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Salt Creep Analysis

Better understand shear forces along the well path

Gulf of Mexico salt creep Wells drilled through salt sections can have serious wellbore integrity problems in the salt interval. Movement of the salt mass, known as salt creep, can cause casing collapse within days after the well is completed.

Our Salt Creep Analysis Service couples expertise in geomechanical modeling with finite element analysis to generate a well plan that minimizes the risk of salt-induced shear stress on the casing.

Integrated Modeling

salt creep analysis Salt masses behave differently than commonly encountered sediments. Wellbore failure can occur if special considerations are not made for their specific properties and stress
environment.

We develop a geomechanical model that considers the combined affects of overburden, temperature and mineralogy to determine the rate of salt creep.

This reservoir-scale model identifies potential areas of high geomechanical stress. The stress model is then used to provide a better understanding of the shear forces that may be encountered along the well path.

At the wellbore scale, this model is integrated with a visco-elasto-plastic finite element analysis that takes into account the main wellbore forces counteracting salt-induced shear: mud weight and the casing strength.

Practical Recommendations

casing collapse pressure Our Salt Creep Service provides key inputs to the drilling plan, including:

  • Casing grade selection
  • Mud weight requirements
  • Hole size implications
  • Cementing requirements

Field-proven on the deepest subsalt well ever drilled in the Gulf of Mexico, our process helps you achieve a stable wellbore in these difficult sections, while avoiding costly over-design.

We also analyze salt loading on the casing under producing conditions to ensure the long-term integrity of the well.

Geopressure and Geomechanical Expertise

salt induced casing deformation We’ve been the leading provider of advanced geopressure and geomechanical solutions in the industry for almost 20 years. By focusing exclusively on these services, we provide a uniquely independent source for understanding the wellbore environment.

Majors and independents worldwide rely on Knowledge Systems’ software development, engineering, consulting and training programs to reduce risk and cost, and to improve drilling performance.
 
Salt Creep Analysis