Specialist downhole tool provider, Peak Well Systems (“Peak”) has successfully deployed the first of its new large bore SIM Plug Systems for Apache Energy Ltd (“Apache”) in a well suspension campaign on the Sinbad wellfield on the NW Shelf of Australia. Based on a strong track record of using Peak’s smaller SIM Retrievable Bridge Plugs, Apache deployed the new technology as a well barrier (positioned at 100m and 2000m depth) in three different wells.
Peak developed the new SIM Retrievable Bridge Plugs (RBPs) in 5” and 5.5” tubing sizes last year, enhancing an existing range of smaller, but similarly designed SIM RBPs that are used by operators around the world today. The patented SIM System plugs are unique within the industry as they are slickline-deployed, mechanically-set and require no nipple profile within the tubing wall, even in larger 5.5” bore sizes.
Apache, a stalwart supporter of local industry, approached Perth-based Peak during the middle of last year, eager to fast-track development of the new large bore plugs in time for deployment prior to cyclone season. The Operator has previously deployed SIM System plugs in smaller tubing sizes and has been impressed by its inherent safety compared to other systems, as well as the operational simplicity of setting the plugs and, moreover, their proven reliability.
Jack Goodacre, Petroleum Engineering Manager for Apache, commented: “We have had consistent success with Peak’s SIM Plugs in smaller wells and have always been impressed by their ease of setting anywhere in the tubing. Because they are mechanically-set, we can avoid pyrotechnics and so they are also much safer as well as being logistically easier to handle than other products available. Peak’s SIM Retrievable Bridge Plug offers us a reliable and straightforward solution to suspending activity on monopod wells which we may access at a later date.”
“After our initial discussions with Peak’s design engineering team in July 2011, we were able to witness the key development milestones leading up to delivery of the SIM plugs. Having Peak’s manufacturing base in Perth (WA) meant that delivery was also quicker than alternative products. Peak has met all our operational requirements.”
Sinbad, a natural gas producing offshore monopod, links into Varanus Island located on the North West Shelf of Western Australia where Apache has a gas and liquids processing hub.
Nigel Avern, Chief Executive of Peak Well Systems, commented: “With a limited footprint, lifting capability and rig-up restrictions on Sinbad, there are clear advantages in the simplicity of Peak’s SIM Plug Systems that can be deployed using slickline. The SIM Plug itself is very short, aiding rig-up and deployment, and it is also easier to redress in the field. Although there are other plug systems available, there are no others that can be successfully set on slickline with the operational efficiency, simplicity, reliability and safety.”
“The development of the 5” and 5.5” SIM Retrievable Bridge Plug is a major step forward for the well intervention market. The technical challenges of being able to mechanically set such a large plug is an exceptional piece of innovation.”
The SIM Retrievable Bridge Plugs were deployed for Apache by Peak Systems Specialists supporting Apache’s slickline service provider.
Peak has subsequently taken orders for the 5” and 5.5” SIM Plug Systems from other operators for global deployment.
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For more information and photography/graphics, please contact Lyndsay Avern at l.avern@peakwellsystems.com / Tel +61 8 9270 0500 (Australia) or Tim Williams, Business Development Director at t.williams@peakwellsystems.com / Tel +44 1224 562240 (UK)
