Published on 18 September 2018
Zonal isolation with Saltel Xpandable AZIP Packers
Compartment isolation between sliding sleeves, prior selective acid stimulation
Context
The oil producer well was drilled in 2017 in the Bekhme formation of Tawke Cretaceous reservoir, in Iraqi Kurdistan. The client requested an alternative to traditional swell packers for isolating compartments between sleeves during acid stimulation.
The completion would include:
- Robust metal expandable packers designed for high DLS (up to 28°/100 ft)
- Sliding sleeves (SSD) for selective acid stimulation and clean-up.
A selective acid stimulation would be conducted after the rig had moved out, to counteract the relatively poor initial stimulation treatment (limited coiled tubing acid wash).
Proposed Solution
To provide reservoir compartmentalization in high DLS and tight spot environment, Saltel AZIP Packers were used to create a solid metal barrier against the 6-1/8 in formation. The short length (4ft) of sealing element enabled to pass the kick-off point, while the 5.5in RIH OD ensured a smooth entry through the restriction.
