JET Manual 36

Coiled Tubing
Downhole Tools
Version 1.1
JET Manual 36 CT Downhole Tools
InTouch Content ID# 4221770
Version: 1.1
Release Date: February 6, 2007
Owner: Well Services Training & Development, IPC

Schlumberger private

Document Control

Revision History
Rev Effective Date Description Prepared by
1.1 February 16, 2007 Added data to Tables 2-3, 3-1 IPC DocCom

Copyright © 2007 Schlumberger, Unpublished work. All rights reserved.

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 Table of Contents

1.0  Introduction 7
1.1 Learning objectives 7
2.0  Materials, Threads, and Seals 9
2.1 Material choice for downhole tools 9
2.1.1 Normal service and acid service 9
2.1.2 H2S service  10
2.1.3 High temperature, H2S, and acid service 10
2.1.4 CO2 service 10
2.1.5 Summary of material properties 10
2.2 Thread specifications 11
2.2.1 Choice of thread 12
2.2.2 Thread-locking compounds 13
2.2.3 Thread prejob planning 14
2.2.4 Thread descriptions 14
2.3 O-rings  20
2.3.1 Material 20
2.3.2 Hardness 21
2.3.3 Best practices for installing O-rings 21
3.0 Basic CT Tools 23
3.1 Connectors  23
3.1.1 Considerations in choosing a connector 23
3.1.2 Accessories for making up connectors 25
3.1.3 Preparation of the CT string  28
3.1.4 External dimple connector 30
3.1.5 External slip connector 33
3.1.6 External combined slip and set screw connector 36
3.1.7 Internal slip connector 36
3.1.8 Internal dimple connector 37
3.1.9 Roll-on connector 39
3.1.10 Double roll-on connector 41
3.1.11 Other connectors 41
3.1.12 Connector performance comparison summary  43
3.2 Check valves 43

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  iii

 3.2.1 Dual flapper check valve 44
3.2.2 Double ball inline check valves 46
3.2.3 Double barrier pumpout plug 47
3.2.4 Double pumpout check valves  47
3.3 Disconnect tools  48
3.3.1 Disconnect properties  48
3.3.2 Hydraulic ball-drop disconnect 51
3.3.3 Differential pressure disconnect 55
3.3.4 Mechanical disconnect 56
3.3.5 Multicycle disconnect (MCD) 58
3.4 Circulation valve 59
3.5 Dual circulation valve 60
3.5.1 Operation 60
3.5.2 Points to note 61
3.5.3 Redress procedure (dual circulation valve with
nonpressure-balanced piston) 61
3.6 Motorhead assembly (MHA) 63
3.7 Nozzles 63
3.7.1 Size and number of ports 64
3.7.2 Position and direction of the ports 64
3.7.3 PowerCLEAN nozzle 64
3.8 Quick connects 66
3.9 Centralizers 66
3.9.1 Features 66
3.9.2 Rigid centralizers 66
3.9.3 Bow-spring centralizers 67
3.9.4 Link-arm centralizers 68
4.0  Advanced CT Tools 69
4.1 Blaster 69
4.1.1 Shorty MHA 70
4.1.2 Downhole filter 70
4.1.3 Swivel 71
4.1.4 Drift ring 72
4.2 Fishing tools 74
4.2.1 Retrieval tools: spears and overshots 75
4.2.2 Jars, accelerators, and impact hammers 83
4.2.3 Auxiliary fishing tools 85
4.3 Motors and mills 86

iv  |  Table of Contents

 4.3.1 Motors 87
4.3.2 Mills and bits 89
4.3.3 Underreamer 91
4.4 Packers and bridge plugs 91
4.4.1 Cup packer 91
4.4.2 Mechanical packers 93
4.4.3 Hydraulic set packers 95
4.4.4 Inflatable packers 95
4.4.5 Bridge plug  97
4.5 CT wired applications  98
4.5.1 CT logging 98
4.5.2 BHA for CT logging 99
4.5.3 CT logging support tools 103
4.5.4 CT perforation 104
4.5.5 BHA for CT perforation 105
4.6 CoilFRAC 107
4.6.1 OptiSTIM MP  108
4.6.2 OptiSTIM ST 109
4.7 DepthLOG CT 110
4.7.1 Casing collar locator (CCL)  113
4.7.2 Processor 113
4.7.3 Signaler 113
4.7.4 Battery 113
4.8 Discovery MLT multilateral tool 113
4.8.1 Operation 114
4.8.2 Tool description 114
5.0  Tool Deployment 117
5.1 Requirements of deployment system 117
5.2 Lubricator deployment 117
5.3 Tower deployment 118
5.4 Bar deployment system 119
5.4.1 Safety standard requirements 122
5.4.2 Surface equipment requirements 123
5.4.3 Downhole deployment equipment 124
5.5 CIRP system 125

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  v

 5.5.1 Safety standard requirements 125
5.5.2 Surface equipment requirements 126
5.5.3 Downhole deployment equipment: CIRP connector 127
5.5.4 CIRP deployment sequence 128
6.0  CT Tool Management 131
6.1 Tool identification and tracking 131
6.2 Maintenance 131
6.3 Before running in hole 131
6.4 BHA schematics 132
6.5 Postjob and storage guidelines 134
6.6 Spares management 134
6.7 Workshop requirements 134
7.0  Glossary 135
8.0  References 137
9.0  Check Your Understanding 139

vi  |  Table of Contents

 1.0  Introduction

Coiled tubing (CT) is a long, continuous • providing contingency operations (for

length of pipe wound on a spool. The pipe is example, disconnecting if a tool is stuck).
straightened before pushing it into a wellbore
This training manual introduces the most
and recoiled to spool it back onto the transport
common CT downhole tools. Redress and
and storage spool. Depending on the pipe
makeup procedures are included for the basic
diameter (1 in to 4 1/2 in) and the spool size,
tools, which all equipment operators will need
coiled tubing can range from 2,000 ft to
to understand. For the more advanced and less
15,000 ft, or greater, in length.
common tools, an overview is given.
CT operation is a generic term relating to the
More information on all the downhole tools
use of a CT string and associated equipment.
described in this JET manual is available at
As a well-intervention method, CT techniques
www.InTouchsupport.com.
offer several key benefits over alternative
well-intervention technologies. The ability to
work safely under live well conditions with a 1.1 Learning objectives
continuous string enables fluids to be pumped
at any time regardless of the position or Upon completion of this training, you should be
direction of travel. This ability is a significant able to do the following:
advantage in many applications. Installing
an electrical conductor or hydraulic conduit • Understand the selection of tool materials
further enhances the capability of a CT string and threads.
and enables relatively complex intervention • Describe the function of general CT
techniques to be applied safely. downhole tools.
• Prepare CT string and make up different
All CT operations use downhole tools. These
types of connectors.
downhole tools are the individual components
of the CT bottomhole assembly (BHA). In CT • Redress basic tools.
operations, the CT is the means of conveying
• Explain the function and basic operation of
tools to the bottom of the hole, and the
several advanced tools.
downhole tools perform several functions:
• Compile BHA schematics and fishing
• intervention (for example, milling, fishing, diagrams.
logging)
• protecting equipment and personnel (for
example, check valves controlling the fluid
flow)

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  7

 This page left intentionally blank

8  |  Introduction
 2.0  Materials, Threads, and Seals
The material used for the downhole tools is
critical. Conditions downhole are often harsh
and will corrode or damage many materials.
The threads and seals used to connect tools
are equally critical. If a tool disconnects
downhole, an expensive fishing operation must
be performed, and the tool may be lost and
the well damaged or destroyed. None of these
scenarios are acceptable.
2.1 Material choice for downhole tools
When manufacturing downhole tools, the
choice of the material is based on the downhole
environment where the tool will be used. When
ordering new tools, it is important to understand
the well conditions in the local fields, to make
the correct choice for those conditions.
The main information required when selecting
downhole tool material is provided by the
following questions:
• Is hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas present?
• Is carbon dioxide (CO2) gas present?
• Will acid be pumped through the tool?
• What is the downhole temperature of the
wells?
2.1.1 Normal service and acid service
The tool is specified normal service if the wells
do not contain H2S or CO2 and the temperature
is less than 80 degC [176 degF]. If the same
conditions exist and acid may be pumped
through the tool, it is specified acid service.
Normal service and acid service tools are made
from 4140 steel, with a hardness of HRC 30 to
36.
Note:
If acid is pumped through this
tool, it is important to ensure that
sufficient corrosion inhibitor is in
the acid mix and that the tool is
thoroughly flushed of all acid after
the operation.
A thin Xylan® coating (similar to Teflon®) can
be applied to reduce the effect of the acid on
the tool. However, this coating will deteriorate
when pipe wrenches are used on the tool.
Note:
Hardness and Strength
Be careful not to confuse
hardness and strength. They are
often related, but do not directly
correspond. Hardness is normally
measured using the Rockwell
C scale. The hardness of a tool
depends on the heat treatment
process.
Yield strength is measured in psi
(pounds per square inch). The
strength of material depends on
the original material and the heat
treatment process.
When steel is heat treated to make
it harder, yield strength increases
somewhat, but the brittleness of
the steel also quickly increases.
Increased hardness also reduces
the ability to withstand H2S.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  9
2.1.2 H2S service
H2S will corrode normal service tools. Tools
that will be used in a H2S environment need
to be made of a softer metal to withstand this
corrosion.
H2S service tools are generally made of 4140
steel, but a different heat treatment is used to
give a softer material (HRC 18 to 22).
However, the softer material can lead to galling
of the threads. The threads can be coated with
Xylan to reduce galling.
Note:
Galling is a phenomenon that
happens with softer metals and
refers to the plastic deformation of
the steel. When threads are forced
together with excess force, heat is
generated through friction and the
threads weld together.
For this reason, drilling rigs have
special procedures for making up
chrome tubing.
A well with a potentially corrosive level of H2S
is termed a sour well. This level is generally
considered to be a H2S partial pressure of 0.05
psi. Above this level, H2S service tools should
be used.
To calculate the partial pressure of H2S in a
well, you need to know the concentration of
H2S in parts per million (ppm) and the well
bottomhole pressure (bhp). Then you can
calculate
• partial pressure of H2S (psi)
= H2S concentration (ppm) x bhp (psi)
/1,000,000.
10  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals
2.1.3 High temperature, H2S, and acid
service
If acid is pumped in a H2S environment
at high temperatures, the environment is
extremely corrosive for downhole tools. In this
case, Inconel® or 17-4 PH® metal is used,
sometimes with a nickel coating for increased
resistance. These metals are harder than
standard 4140 steel tools.
Tools made of Inconel or 17-4 PH are much
more expensive than standard 4140 tools and
are only specified where they are truly needed.
2.1.4 CO2 service
For a CO2 environment, stainless steels such
as 13-Chrome (SS 410) or 9-Chrome/1 Mo are
needed.
Tools built for CO2 service typically cost 35%
more than standard service tools. Therefore,
they are only used in CO2 environments where
they are required.
Stainless steel is a soft metal that is subject
to thread galling. Extreme care must be taken
when making up threads of CO2 service tools.
Monel K500® can also be used, but it is even
more expensive than stainless steel.
CO2 service tools are recommended in wells
with a CO2 partial pressure above 32 psi. To
calculate the partial pressure of CO2 in a well,
you need to know: the percentage of CO2 in the
wellbore fluid (%), and the bhp. Then calculate
• partial pressure of CO2 (psi)
= CO2 concentration (%) x bhp (psi)/100.
2.1.5 Summary of material properties
Table 2-1 summarizes the typical material
properties for downhole tools for different
conditions.

Table 2-1. Summary of Material Properties for Downhole Tools

Service Material Rockwell Yield Strenght Comments
Hardness (psi)
(HRC)
Normal service 4140 steel 30–36 >110,000

Acid service 4140 steel 30–36 >110,000 Xylan coating recommended

H2S service 4140 steel 18–22 >80,000 Xylan coat on threads to reduce
galling
H2S and acid 4140 steel 18–22 >80,000 Xylan coating recommended
service
High-temperature, Inconel 40 (max) >130,000 Most expensive option
acid, and H2S
or 17-4 PH 30 (max) >105,000
CO2 service Stainless steel 22 (max) >80,000 Galling problem with threads on
(13% Cr) stainless steel tools, more expensive
than normal service tools
Stainless steel 22 (max) >80,000
(9% Chrome)

Monel K500 35 (max) >100,000 Very expensive

Note:
It is important to know local well
conditions when choosing the
material for your downhole tools.

2.2 Thread specifications

When describing a downhole tool, one of the
most important features is the type of thread on
the top and bottom of the tool. Figure 2-1 shows
various threads.

Figure 2-1. Threads Commonly Used in CT Downhole Tools

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  11


Note:
Threads other than shown in
Fig.  2-1 may also be encountered,
such as the National Pipe thread
(NPT), which is commonly used on
all types of oilfield equipment.
2.2.1 Choice of thread
Several types of threads are commonly used
for CT tools, and the factors important in
choosing the type you need are:
• outer diameter (OD) of tool: Each common
size of downhole tool (1 11/16 in, 2 1/8 in,
2 3/8 in, 2 7/8 in, 3 1/8 in, etc.) has a typical
thread size, which is as large as possible
without exceeding the tool OD.
Table 2-2 shows some typical thread
choices for two different tool ODs.
Table 2-2. Typical Thread Choices for Two Tool ODs
Tool OD AMMT DS 10SA Hydril CS©
1 11/16 in 1.0 in 1.5 in 1 in
2 1/8 in 1.5 in 1.81 in 1 1/4 in
• inner diameter (ID) required on tool:
Threads can limit the ID of the tool, which
can be a problem if ball-activated tools
are in the toolstring. For example, a small
tool joint such as the 1-in American MT
(AMMT) has an ID of ½ in, but a 5/8-in ball
is a common size for some tools and does
not fit through it. Obviously, a larger thread
will be needed if a 5/8-in ball is to be used.
• minimum restriction in well: The ID of the
minimum restriction in well limits the OD of
thread as well as the OD of the BHA itself.
For example, 2 3/8-in Phil A. Cornell (PAC)
threads can never be used in a 2 7/8-in
production tubing, because a 2 3/8-in PAC
thread has a OD of 2 7/8 in.
• torsional yield strength: When running a
downhole motor or other rotating downhole
tool, it is important to check the torsional
yield strength of the threads and the
maximum torque that the motor can deliver.
Most motors run on CT deliver a maximum
torque of less than 1,000 lbf.ft. A common
thread for motor applications is 2 3/8-in
PAC, which has a torsional yield strength of
4,500 lbf.ft. You would never use a 1 1/4‑in
AMMT for motor applications because
it has a torsional yield strength of only
758 lbf.ft.
• tensile yield strength: The tensile yield
strength limits the amount of overpull
and setdown weight we can apply to the
threads or the tool.
• recommended makeup torque: Applying
the correct makeup torque to a thread is
important. Too little torque can result in the
connection backing off; too much torque
can cause galling damage to the thread
body and reduce the strength and integrity
of the connection. Using a torque gauge
with some Come Along™ winches or a
set of hydraulic power tongs (see Fig. 2-2)
may be required to measure and make up
threads that require very high torque in
motor applications.

12  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals

 Torque = Length x Force

For example: If you can apply 100 lbf on a 3 ft

pipe wrench, you are applying torque of

100 x 3 = 300 lbf.ft.

If you apply the same 100 lbf on a 4-ft pipe

wrench, you are applying torque of

100 x 400 = 400 lbf.ft.

Apply 100 lbm

3-ft pipe wrench

Figure 2-2. Power Tongs

Note:
What is torque and how do we Tool OD
measure it?
Torque is the measure of rotational Figure 2-3. Example of Torque
force applied when making up
downhole tools. Most small
downhole tool threads can be made The recommended makeup torques for different
up by hand using pipe wrenches; type of threads can be found in Table 3-3.
however, some larger threads
require the use of Come Along 2.2.2 Thread-locking compounds
winches or a torque machine.
It is recommended to use a thread-locking
compound, usually referred to simply as thread
lock, on BHAs that will be subject to high
It is important to know the recommended
rotational forces, such as milling BHAs. Thread
makeup torque for the threads you are making
lock is used to glue in threaded connections
up. Too little torque might result in the thread
and give them added resistance to backing off
backing off (unscrew itself) downhole, while too
downhole. Common thread-locking compounds
much torque might result in galling of the
are Baker-Lok® and Lok-Tite®.
threads, and then the tool may have to be
scrapped because you cannot unscrew it.

Torque depends on the size of the force

applied and the distance from the tool at which
this force is applied. Figure 2-3 illustrates the
following equation:

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  13


Note:
The most important factor in
ensuring a strong connection is the
application of the correct torque.
If insufficient torque is applied,
applying thread lock will not be
sufficient and the connection may
back off downhole.
If using thread lock, the following makeup
procedure is recommended:
• Clean threads on both the pin and the box
thoroughly–any residue of oil, water, or
grease may reduce the effectiveness of the
thread-locking compound. Contact cleaner
is recommended.
• Apply thread lock according to the
manufacturer’s instructions on the box and
the pin.
• Torque up the connection to the
recommended torque for that particular
thread, using a torque machine if possible,
or at least a torque gauge.
• Allow enough time for the thread lock to
cure before running the tool in the well.
The disadvantages of using thread lock are
• Threads become very difficult to break
out and some products require heat to
break out the connection. The use of
unnecessary torque and high temperatures
to break out connections can damage the
tool and its components.
• Threads need to cleaned thoroughly before
and after use to remove all residue and any
remaining thread lock.
2.2.3 Thread prejob planning
One of the most important tasks of checking
a BHA before traveling to a CT operation is to
14  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals
ensure the suitability and compatibility of the
thread for the planned operation. This task
begins with having a schematic of the planned
BHA, including the description of all the
threads.
At a minimum, you should
• physically confirm the threads on schematic
are correct
• check that you have all required crossovers
• physically check thread and crossover
connections before loadout by making up
the threads (hand-tight only)
• determine if high makeup torques will be
required on site and if a torque gauge is
available
• protect threads with thread protectors for
the trip.
2.2.4 Thread descriptions
Many different threads are available. A box with
one type of thread will not connect to a pin with
a different type of thread so care must be taken
to match the threads of connections.
2.2.4.1 American MT (AMMT) threads
AMMT threads are a very common thread in
CT applications. The tapered coarse thread
(see Fig. 2-4) make AMMT threads some of the
easiest threads to make up. The AMMT thread
has no O-rings and seals metal‑to-metal.
The American Petroleum Institute (API)
recommends AMMT threads for CT fishing
applications because of its high yield strength
and relatively large ID.
The Schlumberger CoilTOOLS* coiled tubing
intervention and solutions division recommends
AMMT threads for all standard CT applications.

Figure 2-4. AMMT Threads
AMMT threads are available in 1-in, 1 1/4-in,
1 1/2-in, and 2.06-in sizes, although the 2.06-in
size is not common.
2.2.4.2 DS Stub Acme thread
The Dowell Schlumberger (DS) Stub Acme
thread was designed by Schlumberger and
has become widely used in the industry (see
Fig. 2‑5).
Figure 2-5. DS Stub Acme Thread
Three standard versions exist: 1.50 in, 1.81 in,
and 2.06 in.
The DS Stub Acme threads feature an easily
machined standard Acme connection and
double O-ring seals.
The advantages of the DS Stub Acme thread
are its relatively high tensile yield and torsional
strength, and large size of ID relative to the OD.
The main disadvantage of the DS Stub Acme
thread is the difficulty of making it up. Because
it is a straight thread (unlike the tapered
AMMT), the pin and box must be perfectly
aligned to make them up without damaging the
threads. Also, the fine threads are sensitive to
any debris.
A modified version of the DS Stub Acme
thread exists: the 1.7 in NS 10 SA, which has
a single O-ring seal at the base of the thread.
This thread is often referred to as the 1.7 North
Sea 10 Stub Acme. This is a shorter thread to
reduce tool length.
Note:
A DS 10 SA thread may pass a
pressure test even when it is only
partially made up, because it seals
with O-rings. For this reason,
special care needs to be taken to
ensure that it truly is completely
made up.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  15
2.2.4.3 CS/Hydril CS™ Threads
Hydril CS™ is a CS type of thread developed Note:
by the Hydril thread company. CS and Hydril The tip of CS or Hydril CS threads
CS threads are compatible. Figure 2-6 are quite thin compared to the
illustrates the Hydril CS thread. AMMT or DS 10 Stub Acme
threads and therefore they are
easier to damage.

2.2.4.4 PAC threads

This connection was designed by American
Iron & Machine for the Phil A. Cornell (PAC)
Rental Tool Company and is used primarily as
a drill collar connection (see Fig. 2‑7).

Figure 2-6. Hydril CS Thread

CS threads are less common in CT applications

than AMMT and DS 10 Stub Acme threads are.

The most common sizes of CS threads for CT

applications are 1 in, 1 1/4 in and 1 1/2 in, and
they provide the maximum ID possible for a
given tool size. The large ID, together with the
absence of O-rings, makes a CS thread a good
choice for CT completion applications.

The tapered profile means that it is an

easy thread to make up. It seals on three
metal‑to‑metal surfaces and only seals
Figure 2-7. PAC Thread
completely when properly torqued up. The fact
that it has a metal-to-metal seal (rather than
PAC threads are very robust, available in
an O-ring seal) means that it can be used at
2 3/8‑in and 2 7/8-in sizes. They are often used
high temperatures and that it is less sensitive to
in larger CT tools for heavy-duty applications,
corrosive fluids than threads using O-ring seals
such as downhole motors, underreamers, jars,
are.
and accelerators.

The thread has a tapered profile that helps

make it up. It has a high makeup torque, which
means that Come Along winches or a torque
machine are needed to make and break a
connection.

16  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals


Note:
It is highly recommended to use
a semipermanent thread-locking
chemical compound with PAC
threads. This compound prevents
the tool joint from becoming loose
or backing off.
PAC threads with an additional O-ring seal are
referred to as PAC DSI threads.
2.2.4.5 Rotating tubing joint threads
Rotating tubing joint (RTJ) threads (Fig. 2-8)
are a very common type of drilling thread.
Two connections used for CT applications
are described as regular RTJs. These are the
1 1/4‑in regular flush joint (FJ) thread and the
2 3/8-in API regular thread.
Figure 2-8. RJT Thread
RTJ threads are very tapered, which makes
them very easy to stab and make up the
tool joint. However, the ID of this tool joint is
significantly less than the ID of other common
CT threads is.
2.2.4.6 Sucker rod threads
Sucker rod threads are normally used on
wireline and slickline tools. This thread has low
torque and tensile ratings because wireline and
slickline interventions do not generate the high
forces that are experienced in CT interventions.
Figure 2-9 illustrates sucker rod threads.
Figure 2-9. Sucker Rod Thread
This type of thread is commonly used to run
Memory PLT™ or other slickline tools on CT.
Generally, standard CT threads would be used
for the upper BHA (connector, check valve,
disconnect, etc.) and then a crossover adapter
to the sucker-rod thread would be used.
The most common size is 15/16-in 10 UNS
thread.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  17
 Note:
Sucker rod threads generally do not
have a bore for pumping through,
as this feature is not required for
wireline or slickline operations. The
crossover sub is often ported to
allow pumping capability.

2.2.4.7 External upset end 8RD threads

External upset end (EUE) threads are easily
recognized because the pin end of the
connection is larger than the tubing body (see
Fig. 2-10).

Figure 2-10. EUE Thread

The EUE thread is available in 1.90-in, 2 3/8-in

and 2 7/8-in sizes, but the larger sizes are most
common on larger downhole tools.

