Paradigm Shift in Well Intervention Using Advanced Wireline Tractor for Challenging Horizontal Completions

Abstract Horizontal well completions are widely recognized as the most cost-effective method to enhance reservoir production by increasing the contact area between the wellbore and formation. However, rig-less access for reservoir surveillance and intervention in these wells has been a persistent challenge. In addition, conveyance in extended reach and maximum reservoir contact (MRC) wells with single or multilateral horizontal, and more than five Km of total reservoir contact, obtaining downhole data requires extensive simulation with accurate friction factors. Historically, Coil Tubing (CT) has been the preferred method for intervening in horizontal wells, as most existing wireline tractors were limited to cased-hole wells due to the complex geometry of open-hole wellbores, the presence of restrictions, washouts, and rock debris. CT, however, has limitations, such as the buckling effect, which reduces the depth reach in extended-reach wells and chokes well flow during logging operations, adversely impacting the quality of data acquisition. Additionally, CT requires a larger footprint, more logistics at the well site, and longer operating times during logging compared to wireline tractors. This study highlights a paradigm shift in well intervention with successful deployment of a new generation of slimhole wireline tractors in oil and gas wells, marking the transition from Coil Tubing (CT) to more efficient wireline technology. These advanced tractors are designed to convey a range of tools, including production and reservoir monitoring tools, as well as mechanical intervention tools, to diagnose and intervene in challenging horizontal completions and extended-reach wells, ultimately improving well productivity. Several key improvements over conventional tractors have been incorporated, such as enhanced gripping capabilities, reversed tractoring, increased debris tolerance, H2S resistance, the ability to log while tractoring, and extended reach capabilities that surpass those of CT. These innovations have not only enhanced operational efficiency but also reduced intervention time and equipment footprint, contributing to more sustainable operations by cutting CO2 emissions by over 70% compared to prolonged well interventions using CT. This study highlights the benefits of adopting the new tractor system for well interventions, offering enhanced operational efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and optimized reservoir characterization. By improving intervention time and reducing CO2 emissions with substantial ground water conservation, this solution not only enhances reservoir understanding but also supports the sustainability goals of future oil and gas operations at a lower cost.