BJ SERVICES has set a world record for cementing the longest solid expandable tubular liner for an operator in the US Gulf of Mexico.
The US group, which has an extensive presence in Aberdeen, said that the 2,114m (6,935ft – pre-expansion length) 7
BJ said is used a specially formulated XtremeSet cement slurry system to overcome challenges with isolating the deep wellbore section, including bottomhole static temperatures of 187C.
To effectively seal the annulus in the operation, BJ formulated the XtremeSet slurry to remain fluid for more than 15 hours downhole, permitting the expansion of the liner.
BJ cementing specialists conducted extensive laboratory testing and simulation modelling to determine the proper circulating temperature for the application and precise additive package.
The system performed as designed, yielding good density control, minimal fluid loss and zero free water. After drill-out and a successful leak-off test, the well’s operator started drilling with no need for remedial operations.