18  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals

2.2.4.8 Summary of Threads
Table 2-3 summarizes the threads and their properties.

Table 2-3. Summary of Threads, Properties, and Makeup Torques

Thread Minimum Maximum Tensile Strength Torsional Recommended
OD (in) ID (in) (ft.lbf) † Strength (ft.lbf) † Makeup Torque
(ft.lbf) †
1-in AMMT 1.562 0.812 57,217 665 399

1 1/4-in AMMT 1.75 1.00 58,424 758 455

1 1/2-in AMMT 2 1.156 77,305 1,119 672

2.06-in AMMT 2.33 1.25 113,426 1,830 1,098

1.5-in DS 10SA 1 11/16 0.937 38,459 493 296

1.81-in DS 10SA 2 1/8 1.25 89,625 1,330 798

2.06-in DS 10SA 2 9/16 1.32 154,963 2,537 1,522

1-in CS 1 11/16 0.875 54,000 1,405 400 to 500

1 1/4-in CS 2 18 1.25 70,000 1,699 600 to 750

1 1/2-in CS 2 9/16 1.53 100,000 3,451 800 to 1,000

2 3/8-in CS 3 1/2 1.945 143,000 ‡ 1,300 to 1,500

2 3/8-in PAC 2 7/8 1.375 245,931 4,489 2,693

2 7/8-in PAC 3 1/8 1.50 279,777 5,879 3,527

1 1/4-in Regular FJ 2.25 0.625 152,391 2,248 1,349

2 3/8-in API Regular 3.125 1.00 382,847 4,847 2,908

15/16-in sucker rod 0.936 none 29,425 140 ‡

1.90-in EUE 2.50 1.61 ‡ ‡ ‡

2 38-in EUE 3.063 2.00 143,000 ‡ 1,350 to 2,250

2 7/8-in EUE 3.668 2.441 199,300 ‡ 1,730 to 2,880

†All values are based on 110,000-psi minimum material yield strength.

‡ Reliable information could not be obtained for this value

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  19

2.3 O-rings The various materials used are listed below:
O-rings are very important to seal connections. • Nitrile rubber (NBR) is the most basic
Figure 2-11 illustrates O-rings. material generally considered. It is used
for standard service in low temperature
(up to 121 degC [250 degF]), nonharsh
applications. It should not be used in H2S
environments or with solvents such as
toluene. It can be used with dilute acids
only; do not use it with concentrated acids.
• Hydrogenated NBR (HNBR) is a better
alternative to NBR in medium hot
environments (up to 162 degC [325 degF]),
and it can be used in the presence of
H2S. Because of its versatility, it is the
first‑choice material in many locations.
• Fluorocarbon (FKM), more commonly
known as Viton®, can be used for
temperatures up to 204 degC [400 degF].
However, Viton is not as tough as NBR
Figure 2-11. O-Rings
and tends to lose its shape and tear
more easily. Viton is often the first choice
2.3.1 Material for long-duration applications at higher
temperatures, where the physical stresses
The downhole conditions in a well influence are not too severe.
the type of material used for O-rings and
elements. The factors influencing the choice for • AFLAS® is the common name for
a particular application include tetrafluorethylene-propilene (TFEP).
AFLAS can be used for higher-temperature
• temperature applications up to 227 degC [440 degF],
and is recommended whenever any
• pressure amine‑based corrosion inhibitor is used at
• chemical compatibility with wellbore fluid high temperatures.
• chemical compatibility with oilfield • Perfluoroelastomers (FFKM) can be
chemicals used in extreme temperatures, such
as in geothermal (steam) wells. Special
• presence of H2S or CO2 materials, such FFKM. These materials are
• presence of steam rated to 316 degC [600 degF]. However,
these materials are extremely expensive
• ease of installation
(each O-ring costs several hundred dollars)
• cost and perform poorly at lower temperatures.
• time downhole.

20  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals

2.3.2 Hardness • At greater pressures, a back-up ring
is often advisable or even mandatory.
The hardness of a particular elastomer plays Follow equipment/tool manufacturer
an important role in limitations on pressure. recommendations.
In general, for any given material, the harder
that material is, the higher the pressure limit is.
The hardness is measured in duro. The typical
range for O-rings 70 to 90 duro.

2.3.3 Best practices for installing O-rings

The following are guidelines for handling
O-rings when assembling tools.

• Store O-rings in their black plastic

shipping bags until they are used. This
practice helps avoid ozone and ultra-violet
degradation and reduces the risk of mixing
O-ring sizes.
• Examine the O-ring visually. It should be
free of scratches or dimples.
• Stretch the O-ring with your fingers
(do not overstretch!) to ensure that no
manufacturing flaws exist.
• Lubricate the O-ring lightly with a high-
temperature sealing grease (such as Shell
Darina™ or Lubriplate 930-A4. Do not use
thread lubricants or regular greases or
lubricants.
• Check that the O-ring fits tightly in its
groove and that it does not move freely.
• Install the O-ring using another O-ring as a
pulling tool, to avoid damaging it.
• Use a brass spatula to remove O-rings. Do
not use a screwdriver, steel pick tool, or
cut with a razor blade. Any of these might
damage the O-ring groove permanently.
• Always have at least twice the number of
O-rings estimated to be needed in backup
stock, to provide for O-rings damaged
during installation.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  21

 This page left intentionally blank

22  |  Materials, Threads, and Seals


This section describes the functions and main
types of each of the following basic CT tools.
• connectors
• check valves
• disconnects
• circulation subs
• motor-head assemblies
• nozzles
• quick connects.
It explains the advantages and disadvantages
of the different types of tools for various
applications.
3.1 Connectors
The main function of a connector is to attach
the CT string to various downhole tools. It must
mechanically hold and seal on the CT string
and provide a threaded connection to connect
downhole tools below it.
Connectors are available in a wide range
of designs. Three types of connectors are
commonly used with CT services:
• dimple or setscrew (external or internal)
• slip (external or internal)
• roll-on (internal only).
The most common type of connector used is
an external connector, which grips on the OD
of the CT string and is therefore larger than the
CT string OD. For situations where the larger
OD is not acceptable, an internal connector can
be used. This connector grips on the ID of the
3.0 Basic CT Tools
CT string and the tool OD is the same as or
only slightly larger as the CT string.
3.1.1 Considerations in choosing a
connector
When you are choosing what type of connector
to use, the factors discussed in the following
sections must be considered.
3.1.1.1 Connector OD or ID
The decision to use an external or internal
connector will depend on the size of CT being
used and the size restriction in the wellbore.
An external connector will generally be the
first choice, but if only a small clearance exists
between the CT string and the tubing, you may
have to use an internal connector. Figure 3‑1
illustrates a situation where the OD of an
external connector is greater than the OD of the
CT string. An internal connector can form part
of a slick BHA, where the BHA has the same
maximum OD as the CT for access through
small restrictions (see Fig. 3-2).
Note:
Care must be taken not to pull a
slick BHA through the stripper.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  23
 Figure 3-1. OD of External Connector Greater Figure 3-2. OD of Internal Connector Same
than OD of CT String as OD of CT String

Note: 3.1.1.2 Material

If the tools below the connector
The choice of material will determine how much
require that a ball be pumped from
force can be exerted when pulling and setting
the surface (such as a hydraulic
down and in which type of environment the tool
disconnect), it is important to verify
can be used (acid service, H2S, and CO2, etc.).
that the ball can pass through the
Downhole tool material selection was described
connector. An internal connector
in greater detail in Section 2.1.
has a smaller ID than an external
connector.
Forces are calculated by the engineer before
the job.

24  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.1.3 Tensile rating
The tensile rating of the tool is the maximum
amount of pulling force for which it is designed.
The choice of material, the type of thread, and
the style of connector will influence the tensile
rating of the connector. Section 2.1 discusses
the tensile rating of the materials.
3.1.1.4 Torque resistance
For applications involving downhole tools that
rotate, a dimple connector is preferred because
it is unlikely to rotate.
A slip connector will offer less torque
resistance, although enough resistance for
most applications. A roll-on type connector
provides very little torque resistance.
3.1.1.5 Ease of makeup
The various types of connector offer varying
ease of makeup. The following lists the
connectors in order of ease of makeup.
3.1.2.1 External dimpling tool
The external dimpling tool (see Fig. 3-3) is
used to accurately produce the indentations or
dimples in the CT string wall. It is required when
using a dimple external connector.
The dimples are produced by screwing the
round-headed cap screws into the tubing wall,
each by the same number of turns of the screw.
The slide hammer aids installation and removal
of the tool.
It is important to check with the dimple tool
supplier to determine how deep the dimple
should be (counting the number of turns of
the screw). Ensure that all screw dimples are
made up to the same depth. Otherwise, the
load amongst the set screws on the connector
will be unequal, which may lead to failure of the
connection.

a. slip connector

b. roll-on connector

c. dimple connector, which requires a

dimpling tool and set screws.

3.1.2 Accessories for making up

connectors
Various accessories are required to make up
the various connectors. Be sure to have the
right accessories available at the site of a CT
operation—you don’t want to have to run back
to the district for an accessory in the middle of
a job.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  25

 Rounded nose on caphead screws forms
dimples for the connector set screws Threaded box to match
the BHA connection of
the connector

Dimple tool screw pattern Slide hammer to aid installation

exactly matching that of the and removal of the tool
connector

Figure 3-3. External Dimpling Tool

A mechanical or hydraulic dimpling tool is

3.1.2.2 Internal dimpling tool
An internal dimpling tool (see Fig. 3-4) deforms
the CT string wall into the indentations on the
internal dimple connector.
made up around the CT string with the internal
connector already in place inside the CT string.
The dimpling tool is lined up with a mark on the
connector to ensure that the dimpling screws
are lined up with the dimples on the tool.

The dimpling screws are then tightened to

deform the CT string into the indentations on
Coiled tubing
the tool. Depending on the model, this may
be done with hydraulic pressure from a hand
Yoke Jig pump, or by mechanically turning the screws.

Note:
Be sure to turn each screw the
same number of times.
Dimple-on
connector

Stage 4

Figure 3-4. Internal Dimpling Tool

26  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.2.3 Weld bead removal tool
Before installing an internal connector, the ID of
the CT must be dressed out with the weld bead
removal tool (see Fig. 3‑5). This tool removes
the internal weld bead that is present from the Crimping tool
manufacture of the CT string, leaving a smooth
ID to which the O-rings on the connector will
seal. The tool is inserted into the CT string with
the internal weld bead at the groove. The tool
is then rotated using a pipe wrench. The weld
bead is broken out.
Cutting wheel Crimping wheel

Groove to accept Figure 3-6. Crimping Tool

weld bead

Bead cutting 3.1.2.5 Pull test plate

takes place here
The pull test plate is an accessory that is
screwed onto the connector to allow the
operator to test whether the connector can
withstand the expected tensile forces that it will
experience downhole.

The large diameter allows pull tests to be

carried out against the stripper or lubricator.
This feature is particularly useful for internal
Figure 3-5. Weld Bead Removal Tool
connectors, which cannot be pulled directly
against the stripper because they are the same
3.1.2.4 Crimping tool OD as the CT string.
The crimping tool (see Fig. 3-6) has two
interchangeable wheels. One is a cutting wheel
that can be used to cut the CT string. The other
wheel is used to swage the CT string onto the
roll-on connector.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  27

Some models of pull test plates can also be
used for pressure testing the connector to
ensure that it is creating a pressure seal against
the CT pipe. These models can be pumped
through and include a needle valve at the
bottom (Fig. 3-7).
stabbed through the injector head. This cut
should be made using a pipe-cutting tool, which
will ensure a clean, square end.
Step 02 File the end of the CT string
to remove any sharp edges that may cut
the O‑rings and damage the pressure seal
(Fig. 3‑8).

Figure 3-8. Filing End of CT String

Step 03 Smooth the bottom 15 cm [6 in]

of the CT OD with emery paper (Fig. 3-9). This
smoothing ensures that the O-ring seals on a
Figure 3-7. Pull Test Plate with smooth sealing surface. The CT string is now
Pressure Test Facility Capability ready to have the external connector made up.

3.1.3 Preparation of the CT string

For all connectors, the end of the CT string
must be prepared correctly to ensure that
the connector provides a reliable and secure
mechanical connection and seal.

3.1.3.1 External connectors

Follow this procedure to prepare the end of the
CT string for an external connector.

Step 01 Cut the tubing to remove any Figure 3-9. Smoothing with Emery Paper
distorted tubing caused when the CT was

28  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.3.2 Internal connectors
Note:
Follow this procedure to prepare the end of the
Remember that internal weld beads
CT string for an internal connector.
are hard to remove if the CT has a
thick wall and high hardness (e.g.,
Step 01 If the end of the CT string is 0.195 in wall thickness of QT 1000).
damaged, use a cutting tool to cut off the
damaged piece.

Step 02 The internal weld must be
removed to allow the connector to fit inside
the CT string (Figs. 3-10 and 3-11). Use a weld
bead removal tool to cut out the weld to the
depth that the CT connector will go inside.
Step 03 Using a rounded file or small
cylindrical attachment to a hand grinder,
smooth off the ID of the CT string where the
O‑rings will seal (Fig. 3-12).

Figure 3-12. Smoothing ID with Hand Grinder

Figure 3-10. Removing Internal Weld, View 1

Figure 3-11. Removing Internal Weld, View 2

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  29

Step 04 File the end of the CT string
to remove any sharp edges that may cut
the O‑rings and damage the pressure seal
(Fig. 3- 13).

Figure 3-13. Filing End of CT with Round File

The CT string is now ready to have the

connector made up on it.

3.1.4 External dimple connector

The external dimple connector is made up to
the CT string with set screws (see Fig. 3-14).
It is a robust connector and is suitable for all
types of applications. It is the recommended
connector for motor applications because it
provides high torque strength.

Figure 3-14. External Dimple Connector

A dimpling tool is used to create dimples on
the CT string (described in the section External
dimpling tool), into which the set screws are
tightened. These dimples reduce the ID of the
CT string slightly. For this reason, it is important
to check that drop balls can still pass after
dimpling.

30  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.4.1 Makeup
Follow this procedure to make up an external
dimple connector.

Step 01 Prepare the end of the CT string

as described in Section 3.1.2.1, External
connector.

Step 02 Slide the dimpling tool onto

the end of the CT until the shoulder bottoms
against the end of the CT string. The dimpling
tool is a tight fit on the CT string, so you may
need to use the sliding hammer on the dimpling Figure 3-16. CT String After Dimpling
tool to get it in place.

Step 03 Using the appropriate allen Step 05 Ensure that new, lightly lubricated
wrench, tighten each dimple screw half a turn O-rings are fitted on the CT connector.
at a time, working around the dimpling tool until
the correct number of turns as instructed by
the manufacturer have been made (Fig. 3-15).
Step 06 Check that all the set screws
in the connector are in good condition and
This process will result in even, correctly sized
the correct length. The set screws should be
dimples.
backed out completely to allow the tubing end
to slip freely into the connector.

Step 07 Align the set screw holes on the

connector with the dimples on the CT string
(Fig. 3-17).

Figure 3-15. Making Up Dimple

Screws

Step 04 Remove all the dimple screws

and remove the tool using the slide hammer.
The CT string is now ready to make up the Figure 3-17. Aligning Connector
connector (Fig. 3-16). with Dimples on CT

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  31


Step 08 Slide the connector onto the CT
until it shoulders on the end of the CT string.
Step 09 Install the set screws and tighten
according to the manufacturer’s instructions
(Fig. 3-18). Do not overtighten. Overtightening
reduces the ID and weakens the CT string.
Tighten the screws a turn each in a star pattern
to ensure a good connection (see Fig. 3-19).
Figure 3-18. Installing Set Screws
Figure 3-19. Tightening Pattern for Set Screws
Step 10 Place a small mark on the CT
string just above the connector (Fig. 3-20). This
32  |  Basic CT Tools
mark is a reference point to check whether the
connector moves during the pull test.
Figure 3-20. Marking String Before Pull Test
Step 11 Pull test the connector to 5,000 lbf
above the maximum expected load or a
minimum of 10,000 lbf against the stripper
(Fig. 3-21). For fishing or similar applications
where heavy loading of the connector is
expected, the pull test may use a higher load.
Figure 3-21. Pull Test Plate Made Up
Step 12 Release the load on the connector
and check whether the connector moved from
the mark put on the string earlier. If it has
moved, you will need to cut off the connector
and make it up again.
Step 13 Remove one set screw and check
whether the set screws have slid up or the tip
has rounded off. If either has occurred, you will
need to cut off the connector and make it up
again. If neither has occurred, reinstall the set
screw.

Step 14 For small ID CT, check whether

the drop ball can pass after the dimple
connector has been installed and tested.

3.1.4.2 Removal
Follow this procedure to break out the
connector.

Step 01 Cut the CT string approximately

30 cm [12 in] above the connector to allow easy
handling of the tool.

Step 02 Remove all set screws using an

allen wrench.

Step 03 Slide the connector off the CT

string. If additional force is needed, use the
hammer of the dimpling tool.

Step 04 Remove all O-rings and discard

them appropriately.

Step 05 Thoroughly clean all parts.
Step 06 Inspect the tool for damage and
replace parts as necessary.
Step 07 Coat all parts of the tool in oil to
minimize corrosion damage.
3.1.5 External slip connector
The external slip (or grapple) connector is
made up to the CT string with slips that bite
into the CT string (see Fig. 3-22). The wedge
design ensures that the more you pull on the
connector, the deeper it bites into the CT string
and thus the stronger it holds.
Figure 3-22. External Slip Connector
The slip connector can hold tremendous tensile
loads, which in most cases exceed the yield
point of the CT string. These connectors can
be used in applications where high impacts are
generated and in most motor applications.
The slip connector does not restrict the ID of
the CT string, which means that there is no
restriction for any pigs or balls pumped through
the CT string.
The slip connector is easier and quicker to
make up than the dimple connector because it
does not require a dimpling tool or set screws.
However, care must be taken with the makeup

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  33

because poor procedure can cause a downhole
failure of the connector.
The slip connector should not be used on CT
grades above HS-90 because the teeth on
the slips will not bite into the harder grades of
metal.
The setscrews in this connector prevent the top
and bottom subs from backing off relative to
each other. They do not secure the connector
to the CT string itself.
3.1.5.1 Makeup
Use the following procedure to make up an
external slip connector (see Fig. 3-22).
STep 01 Prepare the end of the CT string
as described in Section 3.1.2.1.
STep 02 Check the O-rings for any
scratches or tears (Fig. 3-23).
Figure 3-23. Installing O-Ring
STep 03 Slide the top sub, the slips (with
the slip bevel facing upwards), and the bearing
onto the CT string.
STep 04 Hold the top assembly up and
grease the end of the CT string.
34  |  Basic CT Tools
STep 05 Slide the bottom sub onto the CT
string until it shoulders on the bottom of the CT
string (Fig. 3-24).
Top sub
Slips
Bearing
Bottom sub
Figure 3-24. Sliding Bottom Sub into Place
STep 06 Lower the top sub and make it up
to the bottom sub with 300 to 400 lbf.ft or the
equivalent of the maximum motor output torque
(Fig. 3-25).
Figure 3-25. Making Up Top and
Bottom Subs
STep 07 Pull test the connection to
5,000 lbf more than the anticipated load or
a minimum of 10,000 lbf to fully set the slips
(Fig. 3-26).

Figure 3-26. Preparing Slip
Connector for Pull Test
STep 08 Retorque the bottom sub to take
up slack between the top and bottom subs.
This step is important to prevent the slip later
working loose. Do not overtorque; a gap of as
much as 3 mm [1/8 in] between the top and
bottom subs is normal.
STep 09 Make up the set screws to prevent
the top and bottom sub backing off (Fig. 3-27).
Figure 3-27. Making Up Set Screws
3.1.5.2 Removal
To remove the connection, follow this
procedure.
STep 01 Cut the CT string approximately
30 cm [12 in] above the connector to allow easy
handling of the connection.
STep 02 Remove set screws using the
allen wrench.
STep 03 With the top sub in the vise, back
off the bottom sub.
STep 04 Pull the top sub up, releasing the
slips.
STep 05 Slide the bottom sub off the CT
string.
STep 06 Slide the top sub, slips, and
bearing off the CT string.
STep 07 Remove all O-rings. Thoroughly
clean all parts. Inspect for damage and replace
parts as necessary. Coat all parts in oil to
minimize corrosion damage.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  35
3.1.6 External combined slip and set
screw connector
A combination of the dimple and slip connectors
provides the maximum security for fishing
jobs and milling operations (see Fig. 3‑28).
One example of this is the CoilTOOLS EZ‑Set
connector.
Figure 3-28. External Combination Connector
The tool primarily works on the slip and is
made up to the CT string the same way that a
slip connector is made up. The set screws are
tightened into the CT string as the very last step
in the makeup procedure. The CT string cannot
be predimpled because the connector moves
while setting the slips and it is not possible to
space out the dimples perfectly to match this
movement.
36  |  Basic CT Tools
3.1.7 Internal slip connector
The internal slip (or grapple) connector is made
up to the CT string through the use of slips
that bite into the inside of the CT string (see
Fig. 3‑29.) Like the external slip connector, the
more you pull on the connector, the deeper it
bites into the CT string.
Figure 3-29. Internal Slip Connector
The internal slip connector is easy and quick to
make up after the end of the CT is prepared.
However, care must be taken because poor
makeup procedure can cause a downhole
failure of the connector. As with all internal
connectors, the weld bead inside the CT string
must be removed before installation.

Note:
The slip connector should not be
used on CT grades above HS-90,
because the teeth on the slips will
not bite into the harder grades of
metal.
All internal connectors restrict the ID of the CT
string. It is important to check that any balls
needed to function in the lower elements of the
BHA can pass through the connector.
Unlike external connectors, internal connectors
are made for a specific CT string wall thickness.
This wall thickness must be specified when
ordering the internal connectors.
3.1.8 Internal dimple connector
The internal dimple connector is made up to
the CT string using a mechanical or hydraulic
dimpling tool to deform the CT string into a
dimpled profile on the internal connector (see
Fig. 3-30). The result is a robust connector with
good tensile capacity and torque resistance.
Figure 3-30. Internal Dimple Connector
Making up this connector is quite simple
because it has a one-piece construction.
However, the makeup can take some time
because you must use the dimpling tool.
The internal dimple connector restricts the ID
of the CT string, and it is important to check
that any balls that are needed to function in the
lower elements of the BHA can pass through
the connector. This test can be done before the
connector is made up.
Note:
All internal connectors are made
for a specific CT string wall
thickness. This wall thickness must
be specified when ordering the
connector.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  37
3.1.8.1 Make up STep 04 Make up the dimpling tool around
Follow this procedure to make up an internal the CT string, matching the mark on the
dimple connector (see Fig. 3-31). connector with that on the tool. This mark aligns
the dimples with the dimpling tool.

STep 05 Dimple the CT string either

hydraulically or mechanically, according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.

STep 06 Remove the dimpling tool.

STep 07 Using a pull test plate, perform a

pull test to 5,000 lbf more than the anticipated
load, or a minimum of 10,000 lbf, to fully set the
slips.
Coiled tubing

Yoke Jig 3.1.8.2 Removal

Removing an internal dimple connector can be
difficult and time consuming. Great care must
be taken not to damage the connector during
removal.
Dimple-on
connector
Step 01 Cut the CT string at least 15 cm
[6 in] above the end of the connector, for ease
of handling.

Step 02 With the connector firmly clamped

in a vise, cut the CT string lengthwise along the
length of the connector.

Figure 3-31. Making Up Internal Dimple Connector

Note:
STep 01 Prepare the end of the CT string Appropriate PPE must be worn and
as described in Section 3.1.2.2, including the safety guidelines of the cutting
removing the internal weld bead. equipment must be followed.

STep 02 Check O-rings for any damage.

STep 03 Slide the internal dimple Note:

connector into the CT string until it shoulders on Take care not to cut into the
the end of the string. It should be a tight fit, and connector itself.
you may need to tap it with a hammer to get it
to go in.

38  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.9 Roll-on connector
The roll-on connector is an internal connector
made up to the CT string by deforming the
string into a profile on the connector with the
aid of a crimping tool (see Fig. 3-32). This is the
most basic type of connector.
3.1.9.1 Make up
Follow these procedures to make up a roll-on
connector.
STep 01 Prepare the end of the CT string
as described in Section 3.1.2.2, including
removing the internal weld bead.

STep 02 Check O-rings for damage.

STep 03 Holding the connector against the

end of the CT string, make a mark where the
CT will need to be crimped (Fig. 3-33).

Figure 3-32. Internal Roll-On Connector

The roll-on connector is easy to make up.
However, it is weak in terms of tensile strength
and can rotate if torque is applied. It can be
used for applications such as N2 lifts, acid
washes, and fill removal.
Figure 3-33. Marking Grooves on String
STep 04 Insert the connector into the CT
string until it bottoms against the end of the
string.

