Draining PW Inside Debottleneck Line

CONTENTS
CONTENTS
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE

2. SURFACE EQUIPMENT
3. WELL CALCULATIONS
4. FISHING TOOLS
5. INTRODUCTION TO FISHING OPERATIONS
6. RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR FISHING
OPERATIONS
7. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES FOR SPECIAL TOOLS
8. INTRODUCTION TO BRAIDED LINE
9. BRAIDED LINE FISHING
 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 1

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2  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO
SLICKLINE
CONTENTS
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE 1

1.1 CARBON STEEL WIRELINES 2
1.1.1 Wire Testing - Carbon Steel Wirelines 3
1.1.2 Fracture Classification 4
1.1.3 Grade 1 Fracture With Secondary Breaks 4
1.1.4 Grade 2 Fractures 5
1.1.5 Grade 3 Fractures 5
1.1.6 General Guidance Notes 6
1.1.7 Stainless Steel/Special Alloy Lines 6
1.1.8 Wrap Testing 6
1.2 TORSION TEST MACHINES 7
1.2.1 Slickline Failures In Service 9
1.3 RELATIVE STRENGTHS OF SLICKLINE 10
1.3.1 General Comparison of Grades 10
1.3.2 Carbon Steel Wires to API-9A 10
1.3.3 Stainless Steel and Special Alloys 11
1.3.4 Bending Stresses 11
1.3.5 Re-Spooling 12
1.3.6 Handling and Storage 12
1.4 GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 13
1.5 EXAMPLE OF WIRE LOG 16
 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 i

SLICKLINE
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Liquid Chamber 2
Figure 2 - Single-Square Ended Primary Fracture 4
Figure 3 - Single-Square Ended Primary Fracture with Secondary Breaks 4
Figure 4 - Slightly Stepped primary Fracture 5
Figure 5 - Single-Helical Spear Type Fracture 5
Figure 6 - Stainless Steel Wire Test Wrap 6
Figure 7 - Old Style Torsion Tester 7
Figure 8 - New Style Torsion/Wrap Wire Tester 8
Figure 9 - Classic Tensile Break 9
Figure 10- Re-Spooling Methods 12
ii  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

SLICKLINE
1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE

Wireline may be referred to by a number of names. Solid single strand line may be described
as:
• Slick line
• Piano wire
• Solid line
• Wireline
• Measuring line.
As well depths have increased over the years since the first measuring lines were brought into
use, accompanied by increased working loads, it has become necessary to develop wireline
having a high strength/weight ratio. There is a need for strength to accomplish the operation
without the wire breaking, and a need to keep the diameter of the wire as small as possible for
the following reasons:
• It reduces the load of its own weight
• It can be run over smaller diameter sheaves, and wound on smaller diameter
spools or reels without overstressing by bending
• It keeps the reel drum size to a minimum
• It provides a small cross-section area for operation under pressure.
The sizes of solid wireline in most common uses are: 0.092 ins, 0.108 ins and 0.125 ins
diameter, and are obtainable from the drawing mills in one-piece standard lengths of
10,000;/12,000/15,000/18,000/20,000 and 25,000 ft.
The most popular material for wireline is improved plough steel (IPS), because of its high
ultimate tensile strength, good ductility, and relatively low cost. Experience indicates that
improved plough steel usually performs better than the more expensive special steel lines,
even in corrosive conditions - although then it must be used with an appropriate inhibitor (e.g.
Servo CK352 or CK356). For Sweet Wells IPS can be used with inhibitor for high loads and
long service. For Sour Wells IPS can be used with inhibitor for high loads and short operating
time.
When selecting or operating with wireline, various factors, such as the following, have been
considered:
• Physical properties
• Resistance to corrosion
• Effect of bending
• Total stress
• Care and handling.
Due to the H2S content of many wells special materials such as 0.125 ins SUPA-75
manufactured by Bridon Wire, or stainless steels are used. Although these are not as strong as
IPS, they have an excellent resistance to H2S corrosion.

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1.1 CARBON STEEL WIRELINES

Traditionally, carbon steel lines have been used for sweet service, while stainless steel lines
have been used for all other conditions. However, this traditional use of wirelines can be
questioned. By using approved chemical inhibitors, it has become possible to use carbon steel
lines in sour conditions. To give examples of this, there are a number of platforms in the
North Sea where carbon steel API 9A wire is being used in wells where H2S concentration is
30 ppm with small percentages of CO2. By running the wire through a liquid chamber placed
directly below the stuffing box and injecting an inhibitor such as Halliburton Crack-Chek 97,
the line will be protected against the effects of corrosive fluid.
This method has proved to be highly successful and is gaining in popularity internationally.
It is essential that when using inhibitors, all the manufacturers handling recommendations are
followed. Inhalation of vapour, contact with skin or eyes etc. can be a serious health hazard.
Figure 1 - Liquid Chamber

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1.1.1 Wire Testing - Carbon Steel Wirelines

It is becoming accepted that frequent line testing during an operation is required, and that the
most reliable method of testing, is to torsion test carbon steel lines, and wrap test stainless
steel and special alloy lines. Although it is possible to hand test lines by using a vice and mole
grips, testing in this way can present a danger to hands and eyes, and must be performed using
gloves, goggles and utmost caution. The safest most reliable test is to use a torsion test
machine. This is a machines which will clasp a measured piece of wire between two jaws and
allow the line to be twisted on its own axis, until destruction.
After the wire has broken:
• The number of twists before destruction will be registered
• The type of break and condition of the spiralling along the length of the line will
be inspected.
A line would be suitable for further use if the testing proved acceptable under the conditions
set forth in API 9A. Ductility Tester.
Torsion Requirements Of The API-9A Specification
Nominal Wire
0.066 0.072 0.032 0.092 0.105 0.108 0.125
Diameter
Minimum Number of
32 29 26 23 20 19 14
Twists in 8”
WARNING: ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN USING WIRE

TESTER.

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1.1.2 Fracture Classification

Grade 1 Fracture Without Secondary
Breaks
The test piece should show no evidence
of spiral splitting along its length and
should contain a single, ductile, primary
fracture, which is perfectly square
ended. This type of fracture is
characteristic of carbon steel wireline
and is usually, but not always, associated
with a high number of twists to failure.
A wireline exhibiting this type of
fracture characteristic would be
considered of suitable quality for further
use under most circumstances. If,
however, the number of twists to failure
are very low (e.g. 30% of the API 9A
value) the line should be discarded.
Figure 2 - Single-Square Ended Primary

Fracture
Grade 1 Fracture With Secondary Breaks

It is possible, during torsion testing of
wireline exhibiting exceptionally high
tensile strength values, to experience
secondary wire breaks which feature
stepped, or helical fracture faces. These
breaks are recoil fractures and are
induced by the instantaneous release of
stored energy in the wire when the
primary fracture occurs. Although such
breaks indicate a marginal reduction in
wireline ductility, their presence can be
discounted, the wire quality indicated by
the characteristics of the primary
fracture. In this instance, the latter shall
comply in all respects with the
definition detailed above.
Figure 3 - Single-Square Ended Primary

Fracture with Secondary Breaks

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Grade 2 Fractures
The test piece may show evidence of
waviness and the presence of slight
spiral splitting along its length. The
primary fracture, whilst preferably
square ended, may be slightly stepped.
Secondary recoil fractures may be
present. This type of primary fracture is
acceptable but it is associated with a
reduced number of twists to failure,
indicating a reduction in wireline quality.
A wireline exhibiting such fracture
characteristics would generally be
considered suitable for limited further
service, provided the number of twists
to failure exceeded 60% of the API 9A
value and provided ductility tests were
carried out after each operation.
Figure 4 - Slightly Stepped primary Fracture
Grade 3 Fractures
The torsioned test piece may show
evidence of uneven or localised
twisting. Spiral splitting and waviness is
invariably present and the primary
fracture will exhibit severely stepped or
helical fracture faces. Secondary, recoil
fractures are uncommon. This type of
failure is unacceptable and is usually
associated with a low number of twists
to failure. A wireline exhibiting such
torsional characteristics should be
discarded immediately.
Figure 5 - Single-Helical Spear Type Fracture

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1.1.3 General Guidance Notes

It should be noted that any torsion test performed relates only to the test piece and does not
guarantee the quality of the remaining length of wireline.
In the event of obtaining Grade 2 or Grade 3 type fracture characteristics two repeat tests
shall be performed.
If the quality of a wireline is variable, it is permissible to cut off a length of wire (say 200 ft)
and re-test. Two re-tests should both give Grade 1 type fractures. This procedure may, if
necessary, be repeated since it is well known that the ductility of a wireline deteriorates more
rapidly at bottom hole temperature. The ductility of a carbon steel wireline should be
measured prior to wireline service operations.
Where H2S or acid conditions are encountered, suitable inhibitors should be used to combat
embrittlement and corrosive attack. It is also recommended that the wireline is tested at
regular intervals since rapid deterioration can occur.
1.1.4 Stainless Steel/Special Alloy Lines

The life expectancy of stainless steel lines can be reduced to a matter of a few hours if used in
wells containing boiling chlorides. Stainless steel wire is NOT suitable for all applications
where carbon steel is traditionally not used and this misunderstanding has created many
fishing jobs.
If boiling chlorides are to be encountered, then more exotic special alloy lines, (or inhibited
carbon steel lines) should be used.
Bridon Wire have prepared quite extensive information on the care, maintenance and
recommended wire use for varying environmental conditions, details of which are too
extensive for publication in this document.
Frequency of wireline fishing jobs due to line failure could be minimised, if the wire is tested
to ensure that it was still suitable for use as intended by the manufacturer. Such testing would
also ensure that lines were not discarded before the end of their useful life. This in itself could
prove a considerable cost saving, especially when using expensive lines such as special alloy
Supa 60, Supa 70 or Supa 75.
1.1.5 Wrap Testing

Stainless steel lines cannot be torsion
tested since 2 - 4 torsions will create a
wire break. Consequently, the only
method of testing the ductility of
stainless steel lines is the wrap test. A
wire which has survived some eight 360°
wraps around its own diameter without
fracture, or signs of surface cracking has
passed the test and is suitable for further
use.
Figure 6 - Stainless Steel Wire Test Wrap

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1.2 TORSION TEST MACHINES

There are a number of portable torsion test machines on the market. The ductility tester
shown is built by Linetech Ltd of Doncaster, and is suitable for torsion testing of carbon steel
wirelines.
Figure 7 - Old Style Torsion Tester

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Figure 8 - New Style Torsion/Wrap Wire Tester

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1.2.1 Slickline Failures In Service

It is quite a common practice these days to limit jarring loads to approximately 50% of
wireline breaking strength, and yet wire breaks still happen. When this situation arises, it is
advisable to try and establish why the line has failed so that any faults are not repeated. The
best possible clue as to the cause of failure is to examine the type of break which will narrow
the field to a smaller number of possibilities. For example, a break caused by tensile
overloading will generally create a cup and cone type break with associated locally thinned
areas within the vicinity of the break.
Figure 9 - Classic Tensile Break
This would inevitably point the finger at operator error or fault in the weight indication
system, or, more likely, a little of both. Previous mechanical damage caused by something
having been dropped on the line could also cause that portion of line to part at less than
normal tensile strength, and still show the same cup and cone breaks.
It must be mentioned, that there is a very fine line between good wireline operation and
operator error especially when equipment failure is involved.
A break which shows a ragged end would point to a lack of ductility in the line, and is
indicative of either wire failure, or failure due to downhole conditions. If it is considered
necessary to send a wire sample back to the manufacturer for analysis, it is important to send a
length of line of at least 3 ft with the break on it, sealed in an airtight container.
NOTE: Do not wrap the sample with adhesive tape as this destroys evidence of
H2S.

