Nipple Brush Run Prior to Setting Downhole Tubing Plug (SOP)

Maximizing Wellbore Integrity: A Holistic Standard Operating Procedure for Nipple Brush Run, Prior to Downhole Tubing Plug Setting

Introduction

In the complex environment of oil and gas well operations, it is crucial to guarantee the integrity and functionality of downhole devices. Nipple Brush Run To Make Sure The Nipple Cleaned When Downhole Tubing Plug Is Placed The following article serves as a step-by-step guide to conducting a nipple brush run with a detailed description of the methods used in standard operating procedure or SOP. Facility oil & gas well control SOPs This SOP will be implemented to ensure the well control is maintained to keep performance and safety in place.

Why Nipple Brush Run Matters

Nipple brush run is a vital preparation step before installing the downhole tubing plug. It ensures that all debris, scale or anything else that might impede proper sealing of the plug is removed. Performing a meticulous cleanout will allow operators to mitigate possibilities, optimize sealing efficiency, and ensure integrity of well.

SOP: Nipple Brush Run

1. Nipple Brush Compatibility Check

Prior to running a nipple brush, it is important to make sure that the nipple brush is compatible with the metallurgy of the nipple. There ensures the effectiveness of cleaning without damaging the equipment. Considerations such as brush material, size, and rigidity need to be taken into account to meet the nipple specifications.

2. Rig-Up of Wireline BOPs and Lubricator with Nipple Brush

The nipple brush run begins with the rigging up of the wireline BOPs and lubricator with the nipple brush. It ensures every piece of equipment operates properly during the rig-up operation. This step includes:

✔Checking for leaks/damage on wireline BOPs and lubricator

✔Sealing all connections to prevent loss of pressure.

✔Checking the length of the lubricator is adequate for tool string deployments.

3. Valve Operations

In order to make the well ready for nipple brush run operations, please note that the following valves should be opened.

✔Crown Valve (CV): Communication between lubricator and wellbore

✔Tubing Kill Valve (TKV): Allows fluid to flow and equalize pressure.

✔Lo-torque valve on TKV: Control the flow of liquid and avoid surge pressure.

4. Lubricator Pressure Testing

A 70% water 30% glycol mixture is used to pressure test the lubricator to 7500 psig. This step is crucial for:

✔Identify signs of potential leaks in the lubricator range.

✔Safety handling for pressure variations.

✔Validating that the system can handle operational pressure.

5. Pressure Bleeding

Bleeding pressure down the tree to Shut-In Wellhead Pressure (SIWHP) is used to ensure well control and operational safety during the nipple brush run This progressive pressure bleed allows avoiding sudden drops that may affect well stabilization.

6. Valve Closes and Pressure Bleeds

✔Shut the Tubing Kill Valve (TKV).

✔Bleed pressure off of the test line.

✔Shut the Blowdown (B/D) Lo-torque valve.

This allows the tool to be deployed with proper pressure control before deployment.

7. Open Master and Hydraulic Master Valves

✔Master Line Master Valve (MLMV) Open

✔Hydraulic Master Valve (HMV) OPEN

These phases enable tool deployment into the wellbore, an important step during the nipple brush run.

8. RIH (Run In Hole) with Nipple Brush

✔Gently run the tool string with the nipple brush down the wellbore.

✔Make sure that the nipple brush goes to that depth.

✔Save tool movement, so you can avoid having the tool meet with sudden resistance or obstruction.

9. Tool Manipulation for Nipple Cleaning

✔End the tool string well above the nipple.

✔Work the tool in and out, up and down over the nipple to get it as clean as possible

✔Ensure that you repeat the brushing process a few times to remove most of the debris.

10. Pulling Out of Hole (POOH)

✔Pull the tool string carefully after cleaning.

✔Observe where the tool moves to, to make sure to retrieve it smoothly with no hitch.

✔Allowing the nipple brush to remain assembled might lead to debris build-up, so inspect post-retrieval and clean out if necessary

11. Tool Position Confirmation

✔Ensure the tool is within the lubricator by closing the Crown Valve (CV).

✔Meter out the number of turns to confirm full tool recovery.

✔Ensure correct tool placement prior to closing the valve.

12. Valve Closure

✔After verifying the position of the tool close the HMV and MLMV

✔Ensure well control to mitigate fluid migration.

13. Pressure Bleeding CV Opening

✔Bleed any residual pressure from the lubricator by opening the CV.

This approach allows for safely removing equipment and reducing the potential for fluid entrapment.

14. Tree Flushing

If you have access to it, flush a water/glycol mixture through the tree to:

✔Eliminate any remaining contaminants.

✔Improve equipment integrity.

✔Establish a clean wellbore for future operations.

15. Final Valve Closure

✔Shut the CV and B/D Lo-torque valve to finished the nipple brush run.

✔This helps maintain well integrity and avoid unintentional fluid escapes.

16. Wireline Lubricator Rig Down

✔Disassemble the wireline lubricator and related equipment.

✔Be sure to secure all connections when you finish the operation.

Allow the well to condition for future operational activities like the placement of the in-hole tubing plug.

17. Production Tree Valve Security

✔Reaffirm all production tree valves to verify well integrity and safety.

✔Ensure the positions of all valves are in accordance with operational demands.

Conclusion

Conducting an OTS Based detailed SOP for performing a nipple brush run before running a downhole tubing plug will ensure operational efficiency, safety and reliability in upstream oil and gas operations. Every stage is carefully crafted to reduce risks, maximize efficiency, and meet industry benchmarks, all part of the successful nipple brush operation. Following this all-inclusive guide will enhance the wellbore integrity and production longevity of oil field professionals.