The ID of the CT string is restricted by a roll-on

connector, so it is important to check that any
balls needed to activate lower elements of the
BHA can pass through the connector.

Roll-on connectors are made for a specific CT

string wall thickness. This wall thickness must
be specified when ordering the connectors.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  39

STep 05 Use the crimping tool to make 3.1.9.2 Removal
crimps around the CT at the points marked Removing an internal dimple connector can be
(Figs. 3-34 and 3-35). difficult and time consuming.

Note:
Take great care not to damage the
connector during removal.

Note:
Wear appropriate PPE and follow
the safety guidelines of the cutting
equipment.

Figure 3-34. Aligning Crimping Tool with Marks

Step 01 Cut the CT string at least 15 cm

[6 in] above the end of the coil.

Step 02 With the connector firmly clamped

in a vise, cut the CT string lengthwise along the
length of the connector.

Note:
Take care not to cut into the
connector itself.

Figure 3-35. Crimping CT

STep 06 Using a pull test plate, perform a

pull test to 5,000 lbf more than the anticipated
load, or a minimum of 10,000 lbf.

40  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.10 Double roll-on connector 3.1.11 Other connectors
A double roll-on connector works on the Some less common types of connectors are
same principle as the roll-on connector and is briefly described in the following sections.
installed in the same way (see Fig. 3-36).

3.1.11.1 Double slip connector (external)

This is a double internal slip-type connector,
which can be used to mechanically join two CT
strings (see Fig. 3-37). This connector can be
used for the recovery of CT completions, such
as velocity strings, but should not be used for
running in hole.

The body has one left-hand thread and one

right-hand thread, which allows the two
sections to be made up simultaneously.

Figure 3-36. Double Roll-On Connector

This connector is used to connect and seal

two lengths of CT. They are primarily used in
emergencies where a length of CT has to be
retrieved from a well.

It is specific for a particular wall thickness of CT

string, so that information will be needed when
ordering the connections.

Note:
It is recommended to keep a
double roll-on connector in the tool
box for each wall thickness in case
of an emergency.

Figure 3-37. Double Slip

Connector
Follow the same procedures for makeup and
removal as you would for a roll-on connector.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  41

3.1.11.2 Threaded connectors
This type of connector is made up to the CT
string by cutting a thread (typically a NPT) on
the end of the string (see Fig. 3-38).
3.1.11.3 Welded connectors
Welded connectors have several disadvantages
and no practical advantages. Successful
welded connections (see Fig. 3-39) are difficult
and dangerous to make.

Note:
This thread weakens the CT string Note:
and can initiate a tensile failure; The use of welded connectors
therefore, the use of threaded is not recommended within
connectors is not recommended Schlumberger.
within Schlumberger. This
information is here only for
completeness.

Coiled tubing

Coiled tubing
Weld bead

Pressure sealing thread

(typically NPT) cut on
tubing end

O-ring

O-ring
Threaded connection
for CT BHA

Threaded connection
for CT BHA Figure 3-39. Welded Connector

Figure 3-38. Threaded Connector

42  |  Basic CT Tools

3.1.12 Connector performance comparison The main types of check valves used are
summary
• flapper
Table 3-1 presents a summary of the
connectors. • ball.
The following fulfill the need for a double barrier
in CT operations:
3.2 Check valves
The function of a check valve is to prevent • double plug barrier
wellbore fluids from entering the CT string, • pumpout check valves.
while allowing fluid pumped through the CT
string to enter the wellbore. According to These barriers are normally run at the
Well Services Safety Standard 22 (InTouch downhole end of a velocity or other
Content ID# 3829976), a tandem check valve recompletion string.
is mandatory in every job except CoilFRAC
stimulation or with an approved exemption.

If the CT string has a pinhole, the downhole

check valve assembly is the primary well
control barrier. It is generally run directly below
the connector.

Table 3-1. Summary of Connector Performance

Connector External External Combined Internal slip Internal Roll-on

type dimple/ slip type set screw/ type dimple
set (grapple) slip
screw
Assembly 10 5 10 5 10 10
time (min)
Disassembly 5 5 5 10 30 30
time (min)
Torque Exceeds 600 Exceeds CT Exceeds CT Exceeds CT 50 §
resistance CT string string value string value string valve
(ft.lb) value‡
Tensile 25,000† 40,000† 40,000 Approximately 40,000 10,000
strength (lbf) 50% of CT valve
†
The tensile strength of a slip connector is higher than that of a dimple connector because the axial forces are acting over
the entire area of the slips, as opposed to only the small surfaces of the set screws.
‡
The dimple-type connector has the highest torque resistance and it exceeds the tubing value torque resistance; therefore, it
is the preferred connector for motor applications.
§
The roll-on connector has minimum torque resistance and should never be used for motor applications.

All information in this table is illustrative—refer to the tool manufacturer specifications for the exact specifications for the
tools in your location.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  43

3.2.1 Dual flapper check valve
The recommended and most commonly
used check valve is the double flapper check
valve (see Fig. 3-40). This valve consists of
two flappers that are held closed by separate
springs. The design of the flappers ensures that
well pressure closes them and thus prevents
wellbore fluid from entering the CT string.
However, when fluid is pumped through the CT
string, the flappers open, allowing the pumped
fluid to enter the wellbore.
Figure 3-40. Double Flapper Check Valve
44  |  Basic CT Tools
The flappers can be integral or cartridge
type. The cartridge type is preferred because
it allows you to change out only the flapper
cartridge, rather than having to replace the
whole tool.
The double flapper check valve is designed to
provide near-fullbore access when the flapper
is open. This access is important to allow the
maximum pump rate as well as to reduce
the risk that it plugs. It also allows balls to be
pumped through to activate tools in the BHA
below the check valve.
Note:
It is important to drift the ball
through the check valve on the
surface to ensure that it can pass
through.
3.2.1.1 Redress procedure
Use this procedure to redress the valve.
Step 01 Grip the check valve assembly in
a soft jaw vise and remove the set screws that
hold the top and bottom subs in place.
Step 02 Break out the top and bottom
subs and remove the two flapper cartridges
with the aid of a rod if necessary. Figure 3‑41
shows the five main components after
disassembly.
Figure 3-41. Top: Flapper Cartridge Housing , Left to Right:
Top Sub, Two Flapper Cartridges, Bottom Sub.
Step 03 Check the O-ring on the top sub Step 05 Grease the two flapper cartridges
and replace if necessary. Grease the thread (Fig. 3-44).
(Fig. 3-42) and make up to the flapper cartridge
housing again (Fig. 3-43).

Figure 3-44. Greasing Flapper Cartridge

Figure 3-42. Greasing Thread on Top Sub

Step 06 Replace the flapper cartridges
in the tool (Fig. 3-45), ensuring that they are
replaced facing the correct direction. You will
need to push them into position; the top one
should butt against the top sub (Fig. 3-46).

Figure 3-43. Making Up Top Sub to Housing

Step 04 Check the cartridges: Figure 3-45. Replacing Flapper Cartridge

• Clean the inside of the cartridges to

remove any debris. Check for corrosion
or damage on the flapper and seat and
change if necessary.
• Check that the flapper springs are working.
Replace the springs if necessary. Figure 3-46. Pushing Flapper Cartridge into Position
• Replace the O-ring on the cartridges,
taking care not to damage them.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  45

step 07 Check the O-ring on the bottom
sub and replace if necessary. Grease the
thread and make up to the flapper cartridge
housing again (Fig. 3-47).
Figure 3-47. Making Up Bottom Sub to Housing
step 08 Make up the set screws to hold
the top and bottom subs in place.
step 09 Replace the O-ring on the pin of
the tool (depending on the thread), taking care
not to damage it.
step 10 Verify the flapper direction by
dropping a ball from top to bottom or using a
brass bar.
step 11 Grease the tool lightly for storage.
step 12 Put a green tag on the tool with
your name and the date.
3.2.2 Double ball inline check valves
Another type of check valve is the double ball
inline check valve (see Fig. 3-48). This valve
consists of two balls in series, which are held
in their seats by separate springs. Pressuring
down the CT string will push the check balls
off the seats, allowing flow to pass around
the balls. If pressure below the check balls
increases, the balls are more firmly seated
against the polished metal seats above them,
thereby shutting off flow. The spring supporting
46  |  Basic CT Tools
the check balls keeps the balls against the
seats when there is no flow.
Figure 3-48. Double Ball
In-Line Check Valve
The ball check valves come in smaller sizes
than flapper valves because of slimmer design,
and are generally cheaper.
The ball check valve was the most popular type
in the past when flapper valves were unreliable.
However, improved design and material
specification has made the flapper valve very
reliable and it is now the most popular valve.
The main disadvantages of a ball check valve
compared with a flapper check valve follow:
• The balls prevent the use of drop balls to
activate tools in the BHA below the check
valve.
• The springs are easily attacked by H2S.
• The valves are more easily plugged by
solids because the flow path is smaller.
3.2.2.1 Redressing
When redressing the ball check valve, inspect
the condition of the springs, washers, and balls
for corrosion. They should be replaced if any
damage is seen.

3.2.3 Double barrier pumpout plug

This type of double barrier is used for CT
velocity string applications. This application
involves hanging off a CT string in a well
permanently as part of the completion. When
installed, the string must be fully open to
the flow of wellbore fluids. According to Well
Services Safety Standard 22, the CT string
cannot be run in hole openended; however, a
standard flapper or ball check valve will prevent
the flow of wellbore fluids into the CT string.

The answer to this problem is to use this double

barrier pumpout plug (see Fig. 3-49). This tool
provides two independent pressure barriers at
the end of the CT string while running in hole,
Figure 3-49. Double Barrier
but these barriers can be ejected when the Pumpout Plug
string is installed by pressuring up the string
to break shear pins in the tool. The pressure 3.2.4 Double pumpout check valves
needed to pumpout the plugs depends on the
Double pumpout check valves are typically
amount and material of the shear pins holding
used in velocity string applications. Similar
the plugs in place. Ejecting the barriers leaves
to the function of the double barrier pumpout
a fully open flow path.
plugs, they provide well control during the CT
operation, but they can be ejected when the
The disadvantage of this design is that you
CT string has been installed, as part of the
cannot pump through the CT string while
completion. The difference between the two
running the string into the well. If you need this
types of valve is that the pumpout check valves
function, use double pumpout check valves
work as a standard ball check valve, until a ball
(see next section).
is pumped to eject the sleeve containing the
ball valves.

Figure 3-50 shows a single pumpout check

valve. Two of these are run in series to provide
a double barrier, which is required by WS
Safety Standard 22.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  47


Figure 3-50. Single Pumpout Check Valve
The pumpout check valve is attached to the
bottom of the CT. Before running the CT in,
the pressure that will be required to pump it
out is adjusted by varying the number and
type of shear screws installed in the tool.
Upon reaching final depth, a ball is circulated
to a seat on the check valve. Pressure is then
pumped in the CT string to shear the screws,
pushing the check valve cartridge out of the
housing.
3.3 Disconnect tools
A disconnect in a CT BHA provides a means
of releasing from the lower BHA in a controlled
manner (see Fig. 3-51). The release may be
a contingency operation, such as if the BHA
is stuck downhole, or it may be a planned
release, such as disconnecting from a packer.
Disconnects are designed to leave a standard
profile at the top. A matching retrieval tool is
designed to latch to this profile to retrieve the
released BHA if required.
48  |  Basic CT Tools
Figure 3-51. Disconnect Tool (Left) and Lower Fishing Tool
after Activation (Right)
Note:
Each time a disconnect tool is run
inhole on CT, it is important to have
the correct fishing tool on location.
You may have to release the BHA
in a contingency, and then you
will have to retrieve it as soon as
possible.
3.3.1 Disconnect properties
The following properties are used to
differentiate between different types of
disconnect. The choice of disconnect depends
on the specific application, the toolstring,
the CT string limitations, and the wellbore
conditions.
3.3.1.1 Activation method 3.3.1.3 Fishing neck
The most common types of disconnects used When a disconnect is activated, the upper
in CT applications are section releases from the lower section, leaving
a standard profile, called a fishing neck, at the
• hydraulic disconnect (activated by a ball or top of the BHA in the hole.
CT pressure)
Most disconnects use a type of internal fishing
• mechanical disconnect (activated by pulling
neck called a GS style (see Fig. 3-53). In an
tension, or a combination of CT string
internal fishing neck, the standard profile is on
cycling and tension).
the inside of the tool. The matching fishing tool,
called a GS spear, goes inside the tool to latch
3.3.1.2 Torque resistance onto it.
Disconnects can be either rotationally locked
or nonrotationally locked. This term refers to
whether the disconnect is designed to prevent
rotation between the upper and lower sections,
making it torque resistant, or whether it is free
to rotate. The rotationally locked model should
be used as a standard tool for all normal
applications. The castle-lock disconnect (see
Fig. 3-52) allows torque to be transmitted and
should be used for motor applications.

Figure 3-53. Internal Fishing Neck

The castle-lock design

prevents rotation at
interface of upper and
lower subs.

Figure 3-52. Rotationally Locked Castle Lock Disconnect

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  49
Some disconnects use an external fishing neck
(see Fig. 3-54), where the standard profile is on
the outside of the tool. The matching fishing tool
is called an overshot and it fits over the tool.
The overshot has a latching mechanism inside
the body to latch onto the fishing profile.
3.3.1.4 Pressure-balanced vs.
nonpressure-balanced tools
Pressure balance refers to the effect of internal
tool pressure on the force needed to release
the tool.

The force required to release a

pressure‑balanced tool is independent of
tool internal pressure, whereas tool internal
pressure will change the force required to
disconnect a nonpressure-balanced tool.

The principle is illustrated in Fig. 3-55, where

the internal piston for a Mark IV disconnect and
a TP disconnect are shown.

• Pressure-balanced tools. The Mark IV

has a balanced piston area (area above,
Aa, = area below, Ab). Thus, internal
Figure 3-54. External Fishing Neck
pressure in the tool will not create a
differential pressure acting from the top to
shear the tool. The only way to disconnect

Aa Aa

Piston Piston

Mark IV TP
disconnect disconnect

Ab Ab
Aa = Ab Aa > Ab
Aa= area above Ab= area below

Figure 3-55. Pressure-Balanced and Nonpressure-Balanced

Tools

50  |  Basic CT Tools

 is to drop a ball, plug the seat, and
pressure up enough to shear the pins.
• Nonpressure-balanced tools. The TP
disconnect has a larger surface area at
the top than at the bottom (area above,
Aa > area below, Ab). Internal pressure in
the tool creates force acting from the top
to shear the tool because the pressure
generates a larger force on the large top
surface than it does on the smaller bottom
surface. Sufficient internal pressure can
cause the piston to break the shear pins
and effect a disconnect without dropping a
ball.

3.3.2 Hydraulic ball-drop disconnect

The hydraulic ball-drop disconnect (see
Fig. 3‑56) is the most common type of
disconnect used in CT applications. It is
sometimes referred to as a BOSS tool, or
ball‑operated shear sub.

3.3.2.1 Operation
To operate the disconnect, the correct size of
ball should be pumped through the CT string
and allowed to seat in the disconnect. This
ball blocks off the flow through the tool. As
increased pressure is applied through the CT
string, the shear screws holding the seat and
sleeve will shear, shifting them downwards
and uncovering the collet. The upper section
of the tool can then release from the lower
section. A straight pick-up then separates the
two halves of the disconnect to allow retrieval
of the CT string and the upper section of the
BHA. A small overpull of approximately 500 lbf
is normal.
Figure 3-56. Hydraulic Ball-Drop
Disconnect
Circulation is immediately returned to the
toolstring. Circulation indicates on surface that
the disconnect has released. The sleeve and
drop ball are retrieved to the surface as part of
the upper BHA, leaving a standard GS internal
fishing neck on the BHA in the bottom for
retrieval purposes.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  51

3.3.2.2 Points to note
Some items you should keep in mind when
working with a hydraulic ball-drop disconnect
follow.
• drifting CT string and BHA. Before running
any ball-drop-operated tool, ensure that
the CT string is not plugged. Pump a pig
or the ball through the CT string before the
operation.
It is also important to drift the ball through
the entire BHA to make sure the ball for the
disconnect passes through the connector
and tandem check valve until it lands on
the seat.
• other ball-operated tools in the string. If the
BHA contains more than one ball-drop-
operated tool, ensure that the tool with the
biggest ball seat is on top and the smallest
ball seat is at the bottom.
Always measure the ball size before
pumping it to ensure that the correct
tool will be activated. There should be a
minimum difference of 3 mm [1/8 in] in the
ball sizes for the different tools to ensure
that the smaller ball (intended for the
bottommost tool) does not lodge in the seat
of a tool closer to the top.
In most models of hydraulic ball-drop
disconnect, the drop ball size can be varied
to suit the desired toolstring requirements
by changing the piston sleeve.
• shear pins. The pressure needed to release
may vary from 250 to 7,000 psi by varying
the number or material of the shear screws
holding the seat and sleeve. Refer to the
manufacturer’s specifications to determine
how many screws you need for a given
release pressure.
Replace the shear pins after multiple runs
with high pump rates because differential
52  |  Basic CT Tools
pressure over time can cause weakening
and premature shearing of the pins.
• ability to circulate. The operation of the
hydraulic drop-ball disconnect relies on the
ability to pump the ball from the surface. If
the BHA is stuck and the circulation ports
are blocked, there is no way to pump the
ball through the CT string. The most widely
used contingency for this situation is to run
a dual circulation sub below the disconnect.
This tool can be activated by overpressure
to open circulation ports (see Section 3.4,
Circulation valves, for details).
Note:
Some models of drop ball
disconnect are nonpressure-
balanced and can be also be
activated by pressuring up the CT
string if the circulating ability is lost.
• fishing tool available. Ensure that you
have a clear record of the fishing neck
profile in the BHA schematic and that the
appropriate fishing tool is available on
location, in case of a contingency release.
You will need to recover the BHA as soon
as possible in such a situation.
3.3.2.3 Redress procedure (CoilTOOLS
Mark IV disconnect)
Follow this procedure to redress the
CoilTOOLS* Mark IV disconnect. This is the
most common hydraulic ball-drop disconnect,
and the procedure is much the same for any
hydraulic ball-drop disconnect.
Step 01 Disassemble the components,
taking care to remove set screws before
breaking out threads. When disassembled, the
components of the hydraulic disconnect can be
seen individually (see Fig. 3-57):
 1 2

3
4 5

Figure 3-57. Components of Hydraulic Disconnect

• 1-top sub
• 2-bottom sub
Figure 3-58. Installing Seat into Collet
• 3-collet
• 4-seat step 04 Make up the lower sleeve to the
• 5-lower sleeve. bottom of the seat (Fig. 3-59). Tighten up the
thread and install the set screw between the
step 02 Remove all O-rings, thoroughly lower sleeve and the seat (Fig. 3-60).
clean all parts, inspect for damage and replace
parts as necessary, and install new O-rings.
Coat all parts in oil to minimize corrosion
damage (see Fig. 3-58).

Figure 3-59. Making Up Lower Sleeve to Seat

Figure 3-61. Greasing Seat

step 03 With the collet in a vise, install

the greased seat until the thread on the bottom
Figure 3-60. Tightening Thread
protrudes from the bottom of the collet (see
Fig. 3-58).

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  53

step 05 With the bottom sub in the vise,
install the collet/seat/lower sleeve assembly
(Fig. 3-61). Hammer downward on the collet
(using a rubber mallet) to fully engage the collet
into the bottom sub until it shoulders (Fig. 3-62).

Figure 3-64. Installing O-Ring on Seat

Figure 3-61. Installing Assembly Inside Lower Sub

step 07 Tap the sleeve downwards into
the collet (Fig. 3-65), just enough to begin
making up the threads of the top sub to the
collet. Do not tap down all the way.

Figure 3-62. Hammering Assembly Home

step 06 Shift the seat fully upward by
tapping on the lower sleeve (Fig. 3-63). Install
the O-ring in the upper groove of the seat
(Fig. 3-64).
Figure 3-65. Tapping Seat Downward
step 08 Make up the top sub to the collet
(Fig. 3-66). This step positions the seat so that
the shear groove (lower groove) of the seat
lines up with the shear screws in the collet.

Figure 3-63. Tapping Lower Sleeve Upwards to Expose Top of

Seat

Figure 3-66. Installing Top Sub

54  |  Basic CT Tools

step 09 Install the shear screws in the
collet and seat (Fig. 3-67). Visually check the
shear screw hole to ensure that the O-ring is
not under the hole. If it is, it would indicate that
the seat or sleeve is in the wrong position and
must be moved upwards before installing the
shear screws.
Figure 3-67. Installing Shear Screws
step 10 Install the set screws in the collet
to prevent the top sub thread backing off.
3.3.3 Differential pressure disconnect
The differential pressure disconnect is used
when the ability to disconnect without dropping
a ball is required. One example of this is the
Schlumberger Model TP disconnect (see
Fig. 3-68).
Figure 3-68. TP Differential Pressure
Disconnect
The TP disconnect is typically used in one of
the following situations:
• where a ball seat cannot be used because
of the requirements for internal operations
lower in the string
• where the BHA is plugged at the bottom
for certain types of application, usually
recompletion operations such as running a
velocity string
• when it is difficult to introduce a ball into the
CT.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  55
3.3.3.1 Operation
The TP disconnect is operated by differential
pressure. To activate it, you must pressure up
the inside of the CT string. The tool contains
a nonbalanced piston. The piston has a larger
surface area on top than on bottom, which
causes a net downward force on the piston
when pressure is applied inside the tool, and
the pressure causes the piston to shift. The
piston will break the shear screws, which allows
the locking collet to release. Straight pick-up
then separates the two halves of the disconnect
to allow retrieval of the CT string and the
upper section of the BHA. A small overpull
of approximately 500 lbf is normal. For more
information on nonpressure-balanced tools,
see Section 3.3.1.4, Pressure-balanced vs.
nonpressure-balanced tools.
The top of the lower section of the tool is a
standard GS internal fish neck for retrieval
purposes.
3.3.3.2 Points to note
Keep these points in mind when working with
differential pressure disconnects.
• other pressure-operated tools in the string.
If other pressure-operated tools are in the
BHA, it is important to plan the shear pin
settings in each tool to ensure that they are
activated in the correct order.
For example, if a TP disconnect is being
used to release a velocity string and a
double barrier pumpout plug is at the
end of the CT string, the tools must be
configured so that the disconnect is the
first tool to be activated (at a relatively low
pressure) and the pumpout plug is then
ejected at a higher pressure. If the tools are
pinned to shear at similar pressures, the
tools may release in reverse order, which
will cause operational problems.
56  |  Basic CT Tools
• shear pins. The pressure release value
may be varied from 200 to 6,000 psi by
varying the number and type of shear
screws holding the release sleeve.
Check the shear pins after each run and
replace if necessary because differential
pressure over time can cause weakening
and premature shearing of the pins.
• backup function. The TP disconnect can
also be used with a drop ball, in which
case a lower pressure will be required to
disconnect.
• fishing tool available. Ensure that you
have a clear record of the fishing neck
profile in the BHA schematic and that the
appropriate fishing tool is available on
location, in case of a contingency release.
You will need to recover the BHA as soon
as possible in such a situation.
3.3.4 Mechanical disconnect
Mechanical disconnects (see Fig. 3-69) are
used for special CT applications where
• differential pressure cannot be applied to
BHA
• drop balls cannot be used.
Because these disconnects can be parted
accidentally, they are generally only used
where hydraulic disconnects cannot be used.
Mechanical disconnects should be avoided
when conducting CT operations that involve
jarring or impact or where a large differential
pressure may exist. They are most widely
used in CT logging and CoilFRAC stimulation
operations. The biggest disadvantage, although
they are simple and inexpensive, is that these
type of disconnects are prone to parting
prematurely.
 Note:
Great care needs to be taken not to
prematurely release the tool.

A pressure-balanced mechanical disconnect

was designed for CoilFRAC stimulation
applications and is available in 3 1/4-in and
3 3/4-in ODs. As the name suggests, the CT
treating pressure does not affect the disconnect
release force.

3.3.4.2 Points to note

Keep the following items in mind when working
with mechanical disconnects.

