JET Manual 16

Introduction to
Coiled Tubing
Version 1.0
JET Manual 16 Introduction to Coiled Tubing
InTouch Content ID#: 4221749
Version: 1.0
Release Date: February 22, 2007
Owner: Well Services Training and Development, IPC

Schlumberger private

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 Table of Contents

1.0  Introduction 1
1.1 Learning objectives 1
2.0  What Is Coiled Tubing? 3
2.1 Introduction 3
2.2 Why was coiled tubing developed? 4
2.3 Why use CT? 6
2.3.1 Live well intervention 6
2.3.2 Continuous circulation 6
2.3.3 Rapid mobilization and rig-up  6
2.3.4 Environmental impact 6
2.3.5 Tripping time 7
2.3.6 Pipe handling 7
2.3.7 Crew levels 7
2.3.8 Cost 7
2.4 History of CT manufacturing 7
2.5 Wall thickness configuration 7
2.6 CT applications overview 8
3.0  CT Fluid Conveyance 9
3.1 Nitrogen kickoff 9
3.2 Fill removal (cleanout) 10
3.2.1 Cleanout fluids—selection criteria 10
3.2.2 Cleanout fluids 11
3.2.3 BHA selection 13
3.2.4 Cleanout best practices 14
3.3 Cement placement 16
3.3.1 Best practices for cementing through CT 17
3.3.2 Squeeze cementing 19
3.3.3 Cement plugs 22
3.4 Stimulation  25
3.4.1 Matrix acidizing 26
3.4.2 Hydraulic fracturing 27
4.0  CT Tool Conveyance 29
4.1 Coiled tubing fishing 29

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  iii

 4.1.1 Fishing tools: spears and overshots 29
4.1.2 Auxiliary fishing tools 30
4.1.3 CT milling 33
4.2 Downhole valve/sliding sleeve manipulation 35
4.3 Blaster services 36
4.3.1 Characteristics 37
4.3.2 Applications 37
4.4 Zonal isolation  39
4.4.1 Cup-type packers 39
4.4.2 Mechanical 39
4.4.3 Hydraulic set 40
4.4.4 Inflatable 40
4.4.5 Bridge plug 41
4.5 CT Logging 41
4.5.1 Logging on CT 42
4.5.2 Logging cables 43
4.5.3 Installing a cable 44
4.5.4 Surface equipment 46
4.5.5 Downhole equipment 47
4.6 CT perforating 48
4.6.1 Perforation techniques 50
4.7 CT Drilling 52
4.7.1 Conventional and CTD comparison 52
4.7.2 CTD advantages 53
4.7.3 CTD disadvantages  54
4.7.4 CTD applications 54
4.7.5 Surface equipment 55
4.7.6 Downhole equipment 57
5.0  CT Completions 61
5.1 CT velocity string 62
5.2 CT tailpipe extension 63
5.3 CT tubing patch 63
5.4 Electric submersible pumps 64
5.5 Spoolable gas lift valves 64
5.6 Through-tubing gravelpack 65
6.0  Glossary 69
7.0  Check Your Understanding 71

iv  |  Table of Contents

 1.0  Introduction

Schlumberger Well Services carries out many

different types of coiled tubing (CT) operations
in many different environments.

This job execution training (JET) manual briefly

describes the history of CT and introduces you
to the different types of CT applications carried
out by Schlumberger CT services. The manual
also explains the advantages of using CT over
other intervention methods.

CT equipment is covered in detail in other JET

manuals:

• JET 12, Coiled Tubing Handling &

Spooling, InTouch Content ID# 4221738
• JET 13, Coiled Tubing Pressure Control
Equipment, InTouch Content ID# 4221744
• JET 31, Introduction to the Coiled Tubing
Unit, InTouch Content ID# 4221769
• JET 32, Downhole Tools, InTouch Content
ID# 4221770.

1.1 Learning objectives

Upon completion of this training, you should be
able to

• explain why CT was developed

• identify the three major types of CT
intervention
• understand the main CT application
principles
• identify the advantages of CT applications.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  

 This page left intentionally blank

  |  Introduction
 2.0  What Is Coiled Tubing?
2.1 Introduction
Coiled tubing (CT) is a generic name often used
for coiled tubing services (CTS). Schlumberger
has over 200 CT units worldwide, making it the
largest provider of CT services in the world.
Figure 2-1 shows a coiled tubing unit.
Operationally, a CT intervention involves
pushing a coiled tubing string into an oil or gas
well to perform work without disturbing the
existing well completion. The ability to pump
through the CT string allows many different
types of operations be carried out. At the end
of a CT operation, the CT string is pulled out of
the well and spooled back onto the CT reel.
Guide arch
(Gooseneck)
CT string
Injector head
Stripper
BOP
Well head
Figure 2-1. CTU Terms
CT technology is based on the use of the CT
string, which is a continuous flexible steel tube
that is spooled on a reel for transport and
storage. The reel is a part of the coiled tubing
unit (CTU). You will learn more about CTUs in
JET manual 31.
At surface, the end of the CT string is
connected to a high-pressure swivel joint on the
reel hub so that fluids can be pumped through
the string continuously if necessary.
The CT string is run into and retrieved from the
wellbore by the injector head. The injector head
is controlled hydraulically from the CT cabin by
the CTU operator. The hydraulic system gives
the operator a high degree of control over the
position and movement of the CT string.
Control cabin
Reel Power pack
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  
A stripper assembly is mounted below the
injector head. This assembly provides a
dynamic seal around the tubing string, which
means that the CT string can be run and
retrieved on live wells.

The blowout preventer (BOP) assembly

is mounted between the stripper and the
wellhead. This provides secondary and
contingency pressure control functions.

The CTU is operated from the control cabin,

which is designed as a single point control and
monitoring station for the primary functions of
the CTU and auxiliary equipment.

2.2 Why was coiled tubing developed?

Coiled tubing (CT) was developed to perform Figure 2-2. Bowen Tools Unit
remedial work on live wellbores.

Figure 2-2 shows a Bowen tools unit rigged up

on a Wellhead. To perform remedial work, three
key elements were required:

• A continuous conduit that can be inserted

into the well and allow fluid conveyance
• A means of running and retrieving the
string from the well under pressure
• A device capable of providing a dynamic
seal during any operation.
The first fully functioning coiled tubing unit
(CTU) was developed in California (1962) by
Bowen Tools Company to wash out sand in the
wells in the Gulf Coast. Figure 2-3 shows the
evolution of CT.

  |  What Is Coiled Tubing?

 Strip length String OD Material strength

50 ft 3 1/2 in PLUTO
Typical CT string

250 ft 3/4 in 50,000 psi

6,000 ft x 3/4 in

1 in Material type
60,000 psi
1 1/4 in

1,000 ft Low alloy carbon steel

15,000 ft x 1 1/4 in 1,700 ft
(Japanese) 3,500 ft 1 1/2 in

Continuous milling 70,000 psi

process developed
1 3/4 in, 2, 2 3/8 in

2 7/8 in 80,000 psi

90,000 psi

3 1/2 in, 4 1/2 in 100,000 psi

Titanium
20,000 ft x 1 1/2 in Composite material
110,000 psi

120,000 psi
28,000 ft x 2 3/8 in Chrome alloy
(Largest string 2003)

Figure 2-3. CT Evolution

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  

2.3 Why use CT?
The direct competitors for CT services are
snubbing units and small workover rigs. Each
technique has its own advantages depending
on the particular work or operating conditions.
The following sections explain the advantages
of CT operations over snubbing units and
workover rigs.
which is one of the primary reasons why CT is
used for live well intervention.
2.3.3 Rapid mobilization and rig-up
Since all the components of a CT rig
are modular and mobile (i.e., skid- or
truck‑mounted), they can be moved from
location to location easily.

A CT unit can be rigged up more quickly than

2.3.1 Live well intervention most conventional rigs (Fig. 2-4).
A workover intervention is a major maintenance
or remedial treatment of an oil or gas well. In
many cases, a workover requires removing and
replacing the production tubing string after the
well has been killed and a workover rig placed
on location.

CT operations, however, can be run through the

existing production tubing or casing, while it is
still producing oil or gas. The pressure control
equipment used on every CT operation allows
the workover to be done safely on a live well.

The ability to perform an intervention without

having to kill the well and remove the
production tubing saves the client time and
money and avoids potential damage to the
formation.
Figure 2-4. CT Express

2.3.2 Continuous circulation

The CT reel is equipped with a swivel and
piping, which allows fluid to be pumped through
the tubing while the reel is rotating.
CT enables continuous circulation while running
in hole (RIH) and pulling out of hole (POOH)
because the tubing is continuous. With a
conventional workover rig or snubbing unit,
circulation must be stopped to break out each
stand of pipe.
2.3.4 Environmental impact
The CT unit footprint is usually much smaller
than a workover rig. This results in less
environmental damage from unit setup. In
addition, since the CT unit and its circulating
system are self-contained, any spilled fluids
are also contained, thereby protecting the
environment.

The ability to continuously circulate or convey

a well treatment provides better well control,

  |  What Is Coiled Tubing?

2.3.5 Tripping time
Because a CT string is continuous, it can
be run into a well and pulled out quickly.
Conventional tubing consists of individual tubing
joints with connectors on each end. These
connectors must be screwed together when
running in hole and broken (unscrewed) when
pulling out of a well.
Making and breaking a tubing string is not only
time consuming, but can result in accidents on
drilling and workover rigs.
The time saved and increased safety in
continuously running CT is one of the biggest
advantages of CT.
2.3.6 Pipe handling
Pipe handling refers to picking up, laying down,
and maintaining pipes. Handling one reel of
pipe usually requires less manpower and
resources than handling many lengths of pipes.
2.3.7 Crew levels
CT operations require less personnel than
conventional drilling rigs. The newest CT units
such as the CTX and CT SEAS* coiled tubing
safer, efficient automated solutions reduce the
number of personnel required even further by
improving efficiency.
2.3.8 Cost
CT is generally less expensive than using a
conventional drilling rig to perform well services
because of reduced time and personnel.
However, in each case, the client makes
an economic evaluation between all the
intervention options (e.g. wireline, slickline,
snubbing, or workover rig).
2.4 History of CT manufacturing
Low carbon steel alloys are used to
manufacture CT strings. These alloys come
in various material yield strengths. The yield
strength is usually given in pound per square
inch (psi) and indicates the load-bearing
capacity of the material.
The most commonly used material yield
strengths currently used are
• 70,000 psi
• 80,000 psi
• 90,000 psi
• 100,000 psi.
Early continuous tubing was limited to relatively
small diameters and short string lengths (76 m
[250 ft]), because of manufacturing limitations.
The short strings were combined using butt
welds to make longer strings. The many butt
welds resulted in numerous string failures.
Today, improved welding techniques allow CT
strings to be milled continuously without the
need for butt welds.
2.5 Wall thickness configuration
A nontapered CT strings has only one wall
thickness. To manufacture a nontapered string,
several sections of CT with the same wall
thickness are welded together. The string has
the same outside diameter, inside diameter, and
wall thickness over its entire length.
For tapered CT strings, several sections of
CT with different wall thicknesses are welded
together (Fig. 2-5). The result is a CT string with
varying inside diameters and wall thickness.
The outside diameter is constant over the entire
length of the string.
Tapered strings are very common and are
typically necessary to enable safe access into
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  
wellbores deeper than approximately 3,500 m
[11,483 ft]. The heavier wall thickness at surface
supports the weight of the CT string in the well
plus any tensile force at the downhole end (for
example, during fishing operations).

Figure 2-5. Tapered CT String

2.6 CT applications overview

CT applications can be broken into three major
categories:

• fluid conveyance
• tools conveyance
• CT completions.
The next three sections of this JET manual will
cover each one individually.

  |  What Is Coiled Tubing?


CT is used to convey fluids into the well to
either circulate the fluids (Fig. 3-1) or inject the
fluids into the reservoir (Fig. 3-2).
Figure 3-1. Nitrogen Circulated to Lift the Well
Figure 3-2. Stimulation Treatment
3.0  CT Fluid Conveyance
The main CT fluid conveyance operations are
• nitrogen kickoff
• fill removal (cleanout)
• cement placement
• stimulation: matrix acidizing
• stimulation: hydraulic fracturing and
CoilFRAC* stimulation through coiled
tubing.
These applications are described in the
following pages.
3.1 Nitrogen kickoff
After performing drilling and workover
operations on a well, the well is usually dead,
which means it does not flow. This is because
the column of fluid left inside the wellbore
exerts a hydrostatic pressure that is greater
than the formation pressure. This pressure
prevents the flow of the reservoir fluid.
Nitrogen (N2) circulation through CT is the most
common method of starting production. This is
often called a kickoff or lift (Fig. 3-3). It is one of
the most common applications of CT.
The technique is relatively simple. The CT
string is run into the well and nitrogen gas
is circulated through the string into the fluid
column in the well. This gas reduces the
hydrostatic pressure of the column. When this
pressure is reduced below the pressure of the
reservoir, the well begins to flow.
In some cases, the well can be kicked off by
circulating a light fluid, such as diesel, instead
of nitrogen gas.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  

