PIPE RECOVERY

When stuck pipe problems occur, you need to resolve this situation quickly. We have the technology, tools, and expertise to solve specific stuck-pipe problems safer and more economically.

Pipe recovery operations generally occur in three stages: free-point depth determination, pipe separation, and fishing the remaining stuck pipe. First, our pipe recovery specialists will determine the root cause of the stuck pipe through a thorough analysis of the well configuration and events leading to the problem. We choose the proper tools and services to efficiently execute recovery operations.

Next, the pipe string is worked sufficiently to determine the free point and backed off or cut to remove the free portion from the well. After retrieving the free pipe, the well can be reentered to jar loose or wash over the remaining stuck pipe. In certain drilling operations, the remaining stuck pipe may be sidetracked for economic reasons.

Our capabilities include several fit-for-purpose free-point indicator systems.  Diagnostics logging determines a strategy or cause, consisting of the pipe-recovery log, noise, temperature, and other measurement services. We offer a wide variety of proven technology to cut or separate the free pipe from the downhole tubulars.

These cutting services consist of back-off shot, chemical cutters, ACE & Titan Spectra cutters & split-shot cutters.

Chammas Cutters provides a wide range of tool sizes to cut and/or perforate coiled tubing, casing and drill pipe. Please see our tool selection guide which will assist you in selecting the right tool size for your job. The following is a list of tool sizes that we stock on the shelf for same day shipping. We also custom manufacture tools to meet special requirements. Please contact us if you do not see a tool size you can apply to your current job as we will likely be able to assist you.

1. The Chemical Cutter is a mechanical/chemical pipe cutting/puncturing device that is based on the oxidation/reduction process.

2. An igniter is initiated electrically or mechanically that in turn initiates the Gas Generator Grain. The Grain burns at a controlled rate increasing the pressure and temperature in the system.

3. Gas pressure forces the anchor out to anchor the tool inside the pipe and prevent the tool from moving.

4. Gas pressure continues to increase inside the tool, forcing the seal discs in the Cylinder to rupture. 

5. The chemical (Bromine Trifluoride) is then forced through an oil/steel wool mixture, placed at the top of the severing head. The BF3 chemical reacts with the oil and ignites the steel wool.

6. The combination of the chemical and reactant causes the temperature and pressure in the chamber to increase. When the pressure exceeds the hydrostatic well pressure and the strength of the piston support washer, the Severing Head Piston moves down to expose the severing orifices. Through these orifices the activated chemical is forced at high pressure and temperature to preheat and cut the wall of the tubing at the desired position.

7. After the chemical has been expelled, pressure in the CHEMICAL CUTTER equalizes with the hydrostatic pressure allowing the anchors to retract under the action of their respective springs, and releasing the tool from the tubing, so that it can be retrieved from the well

Tubing Cutters are designed to cut tubing during Pipe Recovery Operations.

• Reduces fishing costs and uncertainty due to reduced flare over conventional jet cutters.
• Reduces inventory costs by offering one cutter for multiple weights and grades of tubulars.
• Cutter safety requirements are satisfied with compliance to API RP 67.
• Air shippable as 1.4D.

Tubing Cutters provide a quick and effective solution to sever tubing in the removal of stuck pipe. These cutters utilize manufacturing and packaging processes to allow easy shipment and fast delivery to the customer.

Tubing Cutters should be used when tubing becomes stuck in the well. The cutter with the largest possible diameter capable of running in the well should be chosen to achieve maximum performance. A gauge run is recommended prior to running the tool to prevent any safety concerns like sticking a live cutter in the well or “spudding” with explosive tools. The Tubing Cutters are designed to be shot in the tubular above the stuck point, but not in the collar. To maintain the maximum allowable performance from the cutter, it should be centralized. A de-centralized cutter may result in a partial cut and/or damage to the casing. It is also recommended that tension be applied to the tubing prior to detonation of the Tubing Cutter to assist in the removal of stuck tubulars.

Owen Oil Tools’ Tubing Cutters utilize explosive technology and are designed to explosively sever tubular members when initiated by an Owen’s Resistorized Bridge™ Detonator or RF-Safe “Green DET™” Detonator. Owen’s electrical detonators adhere to API RP-67 specifications. All safety rules and regulations should be strictly followed when storing, handling, assembling, and using these cutters and/or detonators. Safety precautions should be taken in accordance with your company’s safety policies, governmental regulations, and the American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice 67 (API RP-67).

Owen’s Tubing Cutters come standard with HMX explosive powder rated to 400° F (204° C) for 1 hour.

The SPECTRA2 Jet Cutter is engineered and manufactured at Hunting’s world-class Energetics facility. Hunting’s SPECTRA2 Jet Cutters are designed for use with tubing, coiled tubing and casing.

SPECTRA2 Jet Cutters are used in:

• Vertical or horizontal pipe recovery
• Tapered or straight coiled tubing and stick pipe
• Plug and abandonment
• All wellbore environments
• Deepwater services

The SPECTRA2 jet cutter is a safe and effective alternative to high-risk chemical cutters.
Each size jet cutter was designed to effectively cut a broad range of sizes helping to reduce the variety of cutters needed.

• Complete 360° cut with minimal flare
• Engineered for maximum penetration for a range of wall thicknesses
• Superior alternative to chemical and mechanical cutters
• Rated up to 400°F, 18,000 psi (204°C, 124 MPa)

• Minimal integrity loss from collateral impact
• Compatible with RF-Safe initiation systems
• High precision production process for reduced diameters
• Unique “tattletale” witness plate verifies success