Access gained to retrieve WRSSSV

Key results

• Fluid Hold up Tool Used due to lack of liquid in wellbore
• 3 runs of the BlueSpark 212 tool
• Visual confirmation of scale removal
• Retrieval of the WRSV

Challenge

A major operator in the Netherlands was having difficulty retrieving a Wireline Retrievable Safety Valve (WRSV) that was no longer functioning properly due to BaSO4 scale. The operator wanted a safe method of removing the scale, without risking damage to the WRSV. There would also be no fluid in the well during the treatment.

• Temperature: 20 °C (68 °F)
• Depth: 100 m (330 ft)

Solution

Remove BaSO4 scale from the WRSV to aid in retrieval using electro-hydraulic pulsing technology.

• A miniature Fluid Hold-Up Tool (mini FHUT) was designed and built specifically for this well due to the lack of fluid in the wellbore.
• The BLUESPARK® slimhole tool was run on third-party E-Line with the mini FHUT so as to provide a fluid environment in the wellbore while getting as deep into the WRSV as possible.
• Three runs of BLUESPARK® were made, treating the WRSV and the flow coupling.
• Chemicals were also circulated over the WRSV.

Outcome

• The mini FHUT was successful in holding a fluid column in the wellbore so that the pulsing was occurring in the required environment.
• A camera was run before and after the 1st BLUESPARK® run and it confirmed that scale was removed.
• After the BLUESPARK® and chemical treatments, the WRSV was successfully retrieved from the wellbore.