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1.3 RELATIVE STRENGTHS OF SLICKLINE

It must be remembered that the wireline is the most indispensable part of the operators
equipment, and cannot afford to be taken for granted.
The following table shows the relative strengths of IPS (Improved Plough Steel) wire and H2S
resistant alloy wirelines:
1.3.1 General Comparison of Grades

Strength Relative to General Corrosion
Steel Specifications
API Resistance Rating
Carbon Steel - Bright API-9A API-9A Poor
Drawn Galvanised API-9A API-9A Better
Ultra High Tensile Bridon UHT 25% Higher Poor
Stainless - 304 Type Bridon API-9A Good
316 Type Bridon 10% Lower Better than 304
Supa 60 Bridon 15/20% Lower Excellent
Supa 70 Bridon 5% Higher Excellent
Supa 75 Bridon Similar Better than Supa 70
Table 1 - General Comparison of Grades
1.3.2 Carbon Steel Wires to API-9A

The wire is supplied on steel reels in continuous lengths. Diameter tolerance + 0.001 ins.
Torsion in all cases in accordance with API-9A.
Nominal Nominal Weight Recommended Minimum Breaking Load
Diameter per 1,000 ft Minimum Pulley dia Bright UHT Bright
ins lbs ins lbs lbf
0.092 22.69 11.25 1,547 1,980
0.105 29.55 12.50 2,005 2,570
0.108 31.11 13.00 2,120 2,720
0.125* 41.80 15.00 2,840 3,640
* A non-API standard size
Table 2 - Carbon Steel Wires to API-9A

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1.3.3 Stainless Steel and Special Alloys

All stainless steel and Special Alloy wires are supplied on nylon coated steel reels in
continuous lengths, to the following Bridon specifications:
• Diameter tolerance + 0.001 ins
• Ductility wraps on own diameter - 8 minimum
Minimum Breaking
Nominal Rec’d
Load
Net Weight Pulley
Diameter 304 316 Supa 60 Supa 70 Supa 75
per 1,000 ft Diameter
ins lbf lbf lbf lbf lbf
lbs ins
0.092 22.90 11.25 1,550 1,400 1,260 1,600 1,470
0.105 29.82 12.50 2,020 1,780 1,660 2,020 2,030
0.108 31.55 13.00 2,100 1,850 1,720 2,100 2,030
0.125 42.26 15.00 2,700 2,500 2,220 2600 2,526
Table 3 - Stainless Steel and Special Alloys
1.3.4 Bending Stresses

The bending stresses that the line is subjected to are the most common cause of breaking but
are generally the least considered. Bending occurs whenever a line deviates from a straight line
condition, such as when it passes over pulleys or reel drum, or when it is flexed by hand.
It is necessary to employ specific mechanical equipment, such as the reel drum, hay pulley,
stuffing box pulley and measuring wheel, when carrying out wireline operations. Each time the
line passes over a pulley it is subjected to two bending stresses - when it changes from a
straight to a curved path and again when it reverts to a straight path. It is subject to only one
when it leaves the reel drum. So, for each trip in and out of the well, the line probably suffers
a minimum of fourteen bending cycles.
NOTE: To minimise the effect of bending stresses on the wireline, 50-100 ft. is
normally cut and discarded every time a new rope-socket is tied. This
action will subject a different part of the wireline to bending stresses.

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1.3.5 Re-Spooling
The life span of any wireline can be extended by using correct spooling procedures. The new
wire should be spooled on to the unit drum with 200-300 lbs strain on it. Five to seven
bedding wraps of carefully aligned wire are recommended to provide a firm base. This also
indicates during subsequent wireline operations that only a small amount of wire remains on
the drum.
Correct procedures for spooling new wire on a reel are shown on the next page to minimise
stress in the line.
Figure 10- Re-Spooling Methods
1.3.6 Handling and Storage

Although steel wireline has a high strength-to-weight ratio, it still requires proper handling and
storage. IPS should be stored with a lubricant covering over the surface of the wire (i.e. grease,
grease paper).
If not crated, wireline spools should be lifted with a nylon sling to avoid damage to the wire.
When a wireline job is completed, the wire should be lubricated and covered to protect against
corrosion.
Alloy wire spools should also be kept covered as they are not totally immune to
corrosive/erosive atmospheres.

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1.4 GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

There is a certain amount of tension in a coil of wire, so when it is unfastened, care should be
taken to make sure that the leading end does not lash out. Ensure that the free end is always
under control.
The use of safety glasses and protective gloves is recommended at all times.
Never carry out flame cutting or welding operations near reels of wireline. Heat or metal spray
coming in contact with the wire could change the condition of the steel significantly and lead
to early failure in use.
Damage and abuse may not always be obvious, or the significance be appreciated, and effects
are cumulative. There are three main categories:
• Mechanical damage
• Corrosion
• Wire winding practice.
These are summarised in the following table under fault, cause, result and correction.

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Fault And Causes Results Correction

Damage to reels: Wire snapping during unwinding. Use sling when handling reels or use
Bending of flanges, distortion of ramps. Do not drop.
barrel. Caused by dropping.
Corrosion in store: Under worst conditions there will be All types of wire: store reels upright (on
Carbon steel wire is oiled but, if pitting of the surface and local edge) on a level, solid base in dry,
stored uncovered, corrosion will reduction in strength. Slight damage covered conditions. If a permanent
develop at varying rates depending on at this stage, which may be scarcely store is not available, support reels off
climate. Alloy steels are for use under visible, could increase the risk of alloy the ground under waterproof cover.
corrosive conditions but they are not wire corrosion in service. The latter should be kept out of
completely immune and, where there contact with the wire and fastened
are wind blown salts, slight damage down just clear of the ground to allow
may occur. air to circulate and minimise
condensation.
Corrosion in service: There may be development of surface When rewinding wire, wipe off well
There are inevitable hazards of well pitting. At worst there may be stress contamination. If carbon steel wire
conditions and environment. corrosion or hydrogen embrittlement reels are to be put back into store, re-
causing brittle failure. oil the wire during rewind. Do not
leave any wireline downhole unless it is
necessary.
Wire winding practice:
Wire damage may be caused at various stages in winding onto the service reel from the supply reel or in rewind during
use. To ensure good spooling, it is recommended that an intermediate capstan is used between the supply reel and the
wireline unit drum to develop a high line tension without risk of cutting down. Practices are followed in the running of
wirelines that have to strike a balance between operational convenience and wireline life. To the user , some of the
possibilities listed here may seem unlikely to happen but they are given so that, if any should occur, their significance will
not be ignored.
1. Uneven winds: Wire pulls down between adjacent Maintain a regular traverse of the wire
Variable tension and/or poor control turns preventing free running, causing across the full width of the barrel to
or wire traversing the barrel. snags and possibly wire breaks. give uniform build up of layers. Course
pitch and tension during winding onto
the reel will minimise the risk of the
wire pulling down.
2. Loops and bends: Overrunning with the risk of snarls Whatever the method used to keep the
Insufficient braking on the supply forming in looped wire. Even if the wire under tension during winding, a
reel. snarl is straightened out by hand, brake on the supply reel is desirable so
there can be a significant reduction in that too much slack wire does not
strength. Overrun wire may be pulled appear between the two reels.
over a reel flange and be sharply bent.

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FAULT AND CAUSE RESULT CORRECTION

3. Wire abrasion: Reduction in wire strength as a result Keep tension and always wind from
Rubbing on the ground caused by of loss of cross-sectional area of steel. ‘top’ to ‘top’ of reels. In service, rewind
slack wire. Reduction in cross-sectional area. on top of the reel. Angle of the wire
during traverse and total traverse must
Rubbing on reel side caused by be controlled.
incorrect traversing.
4. ‘Wild’ wire: Wire may be difficult to control and Always wind the wire in the direction
Cause by slack winding or by lead to tangles and snarling. of its natural curvature. Never wind
reversing the natural curvature of the from the top of one reel to the
wire. underside of the other.
5. Wire indentation: Reduction in strength. Avoid excessive tension in winding and

Caused by ‘cross-cutting’ between excessive ‘jarring’ when operating
layers of wire. downhole tools.
6. Friction on pulleys: Embrittlement of wire surface. Shock Avoid excessive ‘jarring’. Cutting the
Possible during ‘jarring’. loads can produce high surges out of wire between uses minimises the
all proportion to the assumed loads chance of cumulative damage.
on the wire and may cause failure.
7. Fatigue cracks: Wire failure, particularly if other Ratio of pulley and wire diameter
Caused by repeated bending under factors noted above are contributing. should preferably be 120:1 to reduce
high stress. the significance of bending.
When working wire at one point due to
being stuck in the well remove wire
from around the measuring head to
remove one bending cycle, reposition
wireline unit/top sheave if possible to
move the working point on the wire.

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1.5 EXAMPLE OF WIRE LOG

(Knowing Wire Size and Type)
Date Wire Spooled Total Length 20,000 ft
No. of Footage No of Type of Wire Cut Balance
Date Type of Job
Runs Run Turns Break Off (ft) Remaining
13-11-99 Ball/ v Change 8 2,400 23 Good 50 19,950
18-11-99 Gauge Rings + 4 14,000 21 Good 50 19,900
Tag Fill
20-11-99 Set Plug TBG 5 8,500 21 OK 50 19,850
Test
9-12-99 Bailing 16 11,250 20 OK 500 19,350
12-12-99 Fishing 14 12,100 19 Good 300 19,050
25-12-99 Plugs For 8 10,800 15 Retest 1000 18,050
Completion
25-12-99 Recommended
Wire Change
The above chart is only for comparison purpose. In real life conditions wire would probably
last much longer.

