Preventing Cable Head Failures with Specialized Grease

Posted on by Crissa Fel Tawadan

In wireline operations, even the smallest details matter. A properly secured cable head is essential for reliable downhole performance. Recently, a widespread issue has surfaced—cable heads falling off during pump-down operations. The solution? Implementing specialized grease to enhance security and protection.

The Problem: Cable Heads Falling Off the Line

During pump-down operations, cable heads are exposed to extreme conditions, including corrosive wellbore fluids and high mechanical stress. An increasing number of failures have been linked to improper sealing, which allows wellbore fluids to compromise the integrity of the connection. These failures result in lost time, fishing wireline tools, and potential damage to critical downhole equipment.

The Solution: Pumping the Cable Head with Grease

To mitigate these risks, Titan now offers a ported cable head designed to be pumped up with specialized grease. This grease forms a protective barrier, preventing wellbore fluids from seeping into the cable head and ensuring a secure connection.

The recommended greases are:

  • NC 111 Silicone Non-Conductive Grease
  • 635 HI Tech Grease

Both of these are specifically engineered to resist H₂S, CO₂, moisture, and oxidation—common threats in downhole environments.

How to Implement This Fix

  • Use the Right Cable Head – Ensure that all pump-down operations use the Titan cable head with the designated grease port.
  • Pump Grease Until Extrusion – After assembling the cable head, the operator should pump NC 111 or 635 HI Tech grease until it extrudes from the cable end of the head, ensuring complete saturation.
  • Train Personnel on Proper Use – Crews must be instructed to use NC 111 grease only in cable heads, as it is not suitable for lubricating bearings or other moving parts.
  • Inspect Cable Heads Regularly – Implement routine inspections to ensure grease application remains consistent and effective in preventing failures.

The Bigger Picture: Increasing Reliability in Wireline Operations

Wireline service providers, from cased hole logging to perforation services, depend on equipment reliability. By incorporating grease-filled cable heads, engineers can significantly reduce failures, improve wellsite efficiency, and minimize costly fishing operations.

Precision and preventive measures are what separate successful wireline companies from the rest. Ensuring that every cable head is properly sealed with the right grease is one more step toward safer and more reliable wireline services.