion while the annular fluid is laden with solids can be
severe. A typical equipment schematic for fill removal
operations is shown in Figure 11.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
2.2.3 Coiled Tubing Equipment
Fill removal operations frequently require the tool string to
be repeatedly cycled over a localized area. In this event,
consideration must be given to the effects of inducing
fatigue in the corresponding localized area of the work
string as it passes the reel and gooseneck. In addition, the
effect of fatigue while conducting high-pressure jetting
operations must be accurately predicted.
2.2.4 Pressure Control Equipment
The configuration of CT pressure control equipment allows
fill removal operations to be completed safely and effi-
ciently under live well conditions. The equipment must be
configured to avoid circulating corrosive or solids-laden
annular return fluid through the BOP. However, in certain
cases, it may be necessary to return fluids through a shear/
seal BOP installed above the tree. Returns should then be
taken through a pump-in tee installed in the riser.
2.2.5 Downhole Tools and Equipment
Jetting Assemblies
Jetting tools should be configured to maximize the avail-
able fluid rate and pressure. In addition to improving the
efficiency of consolidated fill removal, this will ensure the
circulation rate is maximized to aid fill dispersion and
removal of solids from the wellbore.
Drill Motor Assemblies
Drill motor assemblies should be function tested before
running in the hole. Typically, this is achieved after the
assembly has been made up to the work string and is
hanging inside the lubricator/riser. This should be consid-
ered a basic operational check. More comprehensive
checks, including the motor torque, must be completed
prior to rigging up.
Impact Drill Assemblies
Impact drill assemblies should be function tested before
running in the hole. Impact drills do not operate until the tool
is pushed into the collapsed position; therefore, the toolstring
has to be manipulated during the test procedure.
Page 21 of 33
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Typically, the function test is performed after the tool string
has been assembled and attached to the work string, and
circulation has been established. The tool is collapsed and
tested by placing the bit on a firm wooden surface by
carefully controlling injector head.
2.2.6 Auxiliary Equipment
The fluid mixing, handling and pumping equipment must be
of adequate capacity and be configured to minimize cross
contamination of the fluid stages.
Live well operations may require the use of a choke
manifold to control annular returns. In this event, a clear line
of communication must exist between the CTU, pump and
choke manifold operators.
2.2.7 Treatment Execution
The steps required to successfully complete a fill removal
operation will depend on the particular conditions encoun-
tered in each case.
Wellbore fill removal treatments are frequently designed
and conducted on a regular basis within a field or area.
Consequently, procedures are often tuned to meet local
conditions. Whenever possible, previous case histories for
similar applications should be referenced.
Execution of wellbore fill and scale removal treatments are
accomplished in two basic steps:
• Wellbore preparation
• Treatment and tool operation
Wellbore Preparation
• The recovery of wellbore samples for analysis can be
completed by CT conveyed tools in conjunction with
preparatory work. Typically, slick-line methods are used;
however, in deviated or logistically difficult conditions, CT
may be used.
• If it is desired to remove completion equipment compo-
nents such as gas-lift valves or safety valves, the use of
CT conveyed methods should be considered.
Page 22 of 33
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• It may be necessary to kill the well for safety, fluid
compatibility or production reasons. It is clearly undesir-
able to risk damaging the near wellbore area by bullheading
the wellbore fluid.
Treatment and Tool Operation
• The volume and density of all fluids pumped into the
wellbore must be monitored and recorded.
• Since full bore cleaning cannot be assured, a number of
passes should be made over any consolidated fill area.
The procedure will be determined by experience in similar
conditions and fill material characteristics.
• Use the largest feasible size of work string to allow higher
circulation rates and higher annular velocity.
• The operational efficiency of impact drills is greatly
dependent on applying the appropriate weight at the tool.
The use of a suitable accelerator can simplify the pro-
cess; however, a high degree of injector-head control is
necessary.
2.3 Fill Removal Evaluation
The requirements of the operator will ultimately determine
the extent to which the fill material must be removed and
what means are to be used to evaluate the success of the
operation.
Solids removal operations are generally evaluated by
performing a drift run. Typically, a slick-line gauge-cutter
tool will be run, although CT conveyed methods may also
be used.
Figure 12. Concentric coiled tubing.
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
2.4 Sand Removal Using Concentric Coiled Tubing
Sand production is often a serious problem. When sus-
pended in the produced flow, sand can cause destructive
abrasion of pumping equipment. At the surface, the opera-
tor must deal with separation, handling and disposal of the
sand. The most serious consequence occurs when sand is
deposited in the completion. This impedes fluid flow and
therefore production. The problem is exacerbated in hori-
zontal wells, where settling is more likely to occur.
A number of techniques exist for the removal of sand from
vertical wells, but difficulties occur when attempting to use
these in horizontal completions. Bailing techniques are
hampered by hole orientation and horizontal reach. Cleanout
circulation operations (such as with conventional coiled
tubing) are limited by low formation pressures and the
minimum velocities required to prevent particle re-settling.
A technique has been developed using concentric coiled
tubing (CCT) to remove sand from horizontal wells. Con-
centric coiled tubing comprises two CT strings, with one
permanently installed within the other (Figure 12).
The technique involves the use of a jet pump, which is
powered by pumping fluid through the internal CT string.
"Spent" power fluid, wellbore fluid and sand are returned to
surface through the CCT annulus (Figure 13).
Fluids Returns
Sand
Figure 13. Concentric coiled tubing flow.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
A number of different liquids are suitable for powering the
jet pump. Formation water is best suited, as it has the
following properties:
• Low cost
• Non-damaging
• Low viscosity, high turbulence
• Allows rapid sand settling in the surface equipment
The pump is configured to optimize both intake rates and
drive pressures, based on the fluid rates available through
the internal CT string. Front and rear facing jets provide
turbulent energy to fluidize the settled sand before it is
drawn into the intake ports. In the CCT annulus, liquid
velocities are sufficiently high to ensure that particle re-
settling does not occur. (See Figures 14 and 15).
The entire cleaning operation is performed with a steady,
balanced pressure. The use of CCT also allows the opera-
tion to be continuous - both running in and pulling out.
The pump has no internal moving parts, which could be
affected by abrasion. The affects of abrasion are therefore
limited to the nozzle and throat assembly.
Energy Fluid
Downhole
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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