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
CONTENTS
1. SURFACE EQUIPMENT 1
1.1 GENERAL 1
1.1.1 Working In Pressurised Wells 1
1.2 WIRELINE UNIT 3
1.3 POWER PACKS 5
1.3.1 Electrical 5
1.3.2 Diesel Power Packs 7
1.3.3 Safety Shutdown System 10
1.3.4 Dual Drum Two Piece Wireline Unit 11
1.4 COUNTER WHEEL ASSEMBLY 12
1.4.1 Pressure Wheels 16
1.5 HAY PULLEYS 17
1.6 WEIGHT INDICATORS 19
1.7 RE-CHARGING PROCEDURE 20
1.8 PRESSURE CONTROL EQUIPMENT 21
1.8.1 Stuffing Box 21
1.8.2 Lubricators 24
1.8.3 Quick Unions 27
1.8.4 Wireline Valve (BOP) 29
1.9 OPERATIONAL SAFETY GUIDE LINES 33
1.9.1 Safety 33
1.9.2 General Check Before Operation 33
1.10 PRE-PRESSURE TEST PRECAUTIONS 35
1.11 PRESSURE TESTING GUIDELINES 36
1.12 POST PRESSURE TESTING GUIDELINES 37

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Typical Wireline Rigup 2
Figure 2 - Typical Single Drum Wireline Unit 3
Figure 3 - Wireline Unit 4
Figure 4 - Electric Power Pack 6
Figure 5 - Diesel Power Pack 7
Figure 6 - Simplified Hydraulic Circuit for a Wireline Power Pack 8
Figure 7 - Dual Drum Two Piece Wireline Unit 11
Figure 8 - Counter Head Test Rig 13
Figure 9 - Counter Wheel Assembly 14
Figure 10 - Correct And Incorrect Path Of A Wireline Around Measuring Wheel 15
Figure 11 - Linetech’s Counter Wheel Assembly 16
Figure 12 - Hay Pulley 17
Figure 13 - Martin-Decker Weight Indicator 19
Figure 14 - Manual Wireline Stuffing box 22
Figure 15 - Hydraulic Wireline Stuffing box 23
Figure 16 - Wireline Lubricator Sections 25
Figure 17 - Lubricator Section 26
Figure 18 - Quick Unions 28
Figure 19 - Typical Manual Wireline Valve (BOP) 30
Figure 20 - Wireline Valve Ram Configuration 31
Figure 21 - Hydraulic BOP 32

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
1. SURFACE EQUIPMENT
1.1 GENERAL
1.1.1 Working In Pressurised Wells
Wells in which wireline services are performed may contain a wide range of wellhead pressures
(WHP) for example from a few psi up to several thousand psi. This pressure normally is due
to the natural pressure of the producing formation into which the well has been drilled.
Working in a pressurised well allows remedial or investigative work to be performed without
‘killing’ the well. Killing a well involves pumping in a dense fluid so that the hydrostatic
column exerted by it is greater than the formation pressure leading to a zero net pressure a the
wellhead. Although this is safer, it is a costly time consuming exercise requiring a rig, and
perhaps damaging the producing formation in the process.
Current wellhead pressure equipment and practices allows a wire to be run in and out of the
well and wireline operations with pressure in the well require highly qualified personnel and
rigorous operating and safety procedures since the safety of the well is under their control.

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
Figure 1 - Typical Wireline Rigup

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
1.2 WIRELINE UNIT

The wireline winch has progressed from a hand operated reel driven by a belt and propelled
by a pulley attached to the rear axle of a car or pick up to the present day truck/skid mounted
units. Today’s wireline operations are often complex and demanding with wireline work being
carried out at ever increasing depths. To meet these demands the modern wireline unit has
been developed to provide increased power and transportability while meeting strict safety
requirements. A wireline winch is used as the means of lowering and raising toolstrings in
wells that require wireline servicing; A winch will consist of these major assemblies:
• Wireline drum
• Controls
• Power packs.
The drum assembly can be single or double the double drum offering the facility of running
two sizes of wireline from one winch e.g. 0.108, 0.125 slickline and 3/16 ins braided line or
0.108, 0.125 ins slickline and 7/32ins monoconductor, for electric line operations. A wireline-
measuring head is installed as part of the unit assembly; head design will be dependent on wire
diameter and type.
The most common power unit to drive wireline winches are diesel powered hydraulic systems.
Electrically powered winches are also used in some areas. (Both of these power packs are
discussed later in this Section) Available hydraulic power must be sufficient to support lengthy
jarring operations; the unit has to be compact for offshore locations and satisfy zoning
regulations for hazardous area use. The power pack and winch may be combined into one unit
or separate components may be utilised which requires the connection of hoses to complete
the hydraulic circuit.
Regardless of winch design, certain basic controls are common to all types of unit. Additional
controls and instrumentation are installed to ease winch operation and will be dependant again
on the type of unit used.
Figure 2 - Typical Single Drum Wireline Unit

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
Basic controls/instruments are:

• Drum brake - to keep drum stationary or used when jarring
• Direction lever - to select rotation direction of drum
• Gear box - to select speed of drum rotation (usually four gears)
• Hydraulic control valve (double A valve) - to control speed of drum rotation
• Weight indicator - to measure strain on wireline
• Odometer - to indicate wireline depth.
Many wireline winches are equipped with a spool off and cat head assembly. Hydraulically
operated, this provides a facility to spool wire off or onto the wireline drum.
Figure 3 - Wireline Unit

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
1.3 POWER PACKS

1.3.1 Electrical
The power pack discussed in this section is the Zone 1, 75 HP electric/hydraulic type. This
power pack is an all-steel construction skid mounted unit with detachable crash frame. Four
lifting points are provided with a safe working load of 2 tons. The heavy-duty frame is fitted
with removable protection side panels for easy access and maintenance.
Most operators use diesel power packs but electrical power packs are used in some areas.
Electrical power packs are required to be intrinsically safe (i.e. spark proof) and can be used in
Zone 1 operations. Zone 1 is an area around the wellhead, which is restricted to intrinsically
safe equipment.
Electrical power packs are simple to operate and maintain. However care must be taken to
ensure that the power pack is connected to the correct power source. When the power pack
has been connected the direction in which the motor is running must be checked.
Little maintenance is required on electrical power packs. The hydraulic oil and the suction
strainer must be checked regularly.
Hydraulic Operation
The EXD electric motor drives an Abex Denison double vane pump, delivery at setting of
1,760 rpm. 32 imperial gallons minimum at P1 (wireline unit draw works supply) and 6.5
gallons per minute at P2 (re-spooling cat head or auxiliary equipment supply). The pump has
two relief valves P1 set at 2,200 psi and P2 set at 2,000 psi.
• A suction stop valve is provided to isolate the hydraulic oil reservoir when
servicing pump etc.
• Relief valve P2 is fitted with a vent valve to allow the low volume section of the
pump to be unloaded when not in use. Hydraulic oil cooling is by the return oil
heat exchanger installed at the rear of the electric motor. Air is drawn through the
oil cooler by the motor blower fan.
• A 70 gallon hydraulic reservoir fitted with filler/breather and fluid level gauges
• The 125 micron suction strainer is located within the hydraulic oil reservoir. The
return fluid is through a 25-micron filter.
Operation and Maintenance
NOTE: Before starting the electric pump, the hydraulic system must be looped or
connected to the wireline unit.
Little maintenance is required on electric power packs. The hydraulic oil and the micron
suction strainer must be checked regularly.

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Figure 4 - Electric Power Pack
The power pack requires to be positioned and only operated in areas designated as safe in
accordance with the ‘model code of safe practise in the petroleum industry’ which classifies
areas as:
Zone 0 In which flammable atmosphere is continuously present or present for
long periods (More than 1,000 hours per year).
Zone 1 In which a flammable atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation
(About 10-1,000 hours per year).
Zone 2 In which a flammable atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal
operation, and if it occurs will exist only for a short period (less than 10
hours per year).

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1.3.2 Diesel Power Packs

Diesel engines are used because they are more reliable than petrol. They can be made to
function more safely in hydrocarbon hazardous areas (no spark plugs, contact breakers,
distributors etc.) and the exhaust can be fitted with an efficient spark arrestor. Also diesel fuel
is widely available offshore whereas petrol is normally not allowed. Diesels are simple; they
require only fuel and compression to operate.
Figure 5 - Diesel Power Pack

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The engine drives a hydrostatic pump, which in turn drives a hydraulic motor and in turn
drives the drum.
A hydrostatic motor is a device, which converts fluid energy into mechanical energy. Such
motors are usually propelled by the force exerted by oil under pressure against rotary vanes or
tooth surfaces of gears, which are exposed to the pressurised oil. Fluid energy, supplied by the
fluid power pump is piped to the inlet of the motor and mechanical energy is delivered from
the motor shaft. Figure 6 shows a simplified drawing of the hydraulic system of a wireline
power pack/reel unit. After connection the prime mover (diesel engine) supplies mechanical
energy to two hydraulic pumps which draw reservoir oil through a common filter. Hydraulic
energy is supplied to the reel unit or spooling unit via a high-pressure hose system. Fluid
returns from the reel/spooling unit via a low-pressure hydraulic system and is directed
through a heat exchanger in the cooling system and discharged back into the reservoir.
Hydraulic energy is also supplied to a circulating motor in the cooling system and discharged
back into the reservoir. Hydraulic energy is also supplied to a circulating motor in the cooling
system (not shown) and the oil discharged back into the reservoir.
Figure 6 - Simplified Hydraulic Circuit for a Wireline Power Pack
NOTE: Power fluid cleanliness is an important part of a hydraulic power system

design and thorough precautions must always be observed to ensure that
the hydraulic system is kept clean. Continuous filtration of oil is required
to remove the products of wear and corrosion during operations since
contamination can destroy the close tolerances and finishes in the motor
and pump.

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The speed of the hydraulic motor is proportional to the volume of oil delivered to the motor
inlet during an increment of time. Torque output is proportional to the pressure drop between
the intake and the exhaust port. Torque (and hence power output) performance is rated in lbs.
- ins per 100 psi and power requirements will be determined by the application.
Relief valve systems limit the maximum torque of the motor and provided overload protection
for the system.
All units have safety systems fitted to the diesel engines, which limits surface temperature to
below 200°C. (In the event of high exhaust or water temperature, automatic shutdown will
occur) Over speed shutdown is also used to prevent over revving. The engines also breathe
through a special flame trap.
The following list refers to equipment fitted to the engine to achieve appropriate safety
standards:
• High capacity water cooled exhaust manifold
• Exhaust flame trap
• Exhaust spark arrestor
• Over speed shutdown valve (automatic, fitted to inlet)
• Flame trap on inlet
• Sealed crankcase
• Crankcase breather flame trap
• Sealed dipstick
• High temperature exhaust gas shutdown unit (200°C)
• High temperature coolant water shutdown unit (200°C)
• Low oil pressure shutdown
• Fuel shutdown vane or valve
• High capacity coolant radiator
• Non-metallic fan (radiator)
• Anti-static fan drive belts
• Engine oil cooler
• Air starters.
Electrically the units differ:
• EXD (FLP)-(110V) plugs and two lights on Arrow, D & W, and B15 units, and 3
phase 440V stall fire and gas detection systems on the A60s.

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1.3.3 Safety Shutdown System

Under normal operating conditions, engine oil pressure is supplied to the following
equipment:
• Over speed valve
• Exhaust temperature valve
• Fuel shut off valve
• Control cylinder
• Water temperature valve.
If oil pressure is lost, or seriously reduced, the fuel shut off valve and air intake ‘D’ valve
closes, thus stopping the engine.
Oil pressure losses at the fuel shut off valve can be caused by any of the following:
1. Shortage of engine oil
2. Damaged or broken oil line
3. Oil pump failure
4. High exhaust gas temperature causing valve to open, thus dumping oil
5. High water temperature causing valve to open, thus dumping oil to sump
6. Engine over revving causing over speed to dump oil to sump.
If the engine is over speeding due to incorrect operator control or to flammable gas entering
the inlet manifold, in addition to No 6 above, the D valve will close off the inlet preventing
further entry of gas.
NOTE: Even if the fuel is shut off, the engine could continue to run on the
flammable gas entering the inlet manifold if the inlet manifold is not
closed off.

