BaSO4 scale removed from GLV/SPM

Key results

• Replacing other solutions Brushes, jars and exercising tools failed
• 20ft interval treated, including tubing above/below SPM
• Complex Profiles Reflective pulses ideal for cleaning complex profiles in SPM and around the GLV

Challenge

A North Sea operator encountered a leaking Side Pocket Mandrel (SPM) with a Gas Lift Valve (GLV) insert, and was required to replace it. A Kickover Tool (KOT) was unable to latch onto the GLV due to barium sulphate (BaSO4) scale build-up on the SPM/GLV and in the tubing. Brushes, downhole jars and exercise tools were attempted without success.

The operator then decided to mobilise BLUESPARK® technology with its ability to remove scale from complex downhole completion equipment without risking any damage to them.

• Offshore Platform
• Wireline Deployment
• Depth: 8,000 ft (2,400 m)
• Temp: 80°C (176 °F)
• Horizontal well
• Approx. 58° deviation at SPM

Solution

Return a critical downhole completion item back into operation for an oil producer in the North Sea using electro-hydraulic pulsing technology.

• Blue Spark Energy’s BLUESPARK® service was mobilised at short notice and run on operator’s preferred wireline provider.
• The service required no chemicals, explosives, or controlled goods.
• 20 ft (6 m) interval across the SPM/GLV, including the tubing above and below it, was treated with BLUESPARK®.
• A Lead Impression Block (LIB) was run to confirm whether the top of the GLV was accessible and clear of scale.

Outcome

• Blue Spark Energy successfully performed its first scale removal operation on a Side Pocket Mandrel (SPM) with Gas Lift Valve (GLV) in the North Sea using our innovative BLUESPARK® technology.
• After BlueSpark, the Lead Impression Block (LIB) confirmed that scale was removed from around the GLV fish neck.
• The KOT was re-run and was able to latch onto the GLV.
• A successful pressure test was performed on the SPM/GLV.
• The operation demonstrated the ability of BLUESPARK® to remove scale from complex completion components and tubing.
• The well was returned to production with fully compliant integrity status without the requirement for a workover.