Systems

TubeCLEAN fluids
The TubeCLEAN* completion preflush treatment fluid is designed to clean tubulars, limiting the
amount of dissolved iron, rust, mill scale and silt transported into the formation. The recom-
mended treatment volume should be calculated based on 100 gal/1000 ft [378 L/305 m] of tubing.
If small-diameter tubing or coiled tubing is used, the treatment should be based on a volume of
50 gal/1000 ft [189 L/305 m].

Applications
■ Cleaning tubulars
■ Temperatures to 300°F [149°C]

Benefits and features

■ Water-wet the tubulars so that dissolution of iron scale or rust can easily take place
■ Suspend silt or other particulates
■ Limit metal corrosion

CLEAN SWEEP fluids

The CLEAN SWEEP* solvent systems are designed to remove damage common to oil and gas wells.
Such damage includes
■ emulsions,
■ mixed deposits,
■ paraffin and asphaltene deposits,
■ saturation changes,
■ scale,
■ water blocks and
■ wettability changes
The minimum treatment fluid volume is 150 gal [568 L]/perforated ft.

Applications
■ Remove common oil and gas well damage
■ Temperatures to more than 400°F [204°C]

Benefits and features

■ Xylene-, toluene-, alcohol- or alkene-based
■ Can be formulated for summer or winter use
■ Decreases viscosity of in-place oil and enhances cleanup

Sand Control Pumping ■ Systems 37

 CleanFLOW systems
The CleanFLOW* fracture conductivity enhancement systems are fluids based on the EB-Clean*
encapsulated breaker family and are designed to function at the desired temperature range long
enough to facilitate adequate polymer degradation. XEB-Clean breaker can be used in most fluids,
with the exception of borate-crosslinked fluid, YF* 100.1HTD.
In temperatures ranging from 180 to 235°F [82 to 113°C], CleanFLOW additive can be used
with J218 or J475 breakers, or both. CleanFLOW additive can be used with J496 breaker in all flu-
ids except YF 100.1HTD, with J218 and J475 breakers (lower end of the temperature range) or
with J481 and/or EB-Clean J490 HT (high temperature) encapsulated breaker (high end of the
temperature range).
In temperatures ranging from 235 to 350°F [113 to 177°C], the CleanFLOW additive can be used
with J481 and/or J490 breaker. The damage difference classically seen between zirconium and
borate crosslinkers is eliminated when the CleanFLOW additive is applied in this temperature range.

Applications
■ Enhance fracture conductivity
■ Temperatures from 180 to 350°F [82 to 177°C]

Benefits and features

■ As much as 50% more conductivity compared with use of breaker-only systems
■ Minimum damage from zirconium crosslinkers in high-temperature operations

Alcoholic acid formulations

Alcoholic acid formulations are a mixture of acid and alcohol. The acids are usually either
hydrochloric acid (HCl) or mud acid (HCl + hydrofluoric acid (HF)), but can be organic, such as
formic or acetic acids. The alcohol is either methyl or isopropyl. Alcohol is not intended to replace
mutual solvents in most applications.
Suggested concentrations are 20% by volume of isopropyl alcohol and 30% by volume of methyl
alcohol. The ratio terminology for alcoholic acid always lists the percent by volume of acid first.
For example, a 70:30 mixture of acid and methanol contains 70% acid and 30% methanol by volume.

Applications
■ Enhances treatments in low-permeability oil and dry gas zones by lowering interfacial
surface tension
■ Water-block removal

Benefits and features

■ Reduced surface tension
● allows deeper penetration of acid into the rock matrix

● improves gas permeability by reducing water saturation

● aids in removal of water blocks

● reduces tendency for spent acid to form sludge and emulsions with formation fluids.

■ Lower acid-mineral reaction rate creates a retarding effect. In the presence of water, alcohol
lowers the ionization rate of acids.

38 Sand Control Pumping

 ClayAcid fines-control acid
ClayAcid* fines-control retarded acid is designed specifically for acidizing sensitive sandstone
formations. It not only provides good stimulation but also provides permanent stabilization of clays
and other fines, eliminating water sensitivity and preventing the mobilization of migratory fines.
ClayAcid treatments slowly release hydrofluoric acid from the hydrolysis of fluoboric acid (HBF4)
and can penetrate to a much greater distance from the wellbore before spending than can mud
acid.
ClayAcid service may be inhibited at temperatures to 400°F [204°C] using the appropriate
corrosion inhibitors and corrosion inhibitor aids.

ClayAcid formulations
There are four formulations of clay acid:
■ Full strength ClayAcid (regular formulation): recommended for a treating temperature range
of 130 to 300°F [54 to 149°C]
■ Half-strength ClayAcid: recommended for sands with high-quartz (>80%), low-clay (<10%)
content.
■ Full strength ClayAcid LT (low-temperature formulation) contains more HCl than full strength
ClayAcid, which aids in the hydrolysis of HBF4, releasing HF at a faster rate. This formulation
allows much shorter shut-in times and is recommended in the treating temperature range of
100 to 130°F [38 to 54°C].
■ Half-strength ClayAcid LT (low-temperature formulation) contains more HCl than half strength
ClayAcid and half the concentration of HBF4 that is used in half strength ClayAcid. It is recom-
mended for treatments in formations with low clay content (< 10%) and high quartz (>80%).

Applications
■ Overflush fluid behind a conventional matrix acidizing treatment
■ Preflush fluid ahead of a matrix acid treatment
■ As the sole stimulation fluid

Benefits and features

■ Permanent stabilization of clays and other fines
■ Elimination of water sensitivity
■ Elimination of migratory fines mobility
■ Increased penetration distance when compared with mud acid

12
After After ClayAcid treatment
10 HF acid
treatment
Well B
8
Production 6
(MMCFPD) Well A
4
2
0
-6 0 10 20 30 40 50
Time (months)

Figure 3-1. Production vs time for two wells located in the Gulf of Mexico. Note the positive response to the HF acid treatment and the
subsequent rapid production decline. This is characteristic of a large number of wells producing from formations with 20 to 50% silt and clay.
Following ClayACID treatments, excellent production is obtained and the rapid production decline is completely eliminated.

Systems 39
 Gas well acid
Gas well acid is 15% HCl prepared by diluting concentrated HCl with methanol K46. It contains
approximately 67% by volume of methanol, and its principal advantages are its slow reaction rate
and improved cleanup properties. The low surface and interfacial tensions of spent acid and its
increased volatility ensure rapid cleanup.
The high alcohol content gives the spent acid a lower boiling point and causes it to readily
vaporize. This reduces water saturation, resulting in higher relative permeability to gas. When alco-
hol replaces part of the water in an acid solution, the degree to which HCl can effectively ionize is
reduced. The rate of reaction of gas well acid is approximately one-half that of regular 15% HCl.
Corrosion Inhibitor A260 is the inhibitor of choice with gas well acid.

Applications
■ Matrix acidizing of dry gas and gas storage wells
■ Temperatures to 225°F [107°C]

Benefits and features

■ Improved cleanup
■ Improved flow of spent acid as a result of lower surface tension from reduction in capillary forces
■ Higher relative permeability to gas resulting from reduced water saturation due to increased
volatility of spent acid
■ Deeper penetration as a result of lower rate of reaction when compared to regular 15% HCl

Gas well mud acid

Gas well mud acid contains 8% HCl and 3% HF by weight plus methanol K46. Its principal advantages
are its slow reaction rate and improved cleanup properties. The surface and interfacial tensions
of spent acid in addition to high volatility ensure rapid cleanup. The presence of alcohol slows
the ionization rate of the acid, reducing the reaction rate and enabling deeper penetration of live
acid into the formation. Lower interfacial tension, which reduces the capillary forces restraining
fluid movement, results in improved cleanup of the spent acid.
The high methanol content gives the spent acid a lower boiling point and causes it to evaporate
more readily than conventional acid systems. This reduces water saturation, resulting in a higher
relative permeability to gas.
The concentration of K46 can vary from 53 to 80% by volume depending on the composition
of bulk acids used in the preparation of this solvent. Gas well super mud acid, a mixture of 8% HCl,
6% HF and K46 methyl alcohol, can be used in formations where clay content is very high (>20%).
Gas well acid must be used as a preflush ahead of gas well super mud acid.
Corrosion Inhibitor A260 is the inhibitor of choice with gas well mud acid.

Applications
■ Treatment in gas wells
■ Temperatures to 225°F [107°C]

40 Sand Control Pumping

 Benefits and features
■ Improved cleanup
■ Improved flow of spent acid as a result of lower surface tension from reduction in capillary forces
■ Higher relative permeability to gas as a result of lower reduced water saturation from increased
volatility of spent acid
■ Deeper penetration as a result of lower rate of reaction when compared with regular mud acid

BDA breakdown acid service

MSR mud and silt remover service
The BDA breakdown acid* service is designed primarily to open or "break down" the target interval
prior to a fracturing treatment. The most commonly used breakdown acid formulations incorporate
a combination of F78 surfactant and U42 chelant, which enhance the suspension of fines in the
spend acid:
■ The MSR* mud silt remover service is an acid solution containing a clay dispersant-suspending
agent and an iron chelating agent. This combination of additives provides good dispersion of
drilling muds and formation silt, and unusually effective suspension properties. There are three
distinct formulations of MSR fluids.
■ MSR100 fluid is the most commonly used formulation in which 100 refers to the amount of iron
chelating agent. The carrier fluid is commonly 7.5 to 15% HCl, but it can be ammonium or
potassium chloride brine.
■ MSR150 fluid was developed specifically for formations containing relatively large amounts of
iron-bearing minerals where chelants are required to prevent reprecipitation of iron from
spent acid.
■ MSR123 fluid is a special mud acid version. It contains a mutual solvent and the carrier fluid
is a regular mud acid. A preflush is used ahead of MSR123 (as in most mud acid treatments)
to minimize formation damage caused by fluorosilicates.

