Pressure Wave Valve Delivers Long-Term Reliability in P&A Operations
Operators face mounting pressure to deploy barrier technologies that ensure long-term reliability.
THE CHALLENGE
A major operator in Norway was undertaking a Plug & Abandonment (P&A) campaign and required a V0-qualified annulus barrier solution for a 1.875” OEM tubing hanger profile. The operator initially approached Oilenco to investigate the refurbishment and recertification of existing OEM annulus plugs that had been held in storage for several years.
Following a review of the operational requirements, Oilenco identified an opportunity to improve efficiency and reduce operational risk by proposing the Annulus Hybrid Plug as reliable annulus barrier solution. The operator required a well barrier that would minimise intervention time while maintaining the highest level of well integrity assurance throughout the abandonment campaign.
THE SOLUTION
The Annulus Hybrid Plug is an API 14L / ISO 16070 Grade V0-qualified annulus barrier that combines the simplicity of a blanking plug with the integrity assurance of a retrievable bridge plug. Its expandable sealing element provides a qualified bi-directional barrier, while the seals are run below gauge during deployment to minimise the risk of damage and ensure reliable performance.
A key advantage of the system is the reduced number of runs required, with just one run to set and one run to recover, helping to reduce operational time compared with conventional annulus plug systems.
To ensure compatibility prior to mobilisation, Oilenco carried out a successful System Integration Test (SIT) with the operator’s 1.875” tubing hanger profile. Working in partnership with Archer, Oilenco supported the pre-job planning, system integration and offshore execution of the operation to ensure a smooth deployment. Following mobilisation offshore, the Annulus Hybrid Plug was deployed, set and pressure tested successfully.
VALUE CREATED
The successful System Integration Test (SIT) provided confidence that the Annulus Hybrid Plug was fully compatible with the operator’s tubing hanger profile and could be deployed as a reliable long-term annulus barrier for the P&A campaign.
Offshore operations were completed successfully with no non-productive time, while the one-run set and one-run recovery approach reduced operational complexity and improved efficiency.
By reducing intervention time and associated rig cost exposure, the operation supported a more efficient campaign without compromising barrier integrity. The success of the campaign demonstrated the Annulus Hybrid Plug as a reliable annulus barrier solution and established it as a proven option for future P&A operations.
FURTHER INFORMATION
call +44 (0)1224 548700 or email info@oilenco.com.
