Tailored Approach of Plug & Perf Completion Technique

Plug & Perf completion technique has been introduced with the aim of zonal selection flexibility which is required to deliver optimum multistage fracturing. This paper will cover a performance review for plug and perf operations for conventional reservoirs and capture several recommended techniques to enhance plug and perf performance efficiency with holistic evaluation of the operational improvement achieved. The method starts by analyzing mass performance efficiency for number of plug & perf jobs performed and identifying the key metrics influencing performance efficiency. Then a set of practices were recommended and adopted to address the identified metrics with the aim of improving operational efficiency. These practices were evaluated based on a number of criteria: how long it takes to complete a fracturing stage, how often a fracturing stage requires contingent wireline/Coiled Tubing (CT) run, maintaining the zonal isolation while performing the frac operations & finally assuring stimulating most of the net pay. A set of operational enablers had to be put in place to raise efficiency of such type of completion to meet the targeted KPI’s while meeting the completion objectives of wells. The study concluded several areas of improvement. Some of these areas of improvements were related to Eline operations such as E-Line loss of communication & plug failure. Also, some of these areas of improvement were formation related such as low injectivity stages, un-even treatment placement due to cluster depth & spacing selection. Moreover, additional areas of improvements related to other aspects were determined such as proximity of perforation to plug depth (plug integrity), liner deformation, difficulties to mill the plugs, cement integrity, and finally zonal communication. Solutions to tackle each of these shortcomings included wellbore loading, more frequent wireline cable re-heading, and adjustments to run-in-hole (RIH) speed. Other solutions included combining stages, cluster and plug depths selection criteria, utilizing re-engineered near wellbore bullheading diverters, introduction of slim & dissolvable plugs, and enhanced analysis of onsite pumping decision making. The outcomes for deployment of these practices resulted in a 68% reduction of operational time per frac stage with less frequent need for CT/wireline runs and a noticeable reduction of nonproductive time (NPT) exceeding 25%. All while assuring flawless treatments with isolated fractures propagating deep inside the reservoir and assured stimulating high percentage of the net pay. This paper summarizes performance efficiency analysis for plug and perf operations. It provides insights into the best-recommended practices and optimization initiatives with a clear path to visualize the anticipated value gain from adopting such practices in plug and perf operations