Applications
■ Removal of drilling mud damage in carbonate and sandstone formations
■ Restoring fracture conductivity in workover operations
■ Opening clogged perforations and restoring permeability
■ Removing damage from the critical matrix in matrix acidizing
■ Restoring natural permeability in fissured or fractured reservoirs following mud losses
■ Temperatures to 350°F [177°C]

Benefits and features

■ Excellent dispersion properties
■ Effective suspension properties
■ Prevents reprecipitation of iron from spent acid

Systems 41
 DAD Dynamic Acid Dispersion service
The primary use of the DAD* dynamic acid dispersion service is removal of commingled hydro-
carbon and scale deposits. It is an acid outside phase emulsion including a dispersing-stabilizing
agent often used as a preflush ahead of matrix acidizing treatments.
The dynamic acid dispersion service is applicable to 300°F [149°C] dependent on solvent to
acid ratio.

Applications
■ Removal of common oil and gas well damage (mixed deposits, paraffin and calcite scale)
■ Tubulars
■ Perforations or critical matrix
■ Ahead of mud or clay acid treatments

Benefits and features

■ Low-viscosity dispersion for one-stage cleanup and acidizing of hydrocarbon-coated formations,
gravel packs, wellbores and tubulars
■ Hydrocarbon solvents such as A121 and A26 for removal of oil, asphaltenes and paraffin from
scale or formation

Table 3-1. Recommendations for Nonacid Fluids

Damage Mechanism Recommendation
Asphaltenes or paraffin Xylene

Bacteria Formation Cleaning Solution (M91) followed by acid treatment

Emulsion block or injection carryover of emulsion CLEAN SWEEP*†

Injection carryover of oil CLEAN SWEEP†

Mixed organic and inorganic scale deposits DAD†

Water block CLEAN SWEEP†

Wettability alteration CLEAN SWEEP†

† Consult Matrix Materials Manual for CLEAN SWEEP or DAD recommendation for specific well conditions.

42 Sand Control Pumping

 Mud acid formulations
Mud acid is a mixture of inhibited HCl and HF. Mud acid will dissolve all minerals that are solu-
ble in 15% HCl. In addition, it will dissolve siliceous minerals such as bentonite, naturally occur-
ring formation clays and other siliceous minerals (all of which are only partially soluble in HCl).
Calcium and magnesium chlorides plus sodium and potassium brines will react with HF to form
insoluble precipitates. Thus, pretreatment with HCl ahead of mud acid and as an overflush
behind is a technically sound and common practice.
Mud acid and super mud acid may be inhibited at temperatures to 400oF [204oC] using appro-
priate corrosion inhibitors and corrosion inhibitor aids.

Main mud acid formulations

Following are common mud acid formulations.
■ MSR123 Acid (12-3): This acid with a mutual solvent to enhance its reactivity is used to restore
permeability in oily, dirty, carbonate-cemented sandstones.]
■ Dilute mud acid: Any solution containing up to and including 7.5% HCl and 1.5% HF. Dilute
mud acid is used to restore permeability to sandstone formations.
■ Regular mud acid: Any solution containing 7.6 to 12.0% HCl and 1.6 to 3.0% HF. Regular mud
acid is used to restore permeability to carbonate- cemented sandstone formations.
■ Super mud acid: Any solution containing 12.1 to 16% HCl and 3.1 to 6.0% HF. Super mud acid
is used to restore permeability to carbonate-cemented sandstone formations that are exten-
sively damaged or have high clay content. Special care must be taken to assure the separation
of fluoride ions and ions of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium
■ Gas well ud acid: Solution of mud acid prepared by diluting concentrated HCl with methanol
K46. It contains approximately 67% by volume of methanol and is used to restore permeability
to dry gas sandstone formations.
■ Super gas well mud acid: Solution of super mud acid prepared by diluting concentrated HCl
with methanol K46. It contains approximately 67% by volume of methanol and is used to
restore permeability to dry gas sandstone formations that are extensively damaged or have
high clay content.

Mud acid selection

The criteria for selecting the mud acid formulation (basically the HCl:HF ratio) to use are
■ rock mineralogy: chemical composition and surface area
■ mechanisms for formation damage and its removal
■ petrophysics and well conditions.
Treating fluid compatibility with the rock is a key factor. This concept of compatibility applies
especially to sandstones, where many damaging reactions may occur. Using available data on
interactions of HF-HCl acids and sandstones and field experience, guidelines have been estab-
lished for using mud acids in sandstone matrix treatments. These guidelines, designed to avoid
or retard by-products precipitation, include a wide range of permeability, formation mineralogy
and temperature.
X-ray diffraction (XRD)analysis is the most common test used to determine formation mineralogy.
However, this data is not always available. Formation solubility in both HCl and HCl:HF can be used
to approximate the total silt and clay content. The difference in these solubilities correlates well to
silt and clay content by XRD analysis as seen in Table 3-2. Solubility information, however, does not
indicate the type of clay present.

Systems 43
Table 3-2. XRD Versus Solubility Analysis
Formation Silt and Clay from XRD (%) Difference in Solubility between HCl and HCl:HF (%)
Muddy sand 7.0 5.2

Brazos sand 13.6 13.0

Miocene A 25.0 20.7

Miocene B 26.0 22.1

Miocene C 34.0 33.6

Applications
■ Operations in which average formation solubility in HCl acid is less than 20%
■ Operations in which formation solubility in mud acid is at least 15% and is preferred at least 10%
greater than solubility in HCl
■ Wellbore cleanup when clays or other siliceous materials have damaged the formation

Benefits and features

■ MSR123 (12:3 mud acid) incorporates silt suspending surfactants and restores permeability in
oily, dirty, carbonate, cemented sandstones.
■ Dilute mud acid restores permeability to sandstone formations.
■ Regular mud acid restores permeability to carbonate-cemented sandstone formations.
■ Super mud acid restores permeability to extensively damaged carbonate-cemented sandstone
formations or formations with high clay content.
■ Gas well mud acid restores permeability to dry gas sandstone formations.
■ Super gas well mud acid restores permeability to extensively damaged dry gas sandstone forma-
tions or formations with high clay content.

NARS 200, 201 Nonacid Reactive Solutions

NARS* 200 and NARS* 201 Nonacid Reactive Solutions are used as formation cleanup and break-
down fluids in formations that may be damaged by acid. These solutions do not contain low pH
acids, but instead are alkaline in nature and contain strong chelating and clay-control additives.
Additionally, they contain mutual solvents that enhance water-wetting operations. The chelant
behaves as a solvent, dissolving or partially dissolving some of the minerals in sandstones. Affected
minerals include those that contain iron, calcium, magnesium and aluminum. Containing no
acid in the conventional sense, NARS fluids are slightly alkaline, having a pH between 10 and 11.
Corrosion inhibitors are not required.

44 Sand Control Pumping

 NARS 200 formation solvent
NARS 200 formation solvent is a clay-dispersing and suspending fluid that contains F100 surfactant.
When a strong clay dispersing agent is needed as a perforating or cleanup fluid, NARS 200 fluid
is preferred.

NARS 201 formation solvent

NARS 201 clay flocculating and stabilizing fluid containing F103 surfactant and L55 clay stabi-
lizer is used to stabilize clay particles in place. Because of its clay-flocculating and permanent
stabilizing properties, NARS 201 may be preferred when a breakdown or spearhead fluid is used in
a zone where produced fines may later become a problem. For example, NARS 201 fluid is advan-
tageous in treating injection wells where the formation may later be exposed to fresh water.

Applications
■ Formation cleanup and breakdown in acid-sensitive formations
■ High-temperature, harsh-environment wells where corrosion inhibition might be a problem
■ In formations with bottomhole static temperatures between 150 and 300°F [65 to 149°C]

Benefits and features

■ Mutual solvents enhance water-wettability.
■ Dual functionality additive acts as a chelant as well as a solvent
■ No corrosion inhibitors are required because of the fluid’s acid-free, alkaline composition.

OB mud removal system

The OB mud removal system is a water-based system designed to remove oil-based drilling mud
damage from a producing formation. It can be used as a separate treatment or as a pretreatment
prior to a matrix acidizing or an acid breakdown operation. This system removes the oil-based
mud by reducing viscosity, dispersing fines and returning the formation to a water-wet state.
Recommended volumes are 100 to 300 gal [378 to 1136 L] of total treating fluid per foot of per-
forated interval. In remedial treatments where damage extends farther into the formation, the
volumes should be at least 150 to 600 gal/ft [568 to 10,004 L/m] of perforated interval.

Applications
■ Oil-based mud removal
■ Breakdown fluid
■ Pretreatment for stimulation operations
■ Perforation cleanup treatment
■ Temperature to more than 400°F [204°C]

Systems 45
 OilSEEKER acid diverter
The OilSEEKER* acid diverter is a VES-based agent that forms a temporary gel plug that is
destroyed by oil production. It is used as a diverting agent during acid treatments of sandstone
and carbonate formations.

Applications
■ Matrix stimulation of high-water-cut carbonate or sandstone formations
■ Internal chemical diverter where large permeability contrasts exist in producing zones
■ Temperatures ranging from 80 to 220°F [27 to 104°C]

Benefits and features

■ Reduces water cut and increases hydrocarbon production
■ Provides good zonal coverage in vertical and horizontal wells
■ Extremely easy to mix and apply in the field

Figure 3-2. OilSEEKER fluid diverts acid from water-bearing zones to oil-bearing formations.