Figure 3-3. Nitrogen Lift
3.2 Fill removal (cleanout)
The most common application of CT is
removing fill materials, such as sand or debris,
from the wellbore (Fig. 3-4). Fill material can
seriously reduce or even stop the production
of a well by blocking the flow of oil or gas. It
can also block slickline or wireline tools from
passing for well operations or prevent downhole
sleeves and valves from opening or closing.
Figure 3-4. Sand Removal
10  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
Common sources of fill are
• sand or fine material from the reservoir
• proppant (material used in hydraulic
fracturing operations)
• debris from a workover.
To remove fill, a cleanout fluid is pumped
through the CT string with the end at the point
of the fill buildup. The fluid is circulated back
up the annulus between the CT string and
the completion tubing to carry the fill back to
surface.
At the surface, the returns may be handled by
surface well testing equipment or go directly
into the production line.
Fill can be removed mechanically and/or
chemically. In most cases, fill is removed by
circulating a fluid through the CT while slowly
penetrating the fill with a nozzle. Sometimes,
a chemical such as acid, solvent, or another
liquid is pumped to help chemically break down
the fill before it is circulated out of the wellbore.
When the fill is tightly packed or consolidated,
a downhole motor or impact hammer may be
required to mechanically break down the fill.
Fluid is circulated to remove sand from the
wellbore. Because of the complex hydraulics,
solids removal is generally more difficult in
highly deviated and horizontal wellbores.
3.2.1 Cleanout fluids—selection criteria
The choice of cleanout fluid is very important
in ensuring the success of a fill cleanout
operation. The choice can depends on the
following design criteria:
• completion size and CT size: In small ID
completions, the cleanout fluid will move
upwards very fast and will generally carry
solids with it. In large ID completions, the
fluid will travel more slowly for a given
 pump rate, and the solids may fall out. The
CT size determines the maximum pump
rate possible. Together, the completion
size and the CT size determine the annular
velocity. This is extremely important in the
design of the cleanout.
• reservoir pressure and temperature: The
hydrostatic pressure of the cleanout fluid
should be less than the reservoir pressure
to ensure the fluid returns to surface and is
not lost in the reservoir. Also, some fluids
will break down at high temperatures.
• well deviation: The more deviated the well
is, the more difficult it is to remove the
solids. More complex computer modeling
needs to be used in horizontal and highly
deviated wells to calculate what type of
fluid will be effective.
• fluid compatibility: The fluid must not
damage the reservoir or cause a sludge
or emulsion when mixed with the reservoir
fluid.
Table 3-1 summarizes the effect of various
well properties on the difficulty of achieving a
successful cleanout.
3.2.2 Cleanout fluids
There are four classes of cleanout fluids:
• water, brine, or diesel
• gelled fluids
Table 3-1. Factors Affecting Complexity of Cleanout
Best Case
Completion size Small ID, such as 3 1/2-in tubing
CT size Large OD, 2 in
Reservoir pressure Medium to high pressure, can hold Low pressure, cannot hold column of fluid
column of water
Reservoir temperature < 93 degC [200 degF]
Well deviation Vertical
Fluid compatibility No compatibility issues
• foamed or nitrified fluids
• slugs.
3.2.2.1 Water, brine, or diesel fluids
Water, brine, and diesel are the most common
fluids used in the most simple cleanout
candidates, such as vertical or slightly deviated
wellbores (less than 30 degrees) which can
hold a column of fluid.
These fluids work by keeping the particles in
suspension in their turbulent flow.
The main advantages of water and brine
are the low cost and the ease of handling. A
compatibility test should be performed to check
if the fluid has any compatibility problems with
the reservoir rock or the wellbore fluid.
When a salt is added to water, the fluid is
called brine. Common salts used in mixing
brine are potassium chloride (KCl), sodium
chloride (NaCl) and calcium chloride (CaCl2).
Brine is preferred over water when the reservoir
is sensitive to pure water or in high-pressure
wells, where the heavier fluid is preferred
because of its higher hydrostatic pressure.
Diesel is generally used in slightly lower pressure
wells because it is approximately 17% lighter than
water. It has fewer compatibility problems than
water because it is a crude oil‑derived product,
but it is not as easy to handle.
Worst Case
Large ID, such as 7-in tubing
Small OD, 1 1/4 in
> 149 degC [300 degF]
Highly deviated or horizontal
Sludge-forming or reservoir-damaging
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  11
3.2.2.2 Gelled fluids
Gelled fluids (Fig. 3-5) provide more effective
solids carrying than water or diesel because
of their viscosity. This viscosity decreases
the falling velocity of particles. This decrease
can be highly effective in vertical and slightly
deviated wells.
Figure 3-5. Viscous Gelled Fluid
There is a wide range of gelling agents with
different properties available. It is important
to check the temperature range of the gelling
agent, as most gels lose their viscosity
at high temperatures. The Schlumberger
PowerCLEAN* J571 or J572 gels are designed
for high temperature applications.
Some gels used in CT cleanout operations are
• xanthan
• guar
• HEC
• ClearFRAC
• PowerCLEAN* engineered fill removal
service J571/J572.
12  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
3.2.2.3 Nitrified and foamed fluids
When wellbore conditions become more
difficult, more complex fluid solutions need to
be used for a successful cleanout.
3.2.2.3.1 Nitrified fluid
The fluid is called a nitrified fluid (or energized
fluid) when a base fluid (water, brine, or diesel)
is pumped simultaneously with nitrogen. The
proportion of nitrogen in the fluid is generally
relatively low.
Nitrified fluids are mainly used as low
hydrostatic cleanout fluids in low-pressure
wells. The gaseous nitrogen expands in the
annulus, giving increased annular velocity in
large ID completions, to assist in lifting out
solids.
3.2.2.3.2 Foamed fluid
The fluid is called a foamed fluid or just foam
when a chemical foaming agent is added to
the base fluid and a relatively high proportion
of nitrogen is pumped simultaneously. An ideal
foam has a consistency like shaving foam.
Foam has excellent solids-carrying capacity
because it suspends the particles in its foam
structure. A good foam will hold particles even if
you stop circulation.
Foamed fluids are used
• as a low hydrostatic cleanout fluid in low
pressure wells
• to improve solid removal in horizontal wells.
Foam cleanouts can be very effective but
are complex and need good prejob design to
control the quality of the foam and the handling
of the returned fluid.
It is important that the well does not flow during
the cleanout because oil and gas react with
the foam to break it. Breaking means the foam
loses its structure and reverts to its liquid and
gas phases. In this condition, it will not carry
solids to surface. Avoiding this condition requires
a good prejob design and good control over the
return choke pressure.
When the foam returns to surface, it can be
difficult to handle and needs to be broken down.
Generally, a chemical such as mutual solvent or
diesel is added to break the foam.
3.2.2.4 Slugs
Another common fill removal technique involves
pumping liquid and nitrogen in alternating stages.
These are called slugs and are generally used
in wells that do not support a full column of fluid,
as well as in horizontal wells. Normally, a slug of
water is followed by a slug of gel and a slug of
nitrogen. The slug size is generally calculated so
that one cycle equals one reel volume.
The CT should be reciprocated (moved up and
down) while cleaning out. The job program
should be designed so that the CT only enters
the fill when fluid is exiting the nozzle. The CT
should be slowly pulled upwards when nitrogen
is exiting the nozzle to chase the fluid and solids
up the well.
Slugs reduce the overall hydrostatic pressure
in the wellbore and can be used to increase
the velocity of the loaded fluid in the annulus.
When using slugs, the returns are choked
(back pressure held at surface) to control gas
expansion and thus annular velocities.
Slugs have several advantages:
• Low hydrostatic pressure can be achieved.
• The well may be flowed to assist in returning
solids to surface.
• Return fluids to the surface are easily
handled because there are definite liquid
and gas phases.
• The job is simple to design and execute.
3.2.3 BHA selection
The bottom-hole assembly (BHA) for fill cleanout
is generally very simple and typically includes
• CT connector
• double flapper check valve
• straight bar (optional)
• nozzle.
Some clients request that the BHA also include
a hydraulic disconnect and circulation sub. The
circulation sub is sometimes opened at the
end of the cleanout operation to allow higher
pump rates during the bottoms-up circulation.
JET 36, CT Downhole Tools, InTouch Content
ID# 2208502.
3.2.3.1 Nozzle selection
In the past, nozzle selection was not very
scientific. Some locations liked to use a simple
one-hole design, while others added angled
orifices to help jet the fill, and others added
some backward-facing jets to assist in removing
the solids.
A Schlumberger research project was conducted
to study fill removal. Various nozzle designs
were tested to find the best design for the most
efficient fill removal.
The result of the research was the PowerCLEAN
nozzle. Specially angled holes in the body of the
nozzle create a fluid vortex to carry particles to
the surface.
The jetting energy of the nozzle
• agitates and entrains fill into the cleanout
fluid
• prevents particles from falling down past the
nozzle
• effectively moves the sand up the wellbore.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  13
Numerous cleanout tests showed that • required pump rates and maximum
PowerCLEAN nozzles have superior pressures
performance over other nozzle types, allowing
• maximum rate of penetration (ROP)
complete removal of solids at lower flow rates.
• amount of solids to surface.

Figure 3-6. PowerCLEAN Nozzle

3.2.4 Cleanout best practices

Fill cleanouts are the most common CT
operation worldwide, but the planning and
execution should not become a routine.
Remember that a poor design can lead to
incidents such as

• stuck CT pipe
• unsuccessful cleanout operation
• increased use of chemicals
• an unhappy client!
Some of the most important considerations for
the good design and execution of a successful
cleanout operation are discussed below.

3.2.4.1 Job design

All cleanout operations should be simulated
using Schlumberger CoilCADE* coiled tubing
design and evaluation software modules such
as Wellbore Simulator and PowerCLEAN
(Fig. 2-7). When properly used, these powerful
simulators indicate:
Figure 3-7. Schlumberger Cleanout Design Software
• type of fluid to use

14  |  CT Fluid Conveyance

By simulating different cleanout scenarios, the
best fluid and pumping schedule can be found
for a particular well.
A good design will save the client time and
money, as well as ensuring that the good
reputation of Schlumberger CT is maintained
with a successful, efficient, and incident-free
operation.
3.2.4.2 Job execution
As the CT operator, you need to be aware of
the following issues related to CT cleanouts.
The job program from your location should give
you detailed information on the precise values
needed for each particular cleanout.
3.2.4.2.1 Step size
Fill removal is generally carried out in steps or
bites. These terms mean that fill is removed
in short sections and circulated towards the
surface before running the CT deeper to
remove the next section.
For example, if a well contains 300 m [984 ft] of
sand fill, it would be dangerous to try to clean
this in one bite. In some cases, the hydrostatic
weight of the heavy sand-laden fluid would
become greater than the reservoir pressure and
losses would occur. Otherwise, a short pump
failure could pause circulation. Both cases would
mean a lot of sand will fall downwards, which
can cause a CT pipe to be stuck.
Taking small steps to remove the fill ensures
that the hydrostatic weight will not change
significantly and that there is only a limited
amount of sand in the annulus in case a pump
fails.
Many cleanouts are designed so that the first
step is completely circulated to surface before
taking the next step. This process confirms
that the fill can be removed with the chosen
fluid and pump rate, and also determines how
long it takes the foam to return. Based on
this information, the remaining steps can be
taken more frequently. However, it is common
practice to have no more than three steps of fill
in the annulus at any one time. When each step
comes to surface, the next step can be taken.
3.2.4.2.2 Rate of penetration
The rate of penetration (ROP) is the speed at
which the CT string enters the fill. Typically, a
low ROP (5 m/min [15 ft/min]) is recommended.
A high ROP leads to a concentrated slug of fill
traveling up the wellbore, which could lead to
plugged lines on surface. A high ROP can also
plug the nozzle ports or cause the CT pipe to
get stuck.
3.2.4.2.3 Bottoms-up circulation
Circulating bottoms-up means that an entire
wellbore volume of fluid is circulated to bring all
solids in the annulus to the surface.
This process should be done at regular
intervals during long cleanouts, and at the end
of all cleanouts to clear the annulus of solids.
Often, the well is circulated bottoms-up twice
at the end of a job to ensure that all solids have
returned to surface. A pill of gelled fluid may be
pumped as part of this cleanup procedure to
assist in transporting the final solids.
Use the sand detection monitor (if available) on
the surface return line to optimize a cleanout
(Fig. 3-8). This monitor detects sand or fill in the
line and allows the operator to know when each
bite of fill has returned to surface.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  15
 3.3 Cement placement
Coiled tubing can be used for two types of
cementing operations (Fig. 3-10):

• squeeze cementing: sealing off perforations

or casing leaks
• setting cement plugs inside a wellbore:
kick-off plugs or abandonment.

Figure 3-8. Sand Detection Monitor

The sand detection monitor is used as part of

the PowerCLEAN system (Fig. 3-9).

Figure 3-10. Schlumberger Cement Pump Truck

The main advantages of using CT instead of a

workover rig for these cementing applications
are as follows.

• The operation is done through the tubing;

there is no need to pull completion.
• The operation can be done without killing
the well.

Figure 3-9. Screen Display from Sand Detection Monitor
Software used with the sand detection monitor
detects sand returns to surface.
Note:
For more information on coiled
tubing cleanouts, refer to the CT
Cleanout Reference Page, InTouch
Content ID# 3275189.
• Pumping cement slurry through a CT string
reduces slurry contamination.
• Lower treatment volumes are required.
• Accurate placement is possible.
• It is inexpensive to combine with cleanout,
stimulation, or a N2 lift.
• The cost is less.

