Brine mixing and preparation unit

Introduction

With the increasing use of horizontal wellbores and open-hole completions, many drilling and completion engineers now consider the completion process to commence as soon as the drill bit enters the productive interval. Consequently, it is essential to plan procedures and implement practices that minimize formation damage and maximize productivity from the earliest stages. The proper selection and application of completion fluids are critical components of this process.

Description

Completion fluid is defined as any fluid pumped downhole to facilitate operations following the initial drilling of a well. Workover fluids are utilized during remedial operations after a well has been completed and has produced oil and/or gas. Clear, solids-free brine completion/workover fluids are employed to control downhole formation pressures while mitigating the risk of permanent formation damage due to solids invasion or incompatibility between the completion fluid and the in-situ matrix. These clear brines are pure solutions of dissolved salts in water and must remain stable under both surface and downhole conditions.

Application

Clear brines are typically used in operations such as well kills, perforating, washing, drilling, gravel packing, and as packer fluids. Completion fluids are not intended to penetrate the formation and may, in fact, reduce permeability. Clear brine completion fluids are formulated and applied in the field according to performance specifications that ensure well control with minimal permeability reduction.