100
90 390 mD, 77% oil saturation (oil zone)
Oil zone
410 mD, 20% oil saturation (water zone)
80
70
60
Fractional 50 Brine Brine Diverter HCl
Mutual
flow (%) solvent
40
30
20
10 Water zone
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Time (min)
Figure 3-3. Core tests demonstrate OilSEEKER fluid diverts the acid treatment from the water zone to the oil zone.

46 Sand Control Pumping

 Organic acids
Organic acid L36 (formic acid) can be used at concentrations as high as 9% to stimulate oil and
gas wells. It reacts slowly with carbonate formations and with many minerals common to sand-
stone formations. The reaction rate and dissolving power of L36 fluid are between 15% HCl and 10%
aqueous acetic acid.

Applications
■ Matrix stimulation of oil and gas wells
■ Cleanup of water-based RDF filter cakes
■ Minimum temperature of 400°F [204°C]

Benefits and features

■ More uniform filter-cake cleanup as a result of lower reaction rate when compared to HCl
■ Lower corrosion to tubulars and sand control screens as compared to HCl
■ Reduced tendency to form asphaltic sludge when in contact with crude oils

OCA organic clay acid system

The OCA* organic clay acid matrix stimulation system is designed for acidizing sandstone for-
mations with high silt and clay content and HCl-sensitive minerals, such as zeolite and chlorite.
All clays undergo degradation in the presence of HCl. Zeolites and chlorites are the most sus-
ceptible, but even commonly occurring clays such as illite, kaolinite and smectite will undergo
significant degradation if exposed to acid at temperatures from 190 to 250°F [88 to 121°C]. Use of
the OCA service can mitigate the risk of damaging precipitates being formed when HCl degrades
these clays.

Applications
■ Matrix stimulation in high-temperature sandstone formations with high silt and clay content
and HCl-sensitive minerals
■ Temperatures from 80 to 350°F [27 to 177°C]

Benefits and features

■ Removes formation damage caused by clay and other aluminosilicate minerals
■ Minimizes hydrated silica precipitation (known as the secondary reaction)
■ Prevents migration of undissolved fines after acidizing treatments

Systems 47
 9
8
7 OCA
6 Acid 3
Silicon to 5
aluminum 4
ratio
3 Acid 2
Acid 1
2
1
0
1 2 3 4
Sequential action

Figure 3-4. The plot shows sequential acid spending test results for various acids reacting with minerals containing 10%
zeolite and 90% silica at 200°F [93°C].

5000 10
Treating pressure (psi)
Injection rate (bbl/min) 8
4000
Increase
rate
3000 Pump Acid at 6
Injection
Pressure OCA perforations
rate
(psi) 2000
fluid
4 (bbl/min)
Start postflush
Prime
1000 pumps End of 2
treatment
Start
0 displacement 0
220 245 270 295 320 345 370
Job time (min)

Figure 3-5. OCA fluid cleans up the formation, resulting in reduced injection pressure.

48 Sand Control Pumping

 Organic mud acids
Organic mud acid is a mixture containing 9% organic acid L36 (formic acid) and 1 to 3% HF. It is
less corrosive than comparable HCl + HF mixtures and is easily inhibited to protect tubulars from
acid corrosion. As a result, low corrosion rates can be maintained at high treating temperatures.
In addition, it provides a reduced relative reaction and has a reduced tendency to form asphaltic
sludge when in contact with crude oils. L400 (acetic acid) can also be used as an alternative
organic acid.

Applications
■ High-temperature matrix acid treatment and wellbore damage removal in sandstone
or limestone reservoirs where extended pipe-contact time is anticipated
■ Reservoirs where asphaltic sludges form when contacted by HCl
■ High-temperature acid breakdown
■ Minimum temperature of 300°F [149°C] with 6-hr tubular protection time

Benefits and features

■ Less corrosive compared with HCl + HF systems
■ Lower tendency to form asphaltic sludges
■ Easily inhibited to protect tubulars from corrosion

SuperX acids
Solutions of HCl which have a concentration of 20% or more, by weight, are called SuperX* acids.
The normal concentration is 28%, although other concentrations are used. Use of SuperX acid has
resulted in successful treatments in carbonate reservoirs where other formulations have failed.
Because of its high initial acid strength, it will not only dissolve more rock than less concentrated
systems but it will also penetrate a greater distance into the reservoir before it becomes spent.
These properties provide deeper etch patterns in carbonate reservoirs, providing better conduc-
tivity for producing well fluids.
SuperX acid can be inhibited to 300°F [149°C] using appropriate corrosion inhibitors and
corrosion inhibitor aids.

Applications
■ Fracturing and matrix treatments in HT limestone formations

Benefits and features

■ Deep penetration of more concentrated acids as a result of longer spending time (not to be
confused with reaction rate)
■ Better conductivity of etched patterns
■ Improved well cleanup resulting from greater conductivity created by SuperX acid in addition
to the large amount of carbon dioxide that is produced
■ More efficient transport of insoluble fines and reduced leakoff as a result of higher viscosity

Systems 49
 1.2
SuperX treatment result
1.0 15% HCI treatment result
0.8

Wormhole 0.6
length (ft)
0.4

0.2

0
Pump time

Figure 3-6. StimCADE* acid placement simulations incorporating 15% HCl and SuperX emulsion at 250°F show that when SuperX fluid is used
the wormhole length is approximately five times longer. The SuperX treatment results in a negative skin; the 15% HCl treatment does not.

Figure 3-7. These wormholes were created in the laboratory on limestone cores and filled with Woods metal to retain their shape.

XE acid system
XE acid is a matrix stimulation system designed for acidizing sandstone formations with high silt
and clay content and HCl-sensitive minerals, such as zeolite and chlorite.

Applications
■ Matrix stimulation in HT sandstone formations with high silt and clay content and HCl-
sensitive minerals
■ Temperatures from 80 to 350°F [27 to 177°C]

Benefits and features

■ Removes formation damage caused by clay and other aluminosilicate minerals
■ Minimizes hydrated silica precipitation (known as the secondary reaction)
■ Prevents migration of undissolved fines after acidizing treatments
50 Sand Control Pumping
 Chelating agent solutions (CAS)
Chelants are organic acids or salt derivatives that dissolve calcium carbonate and complex with
Ca++ ions to form soluble byproducts. They can provide a dissolution capacity similar to 7.5% HCl
or 9% formic acid, without the high corrosiveness. As such, they are ideal for removal of the
calcium carbonate from filter cakes of water-based RDF in sand control (stand-alone screen
or gravel-pack) environments. Use of CAS fluids allows placement of CAS in long open holes
without inducing thief zones and provides for uniform cake cleanup. Although the reaction of
CAS with calcium carbonate alone is very fast, its reaction with the calcium carbonate in the filter
cake (coated with starch and other polymers) is much slower when compared with conventional
acids such as HCl or formic acid.
Efficiency of water-based RDF cake removal can further be enhanced through combination
of J503 enzyme with CAS for single-step removal of starch and calcium carbonate from the fil-
ter cake. Rate of cake removal can be controlled through adjustments of pH as well as the chelant
and/or enzyme concentration. CAS formulations compatible with various VES fluids are available
for simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup.
The formulations are stable and can be inhibited to further minimize corrosion of sand control
screens to 400°F [204°C]. They must not be mixed with divalent brines for removal of calcium
carbonate from RDF filter cakes, because the chelant will be consumed on the divalent (e.g., Ca++)
ions in the brine.
While laboratory test results indicate that CAS formulations do not have an adverse effect on
screen openings, HCl increased the openings from 150 to 250 µm. This is enough to adversely affect
sand control and completion integrity when soaking for extended time periods at high temperatures
after gravel-packing.

Table 3-3. Corrosion Rates of Sand Control Screens

Screen Material Corrosion Rate, lbm/ft2
7.5% HCl with 1% Inhibitor CAS with 0.2% Inhibitor
J-55 carbon steel 0.0110 0.0037

13-Chrome steel 0.0130 0.0001

316-L steel 0.0580 0.0007

Screen openings, µm
Before exposure 150 150

After exposure 250 150

U105 formulation
U105 formulation is an optimized CAS based on EDTA chelating agent with a pH of 4.7. Neat U105
has a dissolving capacity approximately equivalent to 6% HCl or 9% formic acid. Primary reaction
of U105 fluid with calcium carbonate yields water, carbon dioxide gas and a soluble salt of calcium
EDTA. Once solubilized, there is no reprecipitation of dissolved products or secondary reactions,
making the use of U105 fluid a nondamaging treatment option. The low corrosion and low toxicity
of U105 formulation allows it to be handled with standard pumps and equipment and standard
nonacid personal protective equipment, in addition to eliminating concerns for loss of sand control
caused by screen corrosion. U105 formulation is nonfuming and has a clay stabilizing effect as
a result of its high potassium content. U105 formulation is compatible with enzyme J503 and
ClearFRAC fluid; but incompatible with ClearPAC systems.

Systems 51
 U106 formulation
U106 formulation is an optimized chelating agent solution based on an EDTA analog, with a pH
between 11 and 12. Dissolution capacity of neat U106 formulation at a pH of 11 is approximately
the same as that of neat U105 fluid. Because it is highly soluble in acids, U106 can be combined
with acids to yield any pH value between 2.5 and 11, allowing a large degree of flexibility for
pH-sensitive formations. This flexibility in pH allows more controllable filter-cake removal, partic-
ularly when enzyme-CAS combinations are utilized for simultaneous removal of starch and calcium
carbonate from the filter cake.

