Improved Techniques to Alleviate Sustained Casing Pressure in a Mature Gulf of Mexico Field

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2003

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to highlight the techniques used during a recent workover program to alleviate sustained casing pressure in a Gulf of Mexico field. Discussion will include cement and workover fluid programs, hole preparation before milling and cementing operations, and improved milling procedures. The field was drilled during the 1980s and sustained casing pressure has been prevalent in some cases previous to initial completion operations. In two rig workover programs in 1989, and again in 1990, a total of nine temporary abandonments were attempted. These programs resulted in limited success until the most recent workover program beginning in 1999. In addition, a non-rig program was running concurrently with the most recent rig operations in an attempt to avoid rig intervention when possible. However, this system will not be discussed in this paper except as it applies to specific operations. All indications are that the workover program was successful even though there was some need for remedial rig work on three wells while operations were ongoing. A review of past attempts, relying on internal correspondence and drilling reports, will be made and compared to the present 1999 rig operations program using first hand knowledge of the operations and decisions.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Proceedings - SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition

First Page

5145

Last Page

5158

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