Successful Complex Thru Tubing Cementing and Sand Consolidation Operation in BL-x Mahakam, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

The Mahakam block, located in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is operated by Pertamina HuluMahakam (PHM). Bekapai Field is one of those fields, and it has several wells that have penetrated the oil and gas reservoir. Some of them have a large oil rate and reserve, as well as good reservoir characteristics, such as high permeability and low swelling clay content. The zone must be opened due to the increased demand for oil. Sand consolidation is required due to the fact that it is an unconsolidated sandstone
reservoir. BL-x case, access to the target zone was blocked by a fairly high sediment layer requiring sediment clean out/milling, and then another issue arises from the gravel pack zone, which is no longer producing and is thus cemented. There are two other unconsolidated reservoirs with cement gravel pack in the same packer zone that have good potential. It is challenging to place, and the reservoir has varying permeability, porosity, and clay content, but it is still an excellent candidate for sand consolidation treatment. On August 2021, the team successfully delivered a chain of complex operation, starting sediment milling for well accessibility, cementing using micro particulate cement to isolate zone behind gravel pack, until finishing the sand consolidation operation in the neighboring zone. The delivery added 1075 BOPD to the production stream, an excellent feat for 40-years old Bekapai field. In addition, it was carried safely amidst Covid-19 pandemic situation. This paper will elaborate on the experience of a successful complex operation that was carried out safely, as well as discuss in detail some of the measurable milestone achievements from the operation.