Understanding Titan Control Fire Operations in Wireline Perforating

Posted on by Crissa Fel Tawadan

When it comes to wireline perforating, control fire switch systems play a critical role in ensuring precision, reliability, and—above all—safety. I remember one job where a small wiring oversight nearly led to an unintended detonation. That’s when I fully realized the importance of understanding the Titan Control Fire (CF) system inside and out.

What Makes the Titan CF System Different?

Unlike traditional EB switch perforating, the Titan Control Fire system does not rely on Pos/Neg EB switches. Instead, it operates using computer-controlled CF modules, allowing for the selective firing of each perforating gun or plug with greater accuracy and safety.

  • EBTW (Through-Wire Pressure Bulkhead): This component transfers electrical power without switching, improving reliability.
  • Grounding Lug System: Titan’s design incorporates metal-to-metal grounding through retainer nuts for enhanced electrical performance.
  • RF Switch for Added Safety: The system allows for shunting while the gun is being built or staged, reducing the risk of accidental detonation.

These differences make the Titan CF system ideal for controlled, high-precision perforating operations in cased hole well services and pump down perforating jobs.

Critical Grounding Procedures for Titan CF

One of the most overlooked factors in wireline and perforating operations is proper grounding. The Titan CF system requires a minimum of two solid grounding points due to its low communication voltage.

  • Metal-to-metal contact must be ensured at every grounding location.
  • Gun strips alone are not sufficient—Titan’s angle port subs are designed with specific mill slots to secure solid grounding.
  • Allen head screws (#6) must be replaced after every use to maintain conductivity.

Proper grounding eliminates misfires, improves system reliability, and ensures safe wireline perforating gun deployment.

Wiring a Titan CF Switch for a Safe and Reliable Setup

The Titan CF switch is a circuit board enclosed in a protective housing. Before assembling and wiring the switch:

  • Set the RF switch to ARM before testing.
  • Use a blaster meter set to 200 ohms to verify cap resistance before connecting.
  • Check for proper continuity using a test meter before securing connections.
  • Ensure all ground wires are securely fastened to avoid misfires or connection failures.

Verifying Tool String Integrity with Titan VeriFire

Before sending the perforating gun downhole, we always conduct a final tool string check using the Titan VeriFire system. This device allows us to verify that every switch in the gun string is correctly wired and ready for deployment.

  • Connect the VeriFire box to the tool string panel.
  • Verify the number of switches in the tool string matches expectations.
  • Ensure all switches display a green indicator, confirming they are connected and functional.
  • Perform one last continuity check before running the gun in the well.

Ensuring Safe Titan CF Operations in Wireline Perforating

Every wireline company must prioritize safety and precision when using the Titan CF system. Best practices include:

  • Replacing worn grounding screws to maintain reliable electrical contact.
  • Performing a full wiring verification before assembling the gun string.
  • Using RF shunting during gun assembly to prevent accidental detonation.
  • Testing all switch connections before running in-hole to avoid misfires.

By following these procedures, wireline service providers can maximize the reliability of Titan CF operations, ensuring a safe, controlled, and efficient wireline perforating process.

The lesson I learned that day in the field still sticks with me—when working with perforation well operations, attention to detail isn’t optional, it’s survival.