Expandable technology growth is changing drilling practices: here's what is offered, what is being developed and where this technology is headed

World Oil, July, 2003 by Robert E. Snyder, Perry A. Fischer

A one-trip system is also ready for commercial use, as an enhancement to the proven 4-in, and 4 1/2-in. ESS screen. This will enable deployment and expansion in a single trip, providing significant cost savings in areas where there are high rig rates, such as West Africa, Gulf of Mexico and the North Sea. The first application is expected by mid-year 2003.

HALLIBURTON

By mid-summer 2003, a corrosion-resistant alloy version of the 8.5-in. PoroFlex Expandable Screen System will be available, with the 6.l25-in. version available soon thereafter. Extensive development work on variable open-hole annular barriers is in process, with production versions of the tool commercially available in late 2003. Further enhancements to reduce rig time and protect formation integrity are also in process, which will be unveiled as the development progresses. With interest in Halliburton's expandable screen technology increasing, inventory is being produced for all sizes of the product.

Two additional "standard" VersaFlex Expandable Liner System sizes are undergoing developmental testing and will be available by 3rd quarter 2003. Additional sizes suited for deepwater work will be available early 2004. The entire size range will be available in 13 chrome metallurgy in 2004. Plans for critical-service, corrosion-resistant alloy systems are in process; however, their scheduled availability is uncertain at this time.

Security DBS is developing specially sized drill bits and accessories to complement Enventure's line of solid expandable tubular products, with delivery expected soon.

ENVENTURE

While Slim Well reduces the telescoping effect in traditional well design, the MonoDiameter System eliminates telescoping, allowing operators to slim down the top of the well while increasing well diameter at TD.

The first field application of a MonoDiameter* Drill Liner (MDDL) in September 2002 was a collaborative effort between Enventure, Shell Exploration & Production Co. (SEPCo) and Shell International Exploration & Production Inc. (SIEP) in a South Texas Well. For this installation, 11 3/4-in. casing was set prior to running a 9 5/8-in. MDDL. The liner was expanded o a 9.9-in. ID and the liner lap was hung and sealed with elastomers. Then the shoe was drilled out and a top-down cone expanded the casing to a 10.4-in. ID. A subsequent hole section was underreamed to 12 1/4 in. and another 9 5/8-in. Monodiameter Liner was run and expanded. A drift run to TD confirmed the expanded diameter. Both liners tested successfully to 4,000 psi.

The MDDL is being developed in various sizes. The next evolutionary step will be the development of the MonoDiameter Production Liner.

Enventure's future system enhancements for its basic expandable technology (OHL, FlexClad, CHL and OHC Systems) include longer expanded lengths, shorter millout times, higher-collapse-rated pipe, higher-efficiency connections and even higher system reliability. Enventure continues to work toward improving burst and collapse properties of the pipe and connections that will allow expansion of 30%.