In wireline logging and cased hole well services, cable integrity is paramount. Over time, wirelines are exposed to harsh well fluids, gases, and mechanical stresses, which can cause damage and premature failure. Customers often question the condition of the wireline, especially after incidents like an unscheduled cablehead release or visible cable wear. To maintain well integrity, it is essential to conduct routine wireline serviceability inspections to verify cable condition before deployment in a perforation well.

Standard Testing Protocols for Wireline Integrity

A structured wireline inspection process ensures that wireline providers can prove cable reliability before running it into a well. The industry-standard procedure includes:

• 30-Day Pull Testing – Each wireline is subjected to a monthly pull test at the district level.
• Line Book Records – Every test is recorded, with test results stored in a log pipe inspection book.
• Tagging & Sample Storage – A section of the tested cable is preserved at the shop and tagged with details like line number, wireline truck number, and test date.
• Pass/Fail Criteria – A 10% tolerance threshold is set for wireline performance based on calculated load capacity.

Load Testing: Proving Wireline Reliability

To meet wireline services oil and gas quality standards, the Innovative Completion System load testing machine is widely used. This system:

• Tests and records wireline load capacity through a pressure transducer.
• Saves digital data via USB connection for documentation and analysis.
• Verifies cablehead integrity for wireline perforating and formation evaluation.
• Supports single strand pull tests to ensure that individual wires meet load specifications.

Interpreting Wireline Testing Data

A real-world test might include:

• 9 wires at 189 lbs. per wire = 1,701 lbs. total.
• 10% tolerance threshold: Wireline must withstand at least 1,530 lbs.
• If results fall below the standard, contact the regional manager for next steps.

Benefits of Routine Wireline Inspection

• Prevents unexpected failures in wireline well logging and cased hole logging.
• Reduces downtime for wireline service providers by ensuring equipment readiness.
• Strengthens trust with customers in the cased hole logging service market.
• Enhances safety in oil field wireline operations, avoiding unnecessary pipe recovery or downhole pipe recovery efforts.
• Ensures compliance with wireline control systems and wireline services market standards.

Key Takeaways for Wireline Companies

• Routine wireline inspections prevent service failures and ensure wireline unit readiness.
• Load testing machines provide verifiable data on cable condition, improving wireline perforating gun reliability.
• Standardized test records help maintain consistency across wireline service companies and oilfield services companies.
• Proactive maintenance enhances the lifespan of logging cable, reducing costs for wireline service market operations.

By implementing comprehensive wireline serviceability inspections, wireline providers can optimize performance, ensure well perforation reliability, and maintain a high standard of integrity in wireline logging operations.