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1.3.4 Dual Drum Two Piece Wireline Unit

This dual drum two piece wireline winch unit has been designed to run wireline tools using
both slickline and braided line and is powered by an electro-hydraulic power pack.
Power Pack Winch Unit
375 litre hydraulic oil reservoir Heavy duty base skid and frame
Fully zoned electric motor Self levelling/spring damped spooling head
Easily operated Three man cab
High quality finish Slickline and braided line
Smooth, reliable hydraulic drive with 4 speed gearbox
Respooler facility
Figure 7 - Dual Drum Two Piece Wireline Unit

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1.4 COUNTER WHEEL ASSEMBLY

The counter wheel can vary in size from 8 ins diameter to 16 ins diameter. The wire is fed
around the counter wheel in a 360O loop. The size of the counter wheel will have some
bearing on the life of the wire. The wire has an ideal bending radius, and to reduce it is to
increase the stress on the wire, (especially under load), which may result in stress cracking, and
premature degeneration of the wire.
One generally accepted formula for wire/pulley ratio is that pulley sizes should be 120 times
larger than the wire OD. The ideal counter wheel/pulley size for 0.108 ins wire is 12.96 ins
diameter.
Although the 16 ins counter wheel is more than adequate in size, consideration must be given
to the method in which the wire is fed from the drum through the counter assembly, as some
current methods will create rapid deterioration of wireline due to reverse curving of the wire.
Perhaps the best comparison of counter head assemblies is shown in Table 1. These figures
represent the results of a series of tests performed by a major oil company and show the
disadvantages of some counter systems currently in use.
The figures stated are actual cycles of the measuring wheel.
K winch number 1
Using 0.092 ins wireline through K winch number 1 counter head configuration which
has a measuring wheel of 7.68 ins diameter and using the counter head rig test
configuration, over three tests, the wire cracked or deteriorated at the measuring wheel
after:
• 487 cycles
• 527 cycles
• 470 cycles.
On average using this wire it was found that it would rapidly deteriorate at approx. 495 lbs
using this counter head configuration.
The same counter head configuration test was carried out on the same winch using 0.108 and
0.125 ins wirelines.
Using various increased diameters in measuring wheel assemblies it was found that with the 15
ins wheel, life expectancy from the wireline was far greater.
OD of wire x 120 = correct pulley size.

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These results are due to rapid deterioration of wirelines due to reverse curving of the wire
through various head configurations, using the counter head test rig set up as below.
Wire Diameter Run No. K-Winch #1 Otis Home Made K-Winch #2
0.092 1 487 1,353 2,638 6,253
2 527 1,070 2,267 5,927
3 470 1,016 2,534 6,120
average 495 1,146 2,480 6,100
0.108 1 442 1,052 1,966 7,281
2 434 959 1,943 6,125
3 410 918 2,260 6,207
average 419 976 2,056 6,538
0.125 1 392 889 2,840 3,597
2 351 873 2,150 2,774
3 360 906 2,177 3,716
average 367 889 2,389 3,362
Table 1 - Various Head Configurations
Wire Type IPS Supa 70 IPS Supa 70 IPS Supa 70

Diameter (ins) 0.092 0.092 0.108 0.108 0.125 0.125
Diameter (mm) 2.34 2.34 2.74 2.74 3.175 3.175
Weight (lbs/1,000 m) 75.0 75.0 100.0 100.0 141.0 141.0
Min. Sheave 11¼” 11¼” 13” 13” 15” 15”
Diameter
B. Load (lbs) 1,547.0 1,600.0 2,120.0 2,100.0 2,865.0 2,865.0
Table 2 - Wire Properties
Figure 8 - Counter Head Test Rig

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Figure 9 - Counter Wheel Assembly

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Figure 10 - Correct And Incorrect Path Of A Wireline Around Measuring Wheel

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1.4.1 Pressure Wheels

The function of the pressure wheels is to prevent the wire from springing out of the counter
wheel during downward jar action, (or any other time the wire is slack). The pressure wheels
should ride above the wire, and should not actually be in contact with it. Contact with the wire
in tension could cause sharp edges to be worn onto the pressure wheels which could create
mechanical damage to the wire during high speed operating. Mechanical damage is one of the
most common causes of wire breakage, and can cause failure at lower than quoted breaking
strain. A re-designed counter wheel groove may overcome this problem. The system below
has been suggested by Linetech.
Figure 11 - Linetech’s Counter Wheel Assembly

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1.5 HAY PULLEYS

There is no escaping the fact that the criteria already discussed should also apply to hay
pulleys. Although wireline operators are generally aware that the larger diameter wheel is more
compatible with 0.108 ins wire, the 8 ins pulley has proven to be the most trouble free pulley
from wirelining point of view. Increasing the pulley size to 16 ins would mean that the centre
of gravity of the pulley would be much lower, resulting in a tendency for the pulley to fall over
towards the horizontal position when the wire is slack. This could cause the wire to slip out of
the pulley and increase the risk of severe mechanical damage.
Figure 12 - Hay Pulley
NOTE: Hay pulleys are a load bearing piece of equipment and are certified, so
check for any damage.
NOTE: Make sure hay pulley pin spring is not weak and that securing catch is
not bent over as a weak spring could result in the wire jumping out and a
weak catch could result in the hay pulley disconnecting.

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The requirements for the larger pulley would be:

Extremely light weight material, e.g. aluminium, and a correctly fitted guard to prevent the
wire from springing out of the pulley.
High strength to withstand high shock loads during upward jarring operations.
Although such pulleys are available they are still treated with suspicion, since earlier models
could not withstand high shock loading.
Some information published by Bridon Wire gives a guide as to the limitations in weight
loading that should be applied when using 8 ins counter wheels or pulleys.
These tests show how increased loading on the wireline affect the number of cycles the wire
will withstand when passed around an 8 ins diameter pulley.
NOTE: Fatigue cycle figures would be considerably lower, under severe service
conditions.
Carbon Steel Breaking Load

Cycles Around Pulley
0.108 Wire API9A 2,120 lbs
25% of B.L. 5,500
Typical fatigue life in bending
around 8” diameter pulley 50% of B.L. 3,800
75% of B.L. 50
Table 3 - Carbon Steel Breaking Loads

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1.6 WEIGHT INDICATORS

The most common weight indicator in the field is the Martin Decker type, and consists of an
indicator in the cab of the wireline unit, a hydraulic hose leading to a load cell coupled to the
counter head assembly, or, more commonly, attached to the hay pulley at the well head.
The Martin Decker has proven to be an extremely robust piece of equipment and generally
quite positive in showing jar action. It will also give a fairly accurate reading of weight pulled,
under a slow pull condition, however, due to the time lag caused by hydraulic response,
between the load cell and the indicator, the gauge may not produce a correct load indication
during high speed jarring.
In order to get the best possible results from the weight indicator, it is necessary to completely
flush and re-charge the unit at least once per month. Having re-charged the unit, a specific gap
should be set between the load plate and the load cell retaining ring. If this procedure is
conducted in the workshop, a test of accuracy can also be carried out.
Figure 13 - Martin-Decker Weight Indicator

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1.7 RE-CHARGING PROCEDURE

This procedure provides instructions for setting the specified load cell gap and for adjusting
the pointer on the indicator.
1. Remove all weight from the load cell.
2. Ensure that the weight hose is free of kinks and sharp bends.
3. Remove the cap from the indicator check valve.
4. Close the load damper.
5. Attach the hand pump to the check valve. Do not tighten.
6. Fill the hand pump reservoir with W/15/16 (red) hydraulic fluid.
7. Operate the hand pump plunger slowly to bleed air from the pump at the check valve.
8. When air bubbles ceases to appear, tighten the pump to the check valve connection.
9. Raise the load cell to a position slightly higher than the indicator.
10. Loosen the load cell plug.
CAUTION: Keep the hand pump reservoir at least half full at all times to avoid
introducing air into the system.
11. Pump fluid into the system and bleed at the load cell plug until air bubbles cease to
appear.
12. Tighten the load cell plug.
13. Pump enough fluid to slightly overcharge the system, loosen the load cell plug and bleed
until the proper gap is set. The gap size is normally stamped on top of the load cell, if
not, a reasonable guide would be to set a 1/2” gap for a unit with a 100 ft hose, and a
3
/8” gap for a unit with a 50 ft hose. The gap can be accurately achieved by using two
lengths of the correct diameter shear stock, placed between the load plate and the load
cell retaining ring. When the proper gap is achieved tighten the load cell plug.
14. Disengage the hand pump from the check valve.
15. Replace and tighten the check valve cap.
16. Adjust the load damper three complete turns anti-clockwise.

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1.8 PRESSURE CONTROL EQUIPMENT

1.8.1 Stuffing Box
The Stuffing Box is a sealing device connected to the top of the lubricator sections. It allows
the wireline to enter the well under pressure and also provides a seal should the wireline break
and be blown out of the packing. The stuffing Box will cater for all sizes of slickline but the
size of the wire must be specified to ensure the correct packing rubbers are installed.
If the wireline breaks down hole, the loss of weight on the wire at surface allows well pressure
to eject the wire from the well. To Prevent well fluids leaking out through the exposed
packing stack left by the wire, an Internal Blow Out Preventer is forced up into the stuffing
box by the flow velocity and seals against the lower gland.
A packing nut and gland located at the top of the Stuffing Box is adjusted to compress the
packing and seals on the wireline.
For slickline operations, the top sheave is normally an integral part of the Stuffing Box. This
reduces the rig up Equipment required and the large 10 or 16 ins. Sheaves can handle the
larger OD. Wire with less fatigue and breakdown. It is essential that the stuffing box sheave
should be compatible with the wire size.
The standard Stuffing Box is available in 5,000 psi and 10,000 psi. Pressure ratings although
higher - pressure rating are now also available.
The essential function of the Wireline Stuffing Box is to ensure containment or sealing off
around solid wirelines, whether stationary or in motion, at the upper end of the lubricator
during wireline operations.
A swivel - mounted (360° free movement) sheave wheel and guard are fitted to the top half of
the Stuffing Box. The wheel is positioned so as to maintain the passage of the wire through
the centre of the packing rubbers. The sheave guard fitted to the sheave staff prevents the
wire from jumping out of the sheave groove, especially during heavy downhole jarring.
When H2S is present all elastomer seals, including the packing of the Stuffing Box should be
made of Viton.
It is essential to change all stuffing box packings on a regular basis since, during wireline
operations, it is quite common for metal splinters to be shaved from the line by the cutting
action of the sharp profiles on the edges of the metal wireline guides. These filings are carried
into the packings and increase lateral pressure on the line. In cases where only the top two or
three packings have been replaced, metal build up has contributed to isolated instances of a
phenomena called Hydro-Dynamic deformation, which is evidenced by a reduction in the
diameter of the line, (over approx. 2-3 ft of its length), caused by the generation of hydrostatic
pressures during rapid acceleration/deceleration during the wirelining process.
Similar conditions, and line failures, can be created by excessive tightening down of the
stuffing box packing. Although this is not a common problem, it has been experienced in
Europe and the USA, particularly when using stainless steel lines.
NOTE: It is recommended to use brass packing gland and lower gland as the
metal type can create wear to the wire resulting in wire failure.