U820 formulation
U820 formulation is a field mix of U106 formulation with HCl, with a pH of 4.0. Dissolution capacity
of U820 formulation with 50% by weight U106 fluid is approximately the same as that of neat U105
formulation. U820 fluid has the same low-corrosion characteristics as U105 formulation. U820 fluid
is compatible with enzyme J503 and ClearPAC systems, but incompatible with ClearFRAC fluids.

U821 formulation
U821 formulation is a field mix of U106 formulation with HCl, with a pH of 2.5. Dissolution capacity
of U821 formulation with 50% by weight U106 fluid is slightly higher than that of neat U105 fluid.
U821 formulation has the same low-corrosion characteristics as U105 fluid.U821 formulation is
compatible with ClearPAC systems, but incompatible with ClearFRAC fluids.

Applications
■ Slow, uniform and complete removal of calcium carbonate from the filter cakes of
● water-based drilling fluids such as biopolymer, starch or calcium carbonate systems

● reversible synthetic or oil-based RDF, such as FAZEPRO systems

● conventional synthetic or oil-based RDF (including esters) following a high-rate viscous

displacement stage with a CAS-surfactant-monovalent brine mixture

Benefits and features

■ Lower corrosion system for calcium carbonate removal from drilling fluid filter cakes compared
with common inorganic and organic acids
■ Uniform filter-cake cleanup as a result of lower reaction rates
■ Compatible with enzymes, allowing single-step carbonate and starch removal
■ Compatible with VES fluids, allowing simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup

52 Sand Control Pumping

 60

HCI
50
CAS/enzyme/VES
40

Leakoff
volume 30
(cm3) CAS/enzyme
20

10
CAS

0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30
Time (hr)

Figure 3-8. Sudden increases in fluid leakoff during overbalanced laboratory soaks indicate that filter-cake removal with CAS are an
order of magnitude slower than with HCl. Reaction rates are measured in hours, allowing these systems to be placed across long hori-
zontal, openhole sections without creating thief zones and high fluid loss. Reaction rates are controlled by adding CAS, enzyme or VES.
Additional VES for higher viscosity or more CAS slows reaction rates; additional enzyme increases reaction rates.

Enzyme breaker J503

Breaker J503 is a water-based dispersion of enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of starch and
starch-based derivatives that are commonly used in water-based RDF, either as a fluid-loss con-
trol additive and a secondary viscosifier or as a primary viscosifier. The starch-to-biopolymer
(scleroglucan or xanthan) mass ratio in most widely used water-based RDFs is from 4 to 6, making
starch, if not removed, the most dominant source of potential completion damage from polymeric
components.
In fact, such high concentrations of starch with respect to other polymeric components is
desirable from a well productivity standpoint, particularly when the well conditions allow the use
of starch-removing enzymes. Such enzyme treatments are the single most effective means of min-
imizing drawdown requirements to initiate production and provide a uniform flow profile with
minimal skin. Enzyme J503 can be incorporated into VES carrier fluids for simultaneous gravel-
packing and cake cleanup in openhole completions.
Ezyme J503 can also be mixed with CAS (e.g., U105, U820 formulations) to attack both calcium
carbonate and starch components of the filter cake in a single step. Enzyme J503 is effective to
225°F [107°C] when mixed in monovalent brines. Starch enzymes are ineffective when mixed in
divalent brines such as calcium chloride and calcium bromide.

Applications
■ Slow, uniform and complete removal of starch from the filter cakes of water-based RDF, such
as biopolymer, starch and calcium carbonate or biopolymer, starch and sized-salt systems

Benefits and features

■ More uniform filter-cake cleanup as result of lower reaction rates
■ Compatible with chelating agent solutions, allowing single-step carbonate and starch removal
■ Compatible with VES fluids, allowing simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup
■ Corrosion-free starch removal

Systems 53
 Oxidizers for filter-cake cleanup in openhole completions
Oxidizers can be used to degrade the polymers in common water-based RDF filter cakes. The oxi-
dizers work by generating free radicals that attack the links between the polysaccharide components
(sugar units) of the polymer. Attack can occur on the polymer backbone or a side chain. Typical
polymeric components of water-based RDF filter cakes that can be degraded by oxidizers are xan-
than gum and scleroglucan used for drilling fluid viscosity and starches used for fluid-loss control.
The effectiveness of oxidizers is limited by pH (practical pH range is 4 to 10). Oxidizer efficiency
is also dependent on temperature (practical range of most is between 120 and 250°F [49 to 121°C].
Below 130°F [54°C] oxidizer effectiveness drops dramatically below pH 8. The compatibilities
of the most common oxidizers with carrier brines are shown in the accompanying table.
Schlumberger Heath Safety and Environment policy specifies that oxidizers can not be used in
combination with acids; dangerous by-products can be produced, such as chlorine gas when HCl
is present. However, 2-stage filter-cake cleanup treatments can be performed using a first-stage
oxidizer soak to remove polymers, followed by acid or chelant as a second stage to remove calcium
carbonate bridging agents.
Oxidizers can be formulated in polymeric viscous carrier fluids as internal breakers, as in frac-
pack or gravel-pack applications. When used in openhole gravel packs with polymeric carrier
fluids, the oxidizer will also be spent on the polymers and therefore less will be available to attack
the filter cake. Oxidizers are not compatible with VES gelling agents. The recommended oxidizers
for filter-cake cleanup applications are listed below.

J218 formulation
J218 formulation is effective between 125 and 200°F [52 to 93°C]. Typical concentrations are
between 20 and 100 lbm/1000 gal [9 and 45 kgm/3785 L]. Below 150°F [65°C], J318 formulation
should be incorporated at 0.1 to 0.2% as an activator. Brine compatibilities are shown in the
accompanying table. J218 oxidizer can not be combined with chelating agents such as U42, U105,
U106, U821 or U820, but these can be spotted like acids after the oxidizer soak.

J481 formulation
J481 formulation is effective between 160 and 225°F [71 to 107°C]. Typical concentrations are
between 20 and 100 lbm/1000 gal [9 and 45 kgm/3785 L]. Below 175°F [79°C], J318 formulation
should be incorporated at 0.1 to 0.2% as an activator. J481 oxidizer is applicable at higher temper-
atures than J218 because it takes more energy to begin free-radical generation and attack polymers.

Calcium Hypochlorite
Although not coded, this product is available through M-I Drilling Fluids. With an applicable
temperature range between 80 and 300°F [27 to 149°C], calcium hypochlorite has been tested
successfully in divalent brines such as calcium chloride-bromide at 50 lbm/1000 gal [23 kgm/3785 L]
and is effective in attacking polymers in water-based RDF filter cakes. Calcium hypochlorite is
supplied as a dry product.

SAFE-BREAK S Sodium Hypochlorite and SAFE-BREAK L Lithium Hypochlorite

These are alternatives to calcium hypochlorite. They are applicable in temperatures from 80 to 300°F
[27 to 149°C]. There are several differences between these oxidizers and calcium hypochlorite
with respect to brine compatibility. These products are available through M-I Drilling Fluids.
SAFE-BREAK S oxidizer is supplied as a liquid product, whereas SAFE-BREAK L oxidizer is a dry
product.

54 Sand Control Pumping

 Peroxides
Peroxides have a practical temperature range of 80 to 250°F [27 to 121°C]. They can be formulated
in ammonium chloride brine unlike sodium and lithium hypochlorites.

Application
■ Removal of polymeric components of water-based RDF filter cakes in openhole completions
(barefoot, screen and slotted liner or gravel-pack applications)

Benefits and features

■ Degrade polymers used in RDFs

Table 3-4.
Brine carrier fluid Density range Oxidizers
lbm/gal
Name Formula Persulfate Bromate Peroxides Sodium Calcium Lithium
J218 J481 Hypochlorite Hypochlorite J349 Hypochlorite
Low High
Water H2O 8.34 8.34 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Seawater Blend 8.4 8.6 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Ammonium chloride NH4Cl 8.4 8.9 Yes Yes Yes No No No

Potassium chloride KCl 8.4 9.7 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Sodium chloride NaCl 8.4 10.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Potassium carbonate K2CO3 8.34 10.5 No No No Yes No Yes

Potassium bromide KBr 8.4 10.9 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Sodium formate NaCHO2 9 11.1 No No No LTR1 No LTR1

Calcium chloride CaCl2 8.4 11.6 No No Yes Yes Yes Yes

Cesium formate CsCHO2 8.34 19.2 No No No LTR1 No LTR1

Sodium bromide NaBr 8.4 12.7 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Potassium formate KCHO2 8.8 13.0 No No No LTR1 No LTR1

Calcium bromide CaBr2 8.4 14.2 No No Yes Yes Yes Yes

CaBr2/CaCl2 Blend 11.7 15.1 No No Yes Yes Yes Yes

CaCl2/CaBr2/ZnBr2 Blend 15 19.2 No No No No No No

Zinc bromide ZnBr2 19.2 20.2 No No No No No No

Magnesium chloride MgCl2 No No Yes Yes Yes Yes

Sodium carbonate Na2CO3 No No No Yes No Yes

† LTR: laboratory testing recommended

Systems 55
 CleanSEAL system
The CleanSEAL* perforation fluid-loss-control system incorporates a crosslinked hydroxyethyl-
cellulose (HEC) that has been grated to individual particles, which are easily dispersed and
suspended in most completion brines. The crosslinked HEC particles are semirigid, and deform
to form a highly effective, low-permeability filter cake. They fill perforations, minimizing losses
into the formation. The CleanSEAL system is directly added to completion brine in a paddle
mixer on location, and it takes 3 to 5 min to mix. Low friction pressures make the CleanSEAL
system easy to pump through coiled tubing during workover operations. The system is easy to
break with mild acids, which linearize the crosslinked HEC particles. CleanSEAL systems are
compatible with most brines to 15.2 lbm/gal (potassium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium bromide,
calcium chloride, calcium chloride-calcium bromide or calcium bromide) and can be used at
temperatures to 300°F [149°C]. It is stable for 10 to 12 hr at 300°F [149°C], with longer stability
at lower temperatures.

