Abandonment Barrier Placement with Novel Analysis Spells Success in Deepwater

A major Deepwater operator in the Gulf of Mexico needed to set a 330 ft cross sectional cement barrier in 13 5/8" × 20" casing. This well in over 6, 000 ft+ MD water depth required a cement barrier placed just above the 20" casing shoe in order to meet the qualifications to plug and abandon the well. The 13 5/8" Perf/Wash/Cement system was the best solution to circulate/place cement in a controlled and focused area. The 330 ft long section was planned to be washed and cemented in one run and verified by pressure testing and tagging top of cement. Careful study of Cement Bond Logs and fluid hydraulic calculations was shared in extensive meetings with product experts, engineers, and other 3rd party vendors involved with the job. This novel analysis, great teamwork and a fit for purpose tool helped ensure that the job was successfully completed. The 13 5/8" Perforate, Wash and Cement Tool was successfully deployed for washing and cementing of the interval with even rates at 1200 lpm. After performing the operation the Operator tagged top of cement 6 feet above planned height which proved our analysis and calculations, and a confirmed positive/negative test allowed them to move on with the completion of the plug and abandonment of the well. This was the first operation of its kind in Deepwater Gulf of Mexico and proved to be a viable solution to accurately place an approved and quality cement job behind casing free of unwanted debris that could create micro annuli. This type of operation requires thorough analysis and calculations to ensure the well conditions and tool are fit for purpose and will result in a successful operation. This achievement was the precursor to many more jobs that are suited for this application in the region.