Tackling a Complex P&A

Application

During a large plugging and abandonment campaign, an operator identified a small number of wells that had some complexity and would require additional insight to properly P&A. One of these wells had an obstruction above the cap rock, preventing the operator from properly setting a cement plug. After a camera and caliper provided inconclusive results, the operator called in DarkVision. DarkVision directly measured and imaged the casing above and below the obstruction, and the obstruction itself using a combination of HADES-F and HADES-R.

Objectives Achieved

As DarkVision’s tools approached the obstruction, the casing was severely damaged. The tools exited the casing and traveled through open hole. Damaged tubing protruded into the open hole from the casing below, causing the obstruction. The tools were able to pass the obstruction and inspect the casing below, which was determined to be in good condition. The direct measurements of the obstruction and casing damage provided the operator with clear answers on the condition of their well and enabled them to confidently plan next steps to P&A the well.

Results

Based on the insights and direct measurements provided by DarkVision, the operator was able to plan an operation to perform P&A thru-tubing. This meant that they could successfully plug and abandon the well without drilling a new intercept well, saving over $500,000 in additional costs.