throughtubing

Throughtubing is a wellbore intervention technique used in the oil and gas industry. It involves running specialized tools and equipment through the existing production tubing or casing in a well. This allows for various operations to be performed without the need to remove the production tubing, which can be a time-consuming and costly process.

The primary purpose of throughtubing is to address issues that arise during the life of a well. These issues can include wellbore damage, plugging, equipment malfunctions, or the need for enhanced oil recovery. By utilizing throughtubing, operators can access the downhole environment and execute repairs, cleanouts, or recompletions.

Common throughtubing operations include fishing for lost equipment, milling out obstructions, setting or retrieving plugs, performing wellbore surveys, and injecting stimulation fluids. The tools and equipment are typically smaller in diameter than standard drilling or completion equipment, allowing them to pass through the restrictions of the production tubing.

The advantages of throughtubing are significant. It reduces rig time, minimizes the risk of tubing damage, and can often be performed more quickly and cost-effectively than conventional methods. This makes it a valuable technique for maintaining well productivity and extending the economic life of an oil or gas asset. However, the limitations include the size constraints of the tools and the potential for wear and tear on the production tubing itself during the operation.