Ann: Second Quarter Results Presentation, page-5

Reckon it will turn out alright. No choice. Need to be absolutely sure that the frac achieves its target. And more.


Reinforcing a well casement—especially in a scenario like the SS-3H well—typically involves several key steps designed to restore and enhance the structural integrity of the casing so that it can safely handle the high pressures and stresses of frac stimulation. Here’s an overview of what’s generally involved:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis

• Inspection and Logging: A detailed evaluation is performed using logging tools and pressure tests to pinpoint the areas where stress or damage has been detected in the casing connection.

• Risk Analysis: The team assesses how the compromised casing might impact the frac operation, considering factors such as high injection rates and heavy proppant loads.

2. Designing the Reinforcement Solution

• Reinforcement Strategy: Based on the findings, engineers decide whether to run a liner, install a patch or sleeve, or use other remedial techniques. The objective is to restore or exceed the original strength of the casing connection.

• Tailoring to the Environment: The chosen method is adapted to the well’s specific conditions, such as depth, temperature, and the pressure profile of the formation.

3. Implementation of the Reinforcement

• Running a Liner or Patch: A new casing string (liner) or a mechanical repair sleeve may be run into the well. This acts as an additional layer of support to the existing casing.

• Cementing Operations: The new liner or patch is typically cemented in place. Cementing ensures that the reinforcement is securely bonded to the existing casing and the formation, sealing any gaps and restoring integrity.

• Pressure Testing: Once installed, the reinforced section is pressure tested to verify that it can withstand the anticipated loads during frac stimulation.

4. Validation and Restarting Frac Operations

• Verification: Detailed evaluations are made to confirm that the reinforcement has effectively resolved the integrity issue. This might involve additional logging or pressure tests.

• Resuming Frac Stimulation: With a successfully reinforced casement, the stimulation campaign can restart, often incorporating lessons learned from previous operations to optimize performance (as noted with the optimized Tamboran v2 design in the SS-2H ST1 campaign).

In summary, reinforcing a well casement before resuming frac stimulation involves a systematic approach: diagnosing the problem, designing and implementing a tailored reinforcement solution (often involving running a liner or patch with subsequent cementing), and then validating the fix through pressure testing before returning to full stimulation operations. This process ensures the well can handle the high injection pressures and proppant loads necessary for effective stimulation while maintaining well integrity and safety.

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Interested in views from those with experience of this.