16  |  CT Fluid Conveyance


Note:
Pay special attention to the design
of the cement slurry to be pumped
through a CT string. The small inner
diameter of the CT string leads to
high friction pressures and a high
shear rate on the slurry. This effect
significantly reduces the time for the
cement slurry to set, and can lead to
a cemented CT string if the slurry is
not carefully designed and tested.
3.3.1 Best practices for cementing
through CT
The following sections discuss best practices
for cementing through CT.
3.3.1.1 Selecting CT
To minimize friction pressures and allow high
pump rates, the CT string should ideally have
the maximum ID possible, depending on
location availability.
A shorter CT string will also result in reduced
pump pressures.
3.3.1.2 Minimizing slurry contamination
One of the main advantages of pumping
cement through CT is the ability to achieve low
contamination of the slurry.
To achieve this, you need to begin with a clean
CT string, which is a string that has had a pig
pumped through it to verify it is clear, or ideally
a weak acid pickle.
When pumping the slurry through the CT string,
there will be some contamination of the slurry
at interfaces with the fluids immediately before
and after the slurry. The contamination can
be eliminated by using cement plugs before
and after the slurry to separate the fluids and
prevent contamination. These plugs generally
include a burst disk mechanism, which means
they can be sheared with pressure when they
reach the BHA, allowing continuous pumping.
They also give a positive pressure indication
when they seat in the BHA. Ideally, a plug
catcher is run as part of the BHA.
Figure 3-11. CT Cement Darts with Burst Disk
It is very important to flush and clean the string
very well after the cementing job, and pumping
an acid pickle is recommended to remove any
excess slurry left behind.
3.3.1.3 Controlling depth
Since cement placement is permanent, it is
extremely important to ensure it is placed in
the correct position. For example, if cement is
squeezed into the wrong set of perforations,
millions of dollars of damage can result. Thus, it
is very important to ensure that the CT depth is
as accurate as possible.
Use the universal tubing length meter (UTLM)
for cementing jobs (Fig. 3-12). The UTLM is
the most accurate depth counter available and
should always be used on critical jobs.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  17

Figure 3-12. UTLM Rigged Up on CT Reel
For further depth control accuracy, achieve a
positive depth indication downhole by tagging a
known depth in the wellbore and comparing this
with the measured depth.
Running a tubing end locator (TEL) as part
of the BHA enables you to tag the end of the
tubing, which should be at a known depth.
You can also use a tubing nipple locator
(TNL), which enables you to tag a nipple in the
completion.
3.3.1.4 Selecting BHA
To avoid the possibility of cement slurry
bridging off in restricted bore in the BHA, keep
the BHA as simple as possible. Typically, the
following simple BHA is used:
• CT connector
• double-flapper check valve
• nozzle (large bore).
18  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
If CT cementing plugs are used, include a plug
catcher.
If the depth control procedures require a TEL or
TNL, this will also be included in the BHA.
Note:
Ensure that all BHA components
have the largest ID bores possible.
3.3.1.5 Placing cement platform
One of the most important considerations in
placing cement is the cement platform. Small
cement slurry volumes combined with slow
pumping rate through CT will cause the cement
to fall down the hole, especially in light fluid.
The cement is contaminated then and a good
set cannot be achieved.
Figure 3-13 shows how a cement platform
supports the cement slurry. A cement platform
placed underneath the cement slurry provides
the required support. The platform can be a
sand plug, a mechanical through-tubing bridge
plug, or simply a high viscosity/high-density
fluid (high-density mud or viscous gel).
Slurry settles
on platform
Slurry ropes and
contaminates
Sand plug
Figure 3-13. Cement Platform
3.3.2 Squeeze cementing
The squeeze cementing technique involves
squeezing a specially designed cement slurry
under pressure into existing perforations or a
casing leak to provide a seal. This method is
generally used to repair wellbore problems,
such as

• poor zonal isolation: A poor primary

cementing job can leave channels behind
the casing, which leads to communication
between different zones behind the casing. Cement-filled perforation with good node profile
This can cause unwanted flows of water or
gas from poorly isolated zones. Figure 3-14. Squeeze Node

• casing repair: Leaks due to corrosion,

erosion, mechanical damage must be
repaired.
• water/gas shutoff: Unwanted water or gas
production may be occurring—a common
problem in old wells.
The squeeze technique involves spotting the
cement slurry across the zone using CT and
then picking up the end of the CT string above
the top of cement (TOC). Squeeze pressure is
then applied to force the slurry into the zone
being isolated.
When the slurry is forced against the
permeable formation, the solid particles filter
out on the formation face to form a filter cake,
while the liquid phase of the cement (the
cement filtrate) enters the formation matrix.
A properly designed squeeze job causes the
cement filter cake to fill the openings between
the formation and the casing. The filter cake
forms a hydraulic seal.
Figure 3-14 shows how the slurry fills the
perforation, creating a squeeze node.
The slurry remaining inside the wellbore is then
contaminated and circulated out before the
cement sets.
Note:
Slurry design is very critical for a
successful squeeze job because
exact fluid loss properties need to
be obtained.
3.3.2.1 Squeeze cementing job procedure
Job scenario: The client wants to squeeze off
the middle zone of perforations, which has
begun to produce water in the oil well.
Here is a typical job procedure.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  19

STEP 01 Run in hole with CT (Fig. 3-15)
below the zone with a typical BHA (connector,
double flapper check valve, and nozzle).
Figure 3-15. Squeeze Cementing: Step 01
STEP 02 Stop the CT and perform an
injection test to confirm that injection can be
achieved (Fig. 3-16).
Figure 3-16. Squeeze Cementing: Step 02
20  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
STEP 03 Spot a viscous pill of gel or
heavyweight mud below the zone (Fig. 3‑17).
This pill prevents the cement slurry from
entering the lower zone of perforations, which is
still producing oil.
Figure 3-17. Squeeze Cementing: Step 03
STEP 04 Circulate in the cement slurry
(Fig. 3-18) while slowly picking up the CT to
follow the increasing level of slurry in the casing.
The end of the CT string should remain inside
the slurry at all times.
Figure 3-18. Squeeze Cementing: Step 04
STEP 05 When all the slurry has been
displaced from the CT string, pull the CT string
above the TOC (Fig. 3-19). Apply squeeze
pressure through the CT string until the
designed squeeze-off pressure is achieved.
The design may require this pressure to be held
for a certain length of time before bleedoff.

Contaminated
slurry

Figure 3-20. Squeeze Cementing: Step 06

STEP 07 Circulate the contaminated slurry

Cement slurry and the pill out until the tubing and wellbore
forced into
are clean (Fig. 3-21). Under normal conditions,
perforations
reversing out cannot be performed because the
CT is always used with a check valve at the end.

Figure 3-19. Squeeze Cementing: Step 05

STEP 06 Be sure to remove the excess

cement slurry from inside the casing. Slowly run
the CT string to the bottom of the zone while
circulating a contaminant (xanthan gel or a
cementing spacer) to dilute the slurry (Fig. 3‑20).
The contaminant prevents the slurry from
setting.

Figure 3-21. Squeeze Cementing: Step 07

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  21

STEP 08 Wait until the cement has
hardened before continuing operations or
production. Figure 3-22 shows the perforations
successfully squeezed off.
Perforations
squeezed off
it is to flow to surface. If the depleted or
low‑pressure zone is not isolated, a large
loss in production results.
• lost circulation. A thief zone is any formation
that cannot support the hydrostatic pressure
of the fluid in the well. Loss of drilling fluid
to a thief zone can be stopped by setting a
properly formulated slurry across the thief
zone.
• abandonment plugs. An abandonment
plug is used to seal off sections or an
entire wellbore at the end of its useful life.
Cement plugs are set at various depths
to prevent zonal communication or any
migration of gas or fluids that might pollute
underground freshwater sources or cause
pressure communication between intervals.
When abandoning a well, regulations
generally require that a number of cement
plugs be set. Figure 3-23 shows a typical
schematic of abandonment plugs.

Figure 3-22. Squeeze Cementing: Step 08

3.3.3 Cement plugs

Setting a cement plug in a well is a common
oilfield operation that uses a small volume of
cement slurry. Cement plugs are used for a
variety of purposes, including

• kick-off plugs. During directional-drilling

operations, it may be difficult to achieve the
correct angle and direction when drilling
through a soft formation. It is common
practice to set a kickoff plug across the
zone to achieve the desired course and
target. Kickoff plugs are often set through
CT as part of CT drilling operations.
• plugging back a depleted zone. A depleted
zone is a zone of reduced pressure. Oil Figure 3-23. Abandonment Plugs
or gas production from other zones is
more likely to enter a depleted zone than

22  |  CT Fluid Conveyance

Because most cement plugs are set as part of
drilling rig operations, they are predominantly
pumped through drillpipe.
In general, CT is used to set plugs when
they are needed in rigless through-tubing
applications and CT drilling operations.
STEP 02 Spot a viscous pill of gel or
heavyweight mud below the zone (Fig. 2‑25).
This pill will prevent the cement slurry from falling
down the hole and becoming contaminated,
resulting in a failure.

Setting a cement plug through CT involves

circulating the cement slurry into position using
CT and then picking up the end of the CT string
above the TOC. A slight squeeze pressure may
be applied.

If the exact location of the TOC needs to

be accurate, the CT string may be run in to
circulate out any excess slurry above this point.
The CT is then pulled out of hole.

3.3.3.1 Cement plug job procedure

The following is a typical abandonment plug job
procedure.

STEP 01 Run in hole with CT to maximum

depth with a typical BHA (connector, double
flapper check valve and nozzle) (Fig. 3-24).
Figure 3-25. Plug Cementing: Step 02
STEP 03 Circulate in the cement slurry
through the CT string (Fig. 3-26). When 15 m
[50 ft] of cement is in the annulus, begin to pick
up the CT string to follow the increasing level
of slurry in the casing. The end of the CT string
should remain inside the slurry at all times.
Stop pumping just before the end of the cement
exits the nozzle.

Figure 3-24. Plug Cementing: Step 01

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  23


Figure 3-26. Plug Cementing: Step 03
STEP 04 Pull the CT string 30 m [100 ft]
above the top of cement (Fig. 3-27). Circulate
the well bottoms-up to remove any excess
slurry from the wellbore.
Figure 3-27. Plug Cementing: Step 04
24  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
STEP 05 Apply squeeze pressure through
the CT string if required by the program
(Fig. 3‑28).
Cement slurry
forced into
perforations
Figure 3-28. Plug Cementing: Step 05
STEP 06 Pull the CT out of hole,
maintaining squeeze pressure by holding back
pressure with a choke on return line (Fig. 3-29).

Figure 3-29. Plug Cementing: Step 06
STEP 07 Wait until the cement has
hardened before continuing operations
(Fig. 3‑30).
Hardened
cement plug
Figure 3-30. Plug Cementing: Step 07
Note:
For more information on cementing
through CT, refer to the following
InTouch Reference Pages:
• Cementing Through CT
Reference Page, InTouch
Content ID# 3365407
• Water/Gas Cement Squeeze
Shut-Off Reference Page,
InTouch Content ID# 3335663
3.4 Stimulation
Well stimulation is a treatment performed to
improve the well production by restoring or
improving the permeability of the reservoir.
Stimulation treatments fall into two types.
• Matrix treatments are pumped into the
reservoir at a pressure below the formation
fracture pressure. This means it is pushed
through the open pore spaces in the
formations.
• The formation fracture pressure is the
pressure at which the formation rock
will fracture or crack. If the pressure is
released, the rock will return to its original
position. Hydraulic fracturing treatments are
pumped into the formation at a pressure
above the formation fracture pressure.
This means that the formation will fracture
slightly and the fluid or slurry pumped will
move along this open fracture.
Stimulation is one of the most common CT
applications. The alternative to stimulating
through CT is bullheading, which means
pumping the stimulation treating fluid through
the production tubing from surface. While this
method is generally quicker and cheaper than
CT, there are distinct advantages to using CT
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  25
 • protecting client completion: Pumping
the stimulation fluid through coiled tubing
protects the client’s production tubing from
acid corrosion or erosion from slurry. With
bullheading, the entire production tubing is
exposed to the stimulation fluid.
• placement: With bullheading, it is difficult to
predict exactly where the fluid will go. Using
coiled tubing ensures accurate placement
of the stimulation fluid into the zone to be
treated, which means lower volumes of
chemicals can be used.
• contamination: The small volume of the CT
string leads to lower contamination levels
of the fluid than pumping through the tubing
would.
• operations completed as an integrated
treatment: For example, fill can be removed
before a treatment, or an N2 lift can be
performed after treatment.
3.4.1 Matrix acidizing
Matrix acidizing is a very common CT
application. Acid systems are pumped through
the CT string and injected into the formation
(Fig. 3-31) to dissolve any damage, scale
buildup, or other damaging substances in the
near wellbore area. This process allows the
oil and gas to flow more freely to the wellbore,
which contributes to increased well production.
In carbonate rock reservoirs, the acid can
dissolve part of the formation rock itself, which
can increase the well’s permeability above
its original level. This increased permeability
increases well production.
The most common acid pumped in oilfield
applications is hydrochloric acid (HCl). Other
acids pumped include acetic acid and formic
acid. In general, the acid will be blended with
several additives before being pumped into the
matrix. The additives improve the performance
of the acid system and avoid potentially
damaging effects.
26  |  CT Fluid Conveyance
Figure 3-31. Acid Injection
One of the additives used in acid systems is a
corrosion inhibitor, which minimizes the effect
of the acid on the metal of the CT string or
completion. It is important to ensure that the
correct amount of corrosion inhibitor is used to
avoid damage to the CT string.
Besides acidizing the matrix or reservoir, acid is
often pumped through CT for other applications:
• scale removal and tubing cleaning: Scale
can build up in screens, perforations, or
tubing, which restricts the flow of oil and
gas and prevents the use of slickline and
wireline for well intervention. Some common
scales, such as calcium carbonate, can be
dissolved in acid. CT can be used to spot
acid at the point of scale buildup to dissolve
it. The effect of the acid can be assisted
by a strong jetting effect by using a tool
such as the Blaster* (see Section 4.3). The
mechanical action of a jetting tool assists
the chemical effect of the acid for efficient
scale removal.
• removal of lost circulation material: Lost
circulation material (LCM) is commonly
pumped into a well during drilling or
workover operations, when the drilling or
workover fluid is leaking into the formation.
The LCM is generally made up of coarse
materials that form a cake on the formation
 face, reducing the leakoff of the drilling
or workover fluid. However, when LCM is
pumped across an oil- or gas-producing
reservoir, it can restrict well production, so
it may have to be chemically removed.
Many lost circulation materials, such as
calcium carbonate chips, are soluble in
acid. The best way to remove the materials
is to spot acid through a CT string in front
of the zone containing the LCM.
3.4.2 Hydraulic fracturing
For some reservoirs, a hydraulic fracturing
treatment is the most effective method of
stimulation. Fracturing involves pumping a
slurry into the reservoir at a pressure above the
fracture pressure of the reservoir. The slurry
generally consists of a gelled fluid containing
sieved sand or manmade ceramic proppant
(Fig. 3-32).
Figure 3-32. Ceramic Proppant
The spherical shape of ceramic proppant gives
very good permeability for oil and gas to flow.
It is available in different strengths and sizes to
suit different reservoir properties
The sand or proppant fills the crack created in
the reservoir. When the treatment is finished and
the pressure reduces below reservoir fracture
pressure, the reservoir rock tries to return to its
original position, but it remains propped open by
the layer of sand or proppant. The layer of sand
or proppant is highly permeable and allows oil
and gas flow to the wellbore much easier than
the original reservoir, increasing well production.
The high treatment volumes, high pump rates,
and the high pressures required for fracturing
operations means that powerful pumps and
large tanks must be available on location. An
average job can be pumped at 5 m3/min [31 bbl/
min] and 68,000 kPa [10,000 psi].
Figure 3-33 shows many pumps on location for
a high rate fracturing operation.
Figure 3-33. Fracturing Operation
The vast majority of fracturing operations
are carried out by bullheading, because the
high pump rates required cannot be achieved
through a CT string. However, fracturing
through CT, CoilFRAC, was developed by
Schlumberger in the 1990s. It has become
a popular form of fracturing for certain
applications. Figure 3-34 shows a CoilFRAC
setup and Fig. 3-35 shows a CoilFRAC tool.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  27
 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 which can be
produced from the well).

