Successful Implementation of Azimuthal Accuracy in Completions with Fiber Optic Cable to Optimize Productivity and Injectivity

Abstract Oriented perforating has been a challenge in the oil industry for different applications from vertical to horizontal wells. The introduction of fiber optic cable in completions allows better well data and reservoir monitoring. Assurance and reliability on technologies to maintain fiber optic integrity while perforating remains a concern in the industry. The application began covering from narrow azimuth to an expanded circumferential coverage in the borehole. The superior circumferential coverage was possible with the development of new technology. Increasing azimuthal exposure of the borehole requires confidence on accuracy of the instrumentation. The methodology implemented together with technology available should provide positive results securing the asset investment and maintaining the integrity of the fiber optic cable. In this article, different approaches are described for oriented perforating with fiber optic installed along the casing. The document outlines both a mechanical orientation with tubing conveyed perforating and oriented perforating with wireline. The mechanical orientation with tubing conveyed perforating starts when casing and fiber optic is installed on the well. A special permanent casing device is designed together with a retrievable running tool conveyed with guns that will lock in the adequate azimuth away from the fiber optic cable. A standard correlation survey is required to verify the depth position of the special device in the casing. The oriented perforating with instrumentation conveyed with wireline uses an azimuthal oriented tool or a gyro device. The gyro is used for wells with deviation less than five degrees. The azimuthal oriented tool is used with wells with a deviation larger than five degrees. The instrumentation locates the fiber optic cable angle position with respect of the high side of the hole or angle position with respect of magnetic north. In order to help the location of the fiber optic a special strip is installed together and below the fiber optic cable. Prior perforating, this angle position is verified. The verification assures reliability of the whole system avoiding damage on the fiber optic cable. The azimuth coverage has risen from one hundredth and thirty five degrees to two hundredth and twenty five degrees. The estimation of azimuth coverage with instrumentation is about two hundredth and seventy degrees. Furthermore, the methodology with wireline conveyance could improve above mentioned values. In summary, this article describes procedures, difficulties observed on actual services and successful implementation of techniques that leads to successful oriented perforating with larger circumferential coverage.