Retrieve Back Pressure Valve (SOP)

Back Pressure Valve Retrieval Standard Operating Procedure

Introduction

Well in the oil and gas extracting world, the processes have to be carefully planned and executed so it is both efficient and safe. Standardized Operating Procedure (SOP) Required to minimize the rules to be followed for recovering back pressure valve (BPV) -Key parameter, BPV recovering is one of the risky operations. This guide details a complete SOP for BPV retrieval highlighting key steps and safety protocols required for conducting safe and successful retrievals.

Preparatory Steps

Take all safety procedures into consideration before starting the retrieval process. At this point it is imperative to lock out the Hydraulic Master Valve (HMV) as it is open to Running In Hole (RIH) It is necessary to guarantee operational security and prevent potentially dangerous situations.

Pressure Bleeding Protocol

To ensure this, all pressure bleeding in operation shall be done through the blowdown ('B/D') line. Proper pressure bleeding avoids hydraulic slugging and keeps the well in balance.

Pressure Testing Protocol

In the absence of directive, keep a pressure test running on the apparatus for 10 minutes to ensure that it holds. This step ensures that when retrieval operations are performed, all the equipment operates as it should.

Rigging Up

During the retrieve process, rig the BPV lubricator up to tree, above the Control Valve (CV). As you may know, proper rigging provides stability and minimizes the risk of failure when rigged correctly.

Opening Valves

Open Control Valve (CV), Tubing Kill Valve (TKV) and the 'Lo-torque' on TKV for the retrieval process. This action initiates fluid communication between the wellbore and the lubricator.

Pressure Testing

Go to the lubricator area and pressure test the lubricator to 7500 psig with 70% water and 30% glycol. This avoids the formation of hydrates and guarantees the integrity of the apparatus, an essential step in deep well operating procedures.

Pressure Bleeding

Vent the pressure in the tree from the appropriately marked blowdown ('B/D') line for clean up. This procedure allows for controlled release of any remaining pressure prior to opening.

Valve Closure

In the TKV, close the 'Lo-torque' to control the system. This reduces the risk of pressure being released unintentionally.

Opening Key Valves

Turn ON the Multi Level Master Valve (MLMV) and HMV with lockout cap on the HMV to avoid accidental closure. That guarantees safe extraction conditions.

Pressure Equalization

Pumping slowly to equilibrate the pressure through the BPV will keep the device stable and secure in place while retrieving it. Slow pressure equalization prevents sudden spikes to pressure that can lead to equipment failure.

Pressure Monitoring

Keep a close eye on the pump pressure. Once the pressure is equilibrated across the BPV the pressure will stabilize at the pump pressure as the Shut-In Wellhead Pressure (SIWHP). Properly monitored pressure does not fail.

Recording and Retrieval

NOTE: SIWHP recorded, RIH to recover BPV from wellbore. Through thorough documentation of pressures and retrieval steps, safety protocol and regulations are followed.

Pulling Out of Hole (POOH)

Retrieve BPV and apply Pulling Out of Hole (POOH) operation. Accurate execution of this step is vital as damage to the equipment would affect retrieval.

Closing Valves

Slowly close the Control Valve (CV) first when the tool is in the lubricator so that the tool is fully pulled up inside the lubricator. Before retrieving the exact number of turns, count the number of turns. Now all CV is open and all HMV is closed to make the system secure.

Tree Shutdown

Close the MLMV and vent any residual pressure in the tree to zero using the blowdown ('B/D') line. This step ensures that any residual pressure does not pose a risk following retrieval.

Rigging Down

Protect the CV and 'Lo-torque' on the B/D line prior to rigging down the BPV. Proper rigging down also means that all the equipment can be safely taken apart, with no danger of sudden pressure releases.

Final Valve Securing

Fasten the spare valves on the production tree to have the operational and safe functionality. This last operation ensures that the well is properly shut in and ready for further tasks.

Conclusion

Retrieval of a back pressure valve (BPV) is a complex operation that involves careful planning, precise execution, and following stringent safety protocols. Operators can follow a standardized procedure with carefully defined steps and safety precautions to guarantee that the retrieval process is done efficiently, accurately, and safely. This plays into the sustainable development of the oil and gas industry for superior processes and risk reduction.