• release force setting. The release force

required can be varied. For example, with
the Schlumberger mechanical disconnect
with a fishing neck model, the release
force required may be varied from 1,110 to
15,200 lbf by varying the number and type
of shear screws.
Figure 3-69. Mechanical Disconnect

3.3.4.1 Operation It is very important to choose the correct

Mechanical disconnects are available in a
range of designs, but they all operate on a
similar principle. The disconnect is the weak
point in the toolstring. Any load on the tool is
carried by a variable number of shear pins or
screws. When the tensile load exceeds the
capacity of the shear pins or screws and they
shear, the top and bottom sections of the tool
can separate.
In nonpressure-balanced models of mechanical
disconnect, the release force is affected by
the pressure inside the CT string. Changing
pressure can increase or decrease the tensile
force required to shear the pins, and too much
internal pressure can shear the pins even
without applying any tension.
number of shear screws:
○○ If you use too many shear screws, you
may not be able to pull it apart when you
need to.
○○ If you select too few shear screws,
you may pull it apart prematurely or by
accident.
A CT engineer will use CoilCADE software
to predict the forces and choose the
correct number of screws. You will get
this information from the job program; for
example, “dress the mechanical disconnect
with X brass shear pins.”

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  57


Note:
Remember that differential
pressure on the tool can increase
or decrease the force required to
release a mechanical disconnect.
• jarring action or impact. Avoid using
mechanical disconnects with jars or
impact hammers, or it may disconnect
prematurely.
• replacing shear pins. Check the shear pins
after each run and replace if necessary,
because tensile load over time can cause
premature shearing of the pins.
• fishing tool available. Ensure that you
have a clear record of the fishing neck
profile in the BHA schematic and that the
appropriate fishing tool is available on
location, in case of a contingency release.
You will need to recover the BHA as soon
as possible in such a situation.
3.3.5 Multicycle disconnect (MCD)
Standard mechanical disconnects cannot be
used for perforation jobs because the shock of
the gun detonation will often break the shear
pins and release the tool. Hydraulic disconnects
cannot be used for wired applications because
the cable inside the CT string means that a ball
cannot be pumped through the CT string.
The Schlumberger multicycle disconnect is
a mechanical disconnect specially designed
to prevent premature release in wired CT
perforating operations.
Note:
The MCD is not pressure balanced,
so a high differential pressure may
break the tensile weak point.
58  |  Basic CT Tools
3.3.5.1 Operation
The MCD is operated by a combination of
tension and a sequence of cycling (picking the
string up and setting it down again repeatedly).
Very little movement will be noticeable on the
surface; the weight indicator will be used to
show the cycling. This operation occurs when
BHA is stuck; therefore, the CT string is only
being stretched and relaxed.
The load is initially taken on a tensile weak
point rated between 8,000 and 30,000 lbf to
achieve a disconnect, a backup set of bronze
shear pins must also be sheared, as well as
performing several up-down cycles of the tool.
Having a backup set of shear pins means
that the tool remains connected even if the
perforation shock breaks the tensile weakpoint.
The disconnect sequence is as follows:
1. The tensile weak point breaks when the
tensile force pulling on it surpasses its
capacity.
2. The disconnect now engages in a J-slot
mechanism.
3. Each pick up and slack-off of the CT
toolstring constitutes a cycle of the
multicycle disconnect, and each cycle
unscrews a releasing nut with large
threads.
4. After 2 1/2 cycles, a second set of
bronze shear pins is engaged. This set
of pins must be sheared before the tool
can continue to cycle. If they are not
sheared, the tool will not continue with
the disconnect process.
5. At 5 1/2 cycles, a set of circulation
ports are opened, allowing fluids to
flow through the CT into the wellbore.
The resulting pressure drop on surface
 informs the crew that the disconnect will
release in two more cycles.
6. At 7 1/2 cycles, the tool will disconnect.
It leaves behind a standard GS fishing
neck for retrieval purposes.
3.3.5.2 Points to note
Keep the following items in mind when working
with multicycle disconnects.
• release force setting. Different values
for the tensile weak point are available
between 8,000 and 30,000 lbf for the
2 3/8 in model.
Up to 12 shear pins can be used, with an
individual rating of 2,350 lbf each. This
rating means that the rating of the set of
shear pins can be between 2,350 and
28,200 lbf, depending on the number of
pins used.
The tensile weak point rating and the
number of shear screws are selected
based on the known downhole forces in
a particular well. This selection is very
important because of the following:
○○ If you use too strong a weak point or too
many setscrews, you may not be able to
break it when you need to.
○○ If you use too weak a weak point or
too few setscrews, you may break it by
accident.
Note:
The key to the selection is a good
CoilCADE coiled tubing design and
evaluation.
• replacing weak points. The weak point
should be examined after each run and
replaced if necessary. It should be checked
for any visible damage. The length must be
compared with that of a standard unused
weakpoint to check if it has stretched from
the load. Stretching the weak point will
reduce its tensile rating.
• fishing tool available. Ensure that you
have a clear record of the fishing neck
profile in the BHA schematic and that the
appropriate fishing tool is available on
location, in case of a contingency release.
You will need to recover the BHA as soon
as possible in such a situation.
3.4 Circulation valve
A circulation valve in a CT BHA provides
a means of opening circulation ports in a
controlled manner. Circulation ports can be
used to provide additional flow area (and
therefore allow higher pump rates) in many
types of applications, for example, in a milling
BHA. After milling is complete, the circulating
valve opens to allow higher flow rate without
rotating the motor. This action achieves better
hole cleaning and minimizes wear on the motor
and mill.
A circulation valve may also be needed if the
existing ports in a BHA become plugged and
you need to restore circulation.
While some circulation valve models can be
activated by high flowrate or tension, the most
common type of circulation valve is activated by
hydraulic pressure.
Circulation valves are typically run in all but the
most basic BHAs. They are normally placed
below the disconnect in the toolstring.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  59
3.5 Dual circulation valve
The dual circulation valve (see Fig. 3-70) is the
most common type of circulation valve used in
CT applications. It is typically run below a ball-
drop type disconnect.
Circulation
ports
Burst disc
Figure 3-70. Dual Circulation Valve
3.5.1 Operation
There are two ways to operate the tool: ball
drop and differential pressure. To use a ball
drop, a correctly sized ball should be pumped
through the CT string to seat in the circulation
valve. This ball blocks off the flow through the
tool. As increased pressure is applied through
the CT string, the shear screws holding the seat
will shear, shifting it downwards and uncovering
the circulation ports. The increased flow area
allows increased pump rate through the CT
string.
60  |  Basic CT Tools
All the flow will now take place through the
circulation ports on the side of the tool. No
further flow will pass the ball into the lower
BHA.
If there is no circulation through the CT string,
because of a blocked nozzle, for example, there
is no way to circulate a ball through the string
to activate the circulation valve. In this situation,
circulation can be achieved by increasing the
CT string pressure until it ruptures the burst
disk in the tool.
In some models, the burst disk is replaced
by a nonpressure-balanced piston, which will
break the shear pins and shift to expose the
circulation ports when the pressure inside the
tool reaches a certain level. This model is used
to avoid problems with a burst disk bursting
prematurely.
3.5.2 Points to note
Keep the following items in mind when working
with dual circulation valves.
• Up to 6 shear pins can be used, with an
individual rating of 400 lbf. This means that
the rating of the set of shear pins can be
between 400 and 2,400 lbf, depending on
the number of pins used.
• For the 2 1/8-in model, burst disks are
available in several ratings between 3,000
and 6,000 psi.
Always use extreme care when handling
the burst disk. Any mark or dent will
decrease the rupture pressure.
• The circulation valve must always be
placed below the disconnect in the BHA.
If it was above the disconnect, you might
not be able to put enough pressure on the
disconnect to release it without opening
the ports of the circulation valve. If this
 happened, you would not be able to
activate the disconnect.
step 05 Install new O-rings.

• You must ensure that the drop ball for the The following components of the circulation
circulation valve is smaller than the drop valve can be seen individually (Fig. 3-72).
ball for the disconnect, because it must
pass through the disconnect seat. The ball • top sub
must be a minimum of 1.5 mm [1/16 in] • bottom sub
smaller than the minimum restriction in
all the tools above it. Drift the ball for the • nonpressure-balanced piston.
circulation valve through all parts of the
BHA that will be above it in the toolstring to
test the fit before running it downhole.

3.5.3 Redress procedure (dual circulation

valve with nonpressure-balanced
Figure 3-72. Components of Circulation Valve
piston)
Follow this procedure to redress the dual
circulation valve (nonpressure-balanced piston 3.5.3.2 Assembly
model).
step 01 Place the greased piston into the
bottom sub, but do not tap down all the way
3.5.3.1 Disassembly (Fig. 3-73).

step 01 Remove the shear screws holding

the piston in place and discard (Fig. 3-71).

Figure 3-71. Removing the Shear Screws

step 02 Remove the set screws holding

the top and bottom subs together. Break out the Figure 3-73. Installing Piston
top sub from the bottom sub.

step 03 Remove the piston from the

bottom sub.

step 04 Remove all O-rings. Thoroughly

clean all parts, inspect for damage, and replace
as necessary.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  61

step 02 Make up the top sub to the bottom
sub (Fig. 3-74).
Figure 3-74. Making Up Top Sub
step 03 Tighten the connection between
the top and bottom subs (Fig. 3-75). Install
shear screws, according to the next job
program.
Figure 3-75. Tightening Connection
62  |  Basic CT Tools
Step 04 Install set screws to prevent the
thread from backing off (Fig. 3-76).
Figure 3-76. Installing Set Screws
3.6 Motorhead assembly (MHA)
The MHA (see Fig. 3-77) is a single tool that
combines CT connector, double flapper check
valve, release joint, and circulation valve all in
one package. The MHA tool length is shorter
than the individual tools made up are, and there
are fewer connections to fail.
The standard MHA comes in the following
configuration:
• slip type connector
• double flapper check valves
• ball-drop hydraulic disconnect
• circulation valve (with optional burst disk or
nonpressure-balanced circulation sleeve).
Schlumberger manufactures two main types of
MHA:
• the standard MHA with an overall length of
approximately 1.1 m [3.5 ft]
• the Shorty MHA with an overall length of
0.76 m [2.5 ft]. The 1 11/16-in OD version
of the Shorty MHA comes as a standard
 part of the Blaster* services kit (see Section
4.1 for more information about Blaster).
“E-Z” connector
Double flapper
check valve
Disconnect/
circulating valve
Figure 3-77. MHA
3.7 Nozzles
Nozzles and jetting tools form the
downhole end of the CT BHA. For simple
applications, they are usually simple in
design and construction and are often locally
manufactured. The position and size of the
nozzle ports is often determined by the required
jetting action for a specific application or
operation.
The design features of a particular nozzle will
often be the result of trials and modifications
conducted locally over several similar
operations. When designing nozzles for any
purpose, several considerations must be taken
into account.
3.7.1 Size and number of ports
The proper size and number of ports machined
into a nozzle are determined by the intended
application. In general, these tools will fall into
one of the two categories: circulating or jetting.
Nozzles used on operations where fluids are to
be circulated with jetting action will have a large
port area. This area may comprise several
small ports or a few large ports.
The efficiency of a jetting nozzle is largely
dependent on the fluid velocity through the
ports. To generate the required velocity, an
adequate flow rate and pressure drop across
the nozzle must be maintained.
3.7.2 Position and direction of the ports
The position, shape, and direction of the jet
ports all affect the jetting action of the nozzle,
and in most cases will be determined by the
intended application.
3.7.2.1 Down jets
Nozzles ported with down jets are generally
used where it is necessary to penetrate fill
or settled solids. Because some fill may be
encountered in most operations, most nozzles
will be equipped with at least one down-jet port.
3.7.2.2 Side jets
Nozzles ported with jets acting towards the
casing or tubing wall may be designed to
perform several functions.
• casing/perforation jetting. The mechanical
action of the jetted fluid is intended to
remove deposits from the well tubulars and
perforations.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  63
 • centralization. Side nozzles help prevent Rear jets Front jets
the end of the CT BHA from following the
tubular wall where they are most likely to
encounter obstructions.
• turbulence induction. Turbulence, most
commonly induced by the side-facing
jet configuration, is desirable for several
reasons:
○○ More even distribution of removed solids Front jets
in the carrier fluid improves the efficiency Figure 3-78. PowerCLEAN Nozzle
when removing solids.
○○ A cleaner interface and reduced The nozzle is designed as follows:
channeling are more easily achieved
when displacing fluids of differing • The front jets are located on the nose of
density. the nozzle and are designed to agitate the
fill as the nozzle penetrates the pack.
○○ Improved dispersion of the treating fluid
is possible, where required. • The two rows of side jets are designed to
move the fill from the front of the nozzle to
3.7.2.3 Maintenance the rear of the nozzle.

Simple nozzles require little maintenance • The rear jets are designed to keep the fill
besides a check to ensure that the thread is in behind the nozzle as the CT is pulled out of
good condition and that the body and orifices the well.
are not worn. Figure 3-79 illustrates the spray.

3.7.3 PowerCLEAN nozzle

The PowerCLEAN* nozzle is a single-piece
tool with no moving parts (see Fig. 3-78).
Specially angled holes in the body of the nozzle
create a swirling effect that produces a fluid
vortex to carry particles to the surface. The
PowerCLEAN nozzle is the recommended
nozzle for all cleanout applications.

Figure 3-79. Spray from PowerCLEAN Nozzle

As the CT and nozzle are pulled out of the

wellbore, both the side jets and the rear jets aid
in sweeping the particle bed deposited on the
lower side of the wellbore.

64  |  Basic CT Tools

Numerous cleanout tests have shown
that PowerCLEAN nozzles have superior
performance over other nozzle types, allowing
complete removal of solids at lower flow rates.
The PowerCLEAN nozzle is the recommended
nozzle for all cleanout applications.
In general, high levels of erosion and abrasion
of the nozzle are expected when the space
between the nozzle and the casing during the
cleanout job is small and when the flow rate is
high.

PowerCLEAN nozzles are available in a range 3.8 Quick connects

of ODs and with different thread connections.
When ordering a PowerCLEAN nozzle, the
following characteristics must also be selected:
• low or high flow
• regular or high strength.
A quick connect is a tool designed to assist
with making up toolstrings, where it is difficult
to rotate the tools to engage the threads.
It is particularly suited for long toolstring
applications. See Fig. 3-80 for an example of
an open quick connect.

3.7.3.1 High-flow and low-flow nozzles

For best nozzle performance, it is
recommended to use a low-flow PowerCLEAN
nozzle. Low-flow PowerCLEAN nozzles have
smaller nozzle ports that provide more jetting
power and faster cleanouts. However, this
design can lead to more nozzle erosion and
shorter nozzle life compared to that of high-flow
nozzles. The low-flow nozzles work well when
the flow rate through the CT is less than
320 L/min [2.0 bbl/min] or when cleaning a very
large casing (7.0 in and larger) with flow rates
below 480 L/min [3 bbl/min].

The high-flow nozzles are designed to work

with larger CT strings and when the expected
flow rate through the CT is greater than Figure 3-80. Open Quick Connect
320 L/min [2.0 bbl/min] or when cleaning a
small casing. These nozzles have larger ports By using a quick connect in a BHA, the string
and lower power jets than the low-flow nozzles. can be divided into smaller, more manageable
sections. Each section can be made up
individually before loading into the riser or
3.7.3.2 Material strength lubricator section.
PowerCLEAN nozzles can be ordered in
Using the quick connect, each section of the
regular-strength or high-strength material. If
toolstring can be stabbed in and latched before
high erosion and/or abrasion is experienced or
tightening a locking nut to lock the two sections
expected, the more expensive high-strength
together. A set screw prevents the primary
material can be used to reduce the nozzle
collar from backing off.
damage.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  65

Using a quick connect means that only the centralizer will be run. This simple device is
locking nut needs to be rotated to make up the adequate for most purposes.
toolstring. Without it, the entire BHA would have
to be rotated.

Most new quick connects have an antirotational

design to allow them to transmit torque and be
used in applications such as milling.

3.9 Centralizers
Centralizers are fitted to or are included in a CT
toolstring to help keep the tool or nozzle away
from the tubular wall; that is, they centralize
the tool or nozzle in the tubular. This could be
desired for any of the following reasons:

• prevent the tool from hanging up on the

tubular/well bore profile
• assist in locating fish or retrievable tools
• keep logging tool in center of wellbore
• provide stability when milling, drilling, or
underreaming
• improve the displacement of fluids.
Figure 3-81. Rigid Centralizer

3.9.1 Features Some centralizer fins are designed with rollers

The centralizing device or mechanism
commonly used in CT operations may be
configured in one of three ways:
• as an integral part of the tool it is
supporting
• slipping on or clamping on to the toolstring
• as a separate tool in the string.
or balls on the outside edge. Theoretically,
these will reduce the friction between the
centralizer and tubing wall, thereby reducing the
forces required to push a heavy toolstring along
a highly deviated or horizontal well.
Before running a centralizer into a well, the
OD of a rigid centralizer must be confirmed by
running a gauge ring over it.

3.9.2 Rigid centralizers 3.9.3 Bow-spring centralizers

Rigid centralizers are generally configured
As the name suggests, bow-spring centralizers
with three or four fins extending from a
(Fig. 3-82) generally have three bow springs.
short housing (see Fig. 3-81). The OD of the
The flexibility of the bow springs allows the
fins must be slightly less than the ID of the
centralizer to be effective over a range of IDs.
smallest tubing or restriction through which the
The ability of bow-spring centralizers to pass
through restricted diameters and then expand

66  |  Basic CT Tools

to become effective in large diameters offers a
significant advantage over rigid centralizers.
Figure 3-82. Bow Spring Centralizer
Note:
Care must be taken when running
through restrictions to avoid
damaging the relatively weak bow
springs.
Before running a bow-spring centralizer into a
well, the centralizer OD must be confirmed by
running a gauge ring over it.
Note:
Bow-spring centralizers designed
for small ID completions often have
relatively weak body sections. Care
must be taken to avoid subjecting
the tool to excessive tension or
compression.
3.9.4 Link-arm centralizers
Link-arm centralizers (Fig 3-83) are similar to
bow-spring centralizers in that their flexibility
allows effective operation over a range of
IDs and they may be operated below an ID
restriction.
Link arm
Roller
Figure 3-83. Link Arm Centralizer
The tool is centralized by four arms that are
held against the tubular wall by a spring force.
Note:
Care must be taken when running
through restrictions to avoid
damaging the relatively weak link
arms.
Many of the link-arm centralizing tools provide
a secondary function as a tubing end-locating
tool.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  67
 Note:
Link-arm centralizers designed for
small ID completions often have
relatively weak body sections. Care
must be taken to avoid subjecting
the tool to excessive tension or
compression.

Before running a link-arm centralizer into a

well, the centralizer OD must be confirmed by
running a gauge ring over it.

68  |  Basic CT Tools


The tools described in the previous section
were relatively simple tools. In this section, you
will learn about some more advanced tools,
capable of some complex functions.
Redress procedures for the advanced tools
will not be covered in the JET manual series.
These are covered in the technical manuals for
each tool, which can be found on
www.intouchsupport.com.
4.1 Blaster
The Blaster* multilateral reentry stimulation
and scale removal tool (MLT) is a rotating
high-pressure jetting tool for conveying fluid
and/or abrasives downhole for many different
applications (see Fig. 4-1).
Figure 4-1. Blaster
4.0  Advanced CT Tools
The optimum jetting head and nozzles can be
selected for each particular situation.
The tool can be used for a range of applications
including
• acid washes
• solvent washes
• scale removal
• screen cleaning
• formation cleaning
• perforation cleaning.
The system replaces traditional jetting and
wash tools that are useful only for cleaning
out loose fill. The Blaster also replaces the
more aggressive mill/motor or impact hammer
combinations, which can damage the tubulars
and downhole completion hardware.
A special abrasive, called sterling beads, can
be pumped through the Blaster to remove hard,
insoluble scale. The round bead shape allows
abrasive action on the scale without damaging
the tubing wall.
Depending on the application, the Blaster may
be used in the following:
• Jet Blaster* jetting scale removal service
• Scale Blaster* engineered approach to
scale removal service
• Screen Blaster
• Bridge Blaster* bridge and scale removal
service.
The following describe the various components
of a Blaster kit.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  69
4.1.1 Shorty MHA
The Shorty MHA is a short MHA designed to
be run above a Blaster system.

The Shorty MHA comprises three

subassemblies, each containing four tools:

• a CoilTOOLS EZ Set connector

(combination slip and dimple type
connector)
• double flapper check valve
• hydraulic disconnect (ball-drop)
• dual circulating valve (ball-drop or
differential pressure).
The Shorty MHA is a remarkably compact tool
at 76 cm [30 in] in overall length.

Section 3.5 provides more information on

MHAs.

4.1.2 Downhole filter

The downhole filter module (see Fig. 4-2) is
used to prevent the nozzles from being plugged
by debris. The gaps in the filter screen are
1.02 mm [0.040 in]. The module includes a
bypass burst disk (500 psi), which will rupture if
the filter clogs.

Figure 4-2. Downhole Filter Module with Burst Disk

Note:
The burst disk should be
replaced after every job where
acid is pumped. Refer to the
manufacturer’s documentation or
look on www.intouchsupport.com
for more information.

70  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.1.3 Swivel
The swivel module is designed to provide
reliable, controlled rotation of the head (see
Fig. 4-3).
Figure 4-3. Swivel Module
The offset design of the nozzles produces a
rotation force, which powers the swivel.
The optimum rotation speed for the Blaster
tool is <200 rpm. The speed of the swivel is
controlled by a viscous silicone fluid brake,
which resists the rotation of the swivel. The
brake fluid selected depends on the downhole
temperature. If a low-temperature brake fluid
is used in a high-temperature application,
the fluid will become too thin because of the
temperature. The head will then rotate too fast
because the thinned fluid will not resist the
rotation.
On the other hand, if high-temperature brake
fluid is used in a low-temperature application,
the fluid will remain too viscous. The head will
then rotate very slowly, or may fail to rotate at
all.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  71
4.1.4 Drift ring
The drift ring provides a drift of the well to a
certain size during operations. A drift is often
performed on slickline–a tool of a certain OD is
run into and out of a well to confirm that the well
is open to this ID. The tool is generally a gauge
cutter.
When using the Blaster system to remove scale
from the tubing wall, the drift ring will sit on the
deposit and prevent the tool from penetrating
further until the deposit has been removed to
the OD of the drift ring (see Fig. 4-4).
Figure 4-4. Blaster Drift Ring
This design allows the Blaster system to
perform one-pass cleaning to a certain OD.
72  |  Advanced CT Tools
Without a drift ring, repeated passes would be
required to ensure removal of all scale.
The drift ring nose has slots to control the size
of the cuttings that pass the ring. The drift ring
protects the spinning nozzle head and prevents
head stalls from contact with the bore of the
deposit or tubulars.
A different drift ring is required for each
combination of completion ID and nozzle head
OD. Integral drift rings are used for ring ODs
less than 70 mm [2.75 in]. Separable drift rings
are used for drift ring ODs greater than this
size.
The standard drift ring nose should be used
for optimum cleaning performance. However,
a chamfered nose ring (see Fig. 4-5) should
be available as a contingency if difficulty is
encountered passing downhole completion
hardware.
Figure 4-5. Chamfered Drift Ring
4.1.5 Nozzle head
The nozzle head contains the jetting nozzles
that provide the jetting action that drive the
rotation of the tool (see Fig. 4-6). The head
module comprises the drift ring and the nozzle
head. The diameters of the nozzle head and the
drift ring are dependent on the well completion
and the drift diameter of the deposit.
Figure 4-6. Blaster Nozzle Head
There are four standard nozzle head diameters:
• 30.2 mm [1.188 in]
• 38.1 mm [1.500 in]
• 54.0 mm [2.125 in]
• 79.4 mm [3.125 in].
Nozzle heads of 54 mm [2.125 in] diameter and
larger have replaceable carbide steel nozzles;
smaller heads have permanent nozzle inserts
or drilled nozzles.
Generally, the largest possible nozzle head
that can still run inside the smallest scale
drift diameter is selected. Heads configured
with a down nozzle can be used to remove
unconsolidated or relatively soft deposit
bridges.
Note:
The nozzle head MUST be smaller
than the drift ID of the deposit when
attempting to remove scale.
The three standard nozzle diameters are
• 2.36 mm [0.093 in]
• 3.18 mm [0.125 in]
• 3.96 mm [0.156 in].
The JetAdvisor* scale removal software
is used to select the proper nozzle size to
maximize rate of penetration (ROP) and nozzle
horsepower.
Generally, nozzle pressure should be from
1,500 to 3,000 psi.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  73
4.1.6 Surface filter operations. Each fishing job is unique and may
require tools and techniques be modified to
The surface filter module (Fig. 4-7) is suit the application. For complex operations, a
assembled into the high-pressure line between specialized fishing company is often contracted
the pump and the CT reel to prevent pumping to provide special tools and supervise the
large particles (>1.02 mm [0.040-in]) into the operation, because experience is important in
downhole toolstring. This filtering prevents fishing operations.
plugging the small nozzles in the Blaster
system. Details of the fish, wellbore tubulars, well
condition, and surface equipment need to be
Like the downhole filter, the surface filter taken into consideration. When planning to
includes a bypass burst disk that ruptures if the retrieve a fish, it is very important to match the
filter clogs. The burst disk is rated for 500 psi. fishing tool exactly to the fish downhole. This is
why it is important to have a detailed schematic
The tool incorporates a Weco adaptor to allow it
of all toolstrings run in hole, so that you have a
to be made up into the high-pressure line.
good fishing diagram if anything is accidentally
left in the hole.
4.2 Fishing tools
When a tool or downhole device is left in
the hole, it is called a fish. Fishing may be a
planned operation such as the removal of a
temporary bridge plug or pulling a plug from
a downhole nipple. Alternatively, fishing can
refer to the retrieval of a toolstring that was
accidentally lost downhole.

