An Innovative Approach for Optimizing Remedial Cement Squeeze Operation with a Mechanical Port Collar

Abstract This paper aims to spotlight the distinctive approach of utilizing port collar technology in remedial cementing operations, focusing on its unparalleled ability to significantly reduce rig time, optimize operations and increase efficiency. It will be discussed in detail the operational sequence, showcasing the merits, and highlighting the substantial time-saving benefits of this ground-breaking approach. Total loss circulation is a common occurrence in various fields where depleted or fractured zones are encountered while drilling. In such cases, conventional cement job cannot ensure a good cement across the entire liner/casing. Therefore, remedial cement squeeze job is performed to ensure well integrity in case of total losses. Conventional remedial cement squeeze operation includes the following: running the liner without setting liner top packer, doing the conventional cement job to the loss zone, then run a drillable cement retainer above the liner top to perform cement squeeze operation, afterwards drill-out the cement retainer, run a polish mill and finally deploy liner tie-back packer. Thus, a conventional remedial cement squeeze operation has a lot of complexities and extended operations days. The proposed methodology with the port collar has proven to have significantly minimize rig days and reduce the number of trips to only one. In this operation, a port collar is placed below the liner hanger. The process includes setting the liner hanger, executing a conventional cement job to the loss zone, setting the liner top packer, and subsequently pulling out of the hole. Running in hole with an inner string tool to open the port collar and efficiently squeeze cement into the loss zone, ensuring a controlled and swift operation to ensure well integrity. A comparative analysis has been performed for both approaches where few wells have been studied in detail. The implementation of Port Collar approach for squeeze cementing has demonstrated a drastic reduction in rig time. Moreover, the compelling comparative results and observations derived from the jobs conducted will be discussed in detail. Furthermore, the unique benefits of the port collar being full bore with no drill out requirement, possibility of multi open and close cycles with metal-to-metal seal and contribution to well integrity have been highlighted and discussed. Emphasizing a unique approach to squeeze cementing, this paper provides novel information to the petroleum industry. By offering a fresh perspective on time-saving strategies, this paper contributes valuable insights that can reshape existing industry practices and advance the state of knowledge in drilling, ultimately fostering more cost-effective and efficient well integrity solutions.