Using CT allows the client to fracture multiple

zones in one CT run. This is achieved by
running a straddle seal assembly BHA on the
end of the CT string.

Figure 3-34. CoilFRAC Setup When the straddle seal assembly is located
across the perforation interval to be fractured,
High pressure it seals on the casing wall and isolates the
perforations. When the treatment is pumped, it
only enters and treats this set of perforations.
Upper bypass ports
When the first zone has been treated, the
straddle seal assembly is moved to the next
Fracture sub (out) zone and set across the next set of perforations
High pressure to be treated. The second treatment can then
be pumped.
In sub
In most cases, CoilFRAC operations are carried
out with larger sizes of CT, typically 2 3/8 in or
2 7/8 in. Because of the high pressures involved,
Lower bypass ports a special high-pressure reel swivel with a
working pressure of 102,000 kPa [15,000 psi] is
required. Where possible, low friction pressure
Dump valve fracturing fluids, such as ClearFRACv, are used
to allow higher pump rates.

CoilFRAC operations do not require the use

Figure 3-35. OptiSTIM* CoilFRAC Tool
The main application of CoilFRAC is in
multilayered reservoirs. Using CT, the client
can treat individual zones in a reservoir in a
time‑efficient manner. This cannot be done
efficiently using bullheading techniques. For
more information about CoilFRAC, refer to
the reference page at InTouch Content ID#
3273491.
of a double flapper check valve in the BHA
because excess slurry must be reverse
circulated after a treatment. Reverse circulation
is the term for pumping down the production
tubing and taking returns up the CT string. It
is the easiest way to remove excess sand or
proppant from the wellbore because of the high
fluid velocities inside the CT string.
The CT and fracturing teams must closely
coordinate in the planning and execution of
CoilFRAC operations.

28  |  CT Fluid Conveyance


Various tools can be attached to the CT string
and conveyed downhole to perform different
operations.
CT is manufactured for rigidity and strength.
The CT string is strong enough to push and
pull tools and devices through restrictions,
obstructions, and highly deviated and horizontal
wellbores.
The following examples of CT tool conveyance
applications are discussed in this chapter
• CT fishing and milling
• downhole valve, sleeve operation
• BLASTER services
• zonal isolation
• CT logging
• CT perforation
• CT drilling.
4.1 Coiled tubing fishing
When a tool or downhole device is left in the
hole, it is called a fish. CT fishing is a method of
retrieving equipment from a wellbore with a CT
string.
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 retrieving a
toolstring that was accidentally lost downhole.
Generally, slickline is used as a first option
for fishing because of its speed and the high
level of control in fishing operations. However,
in certain cases, CT is used because of the
following advantages:
4.0  CT Tool Conveyance
• rigidity and strength: CT enables fishing
operations in highly deviated and horizontal
wells where slickline cannot reach
• pulling capacity: CT is often used when
slickline or electric line does not have
enough pulling capacity
• fluid circulation: Fluid can be pumped
through the CT to help clean sand or debris
that may be covering the top of the fish.
4.1.1 Fishing tools: spears and overshots
Many methods and tools are used in CT fishing
operations. Each fishing job is unique and may
require tools and techniques be modified to
suit the application. For complex operations, a
specialized fishing company is often contracted
to provide special tools and supervise the
operation, as experience is an important
factor in fishing operations. Details of the fish,
wellbore tubulars, well condition, and surface
equipment need to be considered.
Note:
It is very important to match the
fishing tool exactly to the fish
downhole. It is important to have
a detailed sketch of all toolstrings
run on CT so that you have a good
fishing diagram if it is accidentally
left in the hole. Refer to JET 32,
CT Downhole Tools, for more
information.
Figures 4-1 and 4-2 illustrate the difference
between internal and external fishing necks.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  29

Tool OD
Internal Profile
Figure 4-1. Internal Fishing Neck
Figure 4-2. External Fishing Neck
An internal fishing neck has a profile on the
inner bore, which can be latched by a matching
retrieval tool (known as a fishing spear), which
enters inside the fishing neck.
An external fishing neck has a profile on the
outer body, which can be latched by a matching
retrieval tool (known as an overshot), which fits
over the fishing neck.
The majority of spears and overshots run on CT
are hydraulically releasable. This means that
the latching mechanism can be retracted by
pumping through the CT string above a certain
pump rate, allowing the tool to release from the
fish. This ability has the obvious advantage of
allowing the CT operator to disconnect from
30  |  CT Tool Conveyance
the fish and pull the CT string out of hole if he
cannot pull out the fish for any reason.
Hydraulically releasable overshots and
spears can also be used as running tools to
run a matching plug or lock into position in a
wellbore and release from the tool downhole by
pumping.
4.1.2 Auxiliary fishing tools
The following sections discuss various auxiliary
fishing tools.
4.1.2.1 Jars and accelerators
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.
The output force of a hydraulic jar is dictated
by the pull force applied before the jar firing.
The greater the upward pull applied to the jar,
the quicker the jar will fire and the greater the
resultant impact will be. The output force can
be more than 10 times the size of the CT input
force.
The output force of a mechanical jar cannot be
varied downhole. The tool output force is set on
the tool on surface. This makes it less flexible
than a hydraulic jar.
An accelerator must always be placed in the
toolstring above the jar assembly. Its main
function is to store the energy which 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.
Jars and accelerators must be matched for
maximum efficiency. The jar manufacturer
documentation will give details of suitable
matching accelerators.
Many jars release (also called trip, fire,
hit or lick) 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.
4.1.2.2 Weight bar
A weight bar is a straight piece of heavy wall
pipe with standard CT threads 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.
circulating junk basket is used. This tool acts as
a downhole vacuum cleaner.
The configuration of the tool creates a fluid flow
path which draws fluid into the empty bottom
chamber of the tool. This creates a suction
effect that draws any debris immediately below
the tool into the chamber. 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 a lot of debris is expected, extension barrels
can be added to the lower chamber to provide
additional debris collection capacity.

4.1.2.3 Impact hammers It is good practice to run a Venturi junk basket

(Fig. 4-3) in the hole if there is any indication
An impact hammer creates a repeated high
of debris on top of a fish. Figure 4-3 shows
impact force in the up or down direction. It is
the flow path in a Venturi junk basket sucking
activated by pumping fluid and simultaneously
debris into the lower chamber.
applying pull or push force, depending on the
direction desired for the impact.

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 the jar, most impact hammers are run

with an accelerator to minimize the forces
transmitted to the CT string.

4.1.2.4 Venturi junk basket

In many cases, we first need to clean the fishing
neck, as debris or sand on top of the fishing
neck will prevent latching.

Small debris such as sand can be circulated

from the well by circulation with CT. However,
larger particles such as metal debris or large
scale chunks cannot be lifted to surface
through cleanout methods. Instead a reverse

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  31

 Figure 4-4. Knuckle Joint

The LIB consists of a housing filled with the soft

metal lead. An impression of the fishing neck or
Figure 4-3. Venturi Junk Basket
any wellbore obstruction can be created in the
soft metal by running the tool into the fish neck
4.1.2.5 Knuckle joints at high speed.
Knuckle joints can be placed in a CT toolstring The results of LIBs are often open to
to provide flexibility, as they allow approximately interpretation because downhole completion
10o of angular movement (Fig. 4-4). They are hardware can create marks on the lead
generally located between the jar and fishing surface. Experience and a good knowledge
tool. of the particular wellbore are often required to
interpret a LIB result.
4.1.2.6 Lead impression block
A lead impression block (LIB) is used to give
a visual image of a downhole fishing neck or
obstruction (Fig. 4-5). The tool is generally run
on slickline, as it is much more sensitive to
downhole forces than CT. If it is run before a CT
fishing run, it can give valuable information.

32  |  CT Tool Conveyance


Figure 4-5. Lead Impression Block
4.1.3 CT milling
Milling with CT is commonly grouped together
with fishing, as they are often used together on
well intervention programs. 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
• removing 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
• washing over an external fish neck that
cannot be latched with a fishing tool
• milling out cement plug.
4.1.3.1 Milling tools
The following describe some milling tools.
4.1.3.1.1 Motor
Downhole motors convert the hydraulic power
of the pumped fluid into rotation.
The motors used in CT interventions generally
range in size from 1 11/16 in to 3 3/8 in. Many
different configurations of output speed (rpm)
and torque are available.
The choice of motor will depend on the
• size of the completion
• size of CT (and maximum pumprate)
• application
• downhole temperature
• fluid to be used.
4.1.3.1.2 Bit
The choice of bit for a milling operation
depends on what you plan to mill downhole.
Choosing an unsuitable mill for a certain
application will lead to an unsuccessful milling
job. Some common mills are described here.
• step mill: Step mills (Fig. 4-6) 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 allows it to gradually open up a
restriction.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  33
 • bladed junk mill (Fig. 4-8): Extra long mill
heads reduce 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).

Figure 4-6. Step Mill

• bladed mill (Fig. 4-7): This type of mill is

generally used on stationary objects in the
wellbore such as cement plugs or drillable
bridge plugs.

Figure 4-8. Bladed Junk Mill

• rotary shoe (or washover shoe) (Fig. 4‑9):

This is a hollow cylindrical milling tool with
a cutting structure on the internal bore, the
bottom, and the OD. For stuck CT or tubing,
it can be used to mill away formation, scale,
sand, around the fish. It can also be used
to mill away the slips on packers and bridge
plugs to release it.

Figure 4-7. Bladed Mill

34  |  CT Tool Conveyance


Figure 4-9. Rotary Shoe
• underreamer: An underreamer is a tool used
to clean out below a restriction or in through
tubing applications. Figure 4-10 shows how
an underreamer can be run through the
tubing and expanded in the casing.
Figure 4-10. Underreamer
The blades of the underreamer remain inside
the tool for access through restrictions and
then 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.
An underreamer can be used to pass through
the production tubing and to mill scale or a fish
in the larger lower completion.
4.2 Downhole valve/sliding sleeve
manipulation
Many modern completions have become more
complex than the simple completions previously
used. Smart completions are becoming more
popular, as they allow the client to control the
flow of oil and gas from individual zones in the
same well. Downhole flow control valves or
sliding sleeves can be controlled either from
surface or manually shifted to achieve the
desired flow from each zone.
In deepwater operations, different types
of isolation valves are used to reduce the
number of drillpipe trips needed during the well
completion phase.
While many of these completions are intended
to be interventionless, most downhole valves
have a mechanically activated backup function
in case of malfunction. This function generally
consists of shifting sleeves or opening flapper
valves or ball valves with proprietary shifting
tools. Downhole valves are opened or closed
as required by setting down weight or pulling
overpull when latched into the tool with the
shifting tool.
In wellbore deviations up to about 65o inclination,
slickline is the preferred backup option because
of the quick rig-up and very fast tripping speed.
However, in more deviated and horizontal
wellbores, either CT or a wireline tractor is used.
A tractor is an electronic tool run on wireline
that grips the tubing and pulls the toolstring into
the deviated sections. Many smart tools have
been developed for use with the tractor system,
designed for operating flow control and isolation
valves.
Figure 4-11 shows the shifting tool for the
Schlumberger formation isolation valve (FIV),
which latches into the shifting mechanism to
open or close the valve.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  35
 and has excellent results when compared to
conventional techniques.

Figure 4-11. Shifting Tool

Sometimes the forces required to shift a

downhole valve can be higher than what can
be achieved within the limits of the CT string.
In this case, run a jar or an impact hammer
as part of the CT BHA to increase the force
available downhole, also known as weight on
bit. These tools can multiply the available force
5 to 10 times. They are described briefly in
Section 4.1, CT fishing.
The main advantage of using CT over a wireline
tractor in this type of operation is the ability to
pump through the CT string. Very often, when
a downhole valve does not function correctly,
the malfunction is due to fill or debris interfering
with the valve mechanism. When CT is used,
this fill can be removed by circulation or by
running a Venturi junk basket BHA.
4.3 Blaster services
The Blaster tool (Fig. 4-12) is a rotating
high‑pressure jetting tool for conveying fluid
and/or abrasives downhole for many different
applications. This system reduces fluid usage
Figure 4-12. Blaster Tool
Schlumberger developed the tool following
comprehensive research into the physics behind
jetting efficiency. 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 good at cleaning out
loose fill only. Jet Blaster also replaces the
more aggressive mill/motor or impact hammer

36  |  CT Tool Conveyance

combinations, which can be damaging to the
tubulars and downhole completion hardware.

