Tool for slickline operations simplifies inventory

Peak Well Systems has developed the Multi-Action Pulling (MAP) Tool to simplify offshore slickline operations and reduce inventory. The tool is able to pin up, release or recover a wide range of downhole equipment fitted with external fishnecks without the need for any additional specialized tooling. This simplifies inventory, the company said, which improves operational efficiency and reduces overall cost. The MAP Tool features a latch system to tackle a range of external fishnecks with varying threads and lengths. Powerful latch fingers and an adjustable core extend the reach of the pulling tool, giving it a short-, medium- and long-reach capability. Three different run options—jar up, jar down and double jar down modes—are available to release the fishneck in hole and eliminate the risk of prematurely shearing the pins. The company said the tool replaces the functionality of six different tools currently used. A fully adjustable core means it can adjust its reach to suit any fishneck, and an external latch release sleeve allows the tool to quickly release at surface with no special tooling required. peakwellsystems.com

Surfactant builds viscosity in completion fluids

The Armovis Complete viscoelastic surfactant (VES) from AkzoNobel has been designed for use in HP/HT wells. Its rheology effectively disperses, transports and places gravel for well completions in poorly consolidated reservoirs, according to a company product announcement. The VES improves viscosity in high-density brines across a range of bottomhole temperatures up to 191 C (375 F). Completion fluids containing Armovis Complete can be used in a wide range of heavy brines including pure bromides of potassium, calcium and zinc and mixed chloride/bromide brines; the tool has proven performance in brines as heavy as 17 ppg. This new VES is suitable for deviated and horizontal well completions as it is more tolerant to challenging well conditions than current gravel packing technologies, the company said. Armovis Complete is easy to mix into the completion fluid and immediately builds viscosity topside to disperse gravel, recovers viscosity quickly after a high-shear situation and imparts viscosity to the saline fluids at surface temperatures, maintaining stable viscosity as fluids are heated while pumped and placed in the well. Once diluted in the target brine, Armovis Complete exhibits shear-thinning behavior, which reduces injection pump pressure. In addition, the elastic properties of the fluid enhance retention of the gravel in the bulk fluid during pumping and should enhance gravel placement downhole. sc.akzonobel.com

RSS delivers precise placement of complex wells

Baker Hughes has released its AutoTrak eXact high-build rotary steerable system (RSS) designed to help operators drill complex 3-D wells with improved directional control and borehole quality. The system combines high buildup rate capability and advanced LWD services. This helps optimize completions, improve drilling efficiency and maximize production potential. The RSS uses closed-loop steering control, giving it the ability to deliver precise wellbore placement with high borehole quality for more efficient drilling, better log quality, easier casing runs and improved production, according to a product announcement. The system can drill shorter curve sections up to 12 degrees per 30.5 m (100 ft) compared to conventional systems that offer 5 to 6 degrees per 30.5 m build rates. The shorter curves maximize reservoir exposure and help avoid risk by reducing directional work in troublesome formations. The AutoTrak eXact system also provides access to real-time formation evaluation and reservoir data to help geosteer wells and optimize placement. bakerhughes.com

Drillbit design increases ROP by redistributing energy to cutters

Tercel Oilfield Products released the MicroCORE Cutting System, a new polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) drillbit design. The system redistributes high energy consumption from the center of the drillbit to the more efficient areas of the cutting structure, the company said in a press release. The technology was developed in collaboration with Total. By replacing the compression failure mechanism in the center of a traditional cutting structure, the MicroCORE system delivers more energy to the cutters, resulting in higher ROPs and better quality wellbores. It also allows operators to recover core fragments from the well that are undisturbed by the shearing action of the cutters, providing good samples for core analysis. Global field-testing has shown the system consistently sets new benchmarks in ROP and distance drilled. terceloilfield.com

Rheometer moves from lab to field without network connection

Fann Instrument Co. launched the RheoVADR variable automated digital rheometer, which can record test data without being connected to a computer or network, according to a press release. The standalone RheoVADR records speed, viscosity, dial reading and temperature with each test using digital controls to minimize operator handling. The new rheometer is lightweight and portable, which makes it suitable for use in either the lab or the field. API standard drilling fluid and cement tests are preprogrammed into the instrument, and test routines can be customized. The tool captures data in a standard CSV file that can be read by spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel. Test results can be recorded on a USB flashdrive. fann.com

System recovers stuck pipe quickly and cost-effectively

The HyPR hydraulic pipe recovery system from Churchill Drilling Tools was created for the rapid and cost-effective recovery of stuck pipe. Stuck-pipe situations cost operators significant amounts of money each year in nonproductive time, incurring mobilization wait times and uncertain recovery attempts and delays. The HyPR tool is designed to cut that cost by enabling operations to resume more quickly, a press release said. The system offers a simple method to recover the drillpipe and begin side-tracking right away. It also delivers a clean cut for operators wanting to maximize bottomhole assembly recovery options. The HyPR consists of a full-strength sub strategically positioned in the drillstring that can be severed in about an hour by launching and pumping through one of two HyPR dart options, which lands inside the profiled sub. Either option takes just a few minutes to arrive and will part easily under a small loading, simultaneously producing a perfect fishneck for subsequent operations. The expected mode of use is to set a kick-off plug before coming out of hole with the recovered pipe. However, the system also provides excellent jarring and internal wireline access for further recovery operations, according to the release. circsub.com

High-definition camera withstands hazardous, explosive environments

Moog Inc. released its EXO explosion-proof high-definition network camera system designed for the most hazardous explosive environments, according to a company product announcement. Using the segregation method Moog Class I and II, Division 1 camera systems allow users to install cameras wherever a need for surveillance exists where even containment-protected systems cannot be installed. Division 1 hazardous environments are typically classified where there is a presence of explosive gases or combustible dust either temporarily or permanently. Segregation is achieved by keeping a constant flow of clean air inside the camera. Moog segregates the air on the inside of its EXO system from the explosive air on the outside. The camera system captures 1080P full HD video and operates within constant fumes and dust by using its self-monitored purge mechanism. The pan-and-tilt mechanism is constructed of aluminum rather than plastic components, which helps it withstand high shock, vibration and wear environments. The board level components of the unit are able to withstand higher and lower temperature thresholds as well as power surges. moogs3.com