CT fishing is a method of retrieving fish from

a wellbore with a CT string. There are many
different methods and tools used in CT fishing

Flow

Figure 4-7. Surface Filter Module with Weco Union

74  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.2.1 Retrieval tools: spears and
overshots CT connector
The tool that latchs onto the fish downhole is Back pressure
valve
often called a retrieval tool. There are two main
Hydraulic
types of retrieval tool: disconnect

• spears: to latch into an internal fishing neck Accelerator

profile (Fig. 4-8) tool

• overshots: to latch onto an external fishing Weight bars

neck profile (Fig 4-9).

Jar
CT connector
Back pressure
valve
Hydraulic Hydraulic
disconnect release overshot
Accelerator
tool
Fish

Weight bars Figure 4-9. Fishing Tool with Overshot

Spears and overshots can also be used as

running tools to run a matching plug or lock into
Jar position in a wellbore and release from the tool
downhole hydraulically or mechanically.

Hydraulic
release spear 4.2.1.1 Spear retrieval tools
A fish with an internal profile will be fished with
Fish a spear retrieval tool, which goes inside the fish
and engages into the profile.
Figure 4-8. Fishing Tool with Spear Most internal fishing necks have a similar
profile and are loosely termed as GS profiles.
However, GS™ spears are manufactured by
Baker Oil Tools, and the dimensions of the latch
profile referred to in the field as GS profiles vary
between manufacturers. For this reason, care
should be taken with using the terminology GS
between different suppliers of tools. If possible,
it is recommended to physically confirm that
the retrieval tool matches the fish profile before

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  75

running the tool in hole or to an identical tool as
the one that is downhole.

It is important to make sure you have the

correct pulling tool because most pulling tools
look alike. It is frustrating and nonproductive to
run a fishing tool in and attempt to latch onto
the fish, only to discover you have the wrong
fishing tool.

As an example, the fishing neck latch profile in

a Mark IV hydraulic disconnect is deeper than
the TP hydraulic disconnect. The reason for a
deeper latching profile is to have more material Figure 4-10. Hydraulic Release
to jar on. Mark IV disconnects therefore require GS Spear Retrieval Tool
a retrieval tool with longer dogs. The Mark III
retrieval tool has been developed especially to
retrieve the Mark IV disconnect.

The Mark II-A retrieval tool, however, has

shorter dogs and can only be used to fish for
a fishing neck with a profile close at the top,
e.g., the fishing neck of the TP disconnect and
mechanical disconnect. It is not long enough
to fish the deeper profile of the Mark IV fishing
neck.

A spear retrieval tool also exists for latching

internally on fish with no fishing profile. This tool
uses slips that bite into the ID of a cylindrical
fish.
4.2.1.2 Hydraulic release fishing tool
The most common type of spear retrieval tool
run on CT is the hydraulic release retrieval tool
(see Figs. 4-10 and 4-11). Using this type of
tool, you can latch and relatch many times in a
single run.
Figure 4-11. Mark II-A and Mark III Retrieval
Tools
The tool is released from the fish by pumping
through the CT string. The flow through an
orifice at the bottom of the tool creates an
internal pressure in the tool. This pressure
moves a piston, pulling the locking dogs
upwards, into the release position. Different
orifice sizes can be chosen when redressing
the tool: a large orifice requires a high pump
rate to achieve tool release, whereas a small
orifice will allow release at low pump rates.

76  |  Advanced CT Tools

When the flow is stopped, a spring pushes the
piston and the dogs spring back into the latched
position.
Latching procedure
Follow this procedure to use the hydraulic
release retrieval tool to latch onto a fish.
Step 01 Run CT to depth just above the
item to be retrieved.
Step 02 Begin circulation through the CT
string to remove any sand or debris which may
prevent latching the fishing neck of the fish.
Step 03 Gently set down on the fishing
neck until a reduction in weight is observed.
Note:
Do not run inhole rapidly and
impact the fish.
Step 04 Stop pumping. Wait for 1 min
to ensure the dogs move into the latched-in
position.
Step 05 Take a moderate upstrain on
the workstring to verify latching has occurred.
When assured of latching the fish, continue to
pick-up to retrieve the fish. Upward jarring may
be required for stuck fish.
4.2.1.2.2  Release procedure
Use this procedure to release a fish that the
tool has latched onto.
Step 01 Slack off the overpull on the fish
and begin to circulate at a pump rate above
the predetermined release rate (the release
rate should be tested before running the tool in
hole).
Step 02 Wait 1 min to ensure the dogs
move into the release position. Pick up the
string enough to pull out of the fishing neck.
Note:
Overpull must be slacked off before
pumping. If overpull is maintained
on the fish, the dogs are held
against the fishing neck and cannot
slide upward to collapse when
circulation is started.
Points to note
Keep these points in mind whenever using a
hydraulic release retrieval tool.
• surface test. It is important to perform a
function test at the surface before running
the tool in hole. A medium-high rate
for release should be selected to allow
circulation at minimum rate while pulling
out of hole (POOH) with the fish. On the
other hand, the release rate must not be
too high or it might not be achievable under
downhole conditions.
With the retrieval tool made up to the CT,
pump at increments of 40 L/min
[0.25 bbl/min]. and record the pump rate
and pressure at which the dogs on the tool
move into the release position.
If the rate required to release is too high,
use a smaller orifice; if the rate required to
release is too low, use a larger orifice.
• circulation during POOH. After the fish
is latched, it is possible to circulate
while coming out of the hole at a rate
and pressure that is lower than the
predetermined release rate.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  77
4.2.1.3 Mechanical release fishing tool
A second type of retrieval tool that can be run
on CT is the mechanical release retrieval tool,
which operates similarly to the slickline fishing
tools. The disadvantage of this type of tool is
that you can latch a fish only one time in a run.
If the fish must be released for any reason, it
cannot be relatched on the same run and the
tool must be pulled to the surface for redressing
before another attempt at retrieval can be
made.
The tool can be released from the fish by
setting down the weight to shear the pins of the
safety mechanism. Once the safety mechanism
is sheared off, the dogs are held in the release
position until the mechanism is redressed on
the surface.
Latching procedure
Follow this procedure to latch a fish with the
mechanical release retrieval tool.
Step 01 Run the CT to a depth just above
the fish.
Step 02 Circulate through the CT string
to remove any sand or debris that may prevent
latching the fishing neck of the fish.
Step 03 Gently set down the retrieval tool
on the fishing neck until a small reduction in
weight is observed.
Note:
Do not run the CT inhole rapidly
and impact the fish or set heavy
weight on the retrieval tool when
engaged in the fishing neck. Either
action may shear the safety release
pins in the retrieval tool.
78  |  Advanced CT Tools
Step 04 Put a moderate upstrain on the
CT to verify latching has occurred. You will be
able to see from the weight gauge on surface
that the weight of the string has increased.
Step 05 When you are assured that the
fish is latched, continue to pick up the CT
to retrieve the fish. Upward jarring may be
required for stuck fish.
Release procedure
Follow this procedure to release a fish latched
on a mechanical release retrieval tool.
Step 01 Slack off weight or jar downward
on the fish to shear pins in retrieval tool.
Step 02 Pull the retrieval tool out of the
fishing neck and bring it to the surface for
redressing.
Point to note
It is important to perform a CoilCADE* tubing
forces simulation before running a mechanical
release type retrieval tool to predict the
downward force on the tool that can be
achieved at the location of the fish. The number
and type (brass or steel) of shear pins needed
can be selected based on this information.
After each use of the retrieval tool, the shear
pins should be replaced even if they have
not sheared. If the pin is partially sheared or
weakened, the possibility of an accidental
release of the retrieval tool will be increased
during the next operation.
4.2.1.4 Overshot retrieval tools
A fish with an external profile will be retrieved
with an overshot retrieval tool. This tool fits
over the top of the fish and engages onto the
external profile (see Figs. 4-11 and 4-12).
Figure 4-12. Hydraulic Release Overshot Latched on Fish
Figure 4-13. External Fishing Neck Profile
Most external fishing necks have a similar
profile; however, the dimensions of the latch
profile vary between manufacturers. If possible,
it is recommended to physically confirm that
the retrieval tool matches the fish profile. It
is important to ensure before running a tool
downhole that it is the correct retrieval tool
because most retrieval tools look alike.
It is also common to use an overshot to retrieve
a slick fish, which means a fish with no fishing
profile. This type of overshot will have a slips
assembly to grip the cylindrical fish on the
outside. Different sizes of slips (or grapples)
can be used in an overshot body, depending on
the OD of the fish. This type of overshot can be
used to retrieve a parted CT string.
4.2.1.4.1 Hydraulic release JDC pulling tool
The most common type of overshot run on CT
is the hydraulic release JDC pulling tool. Using
this type of tool, you can latch and relatch many
times in a single run.
The tool operates similarly to the hydraulic
release spear. It can be released from the
fish by pumping through the CT string. The
flow through an orifice at the bottom of the
tool creates an internal pressure in the tool.
This pressure moves a piston, pulling the
locking dogs upwards and outwards into the
release position. Different orifice sizes can
be chosen when redressing the tool: a large
orifice requires a high pump rate to achieve
tool release, whereas a small orifice will allow
release at low pump rates.
When the flow is stopped, a spring pushes
the piston and the dogs back into the latched
position.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  79
Latching procedure
This is the procedure to latch onto a fish with a
hydraulic release JDC pulling tool.
Step 01 Run the CT to a depth just above
the item to be retrieved.
Step 02 Begin circulation through the CT
string to remove any sand or debris that may
prevent latching the fishing neck of the fish.
Step 03 Gently set down on the fishing
neck until a reduction in weight is observed.
Note:
Do not run at a rapid rate and
impact the fish.
Step 04 Stop pumping. Wait for 1 min to
ensure the dogs move into the latched position.
Step 05 Pull a moderate upstrain on the
CT string and watch the weight gauge to verify
that latching has occurred. When assured the
fish is latched, continue to pick up the string
to retrieve the fish. Upward jarring may be
required for stuck fish.
Release procedure:
This is the procedure to release a fish latched
with a hydraulic release TDC pulling tool.
Step 01 Slack off weight on the fish and
begin to circulate at a pump rate above the
predetermined release rate (the release rate
should have been tested before RIH).
Step 02 Wait 1 min to ensure the dogs
move into release-in position. Pick up the CT
string and pull the tool out of the fishing neck.
80  |  Advanced CT Tools
Note:
Weight must be slacked off before
pumping to release the dogs. If
overpull is maintained on the fish,
the dogs are held against the
fishing neck and cannot collapse to
release the tool when circulation is
started.
Points to note
Keep these points in mind when using a
hydraulic release JDC pulling tool.
• surface test. It is important to perform a
function test at the surface before running
the tool in hole. A medium-high rate
for release should be selected to allow
circulation at minimum rate while pulling
out of hole (POOH) with the fish. On the
other hand, the release rate must not be
too high or it might not be achievable under
downhole conditions.
With the retrieval tool made up to the
CT, pump at increments of 40 L/min
[0.25 bbl/min]. and record the pump rate
and pressure at which the dogs on the tool
move into the release position.
If the rate required to release is too high,
use a smaller orifice; if the rate required to
release is too low, use a larger orifice.
• circulation during POOH. After the fish
is latched, it is possible to circulate
while coming out of the hole at a rate
and pressure that is lower than the
predetermined release rate.
4.2.1.4.2 Mechanical release overshot
retrieval tool
The mechanical release overshot retrieval tool
operates similarly to the mechanical release
spear. The disadvantage of this type of tool is
that you can latch a fish only one time in a run.
If the tool must be released for any reason, the
fish cannot be relatched on the same run and
the retrieval tool must be pulled to the surface
for redressing.
The tool can be released from the fish by
setting down the weight on the tool to shear the
pins of the safety mechanism. When the safety
mechanism is sheared off, the dogs are held in
the release position, which prevents relatching
on the same run.
Latching procedure
Follow this procedure to latch a fish with a
mechanical release overshot retrieval tool.
Step 01 Run the CT to a depth just above
the item to be retrieved.
Step 02 Circulate through the CT string
to remove any sand or debris that may prevent
latching the fishing neck.
Step 03 Gently set down weight on the
fishing neck until a small reduction in weight is
observed.
Note:
Do not run at a rapid rate and
impact the fish or set heavy weight
on the retrieval tool when engaged
in the fishing neck. Any of these
actions may result in shearing the
safety release pins in the retrieval
tool.
Step 04 Take a moderate overpull on the
CT string and watch the weight gauge to verify
latching has occurred. When assured the fish is
latched, continue to pick up the string to retrieve
the fish. Upward jarring may be required for
stuck fish.
Release procedure:
Follow this procedure to release a fish latched
by a mechanical release overshot retrieval tool.
Step 01 Slack off weight or jar downward
on the fish to shear the pins in the retrieval tool.
Step 02 Pull the tool out of the fishing
neck. You will need to bring the tool to the
surface for redressing before you can latch the
fish again.
Points to note
Keep these points in mind when working with a
mechanical release overshot retrieval tool.
• CoilCADE simulation. It is important that
a CoilCADE tubing forces simulation be
performed before running a mechanical
release type retrieval tool to predict the
downward force on the tool that can be
achieved at the location of the fish. The
number and type (brass or steel) of shear
pins needed can be selected based on this
information.
• mechanical release. After each use of the
retrieval tool, the shear pins should be
replaced even if they have not sheared. If
the pin is partially sheared or weakened,
the possibility of an accidental release of
the retrieval tool will be increased during
the next operation.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  81
4.2.1.4.3 Bowen overshot retrieval tool
A Bowen overshot retrieval tool is used to
engage slick fish (fish without a fishing profile)
externally. Its primary advantage is that it
can catch a wide range of fish sizes, which is
particularly useful when the exact fish OD is not
known.

The Bowen overshot was designed to be run

on jointed pipe rather than on CT. The release
mechanism involves right-hand rotation, which
cannot be achieved with CT. For this reason,
Bowen overshots are not used in standard CT
fishing, but are sometimes used to bait the fish.
Baiting the fish refers to replacing a difficult
fishing profile with a profile that is easier to fish.

In this case, this means that a difficult fish, such

as a parted CT string, may be latched with a Figure 4-14. Barbs on Body OD of Wireline Grab
Bowen overshot, which is good at retrieving
such a fish. A ball would then be dropped to
activate a disconnect higher up in the fishing
string, leaving the Bowen overshot engaged
to the fish. This procedure will leave a GS
fishing neck that can be latched easily with
conventional flow release tools.

4.2.1.4.4 Wireline grab

A wireline grab is a slickline tool for retrieving
parted slickline or wireline cable, which is
sometimes run on CT.

The tool consists of a number of barbs on the

body OD and/or ID that are designed to catch
onto the loose cable (see Figs. 4-14 and 4-15).
The tool often features a wire pusher at the top
of the tool. This part of the tool is very close
to the same size as the ID of the tubing, and it
pushes the cable down in front of it. Figure 4-15. Barbs on Body ID of Wireline Grab

The tool is cycled up and down in the area

where the cable is suspected to be, in hopes of
snagging the cable.

82  |  Advanced CT Tools


Note:
Exercise caution when attempting
to fish wireline–it is notoriously
difficult to accomplish and
attempting to do so can result in
stuck CT.
4.2.1.4.5 Continuous tubing overshot
A continuous tubing overshot is used to retrieve
a CT string. The assembly of slips inside the
overshot bites into the slick fish OD when
tension is pulled on the toolstring.
This type of overshot cannot be released once
it is latched.
4.2.2 Jars, accelerators, and impact
hammers
A jar is a tool that delivers a sudden upward or
downward impact force to the toolstring below
the jar. Jars are run in most fishing toolstrings in
case additional force is required to free the fish.
Many jars release in one direction only.
However, dual-direction tools exist that can
jar up and down. CT jars operate on either a
mechanical or hydraulic principle.
Jars must always be used in conjunction with
a compatible accelerator to ensure maximum
efficiency (see Fig. 4-16). The jar manufacturer
documentation will give details of suitable
matching accelerators.

4.2.1.4.6 Snipper overshot

A snipper overshot is used to dress the top of
an irregular-shaped fish, such as the top of a
parted CT string. Dressing the fish is a term
meaning to prepare the top of the fish to make it
more easily fished.

This type of overshot latches over the fish and

when pulled into tension, bites through the fish,
cutting off the top. It leaves a clean internal and
external profile for easier fishing.

The tool is then retrieved to surface with the

cut pipe inside it. Another type of tool, such as
a continuous tubing overshot, is then run to
retrieve the dressed fish.

4.2.1.4.7 Continuous tubing high-pressure

packoff
The continuous tubing high-pressure packoff is
Figure 4-16. Jar (Blue) with Accelerator (Red)
designed to be run above a continuous tubing
or snipper overshot. It creates a pressure
seal between the workstring and the fish.
This pressure seal allows circulation to be
established through the fish.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  83

4.2.2.1 Hydraulic jars
The operating principle of most hydraulic jars is
similar. When tension is applied to the tool, the
inner mandrel tries to extend. This movement
is restricted by a seal assembly fixed to the
mandrel that restricts the flow of the oil through
a narrow annular gap. The mandrel/seal slowly
travels to a trip point with a larger bore, at which
time the flow of fluid and corresponding travel
of the mandrel are no longer restricted. The
mandrel will then stroke suddenly. At the limit of
travel, the hammer strikes the anvil.
By forcing the oil through a restricted passage,
the flow is slowed enough to delay the stroke by
1 to 2 min from the time tension is pulled on the
jar.
The jar can be recocked by applying minimum
setdown force to the tool. On the closing stroke,
the passage of oil is unrestricted.
The output force of a hydraulic jar is dictated
by the force applied before the jar fires. The
greater the upward pull or downward push that
is applied to the jar, the quicker the jar will fire
and the greater the resultant impact will be. The
output force is typically 5 to 10 times the size of
the CT input force.
4.2.2.2 Mechanical jars
The operating principle of most mechanical jars
is similar. The tool must overcome the force
of an internal spring to be released to fire. For
an upward jarring force, the tool is pulled in
tension. Additional overpull is required until the
internal spring force is overcome; at this point
the jar fires.
The output force of the mechanical jar varies
with the pretensioning of the spring and cannot
be varied downhole. The tool output force is
set on the tool on surface by the amount of
pretension put on the internal spring; thus, it is
less flexible than a hydraulic jar.
84  |  Advanced CT Tools
4.2.2.3 Accelerator
An accelerator must always be placed in the
toolstring above the jar assembly for both
hydraulic and mechanical jars. Its main function
is to store the energy that will be released when
the jar fires. It also helps protect the upper
toolstring and the CT string from the shock load
caused by the jar impact.
Accelerators for CT operations may be either
mechanical or hydraulic. Hydraulic accelerators
are often called intensifiers.
4.2.2.4 Weight bar
A weight bar is a straight piece of heavy wall
pipe, 1 to 2 m (3 to 6 ft) long, with standard CT
threads on both top and bottom. Whenever
possible, a weight bar should be run in the
toolstring between the jar and accelerator.
The additional weight between the jar and
accelerator increases the output force of the jar.
4.2.2.5 Impact hammers
An impact hammer creates a repeated high-
impact force in the up or down direction. It is
activated by pumping fluid and simultaneously
applying pull or push force on the tool,
depending on the impact direction desired.
The level of the impact force can be adjusted
by controlling the pull or compression weight on
tool. An impact hammer can typically generate
impact forces of 30,000 lbf for a 2,000-lbf
setdown force with the CT string. Impact
frequency can be several times per second.
Like a jar, impact hammers are generally run
with an accelerator to minimize the forces
transmitted to the CT string.
4.2.3 Auxiliary fishing tools
Various auxiliary fishing tools are described in
the following sections.

4.2.3.1 Venturi junk basket

In many cases, debris or sand on top of the
fishing neck can prevent latching.

Small debris such as sand can be circulated

from the well with CT. However, larger particles
such as metal debris or large chunks of scale
cannot be lifted to surface through cleanout
methods. Instead, a reverse circulating
Venturi™ junk basket is used. This tool acts as
a downhole vacuum cleaner.

The configuration of the tool creates a fluid

flow path that draws fluid into the empty bottom
chamber of the tool, creating a suction that
draws any debris immediately below the tool
into the chamber (see Fig. 4-17). Spring-loaded
fingers of flutter cages hold the debris inside
the tool. After some time jetting, the tool is
retrieved to surface and the debris can be
emptied from the tool.

If much debris is expected to be collected,

extension barrels can be added to the lower
chamber to provide additional capacity.
However, the number of extensions that can
be used is limited because increased length
reduces the suction. Figure 4-17. Flow of Debris into Venturi Tool

It is good practice to run a Venturi™ junk basket

in the hole if there is any indication that debris
is on top of a fish.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  85

4.2.3.2 Knuckle joints
Knuckle joints are placed in a CT toolstring
if flexibility is required, as they allow
approximately 10 degrees of angular movement
(see Fig. 4-18). When used in a fishing
toolstring, they are generally located between
the jar and fishing tool.
Rotationally Nonrotationally
locked. The castle locked
lock prevents the
rotation.
Figure 4-18. Knuckle Joint with Angular Movement
For operations that involve torque in the
downhole toolstring, the splined version of the
knuckle joint should be used. The standard
nonsplined version allows rotation of the
toolstring at the flexible joint.
86  |  Advanced CT Tools
4.2.3.3 Lead impression block
A lead impression block (LIB) is used to give
a visual image of a downhole fishing neck or
obstruction (see Fig. 4-19). The tool is generally
run on slickline because it is much more
sensitive to downhole forces than CT. However,
if it is run before a CT fishing run, it can give
valuable information.
Figure 4-19. Impression of Downhole Obstruction
The LIB consists of a housing filled with the soft
metal lead. An impression of the fishing neck or
any wellbore obstruction can be created in the
soft metal by running the tool into the fish neck
at high speed.
The results of LIBs are often open to
interpretation as downhole completion
hardware can create marks on the lead
surface. Experience and a good knowledge
of the particular wellbore are often required to
interpret a LIB result.
4.3 Motors and mills
Milling is the name given to the removal of an
obstruction in the wellbore with a downhole
motor and a milling bit. The obstruction is worn
away by the rotating action of the abrasive bit.
Some of the common applications of milling are
• removal of hard scale from a wellbore
• milling out a nipple in completion to gain
access to the lower wellbore
• removing a downhole valve that will not
open
• milling out a composite temporary bridge
plug after a fracture job
• washover an external fishing neck that
cannot be latched with a fishing tool. Used
for stuck CT or tubing, washover refers to
milling away formation, scale, and sand
around the fish.
• milling out cement plugs.
Figure 4-20 shows a typical milling BHA.
4.3.1 Motors
Downhole motors convert the hydraulic power
of the pumped fluid into rotation motion. For
milling applications, the fluid is generally water
or brine, although some motors can run on
nitrified fluids.
The most common type of downhole
motor used in CT operations is the positive
displacement motor (PDM) (see Fig. 4-21).
The motors used in CT interventions generally
range in size from 1 11/16-in to 3 3/8-in OD.