4.3.1 Characteristics
The Blaster tool has the following characteristics.

• high-power jetting: The Blaster tool uses

two to five nozzles on a continuously
rotating nozzle head. The nozzles produce
maximum jet efficiency, while the hydraulic
brake in the swivel controls the rotation
speed.
Nozzles facing downward are used to Figure 4-13. The Drift Ring
clean compacted fills, loose fills, or any
other soft to medium bridging material.
Radial nozzles (facing to the side) clean the 4.3.2 Applications
tubular walls, perforations or screens. The Blaster tool is very versatile and is suitable
for various applications. It is often called a
• engineered jetting system: The head and different name for different applications.
nozzles are selected (via the Jet Advisor*
software) for each particular well to
optimize the jetting efficiency and maximize 4.3.2.1 Bead Blaster/Scale Blaster
power delivered to the nozzles. Scale buildup in the tubing or casing restricts
• drift ring: The drift ring ensures positive, the flow of oil and gas (Fig. 4-14). It also
one-pass cleaning, as it prevents prevents normal wellbore maintenance by
penetration of the head until the deposit is preventing slickline and wireline access.
removed to the diameter of the ring. The
drift ring size selected depends on the
application.
The drift ring will not allow large cuttings
or debris to pass it until it has been broken
down by the high pressure jets into smaller
pieces. This ensures reliable circulation
of cuttings and minimizes the chance of
getting the BHA stuck.

Figure 4-13 shows how the drift ring ensures

that the tool stays at the point of the buildup
until it has been removed.
Figure 4-14. Scaled-Up Tubing

Some scales such as calcium carbonate are

soluble in acid or other solvents and can be
removed by soaking. Other soft scale deposits

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  37

can be mechanically removed by jetting with a
fluid.
Hard scales (such as barium sulfate) cannot be
removed by jetting with fluid alone; an abrasive
must be added to the fluid. Materials such as
sand are effective as abrasives, but damage
the tubulars. Schlumberger found that Sterling
Beads* safe hardscale removal system are very
effective in removing scale, yet their spherical
shape does not damage the metal tubing.
4.3.2.2 Bridge Blaster
The bead Blaster can only be used if a hole
exists through the scale for the nozzle head to
enter. If the scale completely bridges off the
tubing, the tool head can be configured with
a modified mud motor and small mill to drill a
pilot hole through the scale, while the radial
jets widen the hole using Sterling Beads. This
configuration is called the Bridge Blaster*
brdige and scale remove service. The Bridge
Blaster has also been used to remove cement
plugs.
Table 4-1. Bridge Blaster Specifications
Specifications
Tool maximum OD 1.7 in [43.18 mm]
Maximum operating 350 degF [180 degC]
temperature
Maximum flow rate 120 galUS/min (0.45 m3/min)
Wellbore fluids Can be used in H2S environment
HCl (to 28%), mud acid, aromatic
Treating fluids solvents, DTPA, ETDA, nitrified
fluids
4.3.2.3 Jet Blaster
The Jet Blaster* jetting scale removal service
is used for standard jetting applications, such
as perforation cleaning, acid or solvent washes,
and compacted fill removal.
38  |  CT Tool Conveyance
The rotating head uses two radial jetting
nozzles to clean the wall of the tubing. For fill
or bridged material removal, downward jetting
nozzles can be added to the head.
The system can be used to deliver dissolvers
and/or acid to remove soluble scale or other
obstructions. Jetting the dissolver into the
target generates turbulence at the chemical
contact surface, increasing the efficiency of the
dissolver system. With this process the acid or
solvent consumption can be reduced by up to
10 times over the bullheading technique.
4.3.2.4 Screen Blaster
The screen Blaster is used for jetting plugged
screens. Jetting solvents or acid into a screen
with the Blaster tool ensures that the entire
screen is treated, even those areas with heavy
damage and very low permeability. Bullheaded
fluid only enters the most permeable, low-
damage zones and bypasses the damaged
low-permeability zones.
In addition, jetting fluid into the screen can blast
loose material off the outside of the screen, or
from the gap between the base pipe and the
screen.
For soluble material, the increased turbulence
caused by the jet raises the performance of the
solvent by between 2 and 10 times, reducing
the volume of reagent needed and the time
needed to clean the well.
Note:
For more information on the Blaster
tool and applications, refer to the
InTouch reference page, InTouch
Content ID# 3251584
4.4 Zonal isolation
Zonal isolation refers to operations where the
primary objective is to isolate a section of the
wellbore. It is achieved through packers, which
provide mechanical isolation between two
zones.
The main types of packer systems used are
• cup-type packers
• mechanical packers (tension/compression
set)
• hydraulic set packers
• inflatable packers
• bridge plugs.
4.4.1 Cup-type packers
Cup-type packers, are the simplest type
of packers (Fig. 4-15). This 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 treats the selected perforations.
Figure 4-15. Cup-Type Packer
When fluid is pumped through the CT string,
it exits the ports between the cups. The
differential pressure across the cups forces
the fluid to the tubing wall and provides a seal,
forcing the fluid into the perforations. The cups
relax again, then pumping stops.
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.
Cup-type tools are offten used for CoilFRAC
applications.
4.4.2 Mechanical
Mechanical packers require the toolstring to
maintain an adequate load on the packer to
keep it set. Depending on the packer, the load
can be tension or compression.
A tension-set mechanical packer (Fig. 4-16) is
set by pulling tension on the CT string. It can
be released by relaxing the tension. Similarly,
a compression-set packer is set by setting load
on the packer and released by pulling upwards.
Mechanical packers can be set multiple times in
one run.
These packers are often used to hang CT
velocity strings or tailpipe extensions in a
wellbore. The weight of the CT string hanging
below the packer keeps it in tension and set
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  39

Figure 4-16. Mechanical Packer in Tension-Set Configuration
4.4.3 Hydraulic set
The majority of hydraulic packers being used
are double grip (Fig. 4-17), which means that
they include two sets of slips to grip in both
directions. Typically, setting these packers is
achieved by increasing the internal pressure
compressing the sealing element and forcing
the slips outward. 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 stays set.
40  |  CT Tool Conveyance
Figure 4-17. Double Grip Hydraulic Packer
To retrieve the packer, vertical pull will shear
release screws or pins, allowing the slips
and element to retract. Hydraulic set packers
are being used extensively in gravel packs,
patches, and gas lift installations.
4.4.4 Inflatable
Through-tubing inflatable packers, such as
CoilFLATE* inflatable packers (Fig. 4-18), are
designed to seal in a casing section that is
larger than the tubing above it. The packer
needs to be small enough to run and retrieve
through the tubing, but when set, it expands
to two or three times its original diameter. The
higher the expansion, the lower the pressure
differential it can withstand.

Figure 4-18. Setting Sequence for CoilFLATE Packer
Single-set inflatables are most commonly used
as bridge plugs or isolation tools. Multiple-set
inflatables can be set several times in one
run and are ideal for remedial and stimulation
operations or testing.
When pressure is applied to an inflatable
through the CT string, hydraulic valves trap
the setting pressure in the inflatable element,
holding the packer in place even when the
tubing pressure is reduced.
A straight pull allows the pressure to release
and the packer element to relax for retrieval.
Inflatable packers can be used as retrievable
bridge plugs, cement retainers, or treatment
packers.
4.4.5 Bridge plug
Retrievable bridge plugs (Fig. 4-19) can be
fished again and are used to temporary isolate
a well for operations such as wellhead repair or
upper zone stimulations.
Figure 4-19. Bridge Plug
Permanent bridge plugs are used to plug
depleted zones or for abandonment. Cast iron
or composite bridge plugs are sometimes used
because they are easily drillable.
When a well is fractured multiple times using
a drilling rig, previous fractured zones are
often isolated with drillable bridge plugs before
fracturing the next zone. When all zones have
been fractured, the bridge plugs can be drilled
out with CT.
4.5 CT Logging
Logging refers to the downhole surveys carried
out with very specialized electronic tools to
gather detailed information on the formation
and wellbore (Fig. 4-20). The Schlumberger
Reservoir Evaluation Wireline (REW) division
provides logging services.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  41

Figure 4-20. Typical Wireline Log Data
Logging applications can be divided into two
main groups:
• Openhole logging gives valuable reservoir
information about the location and amount
of oil and gas. This survey is performed
in the openhole section before setting a
casing or liner.
• Cased hole logging is used to confirm
or identify the formation and completion
characteristics. Cased hole logging
evaluation is performed after a well has
been completed.
Many specialist logs are available to gather
complex data on the reservoir and well. The
basic data gathered by logs includes
• presence of oil or gas
• type of rock (lithology)
• reservoir porosity and permeability
• production logging (profile of the production
across the reservoir).
Generally, logging tools are run into an oil or
gas well on wireline. Wireline is a conductive
42  |  CT Tool Conveyance
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 the surface. This process can
be conducted in wells with deviations up to 65
degrees.
However, in highly deviated or horizontal wells,
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 hole in a normal CT run. CT has the
advantage over wireline in that it can push the
tools into horizontal sections because of its
strength and rigidity.
4.5.1 Logging on CT
When running the logging tools on CT, there
are two methods to retrieve the log data; in
real-time or memory mode.
CT unit equipped
with CTL reel
Optional safe
tool deployment Logging unit
system
CTL string
CTL support tools
Logging tools
Figure 4-21. CTL Principal Equipment Components
4.5.1.1 Real-time CT logging
In real-time, information is transferred uphole
through a wireline cable installed inside the
coiled tubing. Real-time downhole data allows
the logging engineer to make better decisions
easier (Fig. 4-22).
Figure 4-22. Real-Time Downhole Data
The advantages are
• Real-time data allows engineers to change
parameters and optimize logging operation
based on the information received.
• A tool failure can be noticed immediately.
The disadvantages are
• Ball-activated tools cannot be used when
an electrical cable is inside. This means
that specially designed disconnects and
circulation subs are required for wired CT
applications.
• Installing a wireline cable into a CT string
takes time and expertise.
• Cables can be easily damaged during
installation or removal.
• cables (production logging and perforation)
4.5.1.2 Memory mode CT logging
In memory mode, information is recorded in
the tool and later retrieved at the surface for
analysis. Memory mode does not require a
wireline cable to be installed inside CT.
The advantages are
• Standard CT string can be used; there is no
need for expensive cable and time‑consuming
installation.
• Standard ball-activated tools can be used
in the BHA.
The disadvantages are
• No data can be seen until the tool
is retrieved at the end of the logging
operation. This means that the operation
cannot be optimized during the job based
on real-time data.
• If the memory tool fails to record good
data, a lot of time is wasted because this
only becomes apparent after the operation
and then the operation may have to be
redone.
4.5.2 Logging cables
The majority of CT logging operations are done
in real time with a cable inside the CT string.
There are three main types of electrical cable,
classified by the number of conductors inside
the cable. The choice of cable depends on the
requirements of Wireline tools being run as the
BHA.
• monocable (Fig. 4-23): one-conductor
cable (production logging and perforation)
• coaxial cable (Fig. 4-24): two-conductor
• heptacable (Fig. 4-25): seven-conductor
cables (openhole logging).
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  43
 Outer jacket - EPC orange
the conductors from mechanical damage and
take the tensile and compressive forces exerted
Inner armor (10) on the cable.
Insulation - EPC
Ideally, the cable will be plastic-coated for CT
Seating wires (2)
applications. This helps prevent corrosion on
the cable inside the CT string. Several types
Outer armor (9)
of plastic coating are available and the choice
depends on the well temperature.

Conductor
Figure 4-23. Monocable Configuration
Outer jacket - EPC orange
Serve insulation - tefzel
Inner armor (10)
Seating wires (2)
Outer armor (9)
Note:
Before carrying out any logging
operations, be sure to measure
the insulation and continuity of
the cable. These checks will
reveal problems, such as a short
circuit or damaged insulation. The
measurements are typically done
by the wireline team and should
be carried out with the reel under
pressure.

Serve or shield If a CT logging string is in storage,

check the insulation and continuity
Insulation - EPC
regularly; for example, every
Conductor 6 months.

Figure 4-24. Coaxial Cable Configuration

4.5.3 Installing a cable
Outer jacket - EPC orange
Void packing - EPC
The most common cable installation method
involves pumping the cable into the CT string.
Taped core assembly
The most common cable injection systems are
Inner armor (18) the flow tube and capstan injection systems.
Seating wires (2)
Conductor insulation - EPC The flow tube (sometimes called skinny pipe)
injection method circulates fluid through the
CT string via a long inject pipe (Figs. 4-26 and
4‑27). The drag force on the cable created by
Outer armor (15)
the fluid pushes the cable into the CT reel.
Filler rod (4)
Conductor The flow-tube cable injection system requires
Figure 4-25. Heptacable Configuration a significant amount of space because of the
length of flow tube required. It also requires
The conductor cables are surrounded by two more pump horsepower than the capstan
layers of armor cable. The armor cables protect system does.

44  |  CT Tool Conveyance

 The capstan drum system is the most reliable
CT string with method of removing a cable from a CT string
cable installed
without damaging it.