Concentric CT Jet Pump Reverse Jetting

Intake Ports Fluidized Sand

Figure 14. Sand cleaning - running in.

Concentric CT Reverse Jetting Jet Pump

Fluidized Sand Intake Ports

Figure 15. Sand cleaning - pulling out.

Page 24 of 33
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
3 SCALE AND ASPHALT REMOVAL
The buildup of solid deposits in wellbore tubulars and
wellbore production equipment is a significant problem in
many wells fields or areas. Deposition of solid materials in
the tubular results in a reduced flow area and in severe
cases reduces the production capability of the well. In
addition, scale and similar deposits can interfere with the
running and operation of downhole tools and equipment.
The composition of wellbore deposits may be organic,
inorganic or a combination of both. Inorganic deposits in the
form of scale are precipitated mineral solids. They typically
occur due to temperature and pressure reduction. The most
common scale, CaCO3, is formed at high temperatures.
However, scale can also occur when incompatible waters
mix (e.g. formation water and either a fluid filtrate or
injection water). Scales are prevelant in wellbores within
reservoirs where water injection is used to maintain the
reservoir pressure.
Organic deposits such as paraffin and asphalt deposits
occur with certain types of crude oil, as a result of reduced
temperature and pressure in or near the wellbore during
production.
Conventional methods of removing scale and deposits
from wellbores include removal and replacement of the
completion, chemical treatments and wireline conveyed
tools. Each of these methods suffer some disadvantage in
cost, efficiency or risk of damaging the producing formation.
Several CT conveyed scale removal techniques have been
developed to take advantage of thru-tubing well service
operations.
• Chemical treatment
• Jetting
• Rotational drilling
• Impact drilling
In determining the most appropriate scale removal method,
the characteristics of the reservoir, wellbore tubulars and
the deposit must be studied.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
When the wellbore scale and/or deposits have been removed,
the possibility of conducting an inhibition treatment should
be considered. In the right conditions, scale inhibitors may
be placed through the CT workstring and injected into the
formation. Conducting the injection treatment through the
workstring provides the benefits of reduced contamination
and the ability to place the treatment fluid over the entire
interval.
Disposal of the returned treatment fluid or scale cuttings
circulated from the wellbore must be undertaken with due
regard for the safety of personnel and the environment.
3.1 Design
3.1.1 Design Data
The presence of scale or wellbore deposits is generally
identified by a gauge survey or by the failure of a tool to
enter or pass through the tubing or nipple. While this
condition is easily detectable it is often not the primary
cause of reduced production. Deposition of similar material
within the formation matrix can result in severe skin
damage. In this event, matrix treatments may be required
after the wellbore deposits have been removed.
In wells and fields with a known, or potential scale problem,
routine monitoring and scale inhibition schedules should be
recommended.
The removal of scale, asphalt and fill materials from the
wellbore is frequently conducted prior to a matrix injection
treatment.
3.1.2 Scale/Deposit Characteristics
The following types of organic and inorganic deposits are
commonly encountered in oil or gas wellbores.
Organic
• Paraffins (wax) and Asphalt
Heavy hydrocarbons in the reservoir fluid tend to crystal-
lize as the temperature and pressure is reduced during
production. Such deposits are generally resolubilized by
organic solvents which can be tailored to suite particular
conditions.
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 Section 320
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Rev A - 98 WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Dow ell

SCALE AND ASPHALT REMOVAL DESIGN DATA

Completion

- Production casing/liner and tubing details, e.g., size, weight, grade, depths,
deviation, nipples or restrictions, material/alloy etc.
- Perforation details, depth, interval, shot density etc.
- Completion or wellbore fluid details, e.g., type, density, losses etc.

Reservoir

- Reservoir temperature and pressure

- Porosity and permeability
- Formation sensitivity
- Gas-oil contact, water-oil contact
- Compatibility of acid with formation and formation fluids
- Water samples for scaling tendency tests

Production and Surface Equipment

- Production logs/history.
- Configuration of production and surface equipment
- Storage and disposal facilities/limitations

Scale or Fill Characteristics

- Solubility
- Estimated volume of fill material
- Particle size and geometry
- Material density
- Compressive strength or consolidation of material
- Presence of viscous material

Figure 16. Scale and asphalt removal design data.

Inorganic • Sulfate Scales ( CaSO4 , BaSO4 and SrSO4)

• Carbonate Scales (CaCO3 and FeCO3)
Carbonate scales are the most common type of scale
which occurs in reservoirs rich in calcium and carbon-
ates. Hydrochloric acid will readily dissolve all carbonate
scales.
Sulfate scales occur mainly as gypsum (CaSO4 ,H2O) or
anhydrite (CaSO4 ). The less common barytine or
strontianite are more difficult to remove, but their occur-
rence is more predictable. Calcium sulfate can be easily
dissolved by EDTA. Barium and strontium sulfates can
also be dissolved with EDTA if the temperature is high
enough and the contact time is sufficient. However, due
to slow reaction rates, mechanical removal methods are
more commonly used on barium and strontium scales.

