As a wireline engineer, I’ve been through countless setups, tool changes, and adjustments on the job. Yet, sometimes, even a small change in the way we approach a procedure can make a world of difference in the efficiency and reliability of the operation. One such change occurred during a recent wireline job where we introduced a new setup for the PSA (Pressure Switch Assembly) and quick change in our pumpdown toolstring. This adjustment, though seemingly minor, had significant operational advantages and led to a smoother, more efficient operation. Let me walk you through this change and the lessons we learned along the way.

The Issue: Reducing Connections and Improving Efficiency

Our team had been facing a recurring issue in our pumpdown operations: the numerous electrical and threaded connections that often added unnecessary complexity to our wireline tools. Traditionally, we used a double female arming sub and a male PSA on the bottom gun to cross over to the setting tool. The purpose of this setup was to house a selective switch, which helped with triggering the detonation at the right moment. However, the number of connections was becoming cumbersome, and we were looking for a way to streamline the process.

The real turning point came when we introduced the new integrated switch in the detonators, which eliminated the need for the PSA insert and allowed us to reduce one electrical component. This meant that we could replace the double female arming sub and the male PSA with a more straightforward solution—a female PSA sub. This sub no longer contained an insert, which made it much simpler to mate directly with the post on the Electric Wireline Tool (EBTW) below the bottom gun.

The New Setup: A More Streamlined Approach

With this new setup, we were able to eliminate the extra sub and electrical connection, resulting in a much cleaner, simpler configuration. The new quick change had a threaded pin that replaced the original pin on the bottom of the tool, and a socket or receptacle was attached to this threaded pin. The advantage of this change was clear: fewer components meant fewer chances for failure or issues with misconnections.

Here’s a breakdown of the key components of the new setup:

• Female PSA Sub: This sub changes with the size of the gun, and it’s used to connect directly to the EBTW below the bottom gun.

  • For 3-1/8” guns, we used part number TAG-3125-073, and for 3-3/8” guns, the part number changes to TAG-3375-073.

• Threaded Pin: A threaded pin replaced the original pin on the quick change, which is compatible with all gun sizes, but designed specifically for Titan quick changes.

  • Part number ADP-1437-010PS is the one we used.

• Threaded Nut or Receptacle: The receptacle screws onto the new quick change pin and mates with the EBTW.

  • Part number AES-1-0087A is the one used for all gun sizes.

Operational Considerations: New Best Practices

The implementation of this new setup wasn’t without its considerations. While the change simplified things, it required a few key steps to ensure the system worked flawlessly. Here’s what we learned:

1. Pin Replacement: One of the first steps was to make sure we replaced the pins on the quick change. The receptacle would not fit onto the original pin, so we had to ensure the threaded pin was in place.

2. Insulating the Receptacle: To prevent any shorting, we wrapped the receptacle with a few wraps of tape. This insulation helped protect the component from the retainer nut or other debris that could short it to mass, potentially leading to failures in the tool.

3. Tightening the Receptacle: After every run, we had to make sure to tighten the receptacle to the pin by holding the backup on the pin. This simple step ensured that everything remained securely in place and prevented any loosening during operations.

The Impact: Streamlined Operations and Fewer Failures

The change in the PSA and quick change setup had an immediate impact on our operations. By reducing the number of components and connections, we significantly improved the overall reliability of the toolstring. The new setup not only made it easier to handle the wireline but also reduced the chances of mechanical failures or misfires. With fewer electrical components, there were fewer points of potential failure, leading to a more seamless and efficient operation.

This was particularly important in our work with cased hole logging, where precision is critical. Whether performing wireline well logging or cased hole wireline services, each connection must be perfect to avoid costly delays or safety hazards. With the new setup, we were able to ensure that each component was properly connected and the toolstring was working as intended.

The Bigger Picture: Advancements in Wireline Technologies

This change in our PSA and quick change setup is a great example of how wireline technologies continue to evolve. Whether you’re working with wireline perforating systems, using a pipe caliper tool for pipe recovery, or performing logging operations, advancements in equipment design can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, reliability, and safety.

As wireline service providers, it’s crucial to stay ahead of these innovations. By adopting new technologies and improving our wireline control systems, we can continue to provide complete wireline solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of the oil and gas industry. From formation evaluation to production logging services, every aspect of wireline services requires the highest level of precision, and small improvements like these can make a big difference.

Conclusion: The Importance of Continuous Improvement

At the end of the day, this change was about more than just simplifying a toolstring—it was about continuously improving our wireline services. By reducing the number of connections and electrical components, we made the entire process more efficient and less prone to failure. This shift not only improved our operations but also reinforced the importance of innovation in wireline business practices.

Whether it’s through better tool design, enhanced safety measures, or more efficient operational procedures, every improvement we make brings us closer to providing the best wireline services possible. And as the wireline services market continues to grow, we remain committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements, ensuring that every job we perform—whether it’s cased hole solutions, pump down perforating, or logging pipe—is done with the utmost care, precision, and reliability.