High-pressure fluid
drain with choke to
control CT reel pressure
Flow-tube with
cable inject pipe

High-pressure fluid inlet

Small diameter flow-tube

for cable seal

Fluid leakage drain

Figure 4-28. Capstan Drum

Leakage control tube/seal

Cable drawn from

stroage reel

Figure 4-26. Flow Tube Injection System Schematic

Figure 4-29. Capstan Drum Grooves

Figure 4-27. Flow Tube Injection System 4.5.3.1 Cable slack

When installing a cable, be sure to let some
The capstan installation system uses a capstan
slack (extra cable) into the CT string to avoid
drum (Fig. 4-28). The cable is fed into the drum
pulling tension on the electrical cable. Problems
and spooled around the guide path grooves
can occur because the electric cable tends to
(Fig. 4-29). During the installation, fluid is
lie on the low side of the spooled CT string,
circulated through the CT string and the cable
making the length of the cable slightly shorter
is fed into the flow path in a controlled manner.
than the length of the CT string (Fig. 4-30). In

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  45

a vertical wellbore, this effect will pull the cable connection with the uphole end of the cable
into tension and possibly pull the cable out of inside the CT string.
the BHA.

Insulator carrier CTPB housing

Radius of Radius Cable protector

CT string of cable
RCT RCAB
CT logging cable installed
Figure 4-30. Electrical Cable Position Inside Spooled CT
Figure 4-31. Pressure Bulkhead
String

• reel collector (Fig. 4-32): As the CT

At the end of the installation, when the end of reel rotates, so does the electrical
the cable reaches the end of the CT string, cable. The reel collector enables an
clamp the cable to prevent it from coming out of electrical connection between the cable
the string. Then, continue pumping to push an in the rotating reel core and the surface
extra length of cable into the string to provide monitoring and recording equipment.
the cable slack. The general rule is Different types of collectors are used for
different types of reel.
• monocable: 1% of entire length
• heptacable: 0.5% of entire length.
For example, if you are installing a heptacable
into a 5,000-m [16,405-ft] CT string, the amount
of cable slack to be pumped is

• 5,000 m x 0.005 = 25 m [82 ft]

Ensure that the cable slack is distributed along
the length of the string. During downhole
operations, the slack tends to move towards the
downhole end of the CT string. Pump the cable
towards the uphole end after logging operations
to maintain an even distribution in the string.
This process is called slack management.

4.5.4 Surface equipment

There are two main pieces of CT logging
surface equipment.

• pressure bulkhead (Fig. 4-31): The pressure

bulkhead enables a pressure‑sealed electrical

46  |  CT Tool Conveyance

 • mechanical connection to the CT string
Surface computer (Fig. 4-33): 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
Logging unit bulkhead connection made up to a separate CT connector by a
or standard CT thread.
CT control cabin CTSI box

Upper end connected

CT pressure to CT connector
CT reel core bulkhead
cable

Reel collector

CTL string and

logging cable Cable anchor

Check valves

Logging head and toolstring

Fluid circulation ports Fluid flow through check
valves exiting through
Internal electrical connection ports in the check valve
Pressure bulkhead housing

Mono connection
Figure 4-32. Reel Collector in CT Logging Surface Equipment (multiple conductor
options available)
Standard wireline
logging tool
4.5.5 Downhole equipment connection

There are two main items of CT downhole
equipment: the logging head and the CT
deployment bar.
4.5.5.1 CT logging head
The logging head is the upper assembly of the
logging BHA run on CT. Several models are in
use worldwide, but the following are common
functions:
Figure 4-33. CT Modular Head (CTMH)
• double check valve assembly: Double
flapper check valves are required in CT
logging as in all standard CT operations. A
special model must be used for CT logging
since it requires a sealed bypass for the
electrical cable.
• allow fluid circulation: Fluid circulation
ports are needed to allow fluid or nitrogen
circulation or N2 lifting as part of the
program.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  47

 • contingency release: A disconnect releases Upper thread protector
the logging toolstring in case it becomes
stuck and cannot be recovered. Ball
Upper head
activated disconnect tools cannot be used
because of the electrical cable inside.
Generally, mechanical disconnects are Split threaded ring
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 Mandrel
ensure it does not move, as this will break
the electrical connection with the logging
toolstring. Conductor carrier
• electrical connections between cable and
toolstring: The number of connections
required will depend on the logging
toolstring requirements and the type of
logging cable installed in the CT string.
Lower head
4.5.5.2 CT deployment bar
A CT deployment bar (CTDB) enables long
toolstring deployment and retrieval under well
Lower thread protector
pressure (Fig. 4-34). The bar temporarily holds
the logging toolstring in the BOP while the next
assembly of the logging string is made up. It is
Figure 4-34. CTDB Cross-Section
generally the same diameter as the CT string
being used, so it can be hung in the pipe and
slip rams.
4.6 CT perforating
The CTDB is configured with standard logging Perforation refers to the process of shooting
tool connections on top and bottom to ensure holes in the wellbore cemented casing or liner
reliable mechanical and electrical connections. to enable oil or gas flow from the reservoir into
the wellbore (Fig. 4-35). Perforation is generally
done with explosives deployed in special
perforation guns.

48  |  CT Tool Conveyance

 1 foot
shots per foot

Casing hole size

Figure 4-35. CT Perforating

60 O Phasing
Perforation is a highly specialized technique
because the performance of the explosives
has a very large impact on well production.
Depending on the type of well and formation,
the client may want to achieve very deep
perforations into the reservoir, or short
perforations with a wide hole in the casing.
Depth of
perforation
Perforations are classified in terms of their
phasing (angle), number (shots per foot or
spf), casing hole size, and depth of penetration Figure 4-36. Perforation Terms
(Fig. 4-36).
The pressure conditions under which the
perforation is carried out can have a significant
impact on well production.

• at-balance: The pressure of the fluid

column in the wellbore is equal to than the
formation pressure.
• overbalanced: The pressure of the fluid
column in the wellbore is greater than
the formation pressure. When the gun is
shot, fluid flows from the wellbore into the
reservoir. This can harm the reservoir if it
is sensitive to the wellbore fluid. It does not
help in cleaning up the perforation tunnels.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  49

 • underbalanced: The pressure of the fluid
column in the wellbore is less than the
formation pressure. When the gun is
shot, fluid flows from the reservoir into the
wellbore. This helps clean up debris in
the perforation tunnels and avoids getting
potentially damaging wellbore fluid into the
reservoir.
Figure 4-37 shows perforation tunnels for
overbalanced and underbalanced scenarios.
Overbalanced perforation after flowing
Part of low-permeability
zone still exists
Perforation partially
plugged with charge debris
Ideal underbalanced perforation
immediately after perforating
Low-permeability zone and
charge debris expelled by
surge of formation fluid
Figure 4-37. Perforation Tunnels Scenarios
The conditions chosen for a particular well will
depend on the type of rock in the reservoir, as
no single condition suits all situations.
4.6.1 Perforation techniques
Schlumberger Well Services does not
directly select the perforation technique for a
particular well, as this expertise is held in the
Schlumberger Reservoir Evaluation Wireline
(REW) and Tubing Conveyed Perforation (TCP)
divisions.
In the majority of cases, perforation guns are
run into a wellbore on wireline. The wireline
operator can achieve a high level of depth
50  |  CT Tool Conveyance
control using signals from the gamma ray (GR)
or casing collar locator (CCL) tool. When the
guns are at the correct depth, the operator
sends an electrical signal from surface through
the wireline to detonate the guns.
However, in highly deviated or horizontal wells,
the guns cannot be conveyed to the bottom of
the well using wireline, as wireline cannot push
them. A second limitation of wireline is its low
load capacity, which means it cannot run a long
and heavy gun string. The options used when
wireline cannot be used are
• tubing conveyed perforation (TCP): The
guns are run into the well on a string of
tubing or drillpipe
• CT perforation: The guns are run on the
end of a CT string.
4.6.1.1 CT perforation
CT perforation is almost always carried out as
a through-tubing operation. This means that
the production tubing is already set in the well
and the wellhead is in place. The guns need
to fit through the wellhead and tubing, and
this generally limits the OD of the guns. Some
typical sizes of guns run on CT are: 2 1/8 in,
2 7/8 in, 3 1/8 in, 3 3/8 in, 4 1/2 in.
Depth control is extremely important in
perforation because accuracy when setting
off the charge means obtaining the desired
flow versus missing the pay zone at inaccurate
depths. This is one of the main challenges of
carrying out perforation on CT.
The main advantages of CT perforating are
• rigidity: can run in highly deviated and
horizontal wellbores
• strength: can run much longer gun strings
than on wireline
 • underbalanced perforation: full well control collar locator (CCL). It recognizes the collars on
allows the wellbore pressure be regulated the casing downhole and uses pressure pulse
to allow for underbalance technology to send a signal to surface at each
casing collar. Using a baseline log and software
• quick cleanup: completion and testing
at the surface, the exact depth of the guns can
equipment are ready to flow back the
be known (Fig. 4-38).
well immediately if desired. This can help
minimize any damage to the reservoir.
• ability to pump: well pressure can be
adjusted lower than formation pressure
• pressure deployment: CIRP* completion
insertion and removal under pressure
system to deploy and reverse deploy guns
into a wellbore under pressure
• time reduction: operating time reduced
compared to TCP.
There are two different methods of activating or
firing the perforation guns on CT: hydraulic and
electrical. These methods are described below.

4.6.1.1.1 Hydraulically activated perforation

A standard CT string is used and the firing
mechanism is activated differently depending
on the type of firing head used:

• pumping a ball through the CT string and

pressuring up (CBF-AA firing head)
• pressuring up the CT string or annulus
(BCF firing head)
• pressure pulses (e-Fire* electronic firing
head system)
The pressure required to activate the firing
head is predetermined on the surface, by
changing the number of shear pins in the tool.
With this technique, depth correlation is often
done mechanically by tagging a known depth in
the completion with a TEL or TNL.
Figure 4-38. DepthLOG Log
4.6.1.1.2 Electrically activated perforation
Electrically activated perforation is almost the
same as perforation on wireline because it
requires a CT string with a cable inside it (a CT
logging string). In this case, the CT is only used
to place the guns in the correct position, and
the gun firing is controlled from the wireline unit.

However, Schlumberger has also developed the The main advantage of this method is the
DepthLOG* CT depth correlation log, a more accurate depth correlation.
advanced depth correlation method that is used
in some locations. This electronic tool is based
on the wireline casing

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  51

The CT logging head is the interface between
the cable and the electrical firing head on the
wireline toolstring.
It is important to note that balls cannot be
circulated through the CT string when there
is an electrical cable inside. This means that
specially designed disconnects and circulation
subs are required for wired CT applications. A
standard mechanical disconnect used for CT
logging cannot be used for CT perforation as
the shock of the perforation will often cause
an unwanted disconnect. A tool such as the
nonwired multicycle disconnect (MCD) is
approved for CT perforation. This requires
a combination of overpull and CT cycling to
release.
The equipment used on surface is the same as
those used on CT logging operations.
4.7 CT Drilling
CT drilling (CTD) is a special application
of CT (Fig. 4-39). It does not compete with
conventional rig rotary drilling for the majority of
applications, but there are certain types of wells
for which CTD makes technical and economical
sense.
Figure 4-39. Schlumberger CTD Unit in Alaska
Because of the specialized nature of CTD, it
is carried out by experienced teams in only
52  |  CT Tool Conveyance
a small number of locations, where there are
enough suitable candidates to make a CTD
project feasible.
CTD is used in the following applications:
• underbalanced drilling
• short radius wells
• multilateral applications
• through-tubing reentry
Typically, the larger CT strings (2 in, 2-3/8 in
and 2-7/8 in) are used in CTD. These sizes
allow the higher pump rates needed to lift
the drilling cuttings to surface. They can also
achieve good WOB downhole, which is a key
factor in drilling efficiently.
4.7.1 Conventional and CTD comparison
There are some important differences between
CTD techniques and conventional drilling
techniques.
• string rotation: Conventional drilling is
based on rotary drilling, which means the
drill string is rotated. A CT string cannot be
rotated, therefore CTD must use downhole
motors, orienting tools, and other special
equipment to replace the ability to rotate
the pipe.
• circulation: With normal drilling operations
with drill pipe, circulation of the well needs
to be stopped to make up the connections.
Many problems like lost circulation and
stuck pipe can occur during this period. In
CTD, there are no connections to make up,
so continuous circulation is achieved.
• WOB: In conventional drilling, the WOB
comes from the weight of the drillstring in
the hole. In CTD, the injector head applies
additional snubbing forces to the CT string
in addition to the weight of the CT string
itself.
4.7.2 CTD advantages
CTD has several advantages over conventional
drilling:
• smaller rig footprint
• reduced reservoir damage because of
underbalanced drilling techniques
• continuous circulation
• faster tripping operations (continuous pipe,
no connections required)
• safe drilling with multiphase fluids (foam
and nitrified fluids)
• efficiently monitoring and controlling
downhole pressures
• real-time downhole measurements of
surveys, logging data, and pressure data
using a wireline inside the coiled tubing
• superior directional control because of
steering at BHA.
4.7.2.1 Underbalanced vs. overbalanced
One of the most important advantages of CTD
is the ability to carry out all operations (drilling,
tripping, and completion) in an underbalanced
situation.
Underbalanced means that the hydrostatic
pressure exerted by the wellbore fluid is less
than the reservoir pressure, which allows the
reservoir fluid to enter the wellbore during
operations. This state means that the well is live
at all times. The fact that very little drilling fluid
enters the reservoir reduces the damage to the
reservoir. The CT pressure control equipment
(strippers and BOPs) allows safe operations in
live wells.
CTD allows the well to be maintained in an
underbalanced state throughout the drilling and
completion operations, virtually eliminating any
wellbore damage and possibly reducing the
need for well stimulation afterwards.
Conventional drilling is carried out in an
overbalanced situation. This means a heavier
drilling fluid is used so that the hydrostatic
pressure of the drilling fluid is greater than the
reservoir pressure. This controls the reservoir
pressure and prevents reservoir fluid (oil or gas)
from entering the wellbore.
The loss of drilling fluid to the reservoir
can damage the reservoir and affect future
production.
Conventional rotary drilling rigs cannot drill
underbalanced, but certain rigs have been
fitted with specially developed pressure control
equipment to allow underbalanced drilling.
However, the well must still be killed for tripping
and completion operations, which will cause
reservoir damage.
4.7.2.2 Real-time information
Another major advantage of CTD is the
ability to install a wireline inside the CT string.
Running electric steering or logging tools as
part of the drilling or completion operations can
be carried out quickly and efficiently. This ability
to perform trips quickly is a major advantage
when performing operations on deep wells.
4.7.2.3 Environmental impact
CT units are used to drill in environmentally sensitive
areas because of the efficiency in using a closed-
loop system with no connections. The CT drilling
package has less exhaust emissions and greatly
reduced noise levels. Because small holes are
drilled, educed quantities of drilling fluids must be
mixed and less drill cuttings must be disposed of.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  53
4.7.3 CTD disadvantages
There are, however, disadvantages to CT
drilling. These include the following:

• limited life of the CT itself (i.e., cycle

fatigue), especially in larger CT sizes
• less industry experience compared with
conventional drilling
• reduced horizontal-reach potential,
because of sliding friction Perforated interval may be
squeezed off or remain open
• additional operating cost because of the
need for a downhole motor.