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• Chloride Scales
Chloride scales such as sodium chloride are easily
dissolved in fresh water or very weak acidic solutions.
• Iron Scales (Fe S and Fe2O3)
Iron sulfide and oxide scales can be dissolved with
hydrochloric acid. A sequestrant and iron reducing agent
should be included to prevent the reprecipitation of
damaging byproducts.
• Silica Scales
These generally occur as very finely crystallized deposits
of chalcedony or as amorphous opal. Hydrofluoric acid
readily dissolves silica scales.
• Hydroxide Scales
These are magnesium (Mg(OH)2) or calcium (Ca(OH)2)
hydroxides. Hydrochloric acid is generally used to dis-
solve such deposits.
Mixed Deposits
Three damage mechanisms are commonly identified in
mixed wellbore deposits. Scale, waxes or asphaltenes and
migrating formation fines. If possible a qualitative and
quantitative analyses should be performed to aid the design
of a successful treatment.
Mixed deposits generally require a dual- or multi-solvent
system for efficient removal. Typically a dispersion of
aromatic hydrocarbon solvent in acid is used as a base
fluid, with appropriate additives used to control or treat
specific conditions. In most cases, it is helpful if an actual
sample of scale is available for analyses. If a chemical
treatment is to be considered, such analyses and compat-
ibility testing is essential.
3.1.3 Wellbore/Completion Geometry
A key factor in determining the suitability of CT in any
operation is the ability to safely run and retrieve the CT into
and out of the wellbore. The size of completion tubulars and
placement of restrictions, will initially determine what size
of workstring and toolstring can be used. Jetting and
mechanical removal methods can produce large cuttings or
Section 320
Rev A - 98
flakes that can be problematic in wellbores having tight
clearance with CT toolstrings.
Tubular Size
The tubular, or minimum restriction size, will determine the
maximum OD of CT string which can be safely used. Using
a CT work string with the largest possible OD, can provide
the combined benefits of reducing the annular space,
thereby increasing the annular velocity, and increasing the
available fluid flow rate.
Removal of scale from the inside of larger tubulars is
complicated by two factors; the pumprates required to
achieve efficient scale removal are increased, and larger
tubing can potentially contain a higher volume of scale
material.
Restrictions
Scale, or deposits formed in nipples and other internal
profiles in the production tubing are often the principal
reason for the scale removal operation. Even comparatively
small amounts of scale can hamper the operation of
downhole flow control devices. Restrictions determine the
maximum OD of the toolstring.
Deviation
The ability of fluids to successfully carry and remove fill
from the wellbore deceases as the deviation increases.
Highly deviated and horizontal applications require special
design and execution considerations.
In highly deviated and horizontal wellbores, deviation
survey data is required, in addition to completion geometry,
as input for the CoilCADE Tubing Forces Model (TFM). The
TFM may then be used to determine how far the CT may be
pushed into the wellbore. In addition, the anticipated forces
while running and retrieving the CT are calculated.
3.1.4 Logistical Constraints
Logistical constraints effecting the design or execution of
fill removal operations can be summarized as those applied
to the use or placement of equipment, and constraints
applied to the disposal of the fill or carrier fluid.
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Equipment
In general terms, complex job designs require more
equipment. If space and/or crane capacity at the wellsite is
a constraint (e.g. offshore) some job design options may be
precluded. An additional space constraint can be included
if the returned scale/fluid is not to be processed by normal
production facilities, and additional surface equipment is
required.
Disposal
Disposal of the resulting scale material/carrier fluid must be
considered. Circulation treatments using motors or impact
hammers and inert fluids can be designed to separate and
recirculated the carrier fluid to reduce the volumes required
and minimize subsequent disposal. However, more complex
job designs including gelled fluids, foams and nitrogen/gel
slugs can result in large volumes of fluid for disposal.
Certain types of scale are classed as a low specific activity