Applications
For use as fluid-loss-control
■ after perforating and before sand control
■ during workover operations

Benefits and features

■ Simple mixing on location
■ Easy to pump through coiled tubing as a result of low friction pressure
■ Easy to break with mild acids
■ Temperature stability to 300°F [149°C]
Less damage from HEC polymer
n

PROTECTOZONE VP fluid
The PROTECTOZONE* VP fluid is a delayed, crosslinked gel system used for temporary plugging
of zones. It contains low-residue HEC polymer at 80 to 120 lbm/1000 gal [36 to 54 kgm/3785 L]
and internal breakers for controlled fluid loss and cleanup. The PROTECTOZONE VP system is
particularly useful in high-permeability formations where excessive losses of heavy brines or linear
gels are not acceptable. It can be used in formations ranging from 0.1 to 2 darcies. The system is
compatible with most brines to 15.2 lbm/gal [6.9 kgm/L] (potassium chloride, sodium chloride,
sodium bromide, calcium chloride, calcium chloride-calcium bromide or calcium bromide) and
can be used at temperatures from 80 to 290°F [27 to 143°C].

Applications
■ Workover operations requiring fluid-loss-control
■ As a temporary blocking gel
■ Temperatures to 290°F [143°C]

Benefits and features

■ Delayed crosslinking for simplified pumping
■ Compatible with most brines

56 Sand Control Pumping

 SEAL-N-PEEL pill
The SEAL-N-PEEL biopolymer-starch-calcium carbonate pill is designed specifically to stop losses
after sand control treatments, where a mechanical fluid-loss-control device either was not used
or failed. Because the calcium carbonate particle size distribution is customized for each sand
control screen, the SEAL-N-PEEL pill rapidly deposits a very low permeability and thin filter cake
on the inside surface of the screen assembly, with minimal invasion of the gravel pack. This prop-
erty, along with the use of a newly developed, modified glycol additive to reduce the adhesive
forces that bind the seal to the screen, allows it to be completely removed with little differential
pressure during production, typically without breakers.
This product is available through M-I Drilling Fluids. SEAL-N-PEEL technology is compatible
with most brines to 19.2 lbm/gal [8.7 kgm/L] (potassium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium bromide,
potassium formate, sodium formate, calcium chloride, calcium chloride-calcium bromide, calcium
bromide, zinc bromide and cesium formate) and can be used at temperatures to 320°F [160°C],
depending on brine type and density. Higher temperature applications can be achieved with
formate brines.

Applications
■ For use as a fluid-loss-control pill after gravel-packing or fracture-packing treatments, where
a mechanical fluid-loss-control device either was not used or failed
■ Temperatures to 320°F [160°C]

Benefits and features

■ Customized calcium carbonate particle size distribution for each sand control screen
■ Minimal invasion of gravel pack
■ Easy to flow back without breakers

Completion brines
Completion brine products are available through M-I Drilling Fluids and can be divided into
two categories: monovalent brines and divalent brines.

Monovalent brines
Ammonium chloride
Ammonium chloride powder is a high-purity 1.53-sg dry crystalline inorganic salt used to form clear
brine fluids with densities from 8.4 to 8.9 lbm/gal [3.8 to 4 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.07 sg. At concentra-
tions of 2 to 7% it is used as a clay and shale stabilizer. Ammonium chloride brines are used to
prevent the formation of insoluble fluorosilicates when HF acid (mud acid or clay acid) is used.
An endothermic reaction occurs when mixing dry ammonium chloride and water, resulting in a
decrease in fluid temperature. It is packaged in 50- and 55-lbm [23- and 25-kgm] sacks. Crystallization
temperature of ammonium chloride brines varies between 5 and 31°F [-15 and -0.5°C], depending
on density. Ammonium chloride brines may liberate ammonia gas at pH above 9.0.

Potassium chloride
Potassium chloride powder is a high-purity 1.98-sg dry crystalline inorganic salt used to form clear
brine fluids with densities from 8.4 to 9.7 lbm/gal [3.8 to 4 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.16 sg. Because of their
excellent shale inhibition characteristics, potassium chloride brines are commonly used in shaly
formations. Potassium chloride is often added to other brine systems to enhance their inhibition
properties. It is packaged in 50- and 100-lbm [23- and 45-kg] sacks. Crystallization temperature
of potassium chloride brine varies between 10 and 59°F [-12 and 15°C], depending on density.
Potassium chloride can also be supplied in bulk liquid quantities.
Systems 57
 Sodium chloride
Sodium chloride powder, a dry crystalline salt with 2.16 sg, is an economical product for formu-
lating clear brine fluids with densities from 8.4 to 10.0 lbm/gal [3.8 to -12.2 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.20 sg.
As workover and completion fluids, sodium chloride brines are used in wells that do not require
the higher density or the special inhibitive properties of calcium or potassium systems. Sodium
chloride brines are used to increase density, reduce salt dissolution when drilling halite salt sec-
tions, and reduce freezing point and gas hydrate potential in a wide variety of water- and oil-base
drilling fluids. Sodium chloride is also used to adjust the density of other nonsaturated brines
such as seawater, potassium chloride and ammonium chloride. It is packaged in 100-lbm [45-kgm],
80-kg [176-lbm] and 50-kg [110-lbm] sacks. Crystallization temperature of sodium chloride brine
varies between –5 and 31 degF, depending on density. Sodium chloride is also supplied in liquid
form as a saturated solution with a density of 10.0 lbm/gal [4.5 kgm/L], 1.2 sg and a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.

Sodium formate
Sodium formate powder is a high-purity, crystalline organic salt with 1.92 sg used to form clear
brine used in workover and completion operations that require densities from 8.4 to 11.0 lbm/gal
[3.8 to 5 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.33 sg. Sodium formate brines eliminate the potential of formation
damage that can result from the precipitation of carbonate, bicarbonate or sulfate compounds
associated with use of calcium-based brines where formation waters contain high concentrations
of bicarbonate and sulfate ions. They are excellent shale stabilizers for water-sensitive formations
that contain clay and/or shale and are environmentally friendly. Sodium formate brines also
extend temperature limits of some polymers used in drilling fluids, gravel-pack carrier fluids and
fluid-loss-control pills. For this reason they are often used in high-temperature wells. Potassium
formate brines can be blended with sodium formate to achieve densities from 11.0 to 13.1 lbm/gal
[5 to 6 kgm/L], 1.33 to 1.57 sg. They can be formulated with various crystallization temperatures
and for summer or winter blends. They are packaged in 55-lbm [25-kgm] sacks or in 1000-kg
[2205-lb] bags. Sodium formate can also be supplied in liquid form with a density of 11.0 lbm/gal
[5 kg/L], 1.33 sg, a pH of 8.6 and a viscosity of 29 cp.

Sodium bromide-sodium chloride

Sodium bromide-sodium chloride brine systems are salt blends used to form clear brines used
in workover and completion fluids with densities from 10.0 to 12.7 lbm/gal [4.5 to 5.8 kgm/L],
1.20 to 1.52 sg. These systems eliminate the potential of formation damage that can result from
the precipitation of carbonate, bicarbonate or sulfate compounds associated with use of calcium-
based brines where formation waters contain high concentrations of bicarbonate and sulfate ions.
Sodium bromide and sodium chloride brine systems are packaged in bulk liquid quantities.

Sodium bromide
Sodium bromide powder is a high-purity salt, with a 3.2 sg, used to form clear brine fluids with
densities from 8.4 to 12.7 lbm/gal [3.4 to 5.8 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.52 sg. It is used where formation
waters contain high concentrations of bicarbonate or sulfate ions, which can result in precipitation
of carbonate, bicarbonate or sulfate compounds when calcium-based brines are used. It is packaged
in 55-lbm [25-kgm] sacks. Crystallization temperature of sodium bromide brine varies between
-21 and 38°F [-29 and 3°C], depending on density. Sodium bromide is also supplied in liquid form
as a nearly saturated solution with a density of 12.5 lbm/gal [5.6 kgm/L], 1.50 sg and a pH of 7.0,
with a crystallization temperature of 33°F [0.5°C] and a viscosity of 3 cp. Unless a chlorides-free
environment is required, sodium bromide brines should be used as part of a sodium chloride and
sodium bromide blend. Blends with higher density zinc bromides can also be used.

58 Sand Control Pumping

 Potassium formate
Potassium formate powder is a high-purity, dry crystalline organic salt with 1.91 sg used to form
clear brine fluids with densities ranging from 8.4 to 13.1 lbm/gal [3.8 to 6 kgm/L], 1.01 to 1.57 sg.
Potassium formate brines eliminate the potential of formation damage that can result from the
precipitation of carbonate, bicarbonate or sulfate compounds associated with use of calcium-
based brines where formation waters contain high concentrations of bicarbonate and sulfate
ions. They are excellent shale stabilizers for water-sensitive formations that contain clay or shale
and are environmentally friendly. Potassium formate brines also extend temperature limits of some
polymers used in drilling fluids, gravel-pack carrier fluids and fluid-loss-control pills. For this
reason they are used in high-temperature wells. Potassium formate brines can be blended with
sodium formate for densities from 11.0 to 13.1 lbm/gal [5 to 6 kgm/L] to give a more cost-effective
brine system. They can be formulated with various crystallization temperatures and for summer
or winter blends. They are packaged in 55-lbm [25-kgm] sacks or in 1000-kg [2205-lb] bags.
Potassium formate can also be supplied in liquid form with a density of 13.1 lbm/gal [6 kgm/L],
1.57 sg, a pH of 8.5 and a viscosity of 47 cp.

