Technological Breakthrough: How the Inverse Gas Lift System Redefines Well Services

Abstract

This research investigates the performance of the rigless inverse gas lift system (IGLS) as a transformative solution to enhance well productivity and extend operational lifespan, particularly in mature wells facing challenges that traditional methods struggle to address effectively. The investigation emphasizes the IGLS's innovative ability to enable flexible and efficient gas injection strategies, a critical component for optimizing production in aging wells characterized by declining reservoir pressures and increasing water cuts. Central to the IGLS's advantage is its rigless application, facilitating gas injection at any depth without the significant disruptions, costs, and complexities associated with conventional rig-based interventions. This capability sustains and enhances production in ways previously unattainable, unlocking new potential for wells deemed economically marginal under traditional gas lift approaches.

The methodology underpinning the IGLS involves a carefully orchestrated series of steps designed to autonomously initiate or restore well production post-shutdown, minimizing the need for external intervention. This process begins with thorough well preparation, including the installation of a gas-tight straddle system to ensure effective valve isolation. A retrievable bridge plug is then deployed to rigorously verify the integrity of the tubing, a critical step in ensuring the system's reliability and preventing leaks. An intermediate spool is strategically set up using a shallow retrievable bridge plug positioned beneath the wellhead, forming the foundation for the IGLS installation. The retrofit system is then seamlessly integrated, incorporating a lower injection valve designed for precise gas delivery. Coiled tubing is expertly adjusted and secured via a concentric hanger, providing a stable and reliable conduit for gas injection. Finally, the entire assembly is stabilized with a lock nut, ensuring the hanger's position remains fixed and secure throughout the production lifecycle.

The success of this system design and execution has been demonstrated through various field applications, particularly in challenging conditions for gas production wells afflicted with integrity issues. Rigless operations for these interventions avoid the significant expense of workovers, while optimizing production efficiency. A successful field application shows the technical and engineering capabilities to mitigate operational disruptions, reduce costs, and unlock the full potential of mature wells, promoting sustainable production methodologies in the oil and gas industry. By optimizing gas lift and minimizing the need for costly interventions, the IGLS effectively maximizes production rates, extends well lifespan, and enhances the economic viability of marginal assets. The IGLS presents a transformative approach to gas lift, leveraging rigless technology to minimize operational disruptions and costs associated with conventional methods, thereby improving well productivity and extending operational life via flexible, efficient gas injection.