In a major achievement, Weatherford’s Well Services team has successfully installed velocity strings across five wells in the Southern North Sea, unlocking new production paths and significantly enhancing gas production in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS).

This innovative campaign has delivered a sustained production uplift of approximately over 5 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd), marking a pivotal moment for the region’s energy sector.

The primary objectives of the project included installation of velocity strings within existing completions (4-1/2 inches and 5-1/2 inches) to create new production pathways, execute operations in alignment with customer requirements, and ensure timely delivery to meet the rig schedule.

Weatherford’s approach was well planned and executed, leveraging cutting-edge technology and expertise to achieve these goals.

Collaborating closely with the customer, Weatherford’s experts began by reviewing well information to engineer, design, and plan the optimal velocity string requirements for the five-well campaign.

The team selected V0-rated WidePakTM packers, along with compression/tension packers and hangers, to support and seal the coiled-tubing (CT) strings. These solutions were specifically chosen to maximise performance and deliver results aligned with the customer’s well plan.

Field personnel utilised 2 3/8-inch CT strings for four wells and a 2 7/8-inch CT unit for the fifth, installing a combined length of over 57,000 ft with hang-off weights reaching up to 27,669 kg.

Operations were conducted under live well conditions, with rupture discs expelled via pressure activation or slickline tools post-installation and inflow testing.

For wells where deviation permitted, the slickline method minimised fluid pumping into the well, showcasing the team’s adaptability and technical prowess.

The value delivered to the customer was substantial. Weatherford’s Well Services team provided cost-effective, comprehensive downhole tooling solutions as a single source for the campaign.

The innovative design of the hang-off and sealing system allowed for remedial work without recovering the entire CT velocity string, saving time and resources.

Most notably, the installation of the five velocity strings resulted in a sustained gas production increase of more than 5 MMscfd, a significant boost for the customer’s operations.

"The success of this campaign has not only enhanced gas production but also strengthened the customer’s confidence in Weatherford’s capabilities, paving the way for additional installations. This achievement underscores Weatherford’s commitment to delivering innovative, efficient, and reliable solutions that drive operational excellence and meet the evolving needs of the energy industry," a company report said.