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Figure 14 - Manual Wireline Stuffing box

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Figure 15 - Hydraulic Wireline Stuffing box

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1.8.2 Lubricators
The lubricator is, in effect; a pressure vessel situated above the Xmas tree, subject to the
wellhead shut in pressure and also test pressures. For this reason, it should be regularly
inspected and tested in accordance with Statutory Regulations.
All lubricator sections and accessories subject to pressure must be stainless steel banded; the
band should be appropriately stamped with the following data; - maximum working pressure,
test pressure, and date and rating of last hydrostatic test.
Description
A lubricator allows wireline tools to enter or be removed from the well under pressure. It is a
tube of selected ID, and can be connected with other sections to obtain the desired length.
The following factors govern the selection of Lubricators:
• Shut in wellhead pressure
• Well fluid
• Wireline tool diameter
• Length of wireline tools.
The lowermost lubricator section normally has one or more bleed off valves installed; a
pressure gauge can be connected to one of the valves to monitor pressure in the lubricator. If
the lubricator has no facility to install valves then a bleed off sub, a short lubricator section
with two valves fitted should be connected between the wireline valve and lubricator.
Quick unions connect lubricator sections together and to the wireline valve these unions have
Acme type threads and seal by means of an ‘O’ ring, thereby requiring only tightening by
hand.
Construction
Lubricators for normal service (up to 5,000 psi) can be made of carbon or manganese steel.
Over 5.000 psi, consideration should be given to sour service as quantities of H2S can be
absorbed into the steel of the lubricator body and heat treatment becomes necessary.
All lubricator sections must have full certification from the manufacturer or test house. A
standard colour code identifies different pressure ratings of lubricator.
Some companies implement a colour coding system. The colour coding system uses one or
two bands of colour to identify the service. The pressure rating is identified by the base colour
of the item (e.g. lubricator) or accessory and should satisfy the following:
Maximum Working Pressure (psi) Colour

3,000 Red
5,000 Dark green
10,000 White
15,000 Yellow
Table 4 - Colour coding and Pressure Rating of Pressure Control Equipment

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The first band indicates if the service is standard or sour.

Standard service has no band.
Sour service has an orange band.
The second band indicates the temperature of the service. Standard service ( -30°C to 250°C)
has no band.
Low temperature service (below - 30°C) has a blue band.
High temperature service (above 250°C) has a purple band.
Figure 16 - Wireline Lubricator Sections

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Figure 17 - Lubricator Section

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1.8.3 Quick Unions

The connections used to assemble the lubricator and related equipment are referred to as
Quick Union. They are designed to be quickly and easily connected by hand. Quick Union are
the weakest link in a pressure control equipment rig up and they will determine the overall
pressure ratings of the rig up.
The box end receives the pin end which carries an ‘O’ ring seal. The collar has an internal
Acme thread to match the external thread on the box end. This thread makes up quickly by
hand and should be kept clean. The ‘O’ ring forms the seal to contain the pressure and should
be thoroughly inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. A light film of oil or grease
helps in the make up of the union and prevents cutting of the ‘O’ ring.
Pipe wrenches, chain tongs or hammers should never be used to loosen the collar of the
union. If it cannot be turned by hand all precautions must be taken to make sure that the well
pressure has been completely released.
WARNING: In general unions that cannot be loosened easily indicate that high
pressure may be trapped inside. If this pressure is not bled off first
unscrewing the union could cause a sudden release of pressure
projecting equipment parts at lethal speeds.
The collar of the union will make up by hand when the pin end, with the ‘O’ ring has been
shouldered against the box end. When the collar bottoms out, it should be backed off
approximately one-quarter turn to eliminate any possibility of it sticking due to friction when
the time comes to disconnect it.
Rocking the lubricator to ensure it is perfectly straight will assist in loosening the quick union.
In addition, make sure that tugger lines and hoists are properly placed to lift the lubricator
assembly directly over the wellhead.

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Figure 18 - Quick Unions

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1.8.4 Wireline Valve (BOP)

Description
A wireline valve must always be installed between the wellhead/xmas tree and wireline
lubricator. This valve is a piece of pressure control equipment that can close around the
wireline and seal off the well pressure below it. This enables the pressure to be bled off above
it, allowing work or repairs to be carried out on equipment above the valve without pulling the
wireline tools to surface. A positive seal is accomplished by means of rams, which are
manually or hydraulically closed without causing damage to the wire. (Refer to Figure 19)
Hydraulically actuated wireline valves are more commonly used because of the speed of
closing action and ease of operation. During an emergency, often the valve is not easily
accessible to allow fast manual operation and therefore remote actuation is preferred.
Single or dual ram valves are available in various sizes and in a full range of working pressure
ratings.
Wireline valves are fitted with equalising valves that allow lubricator and well pressure to
equalise prior to opening the rams when wireline operations are to be resumed. Without this,
if the valve rams were to be opened without first equalising the pressure surge could blow the
toolstring or wire into the top of the lubricator, causing damage or breakage.
WARNING: SINCE THEY ARE SUCH A VITAL COMPONENT

CONTROLLING THE SAFETY OF THE WELL IT IS
IMPORTANT THAT WIRELINE VALVES ARE REGULARLY
PRESSURE AND FUNCTION TESTED.
TESTS SHOULD BE CARRIED OUT PRIOR TO TRANSPORT

OFFSHORE, BEFORE EACH NEW WIRELINE OPERATION
AND AFTER ANY REDRESS OR REPAIR OF THE VALVE.
Ram type BOPs are self - actuating. Once an initial seal is established on closing, the
difference in pressure above and below the rams assist the sealing action. The seals are
arranged so that the pressure differential forces the rams together and upwards.
This means that:
• The sealing force is independent of the closing force after the seal is established
• The ram sealing action is directional
• The pressure must be equalised before opening.
Ram type BOPs are designed to seal with the wire in static condition.
Multiple Ram Dual BOPs have the advantage over single ram BOPs in that they provide a
backup in case of failure of the primary set.

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Figure 19 - Typical Manual Wireline Valve (BOP)

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Figure 20 - Wireline Valve Ram Configuration

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Figure 21 - Hydraulic BOP

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1.9 OPERATIONAL SAFETY GUIDE LINES

1.9.1 Safety
Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
CAUTION
• Read service manual before operating
• Observe all safety precautions
• This system is capable of producing high pressure
• To avoid component rupture and possible injury regulate inlet air pressure so
outlet pressure does not exceed the maximum working pressure of any
component in the set up
• Check pressure rating and compatibility of all connections
• Clear area of unnecessary personnel
• Select proper equipment
• Make sure valves and regulators are in correct position
• Do not try to tighten or loosen connections under pressure
• Do not weld file or use metal stamps on the pressure equipment - these can start
cracks
• Do not over tighten any valves
• Do not attach anything to this equipment unless you are sure of its pressure rating
• Watch for trapped pressure. bleed off fully before breaking down unions etc.
1.9.2 General Check Before Operation

Walk Around Unit And Check
• Quick connects on grease hose ends. Ensure tightness
• Level of grease in drum
• Airline filter drained
• Lubricator topped up with suitable lubricant.
• Air valve is off.

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Pre-Job Checks
• Check equipment received at work site for damage
• Take inventory of tool s and consumables
• Ensure Xmas tree adaptors and crossover are of the correct size and ratings
• Check all the relevant equipment are certified and documents are available at
worksite
• Check that the Xmas tree vales are pressure tested for leaks
• Ensure sufficient back-up of tools and consumables are available on site
• Ensure that the necessary standard fishing tools are available on site
• Ensure all relevant pressure test and monitoring equipment are available on site.
Pre-Job Meeting
• The pre-job meeting must be held to familiarise all personnel involved with any
wireline operation
• Current wireline programme and the operational objectives must be discussed
with members present at the meeting
• The present status of the well should be discussed
• Well history giving all the relevant well information should be noted and studied
• Well control aspects during operations should be highlighted during the meeting
• A person from the wireline crew must be appointed to open and close the swab
valve or any Xmas tree valves
• Potential hazards associated with the job should be highlighted and discussed
• Contingency plans should be made available to all members of the crew.
Safety Meetings
• Before commencement of a wireline operations a safety meeting must be held
involving all the key operational personnel
• All aspects of the wireline operations associated with operational safety should
form the basis of the safety meeting.
It is recommended that the following topics should be included as part of the safety meeting
agenda:
• Work permit requirement
• Personnel protective clothing
• Fire Drill and muster station policy
• Chemical hazards especially in the event of spillage and personnel injury
• Crane operation in and around Wireline unit and wellhead area
• Contingency plans in case of oil spillage and well control problems
• Understand the work location emergency and evacuation policy.

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1.10 PRE-PRESSURE TEST PRECAUTIONS

a) Prior to pressure testing, the area shall be cordoned off using barrier tape, chains,
warning signs etc.
b) Notify key personnel on permit that pressure testing is commencing e.g. tool pusher,
production supervisor, company representative (to witness test).
NOTE: The permit to work system should be implemented and displayed prior to
work commencing.
c) An announcement should be made over the installation PA system informing personnel

to the effect that high pressure testing is taking place and non essential personnel to stay
clear of cordoned off areas
NOTE: If pressure testing is continuing for some time then regular

announcements should be made e.g. every half hour stating that pressure
testing is still ongoing and to continue to avoid cordoned off areas.
d) All lines subjected to pressure tests shall be tied and secured, by competent persons
e) Never approach or allow any person to approach a system undergoing a pressure test
f) When increasing pressure for each test using a high volume pump such as the cement
unit, this shall be done in stages e.g.. 20% increments. This pressure shall be held for a
few minutes, without loss, before increasing to the next increment. This will reduce the
risk of equipment failure and subsequent damage
g) When using a dedicated pressure test pump, if a relief valve is used at the pump outlet,
this should be pre-set to +10% of the test pressure
NOTE: The relief valve shall be set against an accurate dial gauge prior to
commencing the pressure test and all components to be tested should be
checked to ensure that this relief valve setting is within their working
limits.
h) Ensure that all fittings, pipe work, pumps etc, are rated the correct pressure regime
i) If any leaks are discovered, pressure should be bled down to zero, prior to taking
remedial action to rectify the leak.

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All equipment to be tested at work site, must have a valid certificate and should have a steel
test band strapped around the pressure equipment.
The steel band should indicate the following:
• Maximum working pressure
• Test date
• Test pressure
• Test certificate
• Standard of sour service
• Stamp of authenticity
NOTE: The equipment should not be used if this band is missing.
1.11 PRESSURE TESTING GUIDELINES

a) The MWP shall be limited to being equal to MWP of the lowest rated component in the
rig up
b) For the initial pressure test after installation onto the wellhead, unless the client requires
testing to the MWP the equipment shall be tested to the CITHP plus a safety margin of
50%
c) All further pressure testing after installation onto the wellhead shall be confined to leak
testing the ‘O’ ringed quick union connections, the wireline valve and stuffing box at
pressures 15% above CITHP
d) Full pressure testing (1.5 times the MWP) is a base workshop operation, requiring the
use of test bay or similar protected place. This operation should not be conducted
offshore unless a test bay facility is available
e) The equipment shall only be used in a sweet or sour environment if all the components
in the rig up are certified in accordance with SI 289 and NACE MR-01-75 regulations,
as being fit for service in that environment
f) All tests must be held for 15 minutes at the specified pressure on a Martin Decker Chart
Recorder or equivalent
g) This chart shall be seen by a company representative to witness the completion of a
satisfactory pressure test and should contain the following information:
• Sequence that pressure test was carried out against relevant section of chart
• Equipment ECS identification numbers being pressure tested
• Client name
• Field
• Well no
• Date.
h) The different mediums commonly used while pressure testing are as follows:
• Water
• Water/glycol mix
• Neat glycol.