(LSA) radiation sources (e.g. strontium and barium sulfates).
Appropriate monitoring and protection measures must be
taken to ensure safe operations. The local or national
requirements or regulations associated with the processing
and disposal of LSA solids must be known to personnel
designing and executing the operation.
3.1.5 Chemical treatments
Chemical treatments of scale and wellbore deposits are
only effective when the material is readily soluble in
treatment fluids such as acid or solvent formulations. The
uncontaminated treatment fluid must be allowed to contact
the scale for sufficient time to dissolve the bulk of the
scale. In applications where a rapid reaction occurs (e.g.
the dissolution of carbonate scale with hydrochloric acid) a
properly applied chemical treatment is often most
appropriate. However, some types of scale require contact
times which are impractical under normal circumstances,
and are often of questionable efficiency (e.g. the dissolution
rate for barium sulfate in EDTA may require a contact time
of approximately 24 hours). Even then the dissolution rates
may be very poor due to the surface area to bulk ratios
encountered in tubular environments.
Selection of a suitable chemical treatment should be made
after considering several factors:
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• Composition of the scale or deposit
Material samples must be obtained for analyses and to
allow design of the most appropriate treatment fluid.
• Wellbore parameters
The wellbore temperature and pressure effects the reac-
tion rate of most treatments to some extent. Generally,
reactions rates and dissolution capacities increase as the
temperature increases, thereby aiding removal. How-
ever, consideration must be given to the protection of
wellbore tubulars and equipment from corrosive fluids. A
knowledge of the tubular metallurgy is important since
different inhibitors must be used with different steel
chemistry.
• Volume of material to be removed
The volume of treatment fluid is influenced directly by the
volume of scale or deposit to be removed (i.e., thicker
scale deposits will require more treatment fluid to ensure
efficient removal.
To ensure adequate contact with an uncontaminated
treatment fluid, some agitation may be required. Treat-
ments conveyed through CT can be precisely spotted, or
jetted into place.
• Treatment fluid compatibility
The treatment fluid must be compatible with any fluids,
materials or equipment which is likely to contact during
the operation. If there is potential contact with the reser-
voir, compatibility with reservoir mineralogy should be
verified. The fluid density and volume must be carefully
noted.
3.1.6 Jetting
Jetting is one of the most straightforward methods of
removing scale or fill from wellbore tubulars. For basic
operations, no special tools or treatment fluids are required.
However, the efficiency of jetting operations is often
questionable, and it is generally difficult to verify.
Jetting may be categorized as a low- or high-pressure
treatment. Low-pressure jetting operations generally require
less complex tools and equipment. In many cases the
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE
downhole jetting nozzles will be designed and manufactured
locally. High-pressure jetting tools and equipment are more
specialized and require more detailed job design and
execution procedures. High-pressure jetting may be defined
as requiring surface pressures greater than 5,000 psi.
In applications such as jetting scale from localized areas
of the completion tubulars, a high degree of fatigue may be
induced in a relatively short interval of the workstring.
Personnel involved in the design and execution of the
service should be aware of this potential, and the limitations
it may impose. Accurate tracking of workstring pressure
and cycles is obviously vital.
3.1.7 Low Pressure Jetting
Low-pressure jetting can be an effective method of removing
soft scales and paraffins. Relatively large jet nozzles
provide good coverage of the wellbore target area, allowing
relatively high circulation rates which help ensure removal
of cuttings and dislodged material.
Selection of a suitable jetting nozzle and fluid combination
should be made after considering several factors.
Jetting fluid
A variety of low-pressure jetting fluids are commonly used,
from simple, readily available fluids such as water or brine,
to complex chemical treatment fluids. Relatively inert
fluids such as water or light brines remove the wellbore
scale or deposit by mechanical action only. In addition, the
