Addressing Complex Well Conditions: Integration of Cementing Techniques to Achieve Zonal Isolation in Intermediate Liners

Abstract The paper studies the obstacles faced to achieve zonal isolation within intermediate liners, specifically with limited operational window (pore-fracture pressure). It evaluates the technical difficulties encountered during the process and shows a comprehensive case history that illustrates applying innovative cementing techniques successfully to achieve required objectives. Enhancing the integrity and performance of intermediate casing by overcoming the challenges of successful zonal isolation will be highlighted by presenting these advanced methods. To address these circumstances, an expandable liner hanger along with managed pressure cementing (MPC), environmentally conscious lost circulation spacer and engineered cement slurries were utilized. With several placement simulations and fluids’ properties consideration, the accuracy of cement placement was enhanced. The case examined a 9 5/8-in Liner, where the deviated section was drilled from 13 3/8in casing string to 12,480 feet with managed pressure drilling (MPD) technique. An expandable liner top packer was deployed and to mitigate risks associated with top packer failure contingency measures were implemented. Despite challenging well conditions, zonal isolation was successfully achieved by applying these innovative cementing techniques. The implementation of contingency measures and utilization of expandable liner hanger assists in overcoming these difficulties. Using environmentally friendly lost circulation spacer along with managed pressure cementing contributed to the achievement of Zonal isolation. Well stability during the cementing operation was ensured by extensive simulations before the placement of cement. The contingencies and engineering procedure considerations were crucial to accomplishing the objective. Adaptive design and careful planning in cementing operations are critical as emphasized in this study. The study will provide notes to improve the zonal isolation practices in intermediate liner within the cementing industry. This study provides valuable additive information to achieve proper zonal isolation in intermediate liners by effectively integrating advanced cementing techniques with successful application of expandable liner hanger systems, managed pressure cementing techniques and environmentally friendly lost circulation spacer, which will evolve the cementing practices in the oil and gas industry.