Rotor 1 Stage
CT connector

Dual flapper
check valve

Stator

Hydraulic disconnect
Cavities
(fluid flow)
Dual circulation sub

Downhole motor
(PDM)

Junk millt

Figure 4-21. PDM

Figure 4-20. Typical Milling BHA

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  87

A PDM comprises two main parts: the stator
and the rotor. The rotor is a helical-shaped drive
shaft that fits inside the fixed stator, forming
a tight seal. The stator is a steel tube with an
internally bonded elastomer.
Pumping fluid through the PDM forces the rotor
to turn inside the stator. The rotation of the
motor is transmitted through a coupling and
a bearing assembly that turns the milling bit
without rotating the rest of the toolstring. The
bit box is the only external moving part of the
motor.
During the motor operation, about 5% of
the drilling fluid is diverted into the bearing
compartment to cool and lubricate the bearing
assembly.
Different configurations of output speed
(rpm) and torque are available, and the motor
selection depends on the application:
• High torque-low speed motors are normally
used for milling harder surfaces or objects
like hard scale such as barium sulfate,
cement and tubings.
• Low torque-high speed motors are used
for milling softer object/surface such as a
compacted sand bridge for higher ROP.
4.3.1.1 Operation
It is important to apply weight to the toolstring
very slowly and allow the tool to mill away the
object before reapplying weight. The circulating
pressure should be monitored at all times to
detect a motor stall.
When the milling bit comes in contact with the
object to be milled, the CT weight will drop and
the circulation pressure will increase.
• This lost weight is converted into weight
on bit (WOB) and some additional friction
along the CT string.
88  |  Advanced CT Tools
• The increase in circulation pressure is
called the differential pressure across the
motor. The torque applied increases with
increasing differential pressure.
As the bit mills through the object, the CT
weight returns to the original weight and the
differential pressure and torque decrease. The
CT weight can therefore be used as a torque
indicator.
4.3.1.2 Stalling
Excess WOB will cause motor stalling and,
consequently, a decrease in the life of the PDM.
Stalling can be identified by a sharp increase
in circulating pressure. Circulation through a
stalled PDM motor or repeated stalling will
seriously damage the stator elastomer liner and
other components within the motor.
Typically 500 to 1,000 lbm WOB is maintained
when drilling cement or scale. If the tools stall
frequently, it may be necessary to reduce the
WOB to 100 to 200 lbm for short intervals.
Since stalls can damage the BHA, it is better
to drill with less WOB and fewer stalls than
to apply a higher WOB and increase the
frequency of stalls.
If the stalled bit is picked up off the bottom
when in a drilling mode, the trapped
torque within the toolstring will be released
uncontrollably, potentially causing damage to
downhole components or causing connections
to unscrew themselves.
When a stall condition occurs, the following
procedure should be followed immediately:
Step 01 Stop pumping and allow the
pressure to bleed off, to ensure that the motor
is stopped completely.
Step 02 Pick up the BHA 5 to 10 m off the
bottom.
Step 03 Restart the pump.
Step 04 Slowly run the mill back down to
bottom, reducing the final WOB.
• Bladed mills are generally used on
stationary objects in the wellbore such as
cement plugs or drillable bridge plugs (see
Fig. 4-23).

4.3.2 Mills and bits

A mill is a very simple type of bit with a drag
cutting structure and no moving parts. Mills are
manufactured in various shapes and designs
for specific applications. Mills can also be
custom built for specific purposes.

The mill’s cutting structure is usually an

abrasive face of tungsten carbide chips welded
to the body of the mill. Some of the most
common mill types are described briefly below.

• Step mills are widely used in removal of

nipple profiles and scale removal (such as
barium sulfate), using low-torque output
motors. The stepped profile of the mill
Figure 4-23. Bladed Mill
allows it to gradually open up a restriction,
as shown in Fig. 4-22.

Figure 4-22. Step Mill

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  89

 • Bladed junk mills with extra long mill heads
reducing risk of casing damage are used
for milling stationary and nonstationary
objects, and have a rugged design for
milling loose junk (metal debris inside the
wellbore) (see Fig. 4-24).

Figure 4-25. Rotary Shoe, or Washover Shoe

• Watermelon mills can be used to elongate
casing windows during whipstock
operations, and to remove tight spots,
restrictions, or doglegs in casing (see
Fig. 4-26).

Figure 4-24. Bladed Junk Mill

• Rotary shoes (or washover shoes) are

hollow cylindrical milling tools with a cutting
structure on the internal bore, the bottom,
and the OD. Used for stuck CT or tubing,
they can be used to mill away formation,
scale, and sand around the fish. They
can also be used to mill away the slips on
packers and bridge plugs to release them
(see Fig. 4-25).

Figure 4-26. Watermelon Mill

90  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.3.3 Underreamer 4.4 Packers and bridge plugs
An underreamer is a tool run below a downhole Packers and bridge plugs are used to
motor to clean out below a restriction or through temporarily or permanently isolate zones
tubing applications (Fig. 4-27). Because the downhole. Typical applications of such zonal
blades of the underreamer can be extended to isolation are
effectively increase the tool OD, it can be used
to pass through the production tubing and to • zone testing
mill scale or a fish in the lower completion.
• zone shutoff or abandonment
• selective stimulation
• leak detection
• cement plugs
• velocity strings
• recompletions and workovers
• well control.

4.4.1 Cup packer

Cup isolation tools are the simplest type of
packers (see Fig. 4-28). This type of packer is
often set across a set of perforations to pump
a treatment fluid, such as acid. The cup system
isolates one section of wellbore and ensures
that the fluid enters the selected perforations
only.
Figure 4-27. Underreamer

The blades of the underreamer remain inside

the tool for accessing through restrictions. Then
they expand by centrifugal and hydraulic force
when pumping begins and the downhole motor
begins to turn. For recovery, the blades are
retracted again by stopping pumping.

Common applications for underreaming are

cement removal after squeeze operations
and scale removal. When fitted with specially
hardened knives, the underreamer can be used
for cutting tubing.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  91

 High
pressure

Upper
bypass
Frac ports
sub

High
pressure

In sub

Lower
bypass
ports

Dump
valve

Figure 4-29. OptiSTIM ST

Figure 4-28. Cup Packer

These packers are only used in shallow wells.

The cups wear as they rub along the inside
of the tubulars and are damaged by nipple
profiles. The cups do not expand; therefore,
they cannot be set in a casing that is larger than
the tubing above it.

The cup packer can be set multiple times in

a single CT run. The OptiSTIM ST* straddle
packer for stimulation tool used for CoilFRAC
stimulation applications is a cup tool (see
Fig. 4-29).

92  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.4.1.1 Operation
When fluid is pumped through the CT string,
it exits the ports between the cups. The
differential pressure across the cups forces the
cups to seal against the tubing wall, forcing the
fluid into the perforations. The cups relax again
when pumping is stopped for retrieval.
If required, the tool can then be moved to
cover another set of perforations and reset by
pumping again.
They are commonly used for stimulation
operations, or for permanently hanging off
velocity strings or tailpipe extensions. When
used for velocity string applications, the weight
of the CT string hanging below the packer
keeps it under tension and set.
The OptiSTIM MP* used for fracturing
operations is a mechanical packer with some
additional features (see Fig. 4-31).

4.4.2 Mechanical packers

Mechanical packers require an adequate load
on the packer to keep it set. Depending on the
packer, the load can be tension or compression.
Figure 4-30 shows a mechanical packer.

Figure 4-30. Mechanical Packer in Tension-Set

Configuration

Mechanical packers have a relatively low

expansion ratio, and as such, are generally set
in tubing or used in monobore completions.
They can be set multiple times in one run.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  93

4.4.2.1 Operation
A tension-set mechanical packer is set by
pulling tension on the CT string. When the
toolstring moves upwards, the drag springs are
pulled downwards by friction with the tubing
wall. This motion moves the slips downwards
over a tapered cone that expands the slips until
position. Therefore, the setting and releasing
procedure is exactly the opposite of the tension-
set packer.
Similarly, a compression-set packer is set by
setting a load on the packer and it is released
by pulling upwards on the CT string.

Tapered cone
Slips are drives slips
relaxed outwards to bite
into tubing wall

Packing
element is Pressure
relaxed Packing differential can
element is now be applied
compressed across packing
and creates a element
hydraulic seal

Figure 4-31. OptiSTIM MP

they bite into the tubing wall and set the packer.
The movement also compresses the packing
element, providing a pressure seal.

The packer can be released by relaxing the

tension. The tapered cone moves downwards,
allowing the slips to disengage from the tubing
and the packing assembly to release.

A compression-set packer is essentially a

tension-set packer run in the upside-down

94  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.4.3 Hydraulic set packers
The majority of hydraulic packers are
double‑grip packers, which means that
they include two sets of slips to grip in both
directions. Hydraulic‑set packers are commonly
used in gravel packs, patches, and gas lift
installations. Figure 4-32 shows a hydraulic
packer.
Figure 4-32. Model B Hydraulic Double-Grip Packer
4.4.3.1 Operation
A hydraulic set packer is set by slowly applying
internal pressure to the CT string. This pressure
compresses the sealing element and forces the
slips outward to set against the tubing wall. As
the packer sets, the shifting mechanism is held
in place by a body lock ring or ratchet, so that
when the pressure differential is released, the
packer remains set.
To retrieve the packer, pulling vertically on the
string will shear release screws, allowing the
slips and element to retract. Before retrieving, it
is best to allow the pressures on either side of
the packer to equalize. This equalization helps
to prevent blowing off the packing element as
the packer unsets.
4.4.4 Inflatable packers
Through-tubing inflatable packers, such as the
CoilFLATE inflatable packer, are designed to
seal in a casing section that is larger than the
tubing above it. The packer is small enough
to run and retrieve through the tubing, but
when set, it can expand to two or three times
its original diameter. The higher the possible
expansion is, the lower the pressure differential
that it can withstand will be. The Schlumberger
CoilFLATE inflatable packer has the highest
differential pressure of comparable packers
commercially available.
Inflatable packers have several applications for
well treatments. They can be used as
• retrievable bridge plugs: The packer is set
in the well for temporary abandonment and
water shutoff operations, and is usually
retrieved from the well after the operation
with a retrieval tool.
• cement retainers: The packer is set and
cement is pumped into place above or
below the packer. The CT is disconnected
from the packer and it is left in the hole.
• treatment packers: Chemicals are pumped
into a zone above or below the set packer.
The packer remains attached to the CT
at all times and is retrieved after the
stimulation.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  95
4.4.4.1 Operation
When pressure is applied to an inflatable
packer through the CT string, the inflatable
element (bladder) expands to the walls of the
tubing, providing a pressure seal. Hydraulic
valves in the tool trap the setting pressure
inside the inflatable element, holding the packer
in place even when the CT pressure is reduced.
Figure 4-33 shows an inflatable element
inflating.
Figure 4-33. Inflation Sequence for CoilFLATE Packer
To release the packer, overpull should be
applied to the packer. This force shears the
deflate shear screws, allowing the bladder
pressure to release and the packer element to
relax for retrieval. A second method of deflating
the packer is by overpressuring the element
until the rupture disk bursts. The element
should be allowed to relax for 30 min before
retrieving the inflatable, to allow it to return
to its original size so that it will fit through the
tubulars.
96  |  Advanced CT Tools
4.4.4.2 CoilFLATE
The CoilFLATE inflatable packer was
developed by Schlumberger to perform reliable
through-tubing zonal isolation. This system
includes a hydraulic-set CoilFLATE packer, as
well as tension and pressure operated running
tools. The system is designed to perform
single-trip, single-set zonal isolations. The
CoilFLATE packer can be run in deep, deviated
and horizontal wells. No rotation or drop balls
are required to operate the CoilFLATE; all
operations are achieved through pressure or
vertical movement (tension/compression).
Features and Benefits
The CoilFLATE packer has the highest
differential pressure of comparable packers
commercially available. The 2 1/8-in CoilFLATE
packer is capable of expansion ratios of over
3:1 to set in a casing size up to 7 5/8 in and
29.7 lbm at a differential pressure of up to
2000 psi. Differential pressures across the
element of up to 5000 psi are permitted for
lower expansion ratios.
The CoilFLATE packer can operate in
aggressive chemical environments at
temperatures up to 325 degF while providing
reliable anchoring with applied differential
pressures from either above or below the
element. The element cannot be reused.
Additional features of the CoilFLATE include
• single-set
• packer is retrievable and millable
• set hydraulically with no rotation or drop
balls, therefore wireline CT strings can be
used
• large-bore mandrel (3/4 in) allows higher
pump rates
• pressure rated at 5000 psi differential for
expansion ratios up to 2:1 and 2000 psi for
3:1 inflation at 325 degF
 • can be set in vertical, deviated, and
horizontal wells
• improved anchoring because of long slat
length
Rubber seal
• can be inflated with water, brines, diesel,
mud, and 60%/40% methanol/water
Slat carcass
• resistant to various treatment fluids
including mud acid, clay acid, MSR
100/150, HCL to 28%, appropriate Figure 4-34. CoilFLATE Packer in Set Position
cements, 60% methanol/40% water, diesel
(40 API or heavier), mutual solvents,
aromatic solvents (toluene, xylene), and 4.4.5 Bridge plug
DGS water control system Bridge plugs (see Fig. 4-35) are available in
can be set on perforations up to 1-in diameter retrievable and permanent designs.
at full inject pressure, and 1 ½-in perforations at
3500 psi • Retrievable bridge plugs can be fished
again and are used to temporary isolate a
• can be retrieved through a 2.205-in nipple well for operations such as wellhead repair
with less than 3000 lbf overpull. or upper zone stimulations.
Inflatable Element • Permanent bridge plugs are used to plug
depleted zones or for abandonment.
The CoilFLATE inflatable element consists of
Cast iron or composite bridge plugs are
four major components: bladder, slat carcass,
sometimes used because they are easily
end fittings, and cover.
drillable and can be removed by drilling
them out.
The bladder is a rubber tube that contains
the inflation fluid which causes the element
carcass to expand. The bladder is compression
molded from a carefully developed and tested
elastomer, which has excellent properties in
high temperature and chemically aggressive
environments. The swelling of the bladder
forces the slat carcass and rubber seal against
the wall, anchoring the packer and creating a
hydraulic seal respectively.

The slat carcass is an array of thin, overlapping

metal strips that prevent extrusion of the
bladder and anchor the packer to the casing
wall. The CoilFLATE packer has 22 in of
anchoring slats on either side of the cover for
reliable nonslip performance with differential
pressure from either above or below the
CoilFLATE element.

Figure 4-35. Bridge Plug

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  97
When a well is fractured multiple times using
a drilling rig, drillable bridge plugs are often
used to isolate previous fractured zones before
fracturing the next zone. When all zones have
been fractured, the bridge plugs can be drilled
out with CT. Drillable bridge plugs can be made
from cast iron or a composite material.
The slips on bridge plugs grip in both directions.
They have a relatively low expansion ratio, so
they must be sized reasonably closely to the
point at which they are to plug the well.
Generally, logging tools are run into an oil or
gas well on wireline. Wireline is a conductive
cable that allows signals to be transmitted in
both directions. As the tool is run across the
zone of interest, the tool gathers data and
sends it back to surface (see Fig. 4-36). This
procedure can be conducted in wells with
deviations up to 65 degrees.

4.4.5.1 Operation
Many bridge plugs can be run on drillpipe, CT,
or wireline. A hydraulic setting tool is used for
setting a bridge plug using CT, while a wireline
setting tool is used for wireline applications.

Most hydraulic setting tools set the packer by

dropping a ball and pressuring up the CT string.
Figure 4-36. Engineer Reviewing Real-Time Log

4.5 CT wired applications However, in highly deviated or horizontal wells,

CT wired applications refers to those
applications that utilize an electric cable
inside the CT string to perform typical wireline
functions on CT. The main applications are
• CT logging
• CT perforating.
While the same functions are required for both
applications, different suites of CT downhole
tools are used for each because of the higher
level of force seen in perforation applications.
4.5.1 CT logging
Logging refers to the downhole surveys carried
out with very specialized electronic tools to
gather detailed information on the formation
and wellbore.
the tools cannot be conveyed to the bottom of
the well using wireline, as wireline cannot push
them. In this case, logging tools can be made
up to the downhole end of the CT string and
run in the hole just as is done in a normal CT
run. CT can be pushed into horizontal sections
because of its strength and rigidity.
A wireline cable inside the CT string is
connected to the wireline unit on the surface,
allowing the log to be carried, monitored,
and recorded in the same way as a wireline
log. Figure 4-37 shows a typical setup for CT
logging.

98  |  Advanced CT Tools

 CT unit equipped
with CTL reel

Optional safe tool

deployment system Logging unit

CTL string
CTL support tools
Logging tools

Figure 4-37. Wireline Logging Setup

4.5.2 BHA for CT logging 4.5.2.1 CT logging head

Downhole tools and equipment for CT logging
operations can be categorized as follows:
• CT logging heads: CT modular head
(CTMH)
• CT logging disconnects
○○ CT wired disconnect (CTWD)
○○ CT tension disconnect (CTTD)
As CT logging services have evolved, several
types and designs of logging heads have
been developed, both internal and external to
the Schlumberger organization. Regardless
of the type or design of the CT logging head
and its associated support tools, the following
key functions should be included in the basic
toolstring required to conduct safe CT logging
operations.

• CT logging support tools • mechanical connection to the CT string:

○○ CT quick stab (CTQS) The logging head must provide a means
of mechanical connection to the CT
○○ CT deployment bar (CTDB). The mandrel string. Some tools include an integral CT
on the CTDB has the same OD as the connector as part of the tool; others are
CT string.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  |  99

 made up to a separate CT connector by a multiconductor or monoconductor wireline tools
standard CT thread. by using various CT adapter heads (CTAH) at
the lower end. The 1.68-in OD CTMH-B is for
• double check valve assembly: Double
use only with monoconductor wireline tools.
flapper check valves are mandatory in CT
logging. A special model must be used for
Upper end connected
CT logging because a sealed bypass is to CT connector
required for the electrical cable.
• allow fluid circulation: Fluid circulation ports
allow fluid or nitrogen circulation or N2
lifting as part of the program.
• contingency release: A disconnect releases
the logging toolstring if it becomes stuck
and cannot be recovered. Ball-activated
disconnect tools cannot be used because
Cable anchor
of the electrical cable inside. Generally,
mechanical disconnects are used. These
can be released by pulling a known amount
of overpull on the stuck tool.
• secure logging cable: The electrical cable
inside the CT string can move up and down
during operations. The logging head needs
to secure the logging cable to ensure it
Check valves
does not move because moving will break
the electrical connection with the wireline
toolstring.
Fluid circulation
• electrical connections between cable and ports
Fluid flow
toolstring: The number of connections Internal electrical through check
valves exiting
required will depend on the logging connection
through ports in
toolstring requirements and the type of Pressure
the check valve
bulkhead
logging cable installed in the CT string. housing
Mono connection
4.5.2.1.1  CT modular head (CTMH) (multiple conductor
options available)
The CTMH was designed to provide a reliable
Standard
and easily assembled connection between wireline logging
standard Schlumberger wireline tools and a CT tool connection
logging string. The tool has standard wireline Figure 4-38. CTMH-A
logging tool connections on the lower end of
the tool. The upper end is connected to the CT Typically, multiconductor wireline tools are used
connector. for openhole logging, while monoconductor
wireline tools are used for production logging.
The CTMH has a modular construction
and is available in two sizes (2.17-in and The CTMH incorporates a double flapper check
1.68‑in OD). The 2.17-in OD CTMH-A tool (see valve assembly that includes a bypass for the
Fig. 4‑38) can be configured for use with either electric cable. Fluid pumped through the CT

100  |  Advanced CT Tools

string exits the CTMH via ports in the check For routine CT logging operations, the most
valve housing, below the flappers. commonly used disconnects are

The CTMH does not incorporate a CT
connector or disconnect mechanism. Therefore,
separate support tools must be in the toolstring
to provide these essential functions.
A key feature of the CTMH is that some
of the components can be preassembled
before rigging up the CT equipment at the
wellsite. This preassembly can save significant
operating time and enable a thorough check
and testing process to be completed without
affecting operating time.
4.5.2.2 Disconnects for CT logging
Disconnects for CT logging are required to
provide a means of controlled CT toolstring
release if the logging tools become stuck in the
wellbore.
• CTWD: recommended (see Fig. 4-39)
• CTTD (see Fig. 4-40).
The CTWD is the preferred disconnect tool for
CT logging operations because of the reduced
chance of accidental disconnect. The CTTD
should only be used on applications where the
CTWD is not available.
The CTWD and CTTD should never be used
on perforating applications. The shock force
applied as the guns are fired may cause
unintentional release of the tool or weakening
of the release mechanism, possibly resulting in
accidental disconnect.

Since the CT string contains an electric cable,

balls, darts, or similar activation devices
cannot be circulated through the CT string
to operate the release mechanism. In most
cases, disconnects for CT wired applications
are activated by applying tension to the CT
string to break a weak point. Some models of
disconnect require that pressure and tension be
applied at the same time, and others require a
combination of tension and tool cycling.

With the weak point activated, the upper

toolstring can be recovered to surface and
preparation made for fishing the stuck lower
toolstring using a specifically designed fishing
BHA. Most release mechanisms expose a
known profile or fishing neck in the lower tool
assembly to latch the stuck toolstring with the
fishing BHA.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 101

4.5.2.2.1  CTWD The CTWD release sequence is activated by
applying sufficient tension to break the weak
The CTWD (Fig. 4-39) incorporates a
point that has been installed in the tool. The
tension‑activated device with a mechanism that
CT string must then be picked up and slacked
requires a sequence of CT string movements
off seven cycles, which unscrews a dizzy nut
to give a predictable and controlled release.
assembly to release the tool. Releasing the tool
The tool can be dressed to release at a setting
exposes a standard GS fishing profile in the
between 5,000 and 20,000 lbf.
lower assembly.

The CTWD can be configured with mono- or

Spline mandrel multiconductor logging tool connections on
the top and bottom of the assembly. In most
cases, the CTWD will be located close to or
immediately below the CTMH.
Spline housing

4.5.2.2.2 CTTD
Upper balance seal The CTTD (Fig. 4-39) is activated by the
application of tension to the CT string. The
CTTD assembly will release when a tensile
force greater than the weakpoint rating is
applied to the toolstring. The CTTD can be
dressed to provide release settings of between
Dizzy nut assembly
5,000 and 20,000 lbf.

When activated, a standard GS fishing profile is

Mandrel coupler exposed in the lower CTTD assembly.

Balance mandrel

Weak point sub

Weak point

Figure 4-39. CTWD

102  |  Advanced CT Tools

 Upper adapter 4.5.3.1 CT quick stab (CTQS)
connection
The CTQS (Fig. 4-41) provides a safe and
reliable mechanical and electrical connection
in the toolstring when the toolstring cannot
Spline mandrel
be rotated. This tool is very convenient when
installing or breaking out long or heavy
toolstrings.
Fishing neck profile

Connector rod sleeve

Spline housing

Split ring

Balance piston

Quick-stab adapter

Weak point
Connector rod sleeve

Weak point sub

Figure 4-41. CTQS-B

Lower adapter
connection
Figure 4-40. CTTD
4.5.3 CT logging support tools
The tools described in the following sections
are compatible with the CTMH and have been
developed for the following purposes:
It operates under the same principle as a quick
connect (see Section 3.7) but incorporates an
electrical connection. It is designed for use with
monoconductor toolstrings only.
A split-ring assembly on the CTQS swivels to
enable the connection to be made up without
rotating the upper or lower tool assembly.

