Development of a Field Ready Design and Data Analysis Technique for Successful Kick-off Plugs

Research output: ThesisMaster's Thesis

Authors

Abstract

This thesis covers the methodology of the development of a data analysis tool for designing kick-off plugs as well as laboratory-based simulations and experiments in order to validate the prediction quality. The data analysis tool can be used to design cement plugs and to simulate the consequence of specific fluid rheological parameters as well as distinctive selected parameters on the outcome of the plug job. The goal of this thesis is the implementation of a simple, field applicable and intuitive program that enables the engineer to design a kick-off plug that fulfils all requirements for a successful placement of the plug on the first attempt. The thesis describes the development of the data analysis tool starting with a detailed literature review where the most prominent industry related cement plug issues are described in more detail. Based on the assessment, a root cause analysis is implemented that reduces the common plug problems to four distinctive elements. Following the root cause analysis, the development of the design software and its individual modules are explained in detail. All four elements as well as the basic workflow and their structure are illustrated properly. In order to validate the outcome and the prediction quality of the software, laboratory-based simulations are executed. Prior to executing lab simulation runs, they were mathematically simulated using the data analysis tool. Afterwards predicted parameters and observed laboratory results are compared and rated. In addition, computed tomography images (CT scans) support the assessment and enable a direct look into the laboratory produced kick-off plugs. In a last step, a novel compressive strength enhancing material is tested. Therefore, the compressive strength behaviour of a neat Class G cement and fibre reinforced cement cubes are compared and benchmarked. Recommendations as well as results and future work steps can be found in the appropriate sections as part of the discussion and conclusion chapters at the end of this master thesis.

Details

Translated title of the contributionEntwicklung einer am Ölfeld anwendbaren Design- und Datenanalysetechnik für die Konstruktion von erfolgreichen Zementbrücken zur Ablenkung von Bohrungen
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDipl.-Ing.
Awarding Institution
Supervisors/Advisors
Award date28 Jun 2019
Publication statusPublished - 2019