4.7.4 CTD applications

CTD has several applications.
Producing formation(s) below
production casing/liner shoe
4.7.4.1 Previously drilled wells
Most CTD operations are carried out in
previously drilled wells. Typical examples of this
are Figure 4-40. Typical Well Deepening Configuration

• deepening an existing well to access

deeper reserves (Fig. 4-40)
• drilling a horizontal sidetrack to increase
production from an old well.
CTD is economically attractive in this situation
because the existing well and surface
production equipment is used for the new well.
CTD in previously drilled wells can be
performed as a through-tubing reentry or a
casing reentry.
4.7.4.2 Through-tubing reentry sidetrack
Through-tubing reentry sidetrack is when the
CT reenters the wellbore through existing
production tubing (Fig. 4-41). This method
requires the entire BHA to pass through the
tubing. This method is used to deepen wells
and for directional sidetrack to increase flow
area or access new reservoir targets.
The wellbore is exited either through the tubing
and casing, or through the casing below the
production tubing.

Through-tubing method eliminates the cost of

• pulling the tubing and associated

completions equipment
• running production tubing after drilling.
This method can be performed with
either overbalanced or underbalanced
techniques.

54  |  CT Tool Conveyance


Minimum disruption to
wellhead equipment
Original completion
equipment in place
4.7.4.4 New wells
CTD can be used to effectively drill small
wellbores (up to 12 1/4 in) from surface. It is
typically used only in shallow gas pilot wells,
where high-pressure shallow gas can cause
blowouts on conventional rigs. The advantage
of the CT pressure control equipment is greatly
increased safety for this operation.

In these cases, the CT unit is used to drill the

first 450 to 900 m [1,500 to 3,000 ft] and a
conventional rig continues from this point.

4.7.5 Surface equipment

New side-tracked
The surface equipment required for a CTD
wellbore operation is similar to standard CT operations,
with some additional features related to the
drilling fluid handling and pumping.

Original wellbore typically

abandoned below kick-off point 4.7.5.1 Returns handling equipment
Figure 4-41. Through-Tubing Reentry Sidetrack An equipment package is required to handle
and store the returned drilling fluid on surface
4.7.4.3 Casing reentry sidetrack (Fig. 4-42).
With casing reentry, the existing production
tubing and packer are removed before the
operation. The CT reenters the wellbore
through the casing. Casing reentry is used to
deepen wells or for sidetracking and horizontal
drilling.

CT is most effective economically when used

• to perform short radius drilling

• when in environmentally sensitive locations
• offshore on platforms where a full drilling
rig is cost prohibitive.
Casing reentries are performed with either
overbalanced or underbalanced techniques. Figure 4-42. Typical CTD Surface Equipment Layout

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  55

This equipment package performs the following
functions:

• removes drill cuttings and solids

• removes gas from the drilling fluid
• provides storage tank volume to hold
drilling fluid
• samples returned fluid
• mixes new drilling fluid
Figure 4-43. Single Pump Float ,SPF-243
• provides choke line and choke manifold
• provides pipework and hoses.
4.7.5.3 Substructure
For underbalanced operations, some additional
In most CTD operations, a jacking frame or CT
equipment is necessary to deal with the oil or
support frame is used to support the injector
gas, which returns with the drilling fluid.
head. Hydraulic rams in the legs raises the
frame, enabling safe and easy assembly and
4.7.5.2 Pumping equipment break out of the long toolstrings associated with
CTD. Figure 4-44 shows a typical substructure.
CT drilling requires long periods of continuously
pumping drilling fluids and does not normally Using the frame means a crane is not required
employ the same high- and low-pressure to support the injector during the entire
pumping equipment used in other CT operation.
applications.

Plunger pumps, capable of pumping drilling

fluid for long, uninterrupted periods are used,
similar to those used in conventional drilling
operations. To reduce personnel required, mud
pumps are positioned with controls in the CT
cabin so that the operator can start and stop
the pumps as required to operate orienting tools
and other downhole equipment.

The single pump float, SPF-243 shown in

Fig. 4‑43 can be used for CT drilling applications.

Figure 4-44. Typical CTD Substructure

56  |  CT Tool Conveyance

4.7.6 Downhole equipment in CTD operations. The connector must
be able to withstand the rotational forces
There are three main types of BHA used in applied by the downhole motor.
CTD (Fig. 4-45):
• double flapper check valves: Check valves
• nonsteered drilling BHA are run to prevent backflow into the CT
that could cause BHA plugging. They also
• directional drilling BHA
provide an internal safety barrier for the CT
• window-milling BHA. in case of a well control event.
• release mechanism: Generally a
hydraulic‑release tool is run for this
CT string
application. This is activated by pumping a
ball through the CT string from surface, and
pressuring up the string when it is sitting in
CT connector the tool.
• drill collars: Drill collars (if needed for
Check valves
+/- 3 ft vertical wells) are heavy-weight pipes. For
vertical wellbores, a small number of drill
Release joint
collars (typically 2 or 3) is used to assist
in maintaining a straight wellbore. They
Drill collar(s) are most effective when drilling softer
WOB formations or where low weight-on-bit
is needed. Spiral downhole collars are
preferred since they stick less.
Motor • downhole motor: The most commonly used
downhole motor is a positive-displacement
+/- 10 ft
motor (PDM). The PDM is driven by the
drilling fluid that passes through the motor.
The fluid passes through a rotor/stator
Bit section (similar to a spiral) and causes the
inner rotor to rotate.
These motors come in different
Figure 4-45. CT Bottomhole Assembly
configurations for different speed and
torque capabilities, as recommended for a
particular formation. Typically, higher-torque
4.7.6.1 Nonsteered drilling applications motors are preferred for CT drilling.
BHA
Nonsteered CTD is typically used for deepening • bit: The drill bit (or simply bit) comes in
an existing wellbore. A standard CT string contact with the formation to be drilled.
without an electrical cable is used. When rotated by the motor, the abrasive
face of the bit grinds away the formation,
The BHA consists of deepening the wellbore.

• coiled tubing connector: A dimple-type

connector is the most common type used

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  57

 The two most common types of bits are
○ fixed cutter (sometimes called drag bits)
○ roller-cone bits.
Fixed cutter bits have no bearings and no
rotating parts. They use a shearing action
similar to machining to cut the rock as they
are rotated by the motor above. The most
common bits are
○ PDC (polycrystalline diamond compact),
for soft-to-medium formations
○ TSP (thermally stable polycrystalline), for
medium-to-hard formations
○ diamond, for hard formations.
Fixed cutter bits can be rebuilt (or
redressed) and used again.
Roller-cone bits come in a variety of
configurations. They come in one to four
cones on larger bits. The most common
configuration is the tri-cone bit. The teeth
are either milled steel or tungsten carbide
inserts with various nozzle configurations
to assist in debris removal. Many of the
new designs can also be found with
diamond-coated cutters to resist wear.
4.7.6.2 Directional drilling BHA
Directional drilling is used to steer a wellbore to
an exact target location in the reservoir.
Two types of bottomhole assemblies are
used to perform directional drilling operations:
wireless telemetry and wireline telemetry.
• wireless telemetry BHA (Fig. 4-46):
Wireless telemetry uses either mud pulses
or electromagnetic signals to communicate
measurements from the BHA to the
operator at the surface. Both systems are
convenient because the directional drilling
assembly attaches to the end of a standard
CT string and sensors at the surface
58  |  CT Tool Conveyance
receives the data. Full access through the
CT is possible, so many of the drop-ball
activated tools used with nonsteered BHAs
can be used.
1 1/2-in DH motor with bent housing
Hydraulically operated
orienting tool
1 3/8-in CT
4 1/8-in PDC bit
Nonmagnetic collar
with slim 1 MWD tool
Hydraulic release circulating
sub CT connector
Figure 4-46. Wireless Telemetry Directional Drilling BHA
The difference between wireless telemetry
and a nonsteered BHA is the measurement-
while-drilling (MWD) tool. This tool collects
data, including well inclination, gamma ray, and
casing collar locator and transmits the data to
surface using mud pulses or electromagnetic
signals. The data informs the drilling engineer
of the toolstring location in the reservoir so he
can make any needed changes.
• wireline telemetry BHA: Wireline
telemetry is a direct, wired connection to
communicate measurements from the
BHA to operators at surface via surface
equipment developed for CT logging.
This system allows much higher data-
transmission rates than wireless telemetry
systems.
Special tools are needed to disconnect
and perform other functions downhole,
because the wireline cable does not allow
the use of ball‑activated tools. Electrical or
mechanically‑activated (multi-cycle) disconnects
are used.
4.7.6.3 Milling windows
Window milling refers to cutting casing to begin
directional drilling. In most cases, the direction
is achieved by using a

• whipstock
• cement plug Window mailing Watermelon mill
assembly run to assembly (or
• combination of the two. cut window and 5 similar) used to
to 10-ft formation dress window
Typically, mills are used to mill steel (such as
windows in casing, junk, scale,), but are poor
for drilling most formations. Mills can be used to
mill cement plug kickoffs.
Figure 4-48. Windows Mailing and Watermelon Mill
Figure 4-47 shows a typical whipstock. The
whipstock is a hard metal device set in the This illustration shows both the side-cutting mill
casing that guides the mill into the side of the (or speed mill) used to cut the casing and the
casing. The mill produces a cut or window in watermelon mill used to expand and dress the
the casing. window.

After milling the window through the casing of

the well, the directional drilling assembly is then
used to continue drilling in the formation to the
reservoir target.

Figure 4-47. Directional Drilling BHA

Figure 4-48 shows how a whipstock can be

used to guide the BHA to the casing wall. The
second BHA includes a watermelon mill to
dress the window.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  59

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60  |  CT Tool Conveyance

 5.0  CT Completions

The term completion refers to the production

tubing and associated downhole completion
hardware in a well. The typical tubing sizes are
2 7/8 in to 5 1/2 in, although smaller and larger
tubing exist.

CT completions are applications where a CT

string or a section of a CT string is left in the
wellbore as a permanent part of the completion Production tubing
(Fig. 5-1). In most cases, the CT completion is
run with a standard CT unit and equipment.

Many CT completion applications are low‑cost

methods to prolong the life of old wells where
production is declining or the completion is Production packer

damaged. However, there are also high‑tech

applications where there is a technical
advantage to use a CT completion in new wells.
Casing
CT completion applications have several
advantages over completions run with
conventional workover rigs. They are
Perforations
• less expensive
• generally quicker
• less damaging to the formation when
Figure 5-1. Main Parts of a Standard Completion
working in live wells.
The following CT completion applications are
described in this section: Note:
Refer to CT Completion Services
• CT velocity string
and RedaCoil InTouch Reference
• CT tailpipe extension Page, InTouch Content ID#
3311242, for more information.
• CT tubing patch
• Electric submersible pumps (ESP)
• Spoolable* safety valves for CT
• Through-tubing gravel pack.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  61

5.1 CT velocity string
Over the life of many oil and gas wells,
production rates decline and the composition
of production fluid changes. These changes
require a reduction in the size of production
tubular to maintain production efficiency.

A CT string can be hung permanently inside

existing production tubing to reduce the
cross‑sectional flow area of the production
tubular. This is known as a velocity string
(Fig. 5-2) since the reduced flow area yields
higher flow velocity for a given production rate.
The well can be flowed either through the CT
string itself or through the annulus between the
CT string and the existing production tubing.

Figure 5-3. Water Buildup Removed by Using CT Velocity

String

In many cases, the CT string is hung in a

special flanged hanger on the wellhead.
However, this method can disable surface
and downhole valves because the CT string is
running through them so that they cannot be
closed.

Another system uses a packer to hang the CT

string below the downhole safety valve so that
the valves remain fully functional.

The CT string is generally run in hole with

a pumpout plug or check valve system to
Figure 5-2. CT Velocity String Configuration
prevent oil or gas entering the CT string. This
is expelled with pressure after hanging the CT
CT velocity strings are particularly popular
string.
in old gas wells where an increase in water
content is causing inefficient flow. The higher
After installation, the well produces up the
flow velocity helps the gas to lift the water to
velocity string, but in some cases, the CT‑tubing
surface more efficiently, which prevents water
annulus is used for production.
buildup and inconsistent flow (Fig. 5-3).
An old CT string with little remaining fatigue
life is frequently used as a CT velocity string.
The coiled tubing string may remain in the well
for several years and can be retrieved when
necessary using CT equipment again.

62  |  CT Completions
CT velocity strings are the simplest and most This tailpipe system is simple and quick to
widely used of all CT completions. install.

