Abstract
Abstract Expandable Sand Screen (ESS®) was first field trialed in 1997 with the idea that eliminating the annulus between the sand screen and wellbore would improve downhole sand control, while allowing enhanced reservoir performance and management. By the end of 2012 ESS was installed in 677 wells, with over 418,184ft of screen deployed globally. As such, ESS has matured as a viable sand control technology combining Openhole Gravel Pack (OHGP) functionality with the installation simplicity of a Stand-Alone Screen (SAS) completion. With performance, reliability and long-term well life expectancy of paramount importance to field development economics, an extensive installation database has been maintained. Over the past 15 years, observation and analysis of design, planning, field implementation and useful life cycle has been documented in this database. This performance insight provides the foundation for future reliability and has been used to identify learning opportunities, influencing the product evolution and technology application envelope. With performance and reliability analysis provided and discussed in detail the applicable ESS envelope is outlined. Product design enhancement, methodical application evaluation and rigorous operating procedures result in improved successful use. Analysis of both infant and production failure trends are presented and show improvement. This data is used to estimate future life predictions using recognized reliability analysis tools. The applicability of ESS in openhole wells is highlighted, with continuing performance in oil producers, gas producers, water injectors and underground gas storage applications. There are various sand control technologies successfully utilized in reservoirs around the globe. This study outlines the applicable envelope for ESS use, providing insight to enable informed evaluation, life-of-well risk appraisal and ultimately reliable sand control completion selection for existing or new field development appraisal.