Cesium formate
Cesium formate (liquid) is a single organic-salt clear brine fluid. Pure cesium formate solutions
can be prepared with densities from 8.4 and 19.2 lbm/gal [3.8 and 8.71 kgm/L], 1.08 to 2.3 sg.
However, these fluids are typically mixed with potassium formate solutions to yield a density from
13.1 to 19.2 lbm/gal [6 to 8.71 kgm/L], 1.57 to 2.3 sg in a more cost-effective way. Like the other
formate brines, cesium formate shows excellent thermal stabilization effects on natural polymers
and is environmentally friendly. It is packaged in bulk liquid quantities.

Divalent brines
Calcium chloride
Calcium chloride powder is a high-purity salt, with a 2.26 sg, used to form clear brine fluids with
densities from 8.4 and 11.8 lbm/gal [3.8 and 5.4 kgm/L], 1.01 and 1.42 sg. They may be blended
with heavier brines (e.g., calcium bromide, zinc bromide) for higher density applications.
Calcium chloride brines help prevent the hydration and migration of clays. Crystallization tem-
perature of calcium chloride brine varies between -61 and 44°F [-52°C], depending on density.
As a powder, this product is packaged in 80-lbm [36-kgm] sacks. It is also supplied in liquid form
as a nearly saturated solution with a density of 11.6 lbm/gal [5.3 kgm/L], 1.39 sg, a pH of 6.5 to 7.0,
a crystallization temperature of 44°F [7°C] and a viscosity of 7 cp.

Calcium bromide-calcium chloride

Calcium bromide-calcium chloride brine systems are two-salt solutions used during workover
and completion operations, which require densities 11.7 to 15.1 lbm/gal [5.3 to 6.8 kgm/L],
1.40 to 1.81 sg. The desired density is obtained either by blending 11.6 lbm/gal [5.3 kgm/L], 1.40 sg
calcium chloride with 14.2 lbm/gal [6.4 kgm/L], 1.70 sg calcium bromide brine and dry calcium
chloride or calcium bromide, or by mixing dry calcium chloride and dry calcium bromide in water.
They can be formulated with various crystallization points and are available for special applications
and winter use.

Systems 59
 Calcium bromide
Calcium bromide powder is a high-purity salt used to form clear brine fluids. Pure single-salt
solutions of calcium bromide are used to form fluids with densities from 8.4 and 15.6 lbm/gal
[3.8 and 7.1 kgm/L], 1.01 and 1.87 sg. Calcium bromide brines inhibit hydration and migration of
swelling clays. They can be formulated with various crystallization temperatures and for summer
or winter blends. As a powder, this product is packaged in 55-lbm [25-kgm] sacks. It is also supplied
in liquid form with a density of 14.2 lbm/gal [6.4 kgm/L], 1.70 sg, a pH of 7.0, a crystallization
temperature of 0°F [-18°C] and a viscosity of 6 cp.

Zinc bromide-calcium bromide

Zinc bromide-calcium bromide (liquid), often referred to as zinc bromide, is available in densities
from 19.2 lbm/gal [8.7 kgm/L], 2.30 sg and is 54.5% zinc bromide and 19.5% calcium bromide. It is
used for clear-brine workover and completion operations, which require high-density fluids. Zinc
bromide-calcium bromide brines are generally blended with calcium chloride powder or liquid
to form fluids with various crystallization temperatures and for summer or winter blends. Zinc
bromide-calcium bromide liquid at 19.2 lbm/gal [8.7 kgm/L] has a pH of 1 to 2 and a crystallization
temperature of 10°F [-12°C]. It is packaged in bulk liquid quantities.

Zinc bromide-calcium bromide-calcium chloride

Zinc bromide-calcium bromide-calcium chloride brine systems are three-salt solutions used for
clear-brine workover and completion operations, which require high-density fluids ranging from
15.2 to 19.2 lbm/gal [6.89 to 8.71 kgm/L], 1.82 to 2.30 sg. The desired density and crystallization
point is obtained by blending 15.1 lbm/gal [6.8 kgm/L], 1.81 sg calcium chloride-calcium bromide
brine with 19.2 lbm/gal [8.7 kgm/L], 2.30 sg calcium bromide-zinc bromide brine. The pH of zinc
bromide-calcium bromide-calcium choride brines typically varies from 1.8 to 6.0.

Ammonium Chloride

Potassium Chloride

Sodium Chloride

Sodium Formate

Calcium Chloride

Sodium Bromide

Potassium Formate

Calcium Bromide

Cesium Formate

Zinc Bromide
8.4 9.4 10.4 11.4 12.4 13.4 14.4 15.4 16.4 17.4 18.4 19.4
Maximum density (ppg)

Figure 3-9. Maximum densities attainable with various brine systems.

60 Sand Control Pumping

 VES fluids
Increased awareness of formation and completion damage caused by polymer-based fluids has led
to the development of VES-based carrier fluids. Because these fluids break upon contact with most
crude oils, they typically do not require breaker treatments for producing wells, and addition of low
concentrations of a mutual solvent in injection water is sufficient to break the fluid to water-like
consistency, maximizing injectivity. VES fluids consistently yield higher retained permeabilities
than polymer-based carrier fluids because they leave no polymeric residue. In relatively low
pressure dry gas wells, a mutual solvent can be spotted into the basepipe immediately after
gravel-packing, using the MudSOLV circulation tool. VES fluids can be mixed continuously using
either a WASP* Water and Sand Proportioner or POD* Programmable Optimal Density Blender
or in batch mode using any of the blending tanks.
VES fluids are compatible with certain MudSOLV chemicals, allowing simultaneous gravel-
packing and cake cleanup in openhole completions. Because VES fluids exhibit very low friction
pressures, they are ideal for use with Alternate Path technology for gravel-packing long horizon-
tal intervals. VES formulations are available with varying levels of brine tolerance, temperature
limitations and compatibility with MudSOLV chemicals.

J483 PERMPAC AV fluids

PERMPAC AV fluids are compatible with most common brines including calcium chloride, sodium
chloride, ammonium chloride, calcium chloride and calcium bromide. They are incompatible
with sodium bromide, zinc bromide, sodium formate, potassium formate and cesium formate.
Temperature limit of PERMPAC AV fluids depends on the brine type and density, but is typically less
than 150°F [65°C]. PERMPAC AV fluids are compatible with enzyme J503 for use in simultaneous
gravel-packing and cake cleanup processes in openhole completions.

Figure 3-10. ClearFRAC fluid is a viscoelastic surfactant, not a long-chain polymer that can leave
residue in the gravel pack or fracture proppant pack.

J508 ClearFRAC fluids

ClearFRAC fluids are compatible with most common brines including KCl, sodium chloride, NH4Cl,
calcium chloride, sodium formate, potassium formate and cesium formate in certain density ranges,
with less salt tolerance than PERMPAC AV. They are incompatible with sodium bromide, calcium
bromide and zinc bromide. Temperature limit of J508W ClearFRAC fluids depends on the brine
type and density, but is typically 200 degF for densities lower than 8.6 lbm/gal [3.9 kgm/L] and
150 to 175°F [65 to 79°C] for higher densities. J508W ClearFRAC fluid is compatible with enzyme
J503 and U105 CAS for use in simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup processes in openhole
completions, subject to compatibility of the enzyme and CAS with the base brine. J508W ClearFRAC
fluid is incompatible with U106, U820 and U821 CAS.

Systems 61
 J533 ClearFRAC-EF
An environmentally improved ClearFRAC has been developed for land and offshore fracturing
applications. This fluid has a temperature limit of 180°F [82°C] and is compatible with sodium
chloride and potassium chloride to 9.5 lbm/gal [4.3 kgm/L], making it suitable for frac packing and
for gravel-packing either in squeeze position or in wells that do not require high-density brines.
The fluid is compatible with fresh mix waters and brines having divalent ion concentrations less
than 1000 ppm through addition of U042 chelating agents.

ClearPAC fluids
ClearPAC fluids have been developed to overcome the density limitations of ClearFRAC fluids
and the temperature limitations of the PERMPAC AV fluids. ClearPAC fluids are compatible with
potassium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium bromide, calcium chloride, calcium bromide, sodium
formate and potassium formate; they are incompatible with zinc bromide. The temperature limit
of ClearPAC fluids depends on the brine type and density. ClearPAC fluids can be formulated at
densities greater than 13 lbm/gal [5.9 kgm/L] with a temperature stability approaching 300°F
[149°C], although the density and temperature limits with formate brines are considerably lower.
ClearPAC fluids are compatible with U106, U820 and U821 CAS but are incompatible with U105 CAS.

300 12.0
Existing VES fluids
250 1.5
ClearPAC fluids
11.0
200
10.5
°F 150 ppg
10.0
100
9.5
50 9.0
0 8.5

Figure 3-11. Comparisons of temperature limit (left) and maximum applicable density (right) of existing VES fluids and ClearPAC fluids.

1000
200°F

220°F

Apparent 240°F
viscosity 100
250°F
(cp)

10
10 100 1000
Shear rate (1/s)

Figure 3-12. Rheological profile of an 11.7 ppg, sodium bromide/U280 chelating agent solution-based VES fluid at varous temperatures.

