Q: How do you expand pipe?
A: SET® technology is the result of a cold-working process that permanently deforms the pipe expanding the steel beyond its elastic limit into the plastic region of the stress-strain curve.
Q: What type of pipe is used in SET® systems?
A: SET® pipe called EX-80, has metallurgical composition allowing for greater ductility while retaining strength properties. Post-expansion properties are similar to those API L-80 material. Enventure utilizes electric resistance welded (ERW) pipe, which provides greater uniformity of wall thickness and ovality, required for consistent expansion results.
Q: What preparation has to be completed before the system can be run?
A: In the openhole, the wellbore section is drilled and often underreamed. In cased-hole applications the existing casing is cleaned to ensure there is no interference with the expansion.
Q: How does the pipe expand once it is downhole?
A: The housing at the bottom of the SET® system, known as the launcher, contains an expansion assembly as well as a float assembly and is typically constructed of thin-wall, high-strength steel. A solid cone is driven through the expandable tubulars using hydraulic pressure or mechanical force, or a combination of both, which enlarges the pipe radially. The cone moves up from the bottom of the liner through the EX-80 pipe which has a proprietary coating on the inside diameter and proprietary pin-up connections. This bottom-to-top expansion process is completed when the anchor hanger seals the expandable liner against the previous pipe string referred to as the base casing.
Q: How does expansion affect the pipe?
A: During the expansion process, the enlargement of the pipe diameter causes the overall pipe length to shorten from the top as a result of material balance. As the liner is expanded, its outer diameter (OD) increases significantly, while the wall thickness decreases only slightly. This preserves the greatest post-expansion burst and collapse values possible.
Q: What expandable systems are available?
A: A variety of systems are available for installation in casing sizes ranging from 4-1/4 inch to 20 inch. See the SET® Chart for a partial list and contact your local Enventure representative to learn what systems are available to help you meet your objectives.
For a DataSheet on the expansion process, download How SET® Technology Works.
Q: How is SET liner cemented?
A: The SET liner's cement job is similar to that used with a conventional liner. The volume of cement that is pumped will fill 75% of the post-expanded liner's annulus. Retardant is added to the cement slurry to allow time for the expansion process. When running a shorter liner, the entire annulus can be cemented.
Q: How long does expansion take?
A: The expansion cone moves approximately 30 feet per minute. Actual expansion averages 4 to 6 stands per hour, depending on connection time and workstring racking. Unless an unusually long liner is being expanded, an average expansion takes 4-12 hours.
Q: Does the metallurgy of the SET® liner change during expansion?
A: The cold working of the SET® liner actually increases the yield strength of the pipe. SET® tubulars have a post-expanded yield of 80ksi.
Q: What is the cone made of?
A: The cone is comprised of D2 steel.
Q: What Equipment is used to drill out?
A: Drill out has been done with standard roller cone bits, PDC bits, and mills - compatible with the maximum drift size of the SET liner