SURFACE EQUIPMENT
1.12 POST PRESSURE TESTING GUIDELINES

On completion of pressure testing the following actions should be taken:
a) On completion of pressure testing all the relevant valves shall be shut to isolate the test
unit. The test lines shall be bled down to zero
b) An announcement should be made over the rig PA system stating that pressure testing
has been completed
c) The test pressure in the lubricator rig up shall be bled down to the CITHP to allow the
surface tree valves to be opened to allow access into the well bore.
If an individual component has been pressure tested the following procedures shall be
followed:
a) Repeat steps (a) and (b) above. Depressurise the component and drain all the test fluid
from the vessel
b) The test equipment shall be rigged down and tidied away
c) The barrier tape used to corner off the pressure testing area shall be removed and the
area returned to normal to allow access to all personnel
d) The relevant personnel should be notified that pressure testing has been completed
e) If applicable, wireline operations can then proceed by opening the well to the lubricator.

SURFACE EQUIPMENT

WELL CALCULATIONS
CONTENTS
1 WELL CALCULATIONS 1
1.1 HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE 1
1.1.1 Relationship between Pressure, Force & Area 4
1.1.2 Hydrostatics 16
1.2 CALCULATION OF FORCE 19
1.3 SLICKLINE ANGLE CORRECTION CALCULATIONS 21
1.4 DETERMINING OF SLICKLINE STEM WEIGHT 24
1.5 EQUALISING ACROSS CLOSED SLIDING SIDE DOOR LOCATED
IMMEDIATELY ABOVE THE TOP PACKER 25
1.6 RULE OF THUMB FOR USING WIRE GRABS 26
1.7 HOW TO CLACULATE OPTIMUM BLIND BOX SIZE 27
1.8 HOW TO DETERMINE TOTAL CLEARANCE OD 28
1.9 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE PLUS FALLBACK WHEN WIRE
BROKEN AT SURFACE 29
1.10 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE WHEN BROKEN DOWN HOLE 31
1.11 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE USING A FORMULA 34

WELL CALCULATIONS
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Relationship Between Pressure, Force & Area 6
Figure 2 11
Figure 3 14
Figure 4 19
Figure 5 - Wireline Angle Correction 21
Figure 6 - Example 1 And 2 22
Figure 7 - Blind Box 27
Figure 8 - Wire Broken At Surface (Refer to Section 1.9) 30
Figure 9 - Wire Broken Downhole 32
Figure 10 - Example of Wirefall 35
ii  RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1

WELL CALCULATIONS
1 WELL CALCULATIONS
1.1 HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE
During the execution of everyday wireline procedures, the supervisor is frequently called upon
to calculate areas, pressures, volumes and forces. It is necessary, therefore, that he is fully
aware of the effects of the above values.
Although there are several charts and tables included in this manual which should be used
whenever possible to eliminate errors and to save time, it is important to know how to
perform the various calculations and to acquire a basic understanding of the fundamentals of
fluids and pressures.
Areas of circles are very important when working with downhole equipment as the operation
of many wireline tools is contingent on different cross sectional areas.
Here are two common examples:
• The small area of an equalising port allows pressure to be equalised with a
minimum of force by using a small prong
• The area that is ‘packed off’ around a wireline will determine the amount of
weight (force) required to carry the wireline toolstring into the wellbore under
pressure.
The knowledge of tubing and tubular component volumes is of primary importance when
they are being filled or displaced. Calculations of the capacity of tanks of various sizes and
shapes are also frequently required.
This section will explain how to perform these calculations and the following is a list of terms,
definitions, symbols and formulae which are necessary to complete them.

WELL CALCULATIONS
Diameter
The length of a straight line through the centre of a circle from circumference to
circumference.
Radius
The length of a straight line from the centre of a circle to the circumference (one half
the diameter).
Area
The number of unit squares (inches, feet, centimetres etc.) equal in measure to the
surface.
Circumference
The length of the boundary of a circle (circumference = π x diameter).
Symbol π - pi
3.14159265 (normally rounded to 3.142) this symbol is the value of the ratio of the
circumference of a circle to its diameter and is constant for all sizes of circles.
Diameter c ÷ π
(circumference ÷ π )
Radius
d÷2
Area Of A Circle
πR2 (π x Radius x Radius) or (π D2) ÷ 4
Volume Of A Cylinder
A x H (Area x Height) or π R2H
Volume Of Rectangular Tank
L x W x H (length x width x height)
Cubic Inches Per Gallon (US): 231
Cubic Inches Per Cubic Foot: 1,728
Gallons (US) Per Cubic Foot: 7.481
Gallons (US) Per Barrel (Us): 42
Cubic Feet Per Barrel: 5.6146
2  RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1

WELL CALCULATIONS
Pressure Force per unit area. This is the force acting upon an
area upon which the force is distributed. Pressure is
expressed in pounds per square inch (psi), kilograms
per square centimetre K/cm2 or bars where 1 bar =
14.5 psi (standard conditions: 14.7 psi).
Hydrostatic Pressure The pressure exerted by a column of fluid.
Gradient The rate of increase or decrease of pressure per square
inch/per foot height.
Density The weight of a substance per unit volume i.e. pounds
per cubic ft: kilograms per litre etc.
Specific Gravity (Relative Density) The ratio of the density of a
substance compared to the density of another
substance which is used as the standard.
In order for us to clearly understand the definitions of these terms, we must know the
following information:
Water is a universal fluid because pure water anywhere in the world weighs the same per unit
volume (density). For this reason water is used as the standard for comparison of the densities
of other liquids. Water has been assigned the specific gravity of 1.0. Any liquid heavier than
water will have a specific gravity greater than 1.0. while any liquid lighter than water will have a
specific gravity less than 1.0.
The following facts about fresh water should be committed to memory:
• Pure water has a density of 62.4 pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft3)
• Pure water has a pressure gradient of 0.433 pounds per square inch/per foot
height
• Pure water weighs 8.33 Pounds per gallon (US)
• Pure water has a specific gravity of 1.0.

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.1.1 Relationship between Pressure, Force & Area

If we go back and look at the definition of pressure we find that:
Pressure = the Force per unit Area.
Here we have three separate values:
• Pressure
• Force
• Area
Force
• Therefore Pressure =
Area
Pressure is normally expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) in the UK and USA.
Force is normally expressed in pounds.
Area is normally expressed in square inches.
We can of course change this formula to calculate the force when both the pressure and the
area are known: force = pressure (pounds per ins2.) X area (ins2) So by multiplying the
pressure by the area we obtain the force expressed in pounds (lbs).
NOTE: This manual uses the convention of ‘rounding up’ to the final decimal if it
is five or over. Less than five and the figure remains unchanged. Slight
variations in final solutions will occur if the figures are run through as a
single calculation. For clarity, each part of the calculations here are used
as shown.

WELL CALCULATIONS
An example of this can be seen in every day wireline operations:

A wireline gauge run is to be made in a well with a closed in tubing head pressure of 6,250 psi
using wireline with a diameter of 0.125 inches. How much weight (FORCE) is required to
overcome the well pressure and carry the tool string downhole (neglecting friction due to drag
through the stuffing box and well conditions, due to deviation etc.).
Formula: F = P x A
We know the pressure is 6,250 psi. but we must calculate the cross sectional area of the
wireline using the formula πr2 or π D2 ÷ 4
π = 3.142
D = 0.125”
3.142 x 0.125 x 0.125
Therefore A =
4
0.033
A=>
4
A = 0.00825 square inches
We can now add this to our formula
FORCE = PRESSURE x AREA
FORCE = 6,250 psi x 0.00825 ins2
Therefore FORCE = 51.5 Pounds (lbs)

So we can calculate that, neglecting friction, 51.5 lbs of weight must be added to our tool
string to balance the pressure of the well.
There are other pressures which must be considered before carrying out certain wireline
operations known as ‘hydrostatic pressure’ (hp). If we go back to our definition, we find that
hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a column of fluid. To calculate Hydrostatic
Pressure we multiply the gradient by the height or in our case the depth, of the column.
To learn how the GRADIENT of fresh water is derived assume a cubical container measuring
12” x 12” x 12” (1 cubic foot - inside dimensions) Fig A. and imagine it filled with fresh water.
This water will weigh 62.4 pounds. The base of the container is 12” x 12” which produces an
area of 144 square inches, Fig B, so when we apply our formula:
Force
PRESSURE =
Area
We can calculate the pressure GRADIENT of fresh water.
62.4 lbs
PRESSURE = 0.433 psi.
144 ins 2

WELL CALCULATIONS
Figure 1 - Relationship Between Pressure, Force & Area

WELL CALCULATIONS
As our container is 12” x 12” x 12” we can then state that the gradient of fresh water is
0.433 psi per ft.
Thus for every foot of fresh water 0.433 psi is exerted.
Example: What is the hydrostatic pressure exerted by a 1,000 foot column of fresh
water?
Hydrostatic Pressure = Gradient x Depth
0.433 psi/ft x 1,000 ft = 433 psi
It can be seen from the above example therefore that if we know the density of any liquid
(expressed in lb per cubic foot) then simply dividing by 144 (square inches) will give us the
pressure gradient in psi/ft.
Fluid density = 76.4 lbs per cubic ft
76.4
Pressure gradient = = 0.530 psi/ft
144
Often in the field we are given only the weight per gallon of the liquid or the specific gravity
so we must also be able to convert these values into pressure gradient.
Example: What is the pressure gradient of salt water weighing 12 lbs/gal?
Solution: We know that fresh water being the standard reference for all liquids weighs
8.33 lb/gal. We also know that Specific Gravity is the RATIO of the density of
a substance compared to the density of another substance which is used as the
standard. So we compare the salt water at 12 lb/gal to the fresh water at 8.33
lbs/gal.
12 lbs / gal
Therefore SG = = 1.44 SG
8.33 lbs / gal

WELL CALCULATIONS
In order to convert this SG to pressure gradient we simply multiply by the gradient of fresh
water which is 0.433 psi/ft.
Therefore SG = 1.44 x 0.433 = 0.623 psi/ft
See also ‘Hydrostatic pressure of well fluids’ and ‘Fluid weight conversion table’.
Now that we have committed these facts about fresh water to memory we can calculate the
pressure gradient of any liquid when we know its density in lb/cubic ft or weight in lb/gal.
Example: What is the Hydrostatic Pressure exerted by a 7,000 ft column of brine
weighing 10 lbs/gal?
Solution: SG = 10 lbs/gal ÷ 8.33 lbs/gal = 1.20
Therefore gradient of brine = 1.20 x 0.433 = 0.520 psi/ft

Hydrostatic pressure = 0.520psi/ft x 7,000 ft = 3,640 psi
When dealing in pounds per gallon we can use the common ‘rule of thumb’ method of
calculating hydrostatic pressure by applying the constant 0.052 which is derived by dividing
0.433 by 8.33.
HP = 10 lbs/gal x 0.052 x 7,000 ft = 3,640 psi
NOTE: This constant 0.052 can only be used when the weight of the liquid is
expressed in lbs/gallon.

