Some clients require an on-location rod test to confirm that BOPs function correctly under well pressure conditions. This is where downhole tools and wireline pressure control equipment come into play.
Case Study: A Near Miss That Reinforced Best Practices
During a cased hole wireline job, a team I worked with skipped a rod test to save time. When we applied pressure during perforating services, the rams didn’t seal completely. We had to halt the operation, troubleshoot the issue, and repeat the test—losing several hours. That was the last time we underestimated the importance of a proper rod test.
Now, here’s how to execute a rod test correctly:
- Position the BOP
- Lift the BOP from the transport trailer using a crane.
- Secure it by stabbing it onto the wellhead.
- Connect and Fill
- Attach the BOP bridles and hydraulic hoses from the grease injector unit.
- Fill the BOP with test fluid.
- Perform the Test
- Close the rams while keeping a stainless steel test rod centered.
- Apply pressure between the wellhead and the rams, ensuring you do not exceed the max working pressure.
- Verify and Release Pressure
- Confirm that the BOP holds pressure without leaks.
- Bleed off the pressure before proceeding with wireline service operations.
Why These Tests Matter for Wireline Perforating and Logging
- Equipment Protection
A failed BOP can damage wireline logging cable, causing expensive delays and potential downhole pipe recovery efforts. - Operational Safety
In wireline services oil and gas, BOP integrity is critical for well control. A leak can result in well control incidents, leading to oilfield safety training reviews or even shutdowns. - Efficiency in Wireline Operations
By ensuring BOP functionality, wireline companies can prevent unnecessary troubleshooting, reducing downtime in wireline perforating and production logging services.
Key Takeaways for Wireline Engineers
- Never function test a BOP with wireline cable inside the rams.
- Always keep the BOP secured when lifting and positioning it.
- Conduct both function and rod tests before starting perforation services or production logging.
- Follow a structured process to ensure smooth wireline well logging and wireline serviceability.
Testing wireline pressure control equipment isn’t just a routine—it’s a necessity. Whether I’m dealing with cased hole logging or pump down perforating, I know that a properly tested BOP means a safer, more efficient wireline job.