While drilling from a jack up rig, the pipe got stuck in an extended reach well and the usual drilling methods to free the pipe were unsuccessful. Instead of turning to coiled tubing the client preferred to use Welltec’s e-line solution as it was easier and faster to mobilize.

As the Well Tractor® and associated perforation subs were under a long term contract for pipe recovery, Welltec® was able to mobilize technology and personnel to the remote platform in less than 48 hours.

As all testing and preparation had been done in advance, Welltec could respond extremely fast to the client’s needs.

The objective was to convey a third party cutting tool in a deviated well down to 14,295 ft (4,357m) by use of the 218 Well Tractor and then to sever the pipe.

During the operation, the Well Tractor was started at 7,333 ft (2,235m) and run down to 14,210 ft (4,331m). The decision was taken to position the cutter at the nearest joint where the drill pipe was then cut successfully at target depth.

Due to the client’s foresight in keeping Welltec on a contingency status, they were able to capitalize on the available personnel and equipment to minimize the NPT for the rig.

Welltec provided a lightweight solution, consisting of the small 2 1/8” Well Tractor and a crew of two field engineers, which could be transported offshore by helicopter. In case coiled tubing would have had to be mobilized offshore on emergency, it would have taken close to two weeks to perform the operation.

These significant time savings generated over USD 3 million in cost savings based on current rates for the jack up rig. Due to this successful operation, the client is now considering expanding Welltec’s services as a contingency for all of their development fields.