Geothermal operators are embracing geothermal multifinger caliper technology for derisking well interventions and workovers

Abstract

Since the commercialisation of a digital geothermal multi-finger caliper in early 2020, operators have been transforming the decision making behind highly critical well intervention and workover operations. Previously, operators were either forced to quench their high temperature well in order to acquire data that informs the condition of the casing or resorted to deploying a limited analogue-based caliper measuring tool. The quenching operation incurs cost and subjects the casing to potentially damaging thermal cycling. Technological limitations and the burden of quenching often deterred operators from conducting any data acquisition as part of the decision-making process behind well interventions and workovers. Since the technological breakthrough of the geothermal casing inspection caliper, operators have been embracing data to plan activities with confidence, de-risking operations in the process. Pre-workover evaluation and well integrity diagnostics are the two key areas benefiting from digitally enabled data acquisition that eliminates quenching as a pre-requisite. In pre-workover evaluation, wellhead maintenance is being made safer through the appropriate selection of plugs as a well control barrier based on accurate and reliable data that informs where the plug should be set and areas to avoid. Wells with compromised casing can be treated with re-lining remedies which can save a well from abandonment. The geothermal MFC enables pre-rig mobilisation assessments, flagging internal diameter restrictions, scale build-up, or deformations. In wellbore integrity diagnostics, the geothermal MFC is becoming a key tool in diagnosing issues that cause wellbore integrity failure, resulting in improved best practices that help prevent recurrence. This digitally-fueled, data-driven transformation of geothermal well operations are helping operators extend the lifespan of wells, reducing inefficiencies that can add risk and cost to the management of their assets.