High-collapse Tubulars Address Common Problems found in Extreme Conditions

Harsh environments and extreme conditions that are becoming the norm for drilling operations have necessitated technological innovations that accommodate and address these circumstances. One of the more notable innovations is high-collapse, solid expandable tubular technology. The high-collapse expandable system consists of thick-walled pipe and enhanced connections performance that provides an increase in collapse pressure than conventional solid expandable liners. An international operator required a solution that addressed problematic external pressures in the challenging North Sea. This installation, the first application of a high-collapse 7-5/8 x 9-7/8 in. solid expandable system, consisted of casing off a trouble interval projected to experience a pressure reduction that would result in a collapse pressure greater than conventional expandable tubular values. This successful installation and expansion enabled the operator to drill the next hole section with a lower mud weight. By isolating the high-pressure zone without losing too much internal diameter, the operator was able to drill successfully to the planned TD of a heavily depleted reservoir and case it off with a conventional size liner. This paper discusses the development of the high-collapse expandable liner system. The paper will elaborate on the high-collapse system and actual applications. In addition, this paper will discuss the benefits of this technology and the potential impact on drilling and production operations.