62 Sand Control Pumping

Table 3-5. Comparison of Formation and Gravel-Pack Damage Induced by ClearPAC and HEC Surfactants
System Formation Retained Permeability (%) 20/40 Gravel-Pack Retained Permeability (%)
HEC fluid 54 63

ClearPAC fluid 99 100

Applications
■ Gravel-packing or frac packing wells in circulating or squeeze position
■ Simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup with the Alternate Path technique
■ Fracturing with coiled tubing

Benefits and features

■ High retained permeability in both formation and gravel pack
■ Breaks with exposure to produced liquid hydrocarbons
■ Low friction pressure losses
■ Compatible with chelating agent solutions and enzymes for simultaneous gravel-packing
and cake cleanup
■ Compatible with most brines

Polymeric gravel-packing fluids

Various polymeric gravel-packing fluids are available, including hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC),
xanthan and scleroglucan. Because polymers leave insoluble residue, they typically yield lower
retained permeabilities than VES systems. Polymeric carrier fluids can be broken with internal or
external breakers such as enzymes, oxidizers or acids. Polymeric fluids generally require shearing
and filtration to eliminate microgels ("fish-eyes"), particularly if the powder form is used. In addi-
tion, they must typically be batch mixed because they require hydration. They are recommended
for jobs where VES systems cannot be used because of incompatibilities or other limitations, such
as density and/or temperature. Completion damage caused by polymers can be minimized through
proper mixing, shearing and filtering as well as use of internal or external breakers.

J164 Powder Hydroxyethylcellulose and J512 Liquid Hydroxyethylcellulose

Having lower insoluble residue content, HEC fluids yield higher retained permeability than other
polymeric carrier fluids. Typical polymer concentration in HEC fluids is 70 to 120 lbm/1000 gal
[32 to 54 kgm/3785 L], depending on bottomhole temperature. Liquid form of J512 HEC is preferred
because it minimizes the risk of fish-eyes and thus potential formation and completion damage.
In gravel-packing applications, HEC fluids are generally limited to temperatures lower than
250°F [121°C]. They can be mixed with most brines, and densities to 19.0 lbm/gal.[8.6 kgm/L]
are obtainable using zinc bromide.

Scleroglucan
Scleroglucan fluids have higher temperature stability than HEC fluids. Typical polymer concen-
tration in scleroglucan fluids is 70 to 120 lbm/1000 gal [32 to 54 kgm/3785 L]. Scleroglucan fluids
can be formulated with temperature stability approaching 350°F [177°C], using formate brines.
Scleroglucan can be mixed with most brines, and densities to 19.0 lbm/gal [8.6 kgm/L] are
obtainable using cesium formate.

Systems 63
 Xanthan
Xanthan fluids have higher low-shear viscosities and higher temperature stability than HEC fluids.
Typical polymer concentration in xanthan fluids is 70 to 120 lbm/1000 gal [32 to 54 kgm/3785 L].
These fluids can be formulated with formate brines to achieve temperature stability to approx-
imately 350°F [177°C]. Xanthan can be mixed with most brines, and densities to 19 lbm/gal
[8.6 kgm/L] are obtainable using cesium formate.

Applications
■ Gravel-packing with Alternate Path technology in wells where VES systems cannot be used
■ Temperatures of approximately 350°F [177°C]

Benefits and features

■ Compatible with most brines up to 19 lbm/gal [8.6 kgm/L]

CLAY ACID PACK fluids

The CLAY ACID PACK* fluid system for gravel-packing is designed to reduce an otherwise two-
step process into a single-stage gravel-packing and clay acid treatment. There are two types of
CLAY ACID PACK fluids. Selection depends on the carrier fluid:
■ CLAY ACID PACK fluid using regular clay acid as the base fluid, viscosified with gelling agent
J164, for temperatures to 250°F [121°C)]
■ CLAY ACID PACK fluid using clay acid LT as the base fluid, viscosified with gelling agent J164
for temperatures to 130°F [54°C]

Applications
■ Gravel-packing in formations requiring treatments for control of fines and/or stabilization
of clays

Benefits and features

■ Saves rig time
■ Provides simultaneous clay stabilization and gravel-packing
■ Removes formation damage caused by clay fines
■ Can be used at high-gravel loadings

OilPAC GO fluids
The OilPAC* GO oil-based fluid system for gravel-packing and frac packing was developed for
use in water-sensitive formations. These fluids are water-free, single-phase solutions with good
leakoff and gravel transport properties. Components are designed for refined hydrocarbons, such
as kerosene or diesel, but are also suitable for some crudes and condensates.
Two formulations are available: OilPAC GO LT and OilPAC GO HT.

64 Sand Control Pumping

 OilPAC GO LT formulation
OilPAC GO LT for temperatures from 70 to 225°F [21 to 107°C]. OilPAC GO LT fluid uses oil gelling
agent J518, activator C108 and breaker M3 or J465. The OilPAC GO LT formulation is designed for
a continuous-mixed gelled oil system. The fluid can be energized with up to 50% carbon dioxide
when using low sulfur No. 2 diesel. Nitrogen can also be used.

OilPAC GO HT formulation
OilPACGO HT for temperatures from 150 to 300°F [65 to 149°C]. OilPAC GO HT fluid uses oil gelling
agent J452, liquid activator J453 and soda ash M3 as a breaker. The OilPAC GO HT formulation
can be batch-mixed. The fluid quickly reaches and maintains a stable viscosity after it is mixed.
This is an important operational feature that simplifies field mixing, pumping and quality control.

Applications
■ Gravel-packing water-sensitive formations drilled with oil-based fluids in squeeze position or
frac packing
■ Gravel-packing low-pressure wells (less than 6.7 lbm/gal [3.0 kgm/L] equivalent) drilled with
oil-based fluids in circulating position

Benefits and features

■ Water-free, single-phase fluid for efficient leakoff and gravel transport
■ Compatible with refined hydrocarbons
■ Can be continuously mixed

OilPAC EM system
The OilPAC* EM oil-based fluid system for gravel-pack operations was developed for use in water-
sensitive formations and those drilled with oil-based fluids. OilPAC-EM fluids are oil-external,
water-internal emulsions much like most oil-based drilling fluids, except they do not contain any
solids. The OilPAC* EM system uses the same base oil as in oil-based drilling fluid (e.g., refined
mineral oil, kerosene, diesel), a brine and a proprietary emulsifier package. As such, its viscosity is
controlled through the oil to water ratio, and its density is controlled through both the oil to water
ratio and the type and density of the internal brine phase. The OilPAC EM system can be formu-
lated with densities to 15.4 lbm/gal [6.9 kgm/L] for use at temperatures exceeding 250°F [121°C].
With these features, the OilPAC-EM system is suitable for circulating gravel packs as well as
squeeze packing with the Alternate Path technique. The OilPAC EM system eliminates displace-
ment of openhole reservoir sections to water-based fluids, and thus minimizes the risk of wellbore
instability problems and formation and completion damage as well as reduces rig time.
The OilPAC EM fluid system can also be formulated with a pH-modifier-calcium carbonate-
dissolver (e.g., a chelating agent solution or a mild organic acid) in the internal brine phase,
allowing simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup in wells drilled with FAZEPRO,
reversible synthetic or oil-based RDF (available from M-I Drilling Fluids). The FAZEPRO-OilPAC
EM reservoir drilling and gravel-packing fluid package allows slow removal of calcium carbonate
bridging and weighting agents from the filter cake without inducing losses during gravel-packing
and dissolves calcium carbonate before the well is put on production.

Systems 65
 Applications
■ Gravel-packing wells drilled with oil-based fluids in circulating or squeeze position, particularly
in water-sensitive formations and/or intervals containing reactive shales
■ Suitable for openhole gravel-packing (vertical, deviated or horizontal) using the Alternate
Path technique

Benefits and features

■ OilPAC EM fluid allows gravel-packing in an all-oil environment
■ Solids-free
■ Can be formulated with densities to 15.4 lbm/gal [6.9 kgm/L] and temperatures exceeding
250°F [121°C]
■ Can be used for simultaneous gravel-packing and cake cleanup in conjunction with FAZEPRO
RDF fluid

Waterfrac fluids
Waterfrac fluids use linear (uncrosslinked) gels of fresh water, seawater or potassium chloride
brines as efficient and economical fracturing fluids. Guar and hydroxy-propylguar (HPG) gelling
agents are the most common polymers used to prepare Waterfrac fluids. A cellulose-derivative
gelling agent and xanthan gum are also available.

Nomenclature
Waterfrac fluids are identified by the letters WF* followed by three digits to indicate the type
and concentration of gelling agent. The first digit indicates the type of gelling agent: "1" for guar
and "2" for HPG. The last two digits indicate the concentration of thickener in lbm/1000 gal
[kgm/3785 L] of fluid. Example: WF 140 contains a guar gelling agent at a concentration of
40 lbm/1000 gal [18 kgm/3785 L].

Waterfrac fluid types

The Waterfrac 100 (WF 100) fluids are water-based and viscosified with refined guar polymers.
They are also the base gels that are crosslinked to form the Widefrac fluids (YF 100, YF 300 and
YF 500). The Waterfrac 200 (WF 200) fluids are water-based and viscosified with refined HPG
polymers. They are also the base gels that are crosslinked to form the Widefrac fluids (YF 200, YF 400
and YF 600).