WELL CALCULATIONS
There is another term that we need to familiarise ourselves with, this is API which stands for
American Petroleum Institute. The American Petroleum Institute in an effort to standardise
all materials used in the oil industry, has set a standard for fluids. This is expressed as API
gravity. Oil of various weights, at base temperature of 60OF is given API ratings. Fresh water
has been arbitrarily assigned an API rating of 10.0. Although tables are widely used to convert
API gravity to SG we need to know an alternative method should the tables be unavailable.
141.5
The formula used to convert API to SG is =
131.5 + API O
Example: Find the SG of 32O API oil:
141.5 141.5
SG = = = 0.865
131.5 + 32 O
163.5
Therefore SG = 0.865
The need to memorise this conversion is apparent when carrying out wireline work in a well
where the tubing is filled with crude oil.
Example: What is the Hydrostatic Pressure exerted by a 7,000 ft column of 32O API oil?
141.5 141.5
SG = = = 0.865
131.5 + 32 O
163.5
Therefore SG = 0.865
Gradient of oil = SG x 0.433 = 0.865 x 0.433 = 0.375 psi/ ft
HP of oil Column = 0.375 x 7,000 = 2,625 psi

WELL CALCULATIONS
We can now move on and apply what we have learned to an actual wireline situation:
Operation - To run in the hole and open the SSD located at 5,000 ft Conditions.
• The well has been shut in, recording at CITHP of 1,000 psi.
• The tubing is filled with 34O API oil.
• The tubing/casing annulus is filled with 12 lbs/gal brine.
Problem: What differential pressure exists between the annulus and tubing at the depth
of the SSD and in which direction is the pressure acting?
Solution: HP of oil:
141.5
Convert API to SG: = 0.855 SG
131.5 + 34 O
Convert SG to gradient: 0.855 x 0.433 = 0.370 psi/ft
Therefore HP = 0.370 x depth = 0.370 x 5,000 = 1,850 psi
HP of brine:
12 lbs / gal
Convert lbs/gal to SG: = 1.44 SG
8.33 lbs / gal
Convert SG to gradient: 1.44 x 0.433 = 0.623 psi/ft
Therefore H.P. = 0.623 x depth = 0.623 x 5,000 ft = 3,115 psi
Since the well is shut in and recording a CITHP of 1,000 psi this pressure must be added to
the HP of the oil column to give a total pressure at the depth stated.
Therefore HP of oil column in tubing = 1,850 + 1,000 = 2,850 psi
To establish the differential pressure across the SSD we simply subtract the tubing HP from
the annulus HP:
• HP in Annulus = 3,115 psi
• HP in Tubing = 2,850 psi
• Differential pressure across SSD = 265 psi from annulus to tubing.

WELL CALCULATIONS
Figure 2

WELL CALCULATIONS
One final situation which we must address is where free gas is present in the tubing. In some
cases where oil producing wells are shut in at the surface, gas will break out of the oil under
static conditions and form a gas ‘cap’ in the tubing. The Hydrostatic effects of this gas cap
must be considered when calculating hydrostatic pressures further down the well. In order to
do this we must refer to the Gas Correction Factors table. You will see that the vertical left
hand column contains well depths from 1,000 ft to 18,000 ft and the top horizontal line
represents various gas gravity’s from 0.6 to 0.9 SG.
Example: To find the correction factor of a 5,000 ft column of 0.75 SG gas look down
the depth column to 5,000 ft then move horizontally to the 0.75 SG column
and find the correction factor of 1.139. To convert this to hydrostatic pressure
we multiply the correction factor by the closed In Tubing Head Pressure
CITHP.
Example: What differential pressure exists between the tubing and annulus at the ported
nipple assembly located at 10,000 ft in the tubing string. The following
conditions exist:
• The tubing/casing annulus is filled with 80 lbs/cubic ft brine.
• The well is shut in at surface with a CITHP of 750 psi.
• There is a gas cap of 0.7 SG gas down to 3,000 ft.
• 33 API oil from 3,000 ft to 11,000 ft.
As always it helps to draw a sketch with all the relevant information.

WELL CALCULATIONS
0.60 0.65 0.70 0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90

Depth
Gravity Gravity Gravity Gravity Gravity Gravity Gravity
1,000 1.0210 1.0228 1.0246 1.0264 1.0282 1.0299 1.0317
1,500 1.0317 1.0344 1.0371 1.0398 1.0425 1.0453 1.0480
2,000 1.0425 1.0462 10.498 1.0535 1.0571 1.0608 1.0645
2,500 1.0535 1.0580 1.0626 1.0673 1.0719 1.0766 1.0812
3,000 1.0645 1.0700 1.0756 1.0812 1.0869 1.0926 1.0983
3,500 1.0756 1.0822 1.0888 1.0954 1.1021 1.1088 1.1156
4,000 1.0869 1.0945 1.1021 1.1098 1.1175 1.1253 1.1331
4,500 1.0983 1.1069 1.1156 1.1243 1.1331 1.1420 1.1510
5,000 1.1098 1.1194 1.1292 1.1390 1.1490 1.1590 1.1691
5,500 1.1214 1.1321 1.1430 1.1540 1.1650 1.1762 1.1875
6,000 1.1331 1.1450 1.1570 1.1691 1.1813 1.1937 1.2062
6,500 1.1450 1.1580 1.1711 1.1844 1.1979 1.2114 1.2252
7,000 1.1570 1.1711 1.1854 1.1999 1.2146 1.2295 1.2445
7,500 1.1691 1.1844 1.1999 1.2157 1.2316 1.2477 1.2641
8,000 1.1813 1.1979 1.2146 1.2316 1.2488 1.2663 1.2840
8,500 1.1937 1.2114 1.2295 1.2477 1.2663 1.2851 1.3042
9,000 1.2062 1.2252 1.2445 1.2641 1.2840 1.3042 1.3247
9,500 1.2188 1.2391 1.2597 1.2806 1.3019 1.3236 1.3456
10,000 1.2316 1.2532 1.2751 1.2974 1.3201 1.3433 1.3668
10,500 1.2445 1.2674 1.2907 1.3144 1.3386 1.3632 1.3883
11,000 1.2575 1.2818 1.3065 1.3317 1.3573 1.3835 1.4102
11,500 1.2707 1.2963 1.3224 1.3491 1.3763 1.4041 1.4324
12,000 1.2840 1.3110 1.3386 1.3668 1.3956 1.4249 1.4549
12,500 1.2974 1.3259 1.3550 1.3847 1.4151 1.4461 1.4778
13,000 1.3110 1.3409 1.3715 1.4028 1.4349 1.4676 1.5011
13,500 1.3247 1.3561 1.3883 1.4212 1.4549 1.4894 1.5247
14,000 1.3386 1.3715 1.4053 1.4398 1.4753 1.5116 1.5487
14,500 1.3526 1.3871 1.4225 1.4587 1.4959 1.5340 1.5731
15,000 1.3668 1.4028 1.4398 1.4778 1.5168 1.5568 1.5979
15,500 1.3811 1.4188 1.4575 1.4972 1.5380 1.5800 1.6231
16,000 1.3956 1.4349 1.4753 1.5168 1.5595 1.6035 1.6486
16,500 1.4102 1.4511 1.4933 1.5367 1.5813 1.6273 1.6746
17,000 1.4249 1.4676 1.5116 1.5568 1.6035 1.6515 1.7009
17,500 1.4398 1.4843 1.5300 1.5772 1.6259 1.6760 1.7277
18,000 1.4549 1.5011 1.5487 1.5979 1.6486 1.7009 1.7549
To find the downhole pressure, multiply the surface pressure by the factor corresponding to
the depth and gas gravity
Table 1 - Gas Gradient Correction Factors

WELL CALCULATIONS
Figure 3

WELL CALCULATIONS
Solution: HP of Brine in Annulus:

80 lbs / cu ft
Gradient = = 0.555 psi/ft
144
HP = Gradient x Depth = 0.555 x 10,000 ft = 5,550 psi
Correction Factor (from tables)
of 0.7 gas @ 3,000 ft = 1.0756
CITHP = 750 psi
HP of Gas = 750 x 1.0756 = 807 psi
HP of oil column:
141.5 141.5 psi / ft
Oil SG = = = 0.860
131.5 + 33 O
164.5
Oil Gradient = SG x 0.433 = 0.860 x 0.433 = 0.372 psi/ft
Oil HP = Gradient x Depth = 0.372 x 7,000 = 2,606 psi
• Total HP in Annulus = 5,550 psi
• Total HP in Tubing = 802+ 2,606 = 3,413 psi
Differential Pressure at 10,000 ft= 5,550 – 3,413 = 2,137 psi
Solution: 2,137 psi from annulus to tubing.

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.1.2 Hydrostatics
1. Define the following:
a) Gradient
b) Specific Gravity
c) Hydrostatic Pressure
Solution
a) Gradient is the rate of increase or decrease of pressure
b) Ratio of the density of a substance compared to an accepted standard density
c) Hydrostatic pressure - the pressure exerted by a column of fluid
2. Calculate the specific gravity of:
a) 31.5O API Oil
b) 44O API Oil
c) 24O API Oil
d) 12.6 lb/gall Mud
e) 13.5 lb/gall Mud
f) 9.1 lb/gall Brine
Solution
a) 0.868
b) 0.806
c) 0.910
d) 1.51
e) 1.62
f) 1.09
3. What is the hydrostatic pressure in the following examples?
a) 10 lbs/gall fluid to 4,000 ft.
b) 5,000 ft of fluid with a gradient of 0.412 psi/ft.
c) 39O API fluid to 8,100 ft.
Solution
a) 2,079 psi
b) 2,060 psi
c) 2,910 psi.

WELL CALCULATIONS
4. An SSD at 8,000 ft is to be opened. Tubing is filled with 31.5 API oil and annulus is
filled with 10.2lb/gall brine. Can the sleeve be opened under these conditions?
Explain your answer
141.5
= 0.868 SG
131.5 + 31.5
0.868 x 0.433 = 0.376 psi/ft
0.376 x 8,000 = 3,007 psi Tubing Hydrostatic
Annulus Hydrostatic: 10.2 x 0.052 = 0.530 psi/ft
0.530 x 8,000 = 4243 psi
A differential of (4243 - 3007) 1236 psi exists. The sleeve should not be opened until
pressures are equalised.
5. What is the bottom hole pressure in the tubing of a well with the following conditions?
TD 7,750 ft
34 API oil to 5,000 ft
0.75 SG Gas to surface
CITHP of 1,200 psi
Gas Factor 1.139 x pressure 1,200 = 1,367 psi
141.5
Oil HP = x 0.433 x 2,750 = 1,018 psi
131.5 + 34
Tubing Pressure Total = 2,385 psi
6. Using the following information:
• ‘TD’ 11,000 ft
• ‘XN’ Nipple at 9,500 ft
• Packer at 9,300 ft
• ‘SSD’ at 9,200 ft
• The well is shut in and has a CITHP of 1,000 psi, 35.5 API Fluid to 6,000 ft, 0.65
gas to surface.
• Annulus filled with 10.7 lbs/gal brine.
Calculate:
a) The differential pressure across the ‘SSD’.
b) The highest pressure recorded on a ‘BHP’ gauge set in the ‘XN’ nipple.

