Successful installation of a casing liner system demands a comprehensive analysis of its intended application, considering both short-term and long-term factors. The following key considerations for designing and installing casing liner system must be addressed are as follows:
- Application Identification: Determine the specific application—drilling, production/completion, tieback stub, or tie-back—and select a liner system falling into one of these categories. The final design may vary, but initial categorization is crucial.
- Liner Size, Weight, Grade, and Thread Type: Consider the following criteria:
- Open hole size and its impact on annular clearance.
- Well geometry, including build rates, open hole length, and anomalies.
- Post-installation pressures, including shut-in and stimulation pressures.
- Supporting Casing Specifications: Ensure the supporting casing can bear the liner’s weight, withstand axial forces during installation, and handle potential force distributions post-installation. The supporting casing’s condition and internal diameter (I.D.) will influence the liner’s nominal outer diameter (O.D.) and the choice of liner hanger equipment.
- Liner Hanger System Selection: Choose the appropriate hanger based on:
- Hole geometry, considering severe doglegs or other challenges.
- Slip load distribution requirements.
- Internal and external pressure resistance.
- Future Casing Liner Extension Plans: If a liner extension is anticipated, ensure the tie-back receptacle length accommodates potential elongation or contraction of the tie-back assembly, especially in non-cemented installations.
- Element System for Casing Liner Installation: If a liner packer is used, consider the design of the element system based on expected differential pressure, temperature, and operating environment. Hydraulic or mechanical setting options may be chosen based on specific well conditions.
- Cementing Considerations: If cementing is planned, conduct an analysis focusing on:
- Float equipment selection, critical for achieving hydraulic isolation and pressure competency.
- Fluid bypass capabilities of the liner hanger system.
- Pipe movement during cementing operations (rotation or reciprocation) for improved cement bond.
- Inclusion of casing accessories and float equipment accessories to enhance cement placement operations.
- Float Equipment Accessories: Carefully consider the use of casing float equipment accessories, such as centralizers, turbolizers, and stand-off bands, to ensure compatibility with the chosen liner system.
By addressing these considerations, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful casing liner system installation tailored to your specific well conditions.
References
Jonathan Bellarby, 2009. Well Completion Design, Volume 56 (Developments in Petroleum Science). 1 Edition. Elsevier Science.
Wan Renpu, 2011. Advanced Well Completion Engineering, Third Edition. 3 Edition. Gulf Professional Publishing.
Ted G. Byrom, 2014. Casing and Liners for Drilling and Completion, Second Edition: Design and Application (Gulf Drilling Guides). 2 Edition. Gulf Professional Publishing.