• to facilitate the installation and removal of

long or heavy toolstrings
• to deploy logging tools.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 103

4.5.3.2 CT deployment bar (CTDB)
A CT deployment bar (CTDB) enables long
toolstring deployment and retrieval under well
pressure (Fig. 4-42). The bar temporarily holds
the logging toolstring in the BOP while the next
assembly of the logging string is made up.
The CTDB center section is interchangeable
and is matched with the diameter of the CT
string being used, so it can be hung in the pipe
and slip rams of the CT BOP. The pipe rams
provide a pressure seal on the CTDB, while
the slip rams grip the CTDB to prevent it from
moving upward or downward.

Upper thread protector The center section of the CTDB can be

sheared by the CT BOP to provide an ultimate
contingency function, while the bar is secured
Upper head in the BOP during the toolstring makeup or
breakout process. Section 5 provides more
information about deployment.
Split threaded ring

4.5.4 CT perforation
Perforation is the process of shooting holes
in the wellbore cemented casing or liner to
enable oil or gas flow from the reservoir into
Mandrel the wellbore. Perforation is generally done with
explosives deployed in special perforation guns.
Figure 4-43 illustrates a perforation operation
performed on CT.
Conductor carrier

Lower head

Lower thread
proctector

Figure 4-42. CTDB

The CTDB is configured with standard logging

tool connections on top and bottom to ensure
reliable mechanical and electrical connections. Figure 4-43. Perforation Operation on CT
It is available with mono- and multiconductor
connections.

104  |  Advanced CT Tools

Like logging, perforation guns are run into 4.5.5.1 CT logging head
an oil or gas well and activated on a wireline.
However, in highly deviated or horizontal wells, Regardless of the type or design of the CT
the guns cannot be conveyed to the bottom of logging head (CTLH) (see Fig. 4-44) and its
the well using wireline because wireline cannot associated support tools, the following key
push them. A second limitation of wireline is its functions should be included in the basic
low load capacity, which means it cannot run a toolstring required to conduct safe perforation
long and heavy gun string. In either case, CT operations.
can be used to convey the guns into the well.
1.810-10 Stub acme thread
(attaches to coiled tubing
If a CT string with an electric cable inside is connector)
available, it can be used to correlate depth Cable clamp/check valve
very accurately using a gamma ray/casing subassembly
collar locator (GR/CCL) tool and activate the
perforation guns, in one run. Weak-point mechanical
release subassembly

4.5.5 BHA for CT perforation

Downhole tools and equipment for wired CT
perforation operations can be categorized as
follows:
Monocable quick stab
subassembly
• CT logging heads
Heptacable
○○ CT logging head (CTLH) adapter
head
○○ third-party logging head (qualified for
Monocable
perforation)
adapter
• CT disconnect
○○ multicycle disconnect (MCD)
Deployment bar
○○ third-party disconnect head (qualified for
perforation).

Figure 4-44. Different Configurations of CTLH

• The logging head must provide a means

of mechanical connection to the CT
string. Some tools include an integral CT
connector as part of the tool; others are
made up to a separate CT connector by a
standard CT thread.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 105

 • Double flapper check valves are
mandatory. A special model must be used
for wired CT operations because a sealed
bypass for the electrical cable is required.
• Fluid circulation ports allow fluid or nitrogen
circulation or N2 lifting as part of the
program.
• A disconnect releases the toolstring if it
becomes stuck and cannot be recovered.
Ball-activated disconnect tools cannot be
used because of the electrical cable inside.
Special attention needs to be paid to the
contingency release system because of
the high shock loading experienced in
perforation operations.
• The electrical cable inside the CT string
can move up and down during operations.
The logging head needs to secure the
cable to ensure it does not move and break
the electrical connection with the wireline
toolstring.
• The number of electrical connections
required between the cable and toolstring
will depend on the logging toolstring
requirements and the type of electrical
cable installed in the CT string.
4.5.5.1.1  CTLH in perforations
The only Schlumberger logging head that is
currently approved for perforation is the CTLH.
The CTLH is the predecessor of the CTMH
used for logging operations.
The main components of the CTLH are
• cable clamp/check valve assembly: The
cable clamp/check valve assembly is made
up to the CT connector (dimple connectors
are preferred). This assembly contains
a cable clamp to hold the cable. It also
controls the wellbore fluids in the CT via
a double flapper check valve and cable
sealing device.
• monocable MH-22 adapter. The monocable
MH-22 adapter connects the monocable
quick stab to the monocable toolstring.
• PEH-A heptacable adapter: The heptacable
adapter contains a standard wireline
PEH‑A connection on the downhole end for
connecting to a heptacable toolstring.
Note:
The weak-point mechanical release
that comes as part of the CTLH kit
may not be used for CT perforating
operations. It is only suitable for CT
logging operations.
4.5.5.1.2  Bakke logging head
In some locations, the Bakke logging head is
used for perforation. This head can be used
with mono- and multiconductor wireline tools for
CT logging and perforating.

Like the CTMH, the CTLH is a modular tool Technical information on the Bakke head
that provides the connection between standard should be obtained directly from Bakke Oil
Schlumberger wireline tools and a CT logging Tools.
string. The tool has standard wireline logging
tool connections on the lower end. The upper
end is connected to the CT connector.

The CTLH has a modular construction and

can be configured for mono- or multiconductor
tools. The multiconductor adapter has an OD of
3 3/8 in, and the monoconductor adapter has
an OD of 1 11/16 in.

106  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.5.5.2 Disconnects for CT perforation
(wired)
Disconnects for CT perforation are required
to provide a means of controlled CT toolstring
release if the guns become stuck in the
wellbore. Balls, darts, or similar activation
devices cannot be circulated through the CT
string because of the presence of the cable.
Disconnects for wired CT perforation are
activated by a combination of tension and tool
cycling, or a combination of flow and tension.
For wired CT perforation, the most commonly
used disconnects are
• multicycle disconnect (MCD)
• Bakke logging head.
The CTWD and CTTD should never be used
on perforating applications. The shock force
applied as the guns are fired may cause
accidental disconnect of the tool or weakening
of the release mechanism.
4.5.5.2.1  MCD
For wired CT perforation operations, the
only Schlumberger disconnect qualified for
perforation is the MCD (see Section 3.3.5).
The MCD is operated by a combination of
tension and a sequence of cycling (picking up
and setting down), similar to the way the CTWD
is operated.
The load is initially taken on a tensile weak
point rated between 8,000 and 30,000 lbf. A
backup set of bronze shear pins must also be
sheared to achieve a disconnect, as well as
several up-down cycles of the tool. Having a
backup set of shear pins means that the tool
remains connected even if the perforation
shock breaks the tensile weakpoint.
4.5.5.2.2  Bakke disconnect
The Bakke logging head incorporates a
disconnect that uses a combination of
flow‑activation and shear pins to activate
the disconnect. When not pumping or when
pumping below a predetermined rate, no load
is on the shear pins. If you want to release the
tool, you must pump above a predetermined
release rate, to allow the load to come onto
the shear pins, and then overpull the toolstring
above the rating of the shear pins.
Further technical information on the Bakke
head should be obtained directly from Bakke
Oil Tools.
4.6 CoilFRAC
The main application of CoilFRAC stimulation
through coiled tubing operations is in
multilayered reservoirs. Using CT, the client
can treat many individual zones in a reservoir
in a time-efficient manner. Many zones cannot
be treated efficiently using conventional
bullheading techniques.
The ability to treat zones individually allows
the client to efficiently access and stimulate
small zones that previously would have been
neglected for economic reasons. This treatment
increases the hydrocarbon reserves of the
well (the total amount of oil or gas that can be
produced from the well).
Using CT allows the client to fracture multiple
zones in one CT run.
Schlumberger has a range of tools used for
CoilFRAC stimulation services, including
• OptiSTIM MP mechanical packer for
stimulation
• OptiSTIM ST straddle packer for
stimulation.
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 107
These tools are described in the following Spring-energized drag blocks provide the
sections. frictional force necessary for reliable shifting
of the mandrel relative to the J-slot housing
assembly, as well as centralizing the tool in the
4.6.1 OptiSTIM MP wellbore. The setting and releasing operation of
The OptiSTIM MP is a tension-set packer as the tool is similar to that of a tension-set packer
described in Section 4.4.2 (see also Fig. 4-29). described in 4.4.2.1.
It has been designed with additional features to
optimize it for fracturing operations.
4.6.1.3 Shear release
The tool is conveyed on CT and provides zonal The OptiSTIM MP features an additional safety
isolation between two zones, directing the mechanism that is not available on standard
pumped fracturing fluid and proppant into the tension-set packers: the emergency shear
zone below the set packer. For multiple zone release. The emergency shear release can be
stimulations, a mechanical plug such as a sand used if the packer becomes stuck in the set
or bridge plug can be used effectively to isolate position and cannot be moved up or down. This
lower zones. release is activated by pulling an overpull on the
packer. The shear release allows the cone to
drop away from the slips, releasing the packer
4.6.1.1 Features slips and relaxing the pressure element.
The additional features of the OptiSTIM MP
over standard mechanical packers are After the shear is released, the tool is no longer
functional for stimulation purposes, but it can be
• element backup system. A special element retrieved to surface.
backup device gives reliable performance
at high pressure differentials. Extrusion of
the element is minimized, thus allowing it to
last longer.
• shear release system. The shear release
system allows the cone to drop away from
the slips for emergency release of the
packer.
• equalization feature. This feature allows
annulus and CT pressures to equalize
faster at the end of the stimulation
operation.

4.6.1.2 Operation
The OptiSTIM MP operates with only up-and-
down motion and can be set and released
multiple times during a single run. The
controlling mechanism is a simple automatic
J-slot mechanism. This configuration allows
the tool to be mechanically set and released
without rotating the tubing.

108  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.6.2 OptiSTIM ST 4.6.2.1 OptiSTIM ST chassis
The OptimSTIM ST tool is a cup straddle The OptiSTIM ST chassis is a cup tool that is
system used for selective stimulation operations used to straddle and treat a specific zone in
(Fig. 4-45). The typical treatments placed with a wellbore. When pumping commences, the
the tool are proppant fractures, acid fractures, differential pressure across the cups forces the
and N2 fractures. cups to seal against the tubing wall, forcing the
fluid into the perforations. The cups relax again
High when pumping stops.
pressure
The straddle has rubber cups located on both
Upper the uphole and the downhole ends of the tool.
bypass These allow straddle zone to be sealed.
ports
Frac sub
(out) The OptiSTIM ST has additional features over
standard cup packer tools as described in
High Section 4.4.1.
pressure

• reverse lower cup: An additional cup

(reverse lower cup) is placed below the
lower straddle cup, facing in the opposite
direction of the lower straddle cup. The
In sub reverse lower cup prevents penetration
of the sealed straddle zone by formation
fluid that is produced from zones below the
Lower
bypass straddle packer. If the wellbore contains
ports fluid, the reverse cup can cause problems
Dump while running the tool in hole because the
valve fluid is pushed downwards like a piston.
Holes are often drilled through the lower
inverted cup to allow some fluid bypass.
Figure 4-45. OptiSTIM ST • internal bypass: The internal bypass allows
wellbore fluid to bypass the cups through
Because it is a straddle tool, additional barriers a flow port in the chassis. This bypass
are not needed between zones, such as sand limits the swab effect of running a cup tool
plugs or bridge plugs. Using a straddle system and reduces cup wear, giving the ability to
is the most efficient way of treating multiple perform operations at greater depths and
zones. extending tool life.

The complete OptiSTIM ST tool system
comprises three major components:
• OptiSTIM ST chassis
• pressure balanced disconnect (PBD)
• multicycle dump valve (MCDV).
• out/in: The out/in concept allows the
straddle section to be cleaned without
reverse circulation. When cleaning the
tool, the flow comes out the fracture sub,
down the straddle, into the in sub, and out
the dump valve. The out/in concept also
reduces erosion to the exit ports of the
fracture sub and thus increases tool life.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 109

4.6.2.2 Pressure-balanced disconnect
(PBD)
The pressure-balanced disconnect (PBD) was
designed specifically for CoilFRAC stimulation
applications. The PBD is a mechanical
disconnect that is pressure balanced to internal
pressure, which prevents a tool release from
the high treating pressures often seen in
fracturing operations. The release load must
be determined with the CoilFRAC Advisor
software.
The PBD has two fishing contingencies if the
tool must be left in hole. An overshot can latch
the OD of the housing or a GS spear can latch
an internal GS fishing neck.
4.6.2.3 Multicycle dump valve (MCDV)
After a fracturing operation, the CT string
generally contains excess proppant and
fracturing fluid. The OptiSTIM multicycle dump
valve (MCDV) enables CT pumping to flush the
fluid and proppant from the CT string into the
wellbore below the packer, instead of reverse
circulating to surface.
The MCDV is open by default and closes
by flow activation. Once the tool is closed,
pressure maintains the closed position. It
opens again when the pressure is bled off to
a pressure specified by setting the tool before
running it in hole.
The MCDV can drastically reduce the amount
of fluid used for cleaning up the CT and tool at
the completion of each zonal treatment, while
reducing the risk of formation damage to zones
above the treatment zone.
4.7 DepthLOG CT
Certain types of CT operation require a very
exact depth measurement, for example,
• perforating
• setting a packer or bridge plug to isolate a
zone.
Normal CT depth measurement uses
measurements taken on the surface. Using a
universal tubing length monitor (UTLM, see
Fig. 4-46) can give an accuracy of 1 m/1,000 m,
which is acceptable for normal operations, but
this error may be unacceptable for perforation
jobs.
Environmental effects such as the following
all add error to the surface measurement
technique:
• pressure
• temperature
• pipe stretch
• helical buckling
• plastic deformation.

Operationally, this feature means that the

MCDV is open while running in hole. When
the pumping treatment begins, the flow will
shut the MCDV and will then flow only into the
perforations between the cups. At the end of
the treatment, the MCDV will open when the
pressure is bled to below a preset pressure. All
the fluid and proppant in the CT string will be
allowed to be flushed into the sump below the
OptimSTIM ST. When all the fluid and proppant
is out, the tool is ready to be moved to the next
zone to continue stimulation.

110  |  Advanced CT Tools

 This technology moves the CT depth reading
from the surface to downhole. This shift
improves the accuracy and confidence in
performing depth-critical operations on CT.

The tool properties are as follows:

• invisible to the BHA below the tool

• OD = 2 1/8 in
• ID = 0.656 in (5/8-in ball can pass,
recommend 0.5 in)
• length = 140 in (3.6 M)
• qualified for perforation
• acid and H2S resistant.
The tool consists of four main sections
(Fig. 4‑48).

Figure 4-46. UTLM

The UTLM gives excellent surface depth

measurement. For critical applications, the
true downhole depth is required. In response
to this problem, Schlumberger developed
the DepthLOG* CT depth correlation tool,
an advanced tool that gives downhole depth
measurements. This electronic tool is based
on the wireline casing collar locator (CCL). It
recognizes the collars on the casing downhole
and uses pressure pulse technology to send
a signal to surface at each casing collar. The
pressure pulses produce a real-time CCL
correlation log at surface, enabling the operator
to accurately correlate depth in reference to the
baseline log (see Fig. 4-47).

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 111

Figure 4-47. DepthLOG CCL Compared to Baseline Log

Signaler

“Processor”

Battery (power
for signaler and
processor

Casing collar
locator (CCL)

Figure 4-48. DepthLOG Tool

112  |  Advanced CT Tools

4.7.1 Casing collar locator (CCL) Primary flow Baypass
path flow path
This section is a traditional wireline CCL tool
with flow-through capability. It recognizes the
collars on the casing downhole because of the
change of thickness of the metal. Orifice

Piston
4.7.2 Processor
This section monitors the output of the CCL
module. When it detects a casing collar
signal from the CCL, the processor issues a
command to the signaler. Downstream
flow

4.7.3 Signaler
The signaler sends the pressure pulse to
surface when it receives the command from the Primary flow Baypass
path flow path
processor.

The signaler contains two flow paths: a primary

flow path and a secondary flow path containing Orifice
an orifice. When the processor sends a
command, the motorized signaler closes the Piston
primary flow path to divert flow through the
choked secondary path. After a predetermined
time, the motor again opens the primary flow
path, allowing the fluid to flow back through the
primary path (see Fig. 4-49).
Downstream
flow
Closing and opening the primary flow
path creates a pressure pulse, which can
Figure 4-49. Piston Effect Used by DepthLOG
be detected at the surface by monitoring
equipment.
4.8 Discovery MLT multilateral tool
4.7.4 Battery Multilateral wells are wells comprising one
A lithium battery module powers both the main bore and several branches, or laterals.
processor and signaler. A high-temperature Drilling several laterals from one main wellbore
battery pack is needed for high-temperature increases the amount of oil that can be
applications. recovered from a reservoir.

On the surface, the data are processed and
displayed in log format that can be printed at
the wellsite.
One of the disadvantages of multilateral
wells is that it is difficult to know which lateral
the CT string will enter during intervention.
The Discovery MLT* multilateral tool shown
in Fig. 4‑50 is a tool designed to provide

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 113

controlled, selective CT entry in multilateral
wells. It has the following properties:
• flow operated, no electrics
• orienting tool (OT) indexes 30 degrees
when flow rate cycles
• controllable bent sub (CBS) pivoting elbow
provides pressure signal when junction is
located
• custom software plots pressure signal and
records tool index position
• can be used with almost all fluids (including
28% hydrochloric acid, solvents, etc.)
• can be used to convey wired logging
tools by using a flowthrough housing
with wireline BHA, followed by the MLT
assembly.
When the bent sub enters the lateral, it
springs into the larger space, opening up the
bore of the tool and causing a change in the
pump pressure. The software will interpret
the pressure reaction during the passes
and instruct the operator which orientation
corresponds with the lateral.
The orienting tool can then be cycled back to
the chosen orientation and the bent sub will be
in the correct position to enter the lateral on the
first attempt. Figure 4-51 shows the sequence
of pressure and orientation.
4.8.2 Tool description
The Discovery MLT has the following
components.
4.8.2.1 Orienting tool
The orienting tool is in the upper part of the
Discovery MLT BHA and delivers the torque
required to rotate the lower part of the BHA.
The torque performance for both subs is
independent of tool depth (Fig. 4-52).

4.8.2.2 Controllable bent sub

Figure 4-51. Discovery MLT Entering Well Lateral
4.8.1 Operation
The Discovery MLT consists of
The bent sub angle is controlled by varying the
surface pump rate. When the flow rate through
the sub exceeds the adjustable threshold rate,
the sub changes its shape from straight to
angled (Fig. 4-53).

• a bent sub that angles the nose of the tool

towards the wall of the well
• an orienting tool that turns the BHA by
stopping and restarting pumping.
The tool is run below the lateral junction and
several upward passes are made across the
junction level, while the pumping pressure is
monitored using special software. The orienting
tool is cycled before each pass to turn the BHA
by 30º.

114  |  Advanced CT Tools

 Pressure Pressure Pressure

Figure 4-51. Discovery MLT Operation Sequence

Orienting sub indexes 30 deg when flow rate cycled

Figure 4-52. Orienting Sub Operation

Pump rate > threshold rate activates bent sub

Figure 4-53. Bent Sub Operation

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 115

4.8.2.3 Discovery MLT software
The Discovery MLT software displays several
essential parameters, such as the tool
orientation relative to the lateral window. It
also monitors previous rotations and guides
the operator through rotation cycles, providing
accurate real-time information on the downhole
situation (see Figs. 4-54 and 4-55).

Figure 4-54. Pressure Response as Logged by Discovery MLT Software

Figure 4-55. Orientation as Tracked by Discovery MLT Software

116  |  Advanced CT Tools

 5.0  Tool Deployment

Tool deployment and reverse deployment refer

to the systems and procedures used to insert
and retrieve toolstrings in and from live wells
safely.
Injector head
• Deployment is needed for long toolstrings
and is common in applications such as CT Stripper
logging, perforation, and drilling, although it
may be used for any application.
• Reverse deployment refers to retrieving the
toolstring from the well. Assembled
height up to Wireline
60 ft lubricator
5.1 Requirements of deployment system
The main requirements of any deployment
system are

• provide necessary test and check facilities Quad BOP

for pressure testing before running in hole
• provide necessary contingency options,
such as annular seal redundancy Wellhead
connection
• provide necessary pressure/fluid barriers
(for example, the North Sea field requires
two barriers at all times) Figure 5-1. Lubricator Deployment Equipment

• minimize exposure of personnel to risk (for The advantage is that the system utilizes
example, avoid fall and suspended load conventional equipment and tools–no special
hazards). equipment is needed.

The disadvantages are that

5.2 Lubricator deployment
The principle of lubricator deployment is
to use a lubricator that is long enough to
accommodate the entire toolstring. Figure 5‑1
shows a lubricator and the deployment
equipment.
• A large crane (capacity and height) is
required to support the injector head,
leading to dependence on a crane operator.
• Operator visibility of all CT and pressure
control components is limited.
• Injector head and stripper access is
restricted.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 117

 • Personnel are exposed to suspended load
hazards during the rigup.

5.3 Tower deployment

Tower deployment uses a long lubricator for
deployment similar to lubricator deployment;
however, the injector head is supported by a
purpose-built tower. This tower enables safe
deployment while providing a safe working
access to the injector head and platforms for
making up tools, etc. It also provides support
and stability for the long lengths or risers.
Figures 5-2 and 5-3 show different towers.

Figure 5-3. Tower Used in CT Operations

In most cases, the upper section of the tower

can be raised and lowered with hydraulic rams,
which makes breaking and making up the
lubricator connections safer than relying on a
crane operator. More advanced towers allow
the injector head to be skidded horizontally as
well as vertically. This flexibility allows easy
access to the wellbore if slickline or wireline
need to be run between CT operations.

Towers are generally modular and can be

built to the most convenient height for a given
operation. Towers are in use on land and
Figure 5-2. Deployment Tower Used in Germany offshore operations. The advantages and
disadvantages of towers are as follows:

• Personnel are not exposed to suspended

load hazards during the rigup or
deployment procedure.
• Personnel have full access to the injector
head and stripper.

118  |  Tool Deployment

 • The crane is needed only to place the
injector head on the tower. It is not required
for support during the operation.
• The towers are very efficient for multirun
operations. Sheave wheel
and stuffing box
The disadvantages are

• a specially designed tower is required

• operator visibility of all CT and pressure
control components is limited.

5.4 Bar deployment system Wireline

lubricator
This deployment system is used where the
toolstring length exceeds the capacity of the
lubricator section. By using this deployment
system, the BHA can be deployed in two or
more shorter sections, allowing the injector
Quad BOP
head to be operated at a reduced height.

The bar deployment system uses the standard

quad or combi BOPs and a deployment bar that
has the same OD as the CT. Wellhead
connections

There are some variations, but the main steps

are as follows.

Figure 5-4. Installing the Toolstring for Bar Deployment

Step 01 Installing the toolstring (see
Fig. 5-4)

1. Rig up quad BOP on wellhead and

pressure test.

2. Rig up wireline lubricator on top of BOP

with CT toolstring (deployment bar on
top).

3. Open wellhead valves and run CT

toolstring into well on slickline until
deployment bar sits across BOP.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 119

Step 02 Hanging off toolstring (see
Fig. 5‑5)

1. Hang off deployment bar in BOP: two

sets of pipe/slip rams (double pressure
barrier).

2. Rig down slickline, leaving the top of

the deployment bar exposed above the
BOP.

Blind rams

Quad Shear rams

BOP

Pipe/slip rams

Pipe/slip rams

Wellhead
connection

Figure 5-5. Hanging Off the Toolstring for Bar Deployment

120  |  Tool Deployment

Step 03 Connecting the toolstring
(see Fig. 5-6)

1. Rig up the CT injector head. The upper

part of the BHA is made up to the CT
string.

2. Connect the upper BHA and

deployment bar.

