Major wells overhaul is a comprehensive set of technical operations aimed at restoring or improving the productivity of oil, gas, or water wells. This process extends the well’s life and resolves technical issues that arise during operation.
Objectives of Major wells overhaul:
- Restoring functionality: If a well’s productivity has decreased or ceased altogether, a workover can bring it back to its previous performance levels.
- Fixing technical issues: It addresses damages to pipes, pumps, cementing, or other components within the well.
- Accessing new reservoirs: If there is a need to reach and exploit new productive layers, the well can be upgraded during the repair.
- Well closure or conservation: If a well is no longer productive or needs to be closed for environmental protection, a workover is performed for safe sealing or temporary preservation.
Main tasks during a Major wells overhaul:
- Well cleaning: Removing accumulated sludge, sand, paraffin, or other debris inside the well.
- Cementing operations: Reinforcing the wellbore walls if cracks have formed or additional strengthening is required.
- Replacing pipes and equipment: Damaged pipes and pumps are replaced, and new equipment is installed.
- Deepening or extending the wellbore: Modifying the well’s bottom or making necessary changes.
Major wells overhaul techniques:
- Isolation and cleaning: Sealing off low-productivity zones and focusing on productive ones.
- Hydraulic testing: Assessing the well’s structural integrity using pressure tests.
- Upgrading equipment: Replacing pumps, compressors, and piping systems to improve efficiency.
When is Major wells overhaul needed:
- Declining productivity: Over time, well efficiency decreases, necessitating repairs.
- Technical breakdowns: Damages within the well or its infrastructure require intervention.
- Environmental concerns: Ensuring well safety and protecting the environment.
Benefits of Major wells overhaul:
- Extending the well’s operational life.
- Increasing production output.
- Improving overall efficiency.
A Major wells overhaul is essential to maintain the long-term functionality and productivity of oil, gas, and water wells. It addresses both operational and safety concerns to keep the well performing optimally.
