Every wireline engineer knows that pump down perforating is as much an art as it is a science. I remember a time when poor communication between the pump operator and the wireline unit nearly caused a toolstring to get stuck in the lateral section. That day, I learned that precision, timing, and clear communication are the keys to a successful pump down operation.

The Importance of Pump Down Procedures in Wireline and Perforating

In cased hole wireline operations, pump down procedures allow toolstrings to be efficiently placed in horizontal wells for perforation well jobs. Without a standardized approach, issues such as uneven tool movement, pressure spikes, and tool sticking can lead to pipe recovery operations, increased rig time, and unnecessary delays.

A well-executed pump down requires:

• Real-time monitoring of pump rate and pressure
• Clear communication between the wireline provider and the pump operator
• Strict adherence to best practices to prevent sticking or tool loss

Step-by-Step Pump Down Best Practices

• Equalize the Lubricator and Run Into the Well
  • Ensure the lubricator is properly pressurized using standard wireline logging procedures.
  • Monitor wireline control systems to confirm stable pressure before tool deployment.
• Establish a Reference Depth Using Casing Collars
  • Use a logging cable and casing collar locator (CCL) to identify reference points.
  • Perform this step before reaching the kick-off point for accurate depth correlation.
• Adjust the AA Valve for Controlled Line Tension
  • Slowly turn the AA valve to the left to increase speed, then back to the right ¼ turn to set tension.
  • This adjustment ensures that an increase in pump rate does not cause uncontrolled tool acceleration.
• Initiate the Pump Down Process
  • Maintain an entry speed of 200 ft/min, logging continuously while descending.
  • Start with a 4 bbl/min pump rate, gradually increasing as the well deviation changes:
    • 30-degree deviation: Increase pump rate to 1/3 of standard rate.
    • 60-degree deviation: Increase pump rate to 60% of the standard rate.
    • Horizontal section: Increase to the full standard pump rate:
      • 13-14 bbl/min for 5.5” casing
      • 7-8 bbl/min for 4.5” casing
• Monitor Tension, CCL, and Pump Rate Continuously
  • Maintain a cable speed of 250-300 ft/min during the pump down.
  • Ensure joint length remains ±40 feet and consistent throughout the operation.
  • If tension increases, speed should be adjusted accordingly.
  • If tension drops suddenly, the cable may be outrunning the toolstring—adjust accordingly.
• Communicate a Precise Pump Stop Point
  • The wireline engineer must notify the pump operator at least 2 minutes before stopping.
  • Final confirmations at 1.5 min, 1 min, and 30 seconds ensure a smooth stop.
  • The engineer must give a clear “shut down” command over radio, repeated 3 times.
• Transition to Logging and Perforation
  • Once stopped, log up to the plug stop depth and prepare for well perforation.
  • Adjust the AA valve as necessary and maintain a retrieval speed of 250-300 ft/min.
  • After reaching the vertical section, resume normal tool retrieval speeds.

Handling Early Tool Sticking During Pump Down

Even the best-planned pump down perforating jobs can run into tool sticking issues, particularly in horizontal sections. Here’s the right way to handle it:

• Immediately stop pumps.
• Stop the wireline drum after pumps are fully stopped.
• Move uphole slightly to confirm tool mobility.
• Resume pump down carefully using ⅔ of the maximum rate.
• If the tool does not move, return to vertical section and restart the process.

Preventing Tool Loss in Pump Down Perforating

A stuck tool in a horizontal well can lead to expensive fishing wire line operations or even downhole pipe recovery. To avoid tool loss:

• Never pump against an obstruction—doing so can push tools off the wireline.
• Be mindful of the well’s uphill and downhill sections, as they affect tool movement.
• If forward motion stops in an uphill section, restarting can be nearly impossible.

Conclusion

A successful pump down procedure relies on clear communication, precise depth control, and real-time adjustments. Whether in cased hole logging, production logging services, or wireline perforating, a structured approach to pump down perforating ensures safe and efficient operations.

In wireline services oil and gas operations, every second counts. Following best practices in pump down operations ensures smooth tool deployment, reduces downtime, and prevents tool loss in horizontal wells—making the difference between a routine job and a costly failure.