In a significant advancement for the oil and gas industry, Welltec has unveiled its latest innovation in downhole fishing technology.
The Wellgrab Hi-Range Overshot and Spear, known as HIROS, has been added to the company’s Electric Release Fishing Tool (ERFT) portfolio, promising to transform intervention operations with its intelligent features and automated capabilities.
HIROS builds upon the success of Welltec’s established ERFT technology, introducing smart functionalities that allow for a more automated approach to downhole fishing.
The tool boasts a motor-driven grapple engagement force of up to 5,897 kilograms, making it particularly effective in navigating through scale debris surrounding the fish.
This feature is distinct from the impressive 45,359 kilograms of push/pull force available once the tool is latched onto the target.
One of HIROS’s standout features is its automated target measurement capability.
This innovative function can recognise when the fish has been successfully latched or initiate re-engagement if necessary, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
The impact of this new technology was immediately demonstrated during its debut operation in Norway.
HIROS played a crucial role in retrieving multiple fish, effectively ending an 83-day shut-in period for an important producer.
This successful intervention restored production from what is described as an otherwise prolific well, highlighting the tool’s potential to save time and resources in challenging downhole scenarios.
Industry experts are hailing HIROS as a game-changer in downhole fishing operations.
Its ability to combine precision with automation is expected to set new standards for efficiency and reliability in well-intervention activities.
As the oil and gas sector continues to seek ways to optimise operations and reduce non-productive time, innovations like HIROS represent a significant step forward.
Welltec’s commitment to enhancing its fishing solutions portfolio demonstrates the industry’s ongoing evolution towards more intelligent and efficient downhole technologies.
With this successful field deployment, HIROS is poised to become an essential tool for operators facing complex fishing challenges in wells worldwide, potentially reducing operational costs and improving overall production outcomes.