Blind rams

Shear rams

Pipe/slip rams

Pipe/slip rams

Figure 5-6. Connecting the Toolstring for Bar Deployment

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 121

Step 04 Running the toolstring • Dual pressure barriers are in place
(see Fig. 5‑7) throughout operation.
The disadvantages of bar deployment systems
1. Make up the lubricator and equalize are as follows:
pressure.
• There is a high dependency on crane
2. Open two sets of pipe/slip rams on the operator skills during crucial stages of the
BOP. operation.
• Injector head weight must be stabilized to
enable tool connection.
• Operators are exposed to suspended load
hazards during the rigup and rigdown
periods.
• This method is slower than lubricator or
tower deployment.
Toolstring
• Additional equipment is required.

Blind 5.4.1 Safety standard requirements

rams
The Well Services Safety Standard 22 (InTouch
Shear Content ID# 3829976) has the following
rams
requirements for bar deployment:
Pipe/slip
rams • Deployment/reverse deployment operations
are limited to 3,500-psi wellhead pressure
Pipe/slip (WHP).
rams
• Dual pipe and slip functions are required to
engage the deployment bar.
• A dual barrier system is required.
• The shear function must be capable of
Figure 5-7. Running the Toolstring for Bar Deployment shearing the deployment bar.
• An equalization pressure test is required
The toolstring is ready to run inhole. each time a deployment stack connection
is made up.
The advantages of bar deployment systems are
as follows: • Only Schlumberger-approved deployment
bars are to be used.
• The system enables reduced height
working for injector head.
• It requires minimal special equipment.
• Improved redundancy and contingency
options are available.

122  |  Tool Deployment

5.4.2 Surface equipment requirements 5.4.2.2 Riser
The surface equipment includes the following: A wireline or slickline operation requires a riser
that is long enough to accommodate the length
• BOP of the toolstring to be deployed, including at
least a 1-m [3.3-ft] safety margin.
• lubricators and riser
• quick latch (optional)
• side door deployment tool (SDDT) Note:
(optional) For fishing operations, ensure that
you consider the additional length
• annular BOP (ABOP) (optional). of the fish that will be in the riser
during reverse deployment.
5.4.2.1 BOP
The BOP selected must have an ID greater
than the largest OD of any tool to be run
A CT operation requires a riser that is long
through them.
enough to accommodate the length of the BHA
above the BOPs and the CT’s upper BHA.
A quad or a combi BOP with an extra set of
slips and pipes must be used to handle the
deployment bars. Typical BOP configurations 5.4.2.3 Quick latch (optional)
are shown in Fig. 5-8.
A hydraulic quick latch will allow the equipment
to be easily manipulated and safer access to
the wellhead equipment.
Stripper
Deployment
bar Note:
For safety reasons, the only
approved hydraulic quick latch for
Shear/seal use in Well Services is the Texas
Oil Tool model. The hydraulic
Flanged
quick latch must be operated
adaptor independently of the CTU hydraulic
systems–i.e. using the hand pump
Combi BOP 10K supplied by TOT. The hydraulic
dual pipe/slip
quick latch must not be hooked to
Wellhead the CTU hydraulics. See Must Do
adaptor
Maintenance Bulletin 1196, Intouch
ID 4018478, for more information.
Wellhead

Figure 5-8. Typical BOP Configuration for Deployment

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 123

5.4.2.4 Side door deployment tool (SDDT)
(optional)
The SDDT is a hydraulic window within the
pressure control equipment stack. It can be
opened to allow the final BHA connection
be made up without breaking the lubricator
stack. This feature allows access to the actual
makeup of the tool without needing to work
under a suspended load hazard.
5.4.2.5 ABOP (optional)
An ABOP may be used to provide a second
annulus pressure barrier instead of a second
pipe ram.
5.4.3 Downhole deployment equipment
The following downhole deployment equipment
may be required:
• deployment bar
• BHA pressure barrier, such as check
valves or a Kelly cock valve.
5.4.3.1 Deployment bar
Deployment bars are a section of the tool that
will facilitate the handling of the toolstring in the
BOP pipe and slip rams. The OD of the middle
section of the deployment bar is matched to
the ID of the CT string being used, so that the
same CT BOP can be used.
When hanging off the string, the bar should be
spaced so that the following apply:
• Two sets of pipe and slip rams can close
around the bar (either four separate rams
or two combi rams).
• The bar sits across the shear rams for
contingencies.
• There is access to the top of the
deployment bar above the BOP connection.
124  |  Tool Deployment
The deployment bar must be capable of being
sheared by the BOP in case of emergency, for
example, if a leak develops through the check
valves when the string is positioned across the
wellhead valves.
A specially designed deployment bar for CT
logging (CTDB) is discussed in Section 4.4.3.2.
The CTDB has standard wireline connections
at the top and bottom to allow mechanical and
electrical continuity through the deployment bar.
5.4.3.2 BHA pressure barrier—check
valves or Kelly cock valve
A double pressure barrier must be installed in
the BHA to prevent flow up through the BHA,
which would result in the loss of well control.
This barrier typically consists of a check valve
or a Kelly cock valve.
5.4.3.3 Quick connect
To make up the connection between the upper
BHA and the lower BHA hanging in the BOP, a
quick connect is needed because neither part
of the toolstring can be rotated. A well-designed
quick connect will allow the toolstring to be
made up even if the two parts of the BHA are
not completely aligned.
See Section 4.7 for more detail on quick
connects.
5.5 CIRP system
Schlumberger has a special system for
deploying long strings of perforation guns: the
CIRP* completion insertion and removal under
pressure system.
5.5.1 Safety standard requirements
The pressure control equipment stackup
for a Category I CIRP operation is defined
in the Well Services Safety Standard 22
(see Fig. 5‑9).

The CIRP system can be used with both

electric- and hydraulic-activated perforation. Stripper side door
or conventional
All Schlumberger carrier guns from 2 to 10,000 psi
4 1/2 in can be run using the CIRP system.
This system uses special connectors between BOP 10,000
psi BOP kill
the perforating guns and a modified BOP that inlet double
can mechanically make up and break these isolation
connectors under pressure. valves Pump in tee

Guns are added one or two at a time on CT or Riser

slickline. After each gun is added, that portion Gate valves 10k
of the string is hung off in the BOP.

The following are the advantages of a CIRP

deployment system:

• enables safe deployment and retrieval of

long perforating gun strings under pressure CIRP deployment
actuator 10k
• satisfies special requirements for
explosives handling Flanged spool 10k
• allows retrieval of spent gun string under Combi 10k shear/seal and
piper/slip function
pressure
• enables long intervals to be perforated in Well head adapter
one run
• avoids necessity for killing well and
associated damage to formation.

Figure 5-9. Minimum Requirements for Category I CIRP

Operation

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 125

5.5.2 Surface equipment requirements • lower actuator
The following surface equipment is required. ○○ no-go ram: positions snaplock with
respect to upper and lower rams
○○ locking ram: secures snaplock and
5.5.2.1 CIRP deployment stack
prevents string from rotating or moving
The modified BOP used for CIRP deployment is vertically.
called a CIRP deployment stack (Fig 5-10). This
The lock and rack allows connection or
deployment stack is not truly a BOP because
disconnection of the connector(s) under
it performs no pressure-sealing function. Each
pressure inside the lubricator assembly. Gun
of the two actuators on the deployment stack
string segments matching the lubricator length
performs two functions:
can be installed or removed using the gate
• upper actuator valve. The gate valve closes in the well before
bleeding off and opening the lubricator, during
○○ guide ram: centers upper section each step of the operation.
of snaplock connector to facilitate
connecting or disconnecting
○○ robot arm rack: engages and moves
breech lock sleeve to locked or unlocked
position.
Gun
Rack

Guide ram actuator

Rack actuator

No go ram actuator

Lock actuator
Lock

CIRP connector

Gun

Figure 5-10. CIRP Deployment Stack Containing Guns

126  |  Tool Deployment

5.5.2.2 Lubricators or riser
The deployment operation requires a lubricator
or riser long enough to accommodate the gun’s
length and the pick-up and lay-down assembly,
including at least a 1-m [3.3-ft] safety margin.
Where possible, a long lubricator can be used
to deploy two guns at a time. This ability will
speed up the deployment procedure, for long
gunstrings in particular.
5.5.2.3 Quick latch (optional)
The use of a hydraulic quick latch will allow the
equipment to be easily manipulated and offer
safer access to the wellhead equipment.
Pinion teeth
Sleeve
Fork sub
Latch spring
Figure 5-11. CIRP Connector
5.5.3 Downhole deployment equipment:
CIRP connector
The specially developed CIRP snaplock
connectors (Fig. 5-11) consist of an internal
sealed ballistic transfer (SBT) and an outer
mechanical breech lock connector. The SBT
permits the gun sections to be introduced into
the well under pressure without flooding the
guns.
Figure 5-11 shows the outer mechanical
assembly. The lower portion of the connector,
the deployment receiver, has two major
components: the breech lock sleeve and the
fork sub. The upper portion of the connector
consists of only the deployment stinger.
Deployment
stringer
Deployment
connection
Deployment
receiver
JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 127
To assemble the upper and lower snaplock
sections, the breech lock sleeve is rotated to
the unlocked position with the deployment stack
robot arm. As the stinger is lowered into the
breech lock sleeve, the tapered ends guide the
stinger into the correct engagement.

When fully engaged, the sleeve is rotated to

the locked position. The female grooves in
the sleeve engage the male grooves on the
fork sub and the deployment stinger, securely
connecting the two snaplock sections.
Figure 5-12. Locate Slick Joint at No-Go Ram

5.5.4 CIRP deployment sequence

A special pick-up/lay-down assembly is
Step 02 The guide ram is then closed to
align the sections of the snaplock connector to
required to handle individual gun sections. The facilitate disconnection and connection. Next,
assembly typically consists of a standard pick- the robot arm rack is extended, which unlocks
up/lay-down sub, a short gun tube for weight, the breech lock sleeve.
and the upper section (deployment stinger) of a
snaplock connector. The pick-up/lay-down assembly is lifted,
withdrawing the deployment stinger from the
The step-by-step procedure for connecting gun receiver in the top of the gun. The robot arm
sections follows. rack maintains the breech lock sleeve in the
unlocked position for connection of the next gun
Step 01 The gun section is lowered and section (see Fig. 5-13).
the slick joint is positioned across the no-go
ram. The no-go ram is closed. The string is
lowered until the deployment receiver shoulders
on the no-go ram. The lock ram is extended,
locking the gun section in place. The CIRP
connector is now correctly positioned with
respect to the deployment stack rams and
locked in place (see Fig. 5-12).

Figure 5-13. Lock and Rotate Sleeve and Remove Stinger

128  |  Tool Deployment

step 03 The process of removing the
lubricator, connecting the next gun section to
the pick-up/lay-down assembly, and reinstalling
and testing the lubricator is performed.
Pressure isolation is achieved by closing the
gate valves above the deployment stack.

step 04 The second gun section is

lowered into the deployment stack (Fig. 5-14).
The deployment stinger on the new gun section
is stabbed into the deployment receiver secured
in the stack. The robot arm rack is retracted,
locking the two sections of the snaplock
connector together. Tension is applied to the
string to confirm that the two sections are
properly engaged; the no-go ram is still closed
(see Fig. 5-15).
Figure 5-15. Stab and Lock Connector
step 05 With connection confirmed,
tension is released and the upper and lower
rams are retracted. The string is lowered until
the next snaplock is positioned in the stack.
The no-go ram is closed and the process is
repeated until the entire string is assembled
(see Figs. 5-16 and 5-17).

Figure 5-14. Run in Next Length with Stinger

Figure 5-16. Run in to Next Connector

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 129

Figure 5-17. Locate Next Connector

To perform reverse deployment of the guns,

carry out the above steps in reverse.

The cycle of connecting one gun section

requires 20 to 30 minutes.

130  |  Tool Deployment


Each location needs a proper system for
managing the CT downhole tools. This system
should include procedures for
• tool tracking
• proper maintenance and storage
• prejob checks
• BHA schematics
• postjob checks
• spare parts control and ordering.
Some guidelines for implementing such a
system are given below.
6.1 Tool identification and tracking
Tools must be identified and tracked.
• Each tool should have a unique ID number
assigned to it. This number should be
engraved onto the tool surface, not
stenciled. Stenciling may damage the
properties of the tool.
• A system should record the location of
each tool (workshop and wellsite X) every
time it moves. This system can be a
computer spreadsheet, a hand-written log,
or a similar system.
• Each tool should have a log sheet, detailing
manufacturer, any maintenance performed,
jobs done, and parts replaced.
• Relevant technical manuals and drawings
should be available for each tool.
6.0  CT Tool Management
6.2 Maintenance
The tools must be thoroughly maintained after
each use.
• Thoroughly clean all parts.
• Check and deburr all threads.
• Use antigalling compound on all threads.
• Put downhole grease on all O-rings.
• Inspect all O-rings for damage.
• Replace O-rings and consumables as
necessary.
• Coat all parts in oil to minimize corrosion
during storage
• Green tag each tool when redressed and
record maintenance in the tool log sheet.
6.3 Before running in hole
When a job is planned, all the tools must be
checked and prepared.
• Check for green tag to determine the
maintenance status.
• If in doubt as to whether the tool was
properly maintained since the last use,
disassemble it according to the appropriate
technical manual and rebuild it.
• Ensure that any required shear pins, shear
screws, or weakpoints are in place. Confirm
that the correct number and type of each
are in place for the proposed operation.
• Ensure that any required burst disks are in
place. Confirm that the rating of the burst
disk is correct for the proposed operation
and that the surface is not damaged in any
way.
JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 131
 • Check all O-rings and seals. Lubricate with • fishing neck specification (GS, JDC, and
downhole grease. extended) and a schematic of the fishing
neck profiles. Many electronic templates for
• Reassemble tool and tighten all
BHAs are available locally or on InTouch.
connections.
• Drift IDs of all tools required to pass drop
balls. Note:
It is extremely important to make
• Ensure that correctly sized drop balls are as detailed a BHA schematic
available. as possible as part of the
• Create a BHA schematic as described in preparation with physically verified
section 6.1.4, BHA schematics. measurements. You never know
when you may accidentally leave a
• Confirm that the correct fishing tool is on
fish downhole and need to fish it.
location to retrieve the disconnect in this
particular toolstring.
• Ensure sufficient spares of all O-rings,
seals, burst disks, shear pins, shear
screws, and weakpoints are available on
site. Order to keep minimum stock well in
advance of a job.

6.4 BHA schematics

A fully detailed BHA schematic must be made
for each toolstring run in hole (see Fig. 6-1).
This schematic should contain the following
information at a minimum.

• description of each component, specific ID

number
• makeup length of individual components,
total length of tool
• OD of each component and toolstring
maximum OD
• ID of each component and toolstring
minimum OD
• crossover description and threads
• number and type of shear pins, with the
shearing pressure/tension of each pin and
the total of each connection
• ball size required for tool activation. If
toolstring includes multiple ball-operated
tools, ensure that the biggest ball seat is
uphole of the smallest ball seat.

132  |  CT Tool Management

Figure 6-1. Sample BHA Schematic

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 133

6.5 Postjob and storage guidelines
To maintain the tools postjob and store them,
follow these guidelines.
• When the BHA is back on surface, wash
the BHA, inspect visually, and record any
damage.
• Thoroughly clean, inspect, redress
according to the manual or STEM
guidelines, and replace damaged parts and
consumables.
• File or sand out wrench marks with emery
paper.
• Green tag tools ready for next operation
with tool name, ID, trip ball size, your
signature, and the date.
• Red tag tools to be redressed or repaired
at base.
• Use thread protectors.
• Spray with protection liquid to prevent rust.
• Update tool log sheet.
134  |  CT Tool Management
6.6 Spares management
Spares should be kept available, especially in
locations where ordering replacements could
result in long waits for delivery.
• Ensure spare consumables on jobs
(O-rings and shear pins).
• Report usage of spare parts after each
operation to allow for reordering.
• Store rubber items appropriately in hot or
cold climates.
6.7 Workshop requirements
Follow these guidelines in the workshop.
• Always use a soft grip vise to hold tools.
This practice will prevent marking or
deforming the tools.
• Use strap wrenches instead of pipe
wrenches.
 7.0  Glossary

ABOP Annular blowout preventer

AMMT American MT, type of thread
BHA Bottomhole assembly
BOP Blowout preventer
BOSS Ball operated shear sub
Box The part of the connection that is threaded on the inside
CCL Casing collar locator
CIRP Completion Insertion and Retrieval under Pressure: deployment system for long strings of
perforation guns
CO2 Carbon dioxide
CT Coiled tubing
CTDB CT deployment bar
CTLH Coiled tubing logging head
CTMH Coiled tubing modular head
CTQS CT quick stab
CTTD Coiled tubing tensile disconnect
CTWD Coiled tubing wired disconnect
EUE External upset end, type of thread
GR/CCL Gamma ray/casing collar locator
GS Type of fishing profile
H2 S Hydrogen sulfide
HNBR Hydrogenated nitrile rubber
HRC Unit of hardness Rockwell C
ID Internal diameter
JDC Type of overshot fishing tool
MCD Multicycle disconnect (disconnect for use in wired CT operations)
MCDV Multicycle dump valve (dump valve for use with OptiSTIM CT CoilFRAC tool)
MHA Motor head assembly
NBR Nitrile rubber
OD Outer diameter
PAC Type of thread, named after Phil A. Cornell Tool Rental Co.
PBD Pressure balanced disconnect

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 135

 Pin The part of the connection that is threaded on the outside
POOH Pull out of hole
RIH Run in hole
SDDT Side door deployment tool
STEM Standard equipment maintenance
WOB Weight on bit
WHP Wellhead pressure

136  |  Glossary
 8.0  References

Schlumberger employees must be familiar with

the relevant safety regulations and precautions
because of the many hazards involved in the
oilfield industry. The following are the minimum
documents you should review before attempting
to carry out any of the procedures described in
this document.

• Well Services Safety Standard 4: Facilities

and Workshops, InTouch Content
ID# 331367
• Well Services Safety Standard 5: Pressure
Pumping and Location Safety, InTouch
Content ID# 3313681
• STEM 1 DOT & Auxiliary Check
(STC‑3039G) Drivers Trip Report, InTouch
Content ID# 4248056
• JET 12, Coiled Tubing Handling and
Spooling, InTouch Content ID# 4221738
• JET 13, Coiled Tubing Pressure Control
Equipment, InTouch Content ID# 4221744
• JET 16, Introduction to Coiled Tubing
Operations, InTouch Content ID# 4221749
• JET 31, Coiled Tubing Units, InTouch
Content ID# 4221769
• CoilTOOLS technical manuals on
www.intouchsupport.com.

JET 36 -Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 137

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138  |  References
 9.0  Check Your Understanding

1. What is the most common material for 6. Which thread is commonly used for
normal service downhole tools? running slickline tools on CT?
a. 17-4 PH a. RTJ
b. 4140 steel b. PAC
c. Inconel c. sucker rod
d. AMMT
2. H2S service tools need to be made of a
harder material than standard service. 7. In which case would you choose an
a. true internal connector?
b. false a. where high tensile forces are expected
b. where a restriction in the completion
3. Which of the following metals is most likely limits the tool OD
to gall during thread makeup? c. where high rotational forces are
a. 17-4 PH expected
b. 4140 steel d. where a ball-operated tool will be used
c. Inconel
8. Which type of connector is recommended
for motor applications?
4. The presence of which two gases affects
the choice of material for downhole tools? a. external dimple
a. N2 b. external slip
b. CO2 c. internal dimple
c. CH6 d. roll-on
d. H2S
9. Which type of connector has the highest
tensile load capacity?
5. What type of thread is recommended
by CoilTOOLS software for standard a. external dimple
applications? b. external slip
a. AMMT c. internal dimple
b. DS 10 Stub Acme d. roll-on
c. PAC
d. CS Hydril

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 139

10. Which CT applications do not require
check valves in the BHA as a standard?
a. PowerCLEAN
b. CoilFRAC
c. nitrogen kickoff
d. fishing
11. Which type of double flapper valve allows
drop balls to pass?
a. double flapper check valve
b. double ball check valve
c. double barrier pumpout plug
12. When running a velocity string, which
type of double barrier tool allows pumping
during RIH?
a. double barrier pumpout plug
b. double pumpout check valve
13. In what type of CT operation would you
choose a rotationally locked disconnect?
a. acid treatment
b. nitrogen kickoff
c. cleanout
d. milling
14. Which two of the following statements are
true?
a. A GS retrieval tool is used to latch an
internal fishing neck.
b. An overshot retrieval tool is used to
latch an internal fishing neck.
c. A GS retrieval tool is used to latch an
external fishing neck.
d. An overshot retrieval tool is used to
latch an external fishing neck.
140  |  Check Your Understanding
15. When using a pressure-balanced
disconnect, the internal pressure will affect
the release pressure.
a. true
b. false
16. What is the most common type of
disconnect in CT applications?
a. hydraulic ball-drop
b. differential pressure
c. mechanical
17. A differential pressure disconnect is
___________.
a. pressure balanced
b. nonpressure balanced
18. When running two ball-operated tools in
one toolstring, which ball seat should be
on top?
a. the largest one
b. the smallest one
19. What type of disconnect should be
avoided for heavy impact operations?
a. hydraulic ball-drop
b. differential pressure
c. mechanical
20. Which of the following disconnects can be
used for CT logging applications?
a. hydraulic ball-drop
b. mechanical
21. How many times can you use a burst disk 26. What component of the Blaster tool
for acid jobs in a dual circulation valve? prevents it from passing scale until it has
a. once been removed?
b. until it becomes damaged a. drift ring
c. as many times as you want b. nozzle head
c. swivel
22. The PowerCLEAN nozzle uses which type
of jets? 27. In fishing, all GS profiles are standard.
a. front a. true
b. side b. false
c. rear
d. all of them 28. What is the preferred type of retrieval tool
for CT applications?
23. Which is not a function of a centralizer? a. hydraulic release
a. preventing the tool from hanging up on b. mechanic release
the tubular
b. assisting in locating fish or retrievable 29. A JDC retrieval tool is a (an)
tools ____________ retrieval tool.
c. assisting in making up toolstring a. overshot
d. providing stability when milling, drilling, b. spear
or underreaming
30. Which type of retrieval tools can be
24. How many filters are used in the Jet latched and unlatched many times in one
Blaster system? CT run?
a. none a. hydraulic release
b. one b. mechanical release
c. two
d. three 31. Which tool should always be run with a
jar?
25. The swivel in the Jet Blaster tool is braked a. impact hammer
by a ____________. b. accelerator
a. mechanical brake c. Venturi junk basket
b. friction brake
c. viscous fluid brake 32. With which type of jar can you vary the
level of impact force downhole?
a. hydraulic jar
b. mechanical jar

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 141

33. What type of tool will be run to remove 38. What is the advantage of CT logging over
debris from the well? logging on wireline?
a. lead impression block a. cheaper
b. Venturi junk basket b. faster
c. knuckle joint c. can access deviated and horizontal
wells
34. What are the two main components of a d. can be done in a live well
positive displacement motor (PDM)?
a. splined shaft 39. What is the recommended logging head
b. stator for CT logging?
c. swivel a. CTLH
d. rotor b. CTMH
c. Bakke
35. How can motor stalling be reduced?
a. redress the motor 40. Which logging head cannot be used for
CT perforation?
b. reduce the weight on bit (WOB)
a. CTLH
c. increase pump rate
b. CTMH
c. Bakke
36. Which type of packer can pass through
the production tubing and set in a larger
casing below it? 41. Which two types of disconnect are
a. mechanical approved for CT perforation?
b. cup a. CTLH
c. inflatable b. MCD
d. hydraulic set c. CTWD
d. Bakke
37. Which two of the following pack types can
be set multiple times in one CT run? 42. When using a dump valve in a CoilFRAC
a. mechanical application, where are the excess fluid
and proppant pumped to?
b. cup
a. into sump below packer
c. inflatable
b. reverse circulated to surface
d. hydraulic set
c. squeezed into formation

142  |  Check Your Understanding

43. The DepthLOG tool transmits the depth
signal through an electric cable inside the
CT string.
a. true
b. false

44. Which type of deployment can be done

without the assistance of a crane?
a. bar deployment
b. tower deployment
c. lubricator deployment

45. The CIRP system is used for deploying

_________________.
a. logging tools
b. fishing toolstrings
c. perforation guns

JET 36 - Coiled Tubing Downhole Tools  | 143

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144  |  Check Your Understanding