Workover Operation

and Recovery
Methods
Optimising well productivity through targeted interventions. Explore
the techniques and technologies used to enhance oil and gas recovery,
from equipment repairs to advanced well stimulation.

by Mustafa Cmit
SECONDARY OIL RECOVERY
Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques: Utilising advanced technologies to increase oil production
through secondary recovery methods
Water Injection: Introducing water into the reservoir to maintain pressure and displace oil

Gas Injection: Injecting gas, such as natural gas or carbon dioxide, to enhance oil recovery by
reducing the oil's viscosity
Introduction to Workover
Operations
Workover operations are essential maintenance and repair procedures
performed on oil and gas wells to restore or improve their production
capabilities. These complex operations involve specialized equipment,
skilled personnel, and detailed planning to address a variety of
downhole issues.

By understanding the reasons for conducting workover operations, the

types of interventions available, and the specialized equipment and
techniques employed, oil and gas companies can optimize their asset
management strategies and enhance the overall efficiency of their
production operations.
Reasons for Conducting Workover
Operations

Well Maintenance Enhancing Production

Workovers are performed to maintain the Workover operations can increase well
integrity and productivity of oil and gas flow rates and oil/gas production by
wells, addressing issues like scale buildup, techniques like sand control, acid
corrosion, or mechanical problems. stimulation, or hydraulic fracturing.

Addressing Downhole Failures Preparing for Abandonment

Workovers are used to rectify downhole Workover rigs are brought in to plug and
equipment failures, such as stuck pipes, abandon old wells at the end of their
collapsed casings, or problems with pumps productive life in a safe and
and artificial lift systems. environmentally compliant manner.
Types of Workover Operations

Well Cleaning Downhole Repairs Casing and Reworking

Removing debris, Fixing mechanical Cementing Reservoir
scale, or other issues with pumps, Addressing issues Stimulating the
obstructions from the tubing, or other with the well casing or reservoir through
wellbore to restore downhole equipment cement to maintain acidizing, fracturing,
production. to bring the well back well integrity and or other techniques to
online. control. improve production.
Workover Rig and Equipment
The workover rig is the central piece of
equipment used in workover operations. It
consists of a derrick, hoisting system, and
associated machinery to safely remove the
tubing, rods, and downhole equipment from
the well.

Specialised tools and equipment such as

wireline units, coiled tubing units, and well
intervention equipment are also utilised to
carry out various workover tasks.
Workover Procedures and Techniques
1 Site Preparation
The worksite is carefully prepared, ensuring adequate space, safety
features, and accessibility for the workover rig and supporting equipment.

2 Rig-Up and Testing

The workover rig is assembled and all associated equipment, such as the
hoisting system, mud pumps, and well control devices, are tested for
proper functionality.

3 Wellbore Interventions
The specific workover operations are carried out, which may include
perforating, stimulation, plugging, or other interventions to restore or
improve well productivity.
Optimising Workover Efficiency
Effective workover planning and execution is crucial for maximising
production and minimising downtime. Key strategies include optimising
rig selection, streamlining workflows, leveraging data analytics, and
implementing continuous improvement processes.

Proactive maintenance, inventory management, and well monitoring

can help anticipate workover needs and schedule work efficiently.
Adopting emerging technologies like remote monitoring and
automation can further boost workover productivity.
Challenges and Risks in Workover
Operations

1 2 3

Operational Wellbore Integrity Risks Downhole Hazards

Complexities
Workover operations involve
intricate procedures and
specialized equipment,
posing coordination and
execution challenges for the
crew.
Potential issues with the
well's structural integrity,
such as casing damage or
formation instability, can
jeopardize the safety and
success of the workover.
Uncontrolled fluid flows,
high-pressure formations,
and unexpected mechanical
problems can threaten the
safety of the crew and the
workover process.
Workover Safety Considerations
Comprehensive Risk Assessment
Conduct a thorough risk analysis to identify
potential hazards and implement
appropriate control measures to mitigate
risks.
Robust Equipment and Maintenance
Regularly inspect and maintain all workover
equipment to ensure it is in optimal
condition and meets safety standards.
Rigorous Training and Competence
Ensure all personnel involved in the
workover operation are extensively trained
and competent in executing their tasks
safely.
Clear Procedures and Communication
Establish clear, well-defined procedures and
ensure effective communication among the
workover crew to prevent accidents.
Emerging Trends in Workover Technologies

Remote Monitoring
Intelligent sensors and IoT-enabled platforms for real-time
1 well performance monitoring.

Automated Workflows
2 AI-powered decision support systems to optimize
workover processes.

Coiled Tubing Interventions

Advancements in coiled tubing technology for
3
more precise and efficient downhole
operations.

The oil and gas industry is embracing innovative technologies to enhance the efficiency and safety
of workover operations. Emerging trends include remote well monitoring, automated workflows
driven by AI, and advancements in coiled tubing technology for more precise downhole
interventions. These digital solutions are transforming how operators plan, execute, and optimize
their workover programs.