Figure 5-3 shows that in mature gas wells, a CT

velocity string can help produce water buildup 5.3 CT tubing patch
to surface. This water buildup can kill a well if it A CT tubing patch (Fig. 5-5) is CT string hung
cannot be produced. in a completion for one of the following reasons:

• cover a hole in the tubing due to

5.2 CT tailpipe extension mechanical damage or erosion
A CT tailpipe extension (Fig. 5-4) is a shortened
• permanently shut off a sliding sleeve
version of a velocity string. It is a length of CT
string hung at the end of an existing production • isolate perforations.
tubing to extend the tubing closer to the
perforations.

Upper packer

Tubing leak Length of CT string

Lower packer

Tubing
Pressure

Annulus
Pressure

Figure 5-4. CT Tailpipe Extension

The tailpipe can be hung in an existing nipple or Figure 5-5. Tubing Patch
by a simple packer.
Packers are set at the top and bottom of the CT
tubing patch to hold it in position and provide
The most common application for CT tailpipe
the seal between the existing completion and
extensions is in old gas wells, where the
the CT string.
well is producing water with the gas. The
tailpipe extension allows the well to flow more
consistently and reduces any slugging effect.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  63

5.4 Electric submersible pumps
In low-pressure oil fields, artificial lift techniques
are used to produce the oil to surface. One type
of artificial lift is electric submersible pumps
(ESPs).

ESPs are electric pumps installed at the bottom

of the production tubing to pump oil to the
surface in wells that would produce little or no
oil if allowed to flow naturally.

ESPs are generally installed by a conventional

or workover rig on standard completion tubing,
but there are advantages to installing them on a
CT string hung permanently in the well. Figure 5-6. RedaCoil Cross Section

The main advantages of ESPs run by a CT unit

rather than with a rig include
• faster installation
• cable can be run inside the CT string
(protects the cable)
• no cable splicing or cable bands
• no need to kill the well and damage the
formation
• full pressure control at all times
• cheaper day rates.
ESPs need to be serviced or changed every
few years. When you consider the cost of
multiple rig mobilizations, a CT-deployed
system becomes even more attractive.
5.5 Spoolable gas lift valves
Another artificial lift technique commonly used
to produce wells that do not flow naturally is
called gas lift.
The simplest example of the gas lift technique
involves continuously pumping gas down the
tubing annulus. The gas enters the tubing string
through a gas lift valve (GLV) and lightens the
hydrostatic pressure of the fluid column. This
helps with well flow.
These GLVs are usually run by the rig as part
of the original completion. However, when
production declines, adding GLVs with CT
instead of replacing the completion with a rig is
an option.

The Schlumberger RedaCoil* CT-developed Schlumberger has developed Spoolable gas

ESP system is a collaboration between the Well
Services and Artificial Lift divisions (Fig. 5‑6).
The system has a successful history in
CT‑deployed ESPs.
lift valves specifically for CT applications
(Fig. 5-7). These valves can be spooled as
part of the CT string. Spoolable GLVs have
internal connections so they can pass through
pressure-control equipment and run into a well
like a standard CT string.

64  |  CT Completions

Spoolable safety valve
(internal control line)
Existing safety valve
Spoolable gas lift valve
Production packer
Production packer or seal assembly
Figure 5-7. Spoolable GLV
To prepare the Spoolable completion, the CT
string is spooled from one reel to another. The
string is cut at the position where the Spoolable
valve is installed. The GLV is made up between
the two ends of the CT string with internal
connections.
Spoolable completion strings are specifically
designed for a well and therefore can take
months to manufacture before the operation.
Once completed, the Spoolable completion
string is very quick to install. The string is hung
at the wellhead with a surface hanger.
Spoolable strings can be hung at the bottom of
the existing completion as a tailpipe extension
to place GLVs closer to the perforations.
5.6 Through-tubing gravelpack
Wells drilled in unconsolidated sands often
require a screen to prevent sand production in
the wellbore.
Sand production from the formation can cause
many problems during the life of a well:
• sand buildup in the wellbore restricting or
stopping production
• downhole equipment erosion
• casing or liner failure
• surface production equipment erosion.
A gravel pack (GP) is a wire mesh screen
installed in the wellbore across from the
producing formation. In many cases, gravel is
pumped into the area between the screen and
the formation. The GP keeps the sand in place
while allowing the oil to flow.
Figure 5-8 shows a cross-section of a prepacked
screen. This type of screen is run into the well
with a layer of consolidated resin‑coated gravel
already placed between the screen and the
outer shroud.
Figure 5-8. Prepacked GP Screen
A GP completion is generally put in place by
the rig after drilling the well. However, in some
cases, such as if sanding begins later in the life
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  65
of a non-GP well, CT can be used to install a
through-tubing GP completion. Through-tubing
refers to screens installed through the existing
production tubing.
A through-tubing GP installation can increase
oil and gas production and eliminate sand
production (and its related problems) while
maintaining the original completion.
The most common method used for through-
tubing GPs is the washdown method.
The washdown technique consists of two
phases.
1. First, the gravel is spotted in place (see
Fig. 5-9). The CT string is run into the GP
depth and the gravel is pumped into the
well. The CT string is retrieved to surface.
Figure 5-9 shows the gravel spotted in
place. The CT string is run into the GP
depth and the gravel is pumped into
the well. The CT string is retrieved to
surface.
Figure 5-9. Gravel is Spotted in Place
66  |  CT Completions
2. The second phase is the installation of
the GP screen assembly, which is made
up to the CT string.
The GP screen assembly consists of
the following (Fig. 5-10):
▪ A hydraulic-set double-grip packer
is used to hang the assembly
and prevents movement in either
direction. This packer is fully
retrievable using CT or jointed pipe.
▪ Blank pipe is used to cover the area
from the packer to the top of the
perforations. There is no production
from this area, so there is no need to
use extra expensive screens.
▪ The wire mesh screen acts as a filter,
allowing the oil flow while holding the
sand in place.
▪ The wash pipe allows circulation
through the entire length of screen to
the end of assembly. This is retrieved
when the CT string is retrieved to
surface.
▪ The nozzle provides jetting action
to help fluidize the gravel to put the
screens in place.
 CT connector
double flapper
check valves
Disconnect mechanism

Hydraulic-set
double-grip packer

Blank pipe

Screen with
washpipe inside

Figure 5-10. BHA to Run GP Screen Assembly

When approaching the top of the gravel in the
well GP, pumping begins. The pump rate is
sufficient to fluidize the gravel, but insufficient to
circulate the material into the tubing.
While pumping, the CT is slowly lowered into
the gravel until the final setting depth for the
screen is reached (Fig. 5-11).
Figure 5-11. Washing the Screen into Place
A ball is then pumped through the CT string
to set the packer hydraulically and release the
sand screen.
The CT running string can now be pulled back to
surface with the internal wash pipe (Fig. 5‑12).

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  67

 Note:
Refer to Sandface Completions
- Rigless Completion and Through
Tubing Gravel Pack, InTouch
Washpipe
Content ID# 3316403 for more
information.

Figure 5-12. Retrieving the Upper BHA and Washpipe

The through-tubing GP is now in place and the

well begins sand-free production (Fig. 5-13).

Sand-free production

Figure 5-13. Sand-Free Production

68  |  CT Completions

Artificial lift
This term describes completion systems which
provide artificial assistance to produce oil
or gas from wells which would not produce
economically if left to flow naturally. Examples:
gas lift, ESP, rod pumps.
Bullheading
Pumping a fluid from surface through the
existing completion without using CT or
drillpipe.
Completion
The tubing and casing strings in a wellbore
through which the oil or gas is produced,
including associated downhole valves, screens,
nipples, and so on.
Electric submersible pump (ESP)
ESPs are electric pumps installed at the bottom
of the production tubing to pump oil to surface
in wells which would produce little or no oil if
allowed to flow naturally.
Gas lift valve
Valves placed in a completion to allow
continuous, controlled gas injection to assist in
bringing fluid to surface.
Gravel pack
This type of completion consists of a mesh
screen surrounded by gravel in the reservoir.
This type of completion is used to prevent
unconsolidated reservoirs from producing sand
into the wellbore.
POOH (pull out of hole)
Signifies that the CT string should be retrieved
to surface or pulled above present position.
6.0  Glossary
Pressure Control Equipment
Equipment used to control wellbore pressure. In
CT operations, this refers to the stripper, BOPs,
lubricators, risers, and wellhead connections.
RIH (Run in Hole)
RIH signifies that the CT string should be run
into the well or to a deeper position than the
current position.
Slickline
A widely-used intervention technique using
a steel cable to run and retrieve tools in a
wellbore. It is very fast, relatively cheap, and
uses a small crew. It can work up to well
inclinations of approximately 65o.
Snubbing unit
An intervention technique which allows jointed
pipe to be run into live wells. Generally used
for heavy duty workover and recompletion.
Completions can be pulled with a snubbing unit.
Spoolable
The Schlumberger Gas Lift valve range which
can be spooled as part of a CT string. This
system is used for through-tubing gas lift valve
systems.
Through-tubing
Through-tubing describe operations carried out
without pulling the existing completion. These
operations are done through the tubing.
TOC
top of cement
Wireline
Electronic tools run on electric cable for
reservoir and well evaluation.
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing  |  02
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70  |  Glossary
 7.0  Check Your Understanding

1. CT was developed to perform remedial 6. Which two of the following fluids are most
work on dead wells. suitable for cleanouts in wells that cannot
a. true hold a column of fluid?
b. false A. brine
B. nitrified fluid
2. Schlumberger is the world’s largest C. xanthan gel
supplier of CT services. D. foamed fluid
a. true
b. false 7. Which two of the following conditions
make a fill cleanout more technically
difficult?
3. What are the three major groups of CT
applications? A. large completion size
A. CT completions B. large CT size
B. CT fishing C. reservoir pressure sufficient to support
column of fluid
C. fluid conveyance
D. reservoir temperature > 163 degC
D. tool conveyance
[325 degF]
E. vertical well
4. In a nitrogen kickoff, nitrogen gas is
pumped through the CT string to _______
the hydrostatic pressure of the column of 8. Which characteristic of a gelled fluid gives
fluid in the wellbore. it better solids-carrying capacity than
water?
a. increase
A. viscosity
b. decrease
B. density

5. What three problems are caused by fill or

debris in the wellbore?
A. reduced production of oil or gas
B. wireline and slickline access prevented
C. scale buildup
D. downhole sleeves and valves prevented
from functioning
9. Which two of the following are NOT TRUE
of cementing through CT?
A. Operation is done through-tubing; no
need to pull the completion.
B. Operation can be done in a live well.
C. Pumping cement slurry through CT
increases slurry contamination.
D. Higher treatment volumes are required.
E. Accurate placement can be achieved.

JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing Operations  |  71

10. The cement design is the same for
pumping through CT or drillpipe.
A. true
B. false
11. Which two of the following are reasons for
setting cement plugs in wells?
A. as a base to mill a window in well
tubulars
B. to seal off a casing leak
C. to seal off an entire wellbore at the end
of its useful life
D. to seal off perforations producing water
12. Which one of the following is NOT TRUE
about matrix acidizing through CT?
A. Pumping the acid through CT protects
the production tubing.
B. It ensures accurate placement of the
treatment.
C. It reduces contamination of the fluid.
D. It increases the amount of acid
required.
13. Which one of the following is an
advantage of pumping a hydraulic
fracturing treatment through CT?
A. multiple fractures possible in one run
B. larger treatments can be pumped
C. pumping at higher rates possible
72  |  Check Your Understanding
14. In CT logging or perforating, what function
does the pressure bulkhead have?
A. enables a pressure-sealed electrical
connection with the uphole end of the
cable
B. enables an electrical connection
between the cable in the rotating reel
core and the surface monitoring and
recording equipment
C. establishes an electrical connection
between the downhole end of the cable
and the logging tool
15. In CT logging or perforating, what is the
function of the collector?
A. enables a pressure-sealed electrical
connection with the uphole end of the
cable
B. enables an electrical connection
between the cable in the rotating reel
core and the surface monitoring and
recording equipment
C. establishes an electrical connection
between the downhole end of the cable
and the logging tool
16. Which one of the following is NOT a
type of electrical cable used in wired CT
applications?
A. monocable
B. coaxial
C. triplex
D. heptacable
17. Which two electrical properties of the
electrical cable must be checked before
any logging operation?
A. insulation
B. resistance
C. continuity
D. voltage
18. An overshot is used to fish what type of
fishing neck?
A. internal fishing neck profile
B. external fishing neck profile
19. What are the two methods of activating
the guns in CT perforation?
A. hydraulic
B. pneumatic
C. electrical
A. chemical
20. Which two of the following are the
advantages of underbalanced perforation?
A. helps to clean up debris in the
perforation tunnels
B. increases the length of the perforations
C. less expensive
D. avoids getting potentially damaging
wellbore fluid into the reservoir
21. Which three of the following are
advantages of pumping acid through the
Jet Blaster over bullheading acid?
A. Less chemical is needed to get the
same effect.
B. The Blaster tool can accurately place
the acid at the point it is required.
C. The jetting effect of the Blaster
improves the efficiency of the acid.
D. Quicker treatment is possible.
22. What is the name given to the Blaster
configuration that includes a small mud
motor and mill to drill a pilot hole?
A. Screen Blaster
B. Bead Blaster
C. Bridge Blaster
D. Jet Blaster
23. Which three of the following are
advantages of CT completions over
completions run with conventional
workover rigs?
A. less expensive
B. quicker
C. well production increased
D. live well operations possible
24. Which two of the following completion
types is artificial lift?
A. velocity string
B. electric submersible pumps
C. CT patch
D. gas lift valves
25. What is the function of a gravel pack
completion?
A. increase fluid velocity for more
consistent production
B. increase oil production
C. prevent sand production from the
formation
26. Name six advantages of using CT over
conventional workover rigs.
1. _____________________________
2. _____________________________
3. _____________________________
4. _____________________________
5. _____________________________
6. _____________________________
JET 16 - Introduction to Coiled Tubing Operations  |  73
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74  |  Check Your Understanding