fluid must be capable of carrying or circulating the deposits
from the wellbore.
Chemical treatment fluids are jetted to improve the process
in a number of ways:
• Jetting increases turbulence which generally aids the rate
of dissolution.
• The induced turbulence reduces the treatment fluid/
wellbore fluid interface and reduces the likelihood of
contamination.
• The penetration and treatment of internal profiles in the
completion equipment is improved by jetting.
• Perforation washing action is improved by jetting.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
Nozzle Design
The design and configuration of an appropriate jetting
nozzle is dependent on the following factors:
• The size and number of ports must be compatible with the
available flow rate and pressure at the downhole end of
the workstring.
• The position and direction of the jets should suit the
intended application. For example, side facing jets for
perforation washing or combination down and side facing
jets for severe scale removal.
3.1.8 High Pressure Jetting
High-pressure jetting can provide the cutting action to
remove even the hardest scales. However, it has several
operational disadvantages:
• The high circulating pressure and cycling associated with
the service is severely detrimental to the useful life of the
workstring.
• The relatively uncontrolled cutting action of a high
pressure jet can produce large cuttings which may inter-
fere with circulation or downstream facilities.
• Removal of cuttings from the wellbore can be difficult
since relatively low circulation rates result from this
treatment.
• Fullbore cleaning cannot be assured.
• Since the jetting nozzles are small-diameter, the jetting
fluid must be carefully filtered to avoid plugging the tool.
3.1.9 Rotational Drilling/Underreaming
Rotational drilling has been a common method of removing
hard wellbore deposits. A downhole motor fitted with the
appropriate bit can ensure near fullbore cleaning down to
the first restriction. However, below the restriction, an
underreamer is required to ensure efficient cleaning. Bottom
hole assemblies fitted with underreamers are also commonly
used to remove hard scale from production tubing and the
casing/liner below the tailpipe.
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The configuration and use of a drilling/underreaming BHA
is dependent on the following factors.
Power/Circulating Fluid(s)
A prerequisite for motor/underreamer power fluids is that
they must be clean, preferably filtered to prevent motor
component wear or plugging of the small diameter ports in
the underreamer.
Typically, a friction reducer is used to allow higher circulation
rates. In addition, friction reducers generally improve the
motor efficiency and the solids carrying capability of the
returned annular fluid. If well production is to be used to
assist the annular flow, circulated fluids should be checked
for compatibility with the reservoir fluid.
Hole Cleaning
To ensure a successful operation, all cuttings must be
removed from the wellbore. This requires that the solids are
suspended in a fluid which has a higher annular velocity
than the settling rate of the solid particles.
In some circumstances, production from the well can be
used to help achieve a high enough annular velocity. This
also prevents potential damage through plugging of the
perforations by wellbore debris.
It is generally recommended that a ball operated circulating
sub be included in the tool assembly. This allows a high
viscosity pill to be circulated at increased rate prior to
retrieving the toolstring.
In highly deviated wellbores, a high viscosity pill should be
pumped through the underreamer as it is run in through the
completed interval.
Toolstring Length
Consideration must be given to the toolstring length and the
corresponding requirement for surface pressure control
equipment.
Bit Selection
The selection of an appropriate bit, mill and/or underreamer
blade is vital to the timely completion of a successful
operation. Previous experience and trial/test results are
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useful when selecting equipment.
3.1.10 Impact Drilling
Impact drills provide an efficient means of removing hard
deposits. They are typically less costly than drilling motors
and are suitable for use in higher temperatures. However,
a significant disadvantage exists in that they cannot be
used with underreamers.
Impact drills provide rotation, impact and a pressure pulse
