Wirelining

Wirelining is a specialized technique used in the oil and gas industry and other subsurface exploration and production sectors. It involves lowering equipment, instruments, and tools into a wellbore using a metallic cable, commonly referred to as wireline. This cable is typically a single conductor (electric wireline) or a seven-strand cable (slickline). The primary purpose of wirelining is to gather data or perform specific operations within the well without requiring the removal of the drill string or production tubing.

Common applications of wirelining include well logging, which is the process of recording measurements of geological formations and fluid properties. Specialized tools are run into the wellbore to measure parameters like resistivity, porosity, density, and temperature. Another crucial application is well intervention, which encompasses a range of activities such as fishing for lost equipment, setting or retrieving plugs and valves, performing wellbore cleaning, and conducting perforating operations to create pathways for hydrocarbons to flow into the well.

The wireline unit, mounted on a truck or skid, contains a drum for the wireline, a derrick or mast to support the tools, and a control console for operating the equipment. Precision and safety are paramount in wirelining operations due to the high pressures and temperatures encountered in wellbores. The data collected through wirelining is essential for reservoir evaluation, production optimization, and maintaining the integrity of the well.