Applications
■ Operations using guar gelling agents in temperatures ranging from 50 to 200°F [10 to 93°C]

Benefits and features

■ Uncrosslinked gels provide efficient, economical fracturing fluids

66 Sand Control Pumping

 Widefrac fluids
The Widefrac fluid system utilizes the very viscous solution formed by crosslinking Waterfrac fluids.
Crosslinking agents are used to dramatically increase the effective molecular weight of the polymer,
thereby increasing the viscosity of the solution.

Nomenclature
Widefrac crosslinked fluids are identified by YF followed by three digits to indicate the type and con-
centration of gelling agent used. The first digit indicates the gelling agent and crosslinker type;
the second and third digits denote the gelling agent concentration in lbm per 1000 gal [3785 L].
Example: YF 840HT is a carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar (CMHPG) gelling agent, zirconate
crosslinked, at 40 lbm/1000 gal [18 kgm/3785 L] of fluid, designed for HT.

Crosslinkers
Various materials are used to crosslink water-soluble polymers.
■ Boric acid and borate salts produce crosslinked gels with guar and HPG that are stable to
325°F [163°C].
■ Transition-metal crosslinkers titanate and zirconate are used in fracture treatments of deep,
hot wells. The upper temperature limit for these gels is 400°F [204°C].

Widefrac fluids
Widefrac fluids are available in the formulations shown herein:
■ The Widefrac 100 (YF 100) system is water-based and is composed of a refined guar gelling
agent crosslinked by a borate crosslinker. Fluids can be batch-mixed or continuously mixed.
The temperature range for fresh water and fresh water containing potassium chloride-based
fluids is 80 to 200°F [27 to 93°C]. The temperature range for seawater-based fluids is 80 to 175°F
[27 to 79°C].
■ The Widefrac 100HTD (YF 100HTD) system is water-based and is composed of a refined guar
gelling agent crosslinked by a borate-type crosslinker. Fluids can be batch-mixed or continuously
mixed. The temperature range is from 125 to 325°F [52 to 163°C].
■ The Widefrac 100.1HTD (YF 100.1HTD) system is water-based and contains a refined guar
gelling agent crosslinked with a borate crosslinker. Designed for continuous-mix operations.
The temperature range is from 175 to 350°F [79 to 177°C].
■ The Widefrac 100LG (YF 100 LG) system is water-based and contains a refined guar gelling
agent (15 to 20 lbm/1000 gal) [6.8 to 9.0 kgm/3785 L] crosslinked with a borate crosslinker.
Fluids can be batch-mixed or continuously mixed. The temperature range is from 100 to 200°F
[38 to 93°C] for fluids prepared with fresh water or fresh water containing potassium chloride.
■ The YF 100 LGD system is water-based and contains a refined guar gelling agent (20 to 50
lbm/1000 gal) [9.0 to 22.6 kgm/3785 L] crosslinked with a borate crosslinker. Fluids can be
batch-mixed or continuously mixed. YF 100 LGD fluids are prepared using any of the Waterfrac
100 fluids. The temperature range is from 175 to 325°F [79 to 163°C] for fluids prepared with
fresh water.
■ The Widefrac 200 (YF 200) system are water-based fluids composed of a HPG gelling agent
crosslinked with a borate crosslinker. Fluids can be batch-mixed or continuously mixed.
The temperature range for fresh water and fresh water containing potassium chloride-based
fluids is 80 to 200°F [27 to 93°C]. The temperature range for seawater-based fluids is 80 to 175°F
[27 to 79°C].
■ The Widefrac 300LPH (YF 300LPH) system is water-based and is composed of a guar gelling
agent crosslinked with a titanium crosslinker. Fluids are designed for either batch-mix or
continuous-mix operations. The temperature range is from 75 to 225°F [24 to 107°C].

Systems 67
 ■ The Widefrac 400LPH (YF 400LPH) system is water-based and is composed of a HPG gelling
agent crosslinked with a titanium crosslinker. Fluids are designed for either batch-mix or
continuous-mix operations. The temperature range is from 75 to 250°F [24 to 121°C].
■ The Widefrac 500HT (YF 500HT) system is water-based and is composed of a refined guar gelling
agent crosslinked with a zirconate crosslinker. Fluids are designed for batch-mix or continuous-
mix operations. The temperature range is from 175 to 325°F [79 to 163°C].
■ The Widefrac 600 (YF 600) system is water-based and is composed of a HPG gelling agent
crosslinked with a zirconate crosslinker. Fluids are designed for batch-mix or continuous-mix
operations. The temperature range for YF 600LT fluid is from 150 to 250°F [65 to 121°C] and
for YF 600HT fluid from 250 to 350°F [121 to 177°C].
■ The Widefrac 600UT (YF 600UT) system is water-based and is composed of a HPG gelling agent
crosslinked with a zirconate crosslinker. Fluids are designed for batch-mix or continuous-mix
operations. A YF 600UT fluid is prepared by adding HPG Polymer Slurry J856 to a fully hydrated
Waterfrac 200 (WF 200) fluid. The temperature range is from 325 to 450°F [163 to 232°C].
■ The Widefrac 800 (YF 800LPH and YF 800HT) fluids are temperature activated, zirconate
crosslinked, water-based fluids composed of CMHPG. The YF 800 fluids consist of two fluid
designs—YF 800LPH (pH 4.0 to 5.0) 100 to 250°F [38 to 121°C] and YF 800HT (pH 9 to 9.5)
275 to 400°F [135 to 204°C].
■ PrimeFRAC water-based fluids are composed of CMHPG crosslinked with a zirconate crosslinker
to provide a low-polymer fluid. Fluids are designed for continuous-mix operations. Temperature
range is from 200 to 350°F [93 to 177°C].

PropNET systems
The PropNET system of proppant flowback control additives (PropNET I Additive J500, PropNET II
Additive J501, PropNET Gold Additive J502 and PropNET HI K Additive J527) includes fibrous
materials that are mixed with the proppant to hold it in the fracture during the production of oil
or gas or both. PropNET additives work by a physical mechanism. A 3-dimensional fiber network
retains the proppant in place; no chemical curing reactions are necessary. Performance is not lim-
ited by shut-in time, confining stress or bottomhole static temperature. This allows more flexibility
in flowback and production.

Applications
■ Proppant flowback control in all reservoir conditions
■ Oil or gas wells with proppant flowback problems
■ Wells with reservoir temperatures from ambient to steamflood conditions

Benefits and features

■ Eliminates proppant flowback while increasing production rates
■ Allows postfracture flowback design changes, increasing operational flexibility
■ Provides significantly increased pack strength when subjected to closure stress cycling as occurs
when wells are repeatedly shut in and returned to production
■ Physical mechanism of proppant pack reinforcement for immediate flowback
■ Increased permeability to base proppant at low closure stresses (<3000 psi)
■ No chemical interactions with fluids or breakers
■ Compatible with oil- and water-based fracturing fluids, including ClearFRAC polymer-free fluids
■ Performance not limited by shut-in time, confining stress or bottomhole static temperature
■ Compatible with common sand, ceramic and resin-coated proppants

68 Sand Control Pumping

Figure 3-13. PropNET fibers are mixed with proppant which holds the proppant in place during production.

Figure 3-14. Engineered fiber technology, complemented by precise addition and job execution, helps provide
consistent control in all well conditions, improving your production and lowering your remedial costs.

SANDLOCK V systems
The SANDLOCK* V system is based on a resin-coated-gravel-packing technique that utilizes a
polymer, a resin system and gravel slurry. A strong and highly permeable consolidated gravel pack
is placed in the perforation tunnels and outside the casing to prevent the migration of formation
sand into the wellbore. The following recommendations should be followed.
■ Interval lengths greater than 20 ft [6 m] are difficult to treat efficiently in a single-stage operation.
■ Exposure to mud acid causes significant strength reduction.

Applications
■ Formations initially completed without sand control, which began producing sand later in the
life of the well
■ Consolidation of failed gravel packs or fracture packs (SANDLOCK V system without gravel)
■ Single-stage treatments in layers less than 25 to 30 ft [7.6 to 9.1 m]
■ Limited to less than 225°F [107°C]

Systems 69
 Benefits and features
■ Good compressive strength with high retained permeability
■ Low resin content
■ Short waiting-on-plastic (curing) times
■ Ability to place SANDLOCK V materials using coiled tubing

Furan Resin Sand Consolidation system

The Furan Resin Sand Consolidation system has been developed for in-situ consolidation of forma-
tion sand. Treatment involves several stages including a Mud Acid treatment, a surfactant preflush,
resin injection, displacement fluid and an acid catalyst overflush. Depending on bottomhole static
temperature, a shut-in time of 6 to 24 hr is required to allow the resin to cure. This bonded material
subsequently helps prevent migration of other loose sand and fines from the formation into the
wellbore. Because they penetrate into the formation, loose particles are immobilized away from
the wellbore, beyond the point where fluid velocities cause particle movement.

Applications
■ Formation sand consolidation in newly perforated wells
■ In bottomhole static temperatures to more than 250°F [121°C]

Benefits and features

■ Provides alternative screenless completion in unconsolidated formations
■ Imparts increased strength to the near-wellbore formation
■ Reduces environmental hazards

25 2.5

20 2.0
Mobility ratio

15 1.5
Viscosity Mobility
(cp) ratio
10 1.0
Displacement fluid
5 0.5

Resin
0 0
50 100 150 200 250
Temperature (°F)

Figure 3-15. As indicated in the graph above, the lower viscosity of the resin provides a good mobility ratio (>1) that maximizes
zone coverage. A well treated with resin produces better than a well with conventional gravel pack because the perforations
remain open and the reservoir fluid does not have to flow through the gravel pack.

70 Sand Control Pumping