at the bit with each blow. The impact drill can be operated
with a variety of fluids including nitrogen, foam, water- or oil-
based fluids and solvents such as xylene or diesel. By
powering the impact drill with an appropriate fluid, chemical
and mechanical treatments can be combined to remove
wellbore deposits.
The impact drill does not operate unless sufficient resistance
is met to collapse the tool. This allows circulation to
continue as the tool is run and retrieved without damaging
completion tubulars or equipment.
The tool stroke frequency is dependent on the weight set
on the tool and the fluid rate. The tool components are self
tightening and will not store reverse torque in the event of
a stall. This feature eliminates pump shutdowns and similar
interruptions associated with conventional motors.
An impact drill toolstring is generally significantly shorter
than a comparable drill motor string.
The following points should be considered when impact
drilling operations are designed or performed:
Power/Circulating Fluid(s)
Impact drill power fluids must be clean, preferably filtered
to prevent component wear or plugging of the small diameter
ports in the tool.
Typically, a friction reducer is used to allow higher circulation
rates. In addition, friction reducers generally improve the
impact drill efficiency and the solids carrying capability of
the returned annular fluid.
If well production is to be used to assist the annular flow,
circulated fluids should be checked for compatibility with
the reservoir fluid.
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Hole Cleaning
To ensure a successful operation, all cuttings must be
removed from the wellbore. This requires that the solids are
suspended in a fluid which has a higher annular velocity
than the settling rate of the solid particles.
In some circumstances, production from the well can be
used to help achieve a high enough annular velocity. This
also prevents potential damage through plugging of the
perforations by wellbore debris.
The ability to operate with nitrogen or foamed fluids
significantly improves, and allows flexibility in, the removal
of debris from the wellbore.
Bit Selection
The selection of an appropriate bit or mill is vital to the
timely completion of a successful operation. Previous
experience and trial/test results are useful when selecting
equipment.
3.1.11 Scale Inhibition
The squeeze technique of applying scale inhibition is a
widely used technique for the prevention of scale deposits.
The technique is also suitable for corrosion and microbial
protection of downhole tubulars and equipment.
A concentrated solution of the scale inhibitor is injected into
the producing formation. The well is then shut in for a
predetermined period, generally 12 to 24 hours, during
which time the inhibitor absorbs onto the reservoir rock.
When production is resumed, the inhibitor is slowly absorbed
by the the produced fluid in a concentration sufficient to
prevent the deposition of scale.
Generally, wells which have had scale removed and wells
which are at risk of forming scale are treated in this manner
(e.g. wells suffering injection water breakthrough). The
scale inhibitor treatment design is well specific and is
dependent on the porosity, perforated interval, net/gross
permeability and the treatment depth.
Although basically inefficient in terms of chemical use, the
technique is cost effective and generally accepted as
preferable to downhole injection of inhibitor through an
injection capillary or line.
Section 320
Rev A - 98
3.2 Execution
3.2.1 Execution Precautions
Execution precautions to be observed during scale removal
operations principally relate to the handling of treatment
fluids and the returned scale or wellbore deposit. The
potentially toxic, corrosive and LSA nature of the fluid or
scale requires that special monitoring and protection
methods are used to ensure the safety of personnel,
equipment and the environment.
Personnel
All personnel involved in the design or execution of CT
scale removal operations must be familiar with requirements
detailed in the relevant operational standards. In addition,
the requirements for the handling and disposal of LSA
materials must be known. Monitoring and protection criteria
should be defined in association with the operating company
or designated third party.
Equipment
All treating and monitoring equipment must be spotted and
operated in accordance with the requirements of the relevant
standards. In addition, equipment certified for use in
hazardous areas, must be operated and maintained in
