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High-Strength, High-Stability Pill System to Prevent Lost Circulation
- Publisher: European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers
- Source: Conference Proceedings, IPTC 2013: International Petroleum Technology Conference, Mar 2013, cp-350-00516
Abstract
A new high-strength, high-stability (HSHS) pill system for controlling lost circulation has been developed and optimized on the base of a physical model of stable plugged zone. This new HSHS pill system provides a stronger and more effective seal than traditional treatments. Controlling lost circulation with plugged zone formed with lost circulation material (LCM) in the fracture has achieved tremendous success in the past years. However, investigation into the strength and stability of the plugged zone has not been reported. Ignorance of such knowledge often leads to excess costs from repeatedly fluid loss and rig time, increases the difficulty and complexity of loss-zone diagnosis. The new HSHS pill system addresses these shortcomings. Surface friction coefficient, LCM volume fraction and amount of contact deformation are the main influencing factors of the strength and stability of the plugged zone. The strength of the plugged zone is enhanced with the increase of the above factors considering which the physical model of stable plugged zone is established. The pill system based on the model provides an engineered combination of rigid granules, fibers and deformable particles. The sealing efficiency and the pressure-bearing capacity are greatly enhanced. It was validated in several field trials in West China. Operational practices that facilitate the safe use of the HSHS system with overbalance exceeding 2,174 psi are discussed. In addition to the field trial results, this paper also described the laboratory-scale tests, which were used for developing the new system. With the development of the physical model and the HSHS pill system it is now possible to optimize and select the types, properties and matching relations of the LCM. This technology can also be used to guide the design of wellbore strengthening scheme and make sure the long-term effectiveness of wellbore strengthening measures.