The Problem
The well was drilled using a conventional mudline suspension system. During cementing operations, when turning back into the MLS hanger LH threads, the 13 3/8” casing above the hanger started to back out.
It was necessary to rotate to the right to make up the casing. This resulted in the 13 3/8” MLS hanger running tool backing out of the hanger threads.
Despite several attempts it proved impossible to make up the running tool back into the casing hanger. The string of casing was pulled back to surface. Mudline Hanger thread damage was suspected and an inspection inside the ML hanger was called for.
The Solution
Claxton mobilised a Camscan 3000TM system offshore at short notice, this was deployed down-hole on drill pipe to inspect the mudline suspension hanger threads and seal surfaces.
The Result
Camscan 3000TM images enabled the Drilling Supervisor to make the decision to utilise a Ratch-a-Latch tieback sub. This was made up successfully, the integrity of the tieback confirmed and drilling continued.
Quote from Jan Pellenbarg, Qatar Shell GTL:
“I would like to thank you and the staff involved for making it possible to react so quickly, a good job done, the camera work was key to the success in recovering the well”
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