accordance with the operating zone requirements (e.g.
Zone II equipment).
3.2.2 Equipment Requirements
Operations that involve the circulation of particulate material
from the wellbore must be carefully planned and executed.
The consequences of stopping or losing circulation while
the annular fluid is laden with solids can be severe.
Therefore, adequate precautions must be taken to ensure
that the operation proceeds as planned.
3.2.3 Coiled Tubing Equipment
Scale removal operations frequently require the toolstring
to be repeatedly cycled over a localized area. In this event,
consideration must be given to the effects of inducing
fatigue in the corresponding localized area of the workstring
as it passes the reel and gooseneck. In addition, the effect
of fatigue while conducting high pressure jetting operations
must be accurately predicted. Cycling the workstring under
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high internal pressures drastically reduces the useful life of
the workstring.
3.2.4 Pressure Control Equipment
The configuration of CT pressure control equipment allows
scale removal operations to be completed safely and
efficiently under live well conditions. The equipment must
be configured to avoid circulating corrosive or solids-laden
annular return fluid through the BOP. However, in certain
cases it may be necessary to return fluids through a shear/
seal BOP installed above the tree. Returns should then be
taken through a riser flow /pump-in Tee.
3.2.5 Downhole Tools and Equipment
Jetting Assemblies
Jetting tools should be configured to maximize the available
fluid rate and pressure. In addition to improving the efficiency
of scale removal, this will ensure the circulation rate is
maximized to aid removal of solids from the wellbore.
Drill Motor Assemblies
Drill motor assemblies should be function tested before
running in hole. Typically, this is achieved after the assembly
has been made up to the workstring and is hanging inside
the lubricator/riser.
Impact Drill Assemblies
Impact drill assemblies should be function tested before
running in hole. Impact drills do not operate until the tool is
pushed into the collapsed position. Therefore, the toolstring
has to be manipulated during the test procedure.
Typically the function test is performed after the toolstring
is assembled, attached to the workstring and circulation
has been established. The tool is collapsed and tested by
placing the bit on a firm wooden surface by carefully control
of the injector head.
3.2.6 Auxiliary Equipment
The fluid mixing, handling and pumping equipment must be
of adequate capacity and be configured to minimize cross
contamination of fluid stages.
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Live well operations may require the use of a choke
manifold to control annular returns. In this event, a clear line
of communication must exist between the CTU, pump and
choke manifold operators.
3.2.7 Treatment Execution
The steps required to complete a scale or wellbore deposit
operation depend on the conditions encountered. Whenever
possible, previous case histories for similar applications
should be referenced.
Execution of scale or deposit treatments are accomplished
in two basic steps:
• Wellbore preparation
• Treatment and tool operation
Wellbore Preparation
• The recovery of wellbore samples for analysis can be
completed by CT conveyed tools in conjunction with
preparatory work. Water sample analysis may also prove
useful in determining the nature of the scale. Typically
slickline methods are used. However, in deviated or
logistically difficult conditions CT may be used.
• If it is desired to remove completion equipment compo-
nents such as gas lift valves or safety valves, consider
the use of CT conveyed methods. In many cases, the
scale or condition to be treated will hamper retrieval.
Tools and techniques used in CT conveyed methods will
allow the circulation of treatment fluids to facilitate re-
moval. In addition, the forces which may be exerted by CT
are greater than commonly used wireline equipment.
• It may be necessary to kill the well for safety, fluid
compatibility or production reasons. In wellbores with
known deposits and damage, it is clearly undesirable to
risk damaging the near wellbore area by bullheading the
wellbore fluid. Coiled tubing well kill techniques can be
used to minimize the potential of damage during the well
kill process.
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WELLBORE MAINTENANCE Rev A - 98

