How can you optimize casing for well integrity management?

1 Casing objectives and functions

Prior to designing and installing casing, it is necessary to define the objectives and functions of each casing string. These objectives may differ depending on the type of well, its location, depth, pressure, temperature, and completion strategy. Generally speaking, casing is used to prevent borehole collapse and protect the wellbore from erosion and caving. It must be able to withstand the internal and external pressures and loads during drilling, testing, completion, and production. Additionally, it is used to isolate different zones and fluids and prevent crossflow, leakage, or communication. Casing also serves as a conduit for drilling fluids, cement, and completion equipment as well as enables well control, intervention, and monitoring operations.

3 Casing installation and cementing

After you have designed and selected the casing, you need to install and cement it properly to ensure a good bond between the casing and the formation. This is essential for achieving the desired isolation, pressure containment, and structural support. To do this properly, it's important to run the casing smoothly and carefully to avoid damage, buckling, or sticking. Additionally, you should centralize the casing adequately to ensure uniform cement placement and coverage. Before cementing, it's also important to circulate and condition the drilling fluid to remove any debris, gas, or contaminants. Once cementing begins, you should pump the cement slurry at the optimal rate and volume to fill the annular space and prevent channeling or losses. Finally, you should monitor and evaluate the cement quality and integrity using pressure tests, logs, and sensors.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?