Treatment and Tool Operation

Chemical Treatment

• The volume and density of all fluids pumped into the

wellbore must be monitored and recorded.

Jetting Treatment

• Since full bore cleaning cannot be assured a number of

passes should be made over the scale area. The proce-
dure will be determined by experience in similar condi-
tions and scale characteristics.

Drill Motor Underreamer

• Use the largest feasible size of workstring to allow higher

circulation rates and higher annular velocity.

• A fullbore underreamer is preferred for liner cleanouts. On

deviated wells a pilot bit will tend to walk to the low side
of the wellbore.

Impact Drill

• The efficiency of impact drills depends greatly on applying

the appropriate weight at the tool. The use of a suitable
accelerator can simplify the process. However, a high
degree of injector-head control is necessary.

3.3 Evaluation

The requirements of the operator will ultimately determine

the extent to which scale must be removed and what means
are to be used to evaluate the success of the operation.

Fullbore removal techniques, such as drill motor or impact

drills, ensure complete removal of scale which is effec-
tively evaluated by the free passage of the tool.

Evaluation of scale or tubing solids removal operations

performed above restrictions or the tubing end can gener-
ally be achieved by a drift run. Typically, a slickline gauge-
cutter tool will be run, although CT conveyed methods may
also be used.

In operations performed below restrictions, or in the casing/

liner, confirmation of complete scale removal can be more
difficult.

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