WELL CALCULATIONS
Solution
a) Tubing Pressure to 9,200 ft.
Gas H.P. = 1.145 x 1,000 = 1,000 psi
141.4
Oil HP = x 0.433 x 3,200 ft = 1,174 psi
131.5 + 35.5
Total Tubing Pressure = 2,319 psi
Annulus Pressure = (10.7 x 0.052) x 9,200 ft = 5,118 psi
Differential across SSD = 5,118 – 2,319 = 2,799 psi
b) Pressure at ‘XN’ Nipple.
141.5
Oil HP = x 0.433 x 3,500 = 1,284 psi
131.5 + 35.5
Gas HP = 1.145 x 1,000 = 1,145 psi
Pressure Recorded = 2,429 psi

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.2 CALCULATION OF FORCE
Figure 4

WELL CALCULATIONS
Force per square inch or the amount of weight it will take for a toolstring to fall (negative
friction).
F = AxP
F = Area of wire (ins2) x Pressure
e.g. Area = πr2
F = 3.142 x 0.0625” x 0.0625” x Pressure (psi)
F = 0.01223 x 5250 psi
F = 64.20 lbs
If available stem weights 9.375 lbs per foot then:
64.20 lbs
Stem require =
9.375 lbs / ft
Stem Require = 6.85 ft or 1 x 5 ft length
Plus 1 x 2 ft length

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.3 SLICKLINE ANGLE CORRECTION CALCULATIONS

The load registered on the weight indicator of the wireline unit does not indicate the total load
exerted on the line.
If the angle between the wireline entering and exiting the hay pulley is 90O then the reading on
the weight indicator is correct. (Refer to Figure 5)
If the angle between the wireline entering and exiting the hay pulley is less than 90O then the
reading on the weight indicator is Higher than the actual load on the line. Example 1.
If the angle between the line entering and exiting the hay pulley is more than 90O then the
reading on the weight indicator is Lower than the actual load on the line. Example 2.
Using the tables provided, the actual (resultant) load on the line can be calculated prior to
wireline operations. (Refer to Figure 6 for Examples 1 and 2)
Figure 5 - Wireline Angle Correction

WELL CALCULATIONS
Example 1
Angle below 90° then WT indicator dial
reads higher than actual resultant.
e.g. Angle between entry and exit line =
70°
Reading on WT Indicator = 1,000 lbs
= 1,000 x 1.41422 (constant for 90°
from table on next page) ÷
1.63830 (constant for 70° from
table on next page)
1.41422
= 1,000 x
1.63830
= 1,000 x 0.8634
= 863.4 lbs
Angle below 90° then weight indicator
dial reads higher than actual resultant.
Example 2
e.g. Angle between entry and exit line =
110°
Reading on WT Indicator = 1,000 lbs
= 1,000 x 1.41422 (constant for 110°
from table on next page) ÷
1.14716 (constant for 90° from
table on next page)
1.41422
= 1,000 x
1.14716
= 1,000 x 1.2328
= 1,232.8 lbs.
Figure 6 - Example 1 And 2
Actual Load on wire is 1,232 lbs when WT indicator reads 1,000 lbs at 110°.
To interpolate odd number angles not shown on the following chart calculate according to
above formulae the resultant of the angle one degree less and one degree more than the angle
desired and split the difference. (Figures provided by Martin Decker, Aberdeen)

WELL CALCULATIONS
Included Line By Included Line By

Constant Resultant Angle Of Resultant
Angle Of Load Load Constant
0 2.00000 92 1.38932
2 1.99970 94 1.36400
4 1.99878 96 1.33826
6 Multiply 1.99726 98 Multiply 1.31212 To Get
8 Line 1.99512 To Get 100 Line 1.28558 Resultant
10 Load 1.99238 Resultant 102 Load 1.25864
12 By 1.98904 104 By 1.23132
14 1.98510 106 1.20362
16 1.98054 108 1.17556
18 1.97538 110 1.14716
20 1.96962 112 1.11838
22 1.96326 114 1.08928
24 1.95630 116 1.05984
26 1.94874 118 1.03008
28 1.94058 120 1.00000
30 1.93186 122 0.96962
32 1.92252 124 0.93894
34 1.91260 126 0.90798
36 1.90212 128 0.87674
38 Multiply 1.89104 130 Multiply 0.84524
40 Line 1.87938 To Get 132 Line 0.81348 To Get
42 Load 1.86716 Resultant 134 Load 0.78146 Resultant
44 By 1.85436 136 By 0.74922
46 1.84100 138 0.71674
48 1.82708 140 0.68404
50 1.81262 142 0.65114
52 1.79758 144 0.61804
54 1.78202 146 0.58474
56 1.76590 148 0.55128
58 1.74924 150 0.51764
60 1.73206 152 0.48384
62 1.71434 154 0.44990
64 1.69610 156 0.41582
66 1.67734 158 0.38162
68 1.65808 160 0.34730
70 1.63830 162 0.31286
72 1.61804 164 0.27834
74 1.59726 166 0.24374
76 Multiply 1.57602 168 Multiply 0.20906
78 Line 1.55430 To Get 170 Line 0.17430 To Get
80 Load 1.53208 Resultant 172 Load 0.13952 Resultant
82 By 1.50942 174 By 0.10468
84 1.48626 176 0.06980
86 1.46270 178 0.03490
88 1.43868 180 0.00000
90 1.41422
Table 2 - Wire Angle Correction Table

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.4 DETERMINING OF SLICKLINE STEM WEIGHT

The following rule of thumb is used to determine the number of stems required.
Force per square ins or amount of weight it will take for a tool string to fall,
neglecting frictions.
F = (A x P)
Where:
F = Force (lbs/Wt)
A = Area of wire
P = Well pressure acting against the cross sectional area of wire
Area:
π x wire x OD x OD divide by 4
= 3.14 x 0.108 x 0.108 divide by 4
= 0.009
Assuming well pressure is 2,200 psi
The force = 0.009 x 2,200 = 20.14 lbs
As 20.14 lbs is the force acting on the cross sectional area of the wire trying to blow it out of
the stuffing box, we shall require a stem weight of 20.14 lbs to counter balance the force.
Extra stem would also be required to overcome the friction created by the wire passing
through the stuffing box packing. An extra 20 lbs would normally be sufficient through this
can vary according to other variables, e.g. amount of force applied to the packing unit, gas or
oil well (amount of lubrication on the line).
The wireline operator would know what is needed, so long as he is not over-generous with the
amount of stem weight added.
If the weight per ft of the stem is not known the following formula may be used:
Weight per ft of round bar stock or stem = OD x OD x 8 divided by 3 = Weight
per ft
Assuming 17/8” standard stem is being used:
1.875 x 1.875 x 8 divide by 3 = 9.375 lbs per ft
40.14 lbs (20 + 20.14 lbs) weight required at 9.375 lbs per ft
40.14 lbs weight
= = 4.28 ft of stem
9.375 lbs per ft
As the stem is manufactured in 2 ft, 3 ft and 5 ft lengths then 2 two-ft lengths of 17/8”
standard stem should be sufficient for the job

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.5 EQUALISING ACROSS CLOSED SLIDING SIDE DOOR LOCATED

IMMEDIATELY ABOVE THE TOP PACKER
Well Details:
• SSD = 10,500 ft MD (10,100 ft TVD)
• Oil Gradient = 0.318 psi/ft
• Gas Cap = 4,000 ft
• Gas Gradient = 0.0217 psi/ft
• Annulus Fluid Gradient = 0.465 psi/ft
Hydrostatic pressure of annulus = 0.465 psi/ft x 10,100 ft = 4,696 psi
Hydrostatic pressure oil = 0.318 psi/ft x 6,100 ft = 1,940 psi
Hydrostatic of gas = 0.0217 psi/ft x 4,000 ft = 87 psi
Total Pressure = 1,940 psi + 87 psi + 850 psi = 2,877 psi
The difference in pressure between tubing and annulus = 4,696 psi - 2,877 psi = 1,819 psi
The surface closed in tubing head pressure required to equalise across the closed SSD is 2,669
psi (1,819 psi+ 850 psi)

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.6 RULE OF THUMB FOR USING WIRE GRABS

1” measure inflexible OD
If fishing wire below SSSV Nipple of 4.562” ID
Assume you have 2 wraps of wire on top of the other
e.g. Safety Valve Nipple ID = 4.562”
e.g. Using a 4” OD Grab = 4.000”
4 x Wire OD (0.108”) = 0.432”
Total OD = 4.432”
Total Clearance = 0.130
So a 4” Wire grab could be used in this case.

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.7 HOW TO CLACULATE OPTIMUM BLIND BOX SIZE

Where:
OS = Optimum size
T = Tubing ID (At top of rope socket) 2.992
W = Wire OD 0.108
R = Rope socket 1.875
 R W
OS =  t −  +
 2 2
 1.875  0.108
=  2.992 − +
 2  2
= (2.992 − 0.9375) + 0.054
= 2.054 + 0.054
= 2.108
Figure 7 - Blind Box

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.8 HOW TO DETERMINE TOTAL CLEARANCE OD

Always assume that the rope socket is sitting against the tubing wall.
The blind box must be of a exact size to touch the opposite side of the tubing wall and
overlap the centre of the rope socket in order to cut the wire.
Check that the blind box OD is small enough to go through the smallest tubing ID allowing
two raps of wire around it.
i.e.
5” Tubing (15 lbs/ft)
Tubing ID = 4.283” (Drift ID)
Toolstring OD = 1.875
Blind Box OD = 3.520
4 x 0.108 wire = 0.432
Blind Box + Wire = 3.952
'R' Nipple ID = 4.125
Total Clearance above safety Factor 0.175 (4.125 - 3.95)
This formula has proven very successful on a number of occasions, but it must be stressed
that only the correct size of blind box will give any chance of success.

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.9 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE PLUS FALLBACK WHEN WIRE

BROKEN AT SURFACE
(Refer to Figure 8)
Wire in hole = 7,500 ft + 2(2.5 + 2 4 + 6 + 6)+ 4.6 + 4
= 7,500 + 77 + 8.6
= 7,586 ft
Top of wire straight = 9,000 ft - 7,586 ft = 1,414 ft
 9,000 − 7,000 
Wire fall back in 31/2” tubing =   × 16 * = 32 ft (* Refer to Table 3)
 1,000 
 7,000 − 1,414 
Wire fall back in 41/2” tubing =   × 27 * = 151 ft (* Refer to Table 3)
 1,000 
Approximate top of wire straight and fallback = 1,414” + 32 + 151 = 1,597 ft
Note: The tool string length is ignored in this calculation.

WELL CALCULATIONS
Figure 8 - Wire Broken At Surface (Refer to Section 1.9)

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.10 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE WHEN BROKEN DOWN HOLE

While running in the hole to retrieve a plug at 9,967 ft the TRSV which is at 760 ft
inadvertently closed, cutting the wire.
The toolstring is 15 ft long and the depth counter showed a depth 6,500ft.
There is 1,500 ft of 41/2 and 8,500 ft of 51/2 tubing. Tubing Foot at 10,000 ft TVD
The parted top section of the wire was blown out of the stuffing box and recovered.
Having made the well safe a fishing programme was initiated.
The first cause of action is to determine the amount of wire in the hole and the approximate
position of the top of the wire.
At the time the wire was cut 6,500 ft of wire was registered on the depth counter.
This means that the distance from bottom of the toolstring to zero point (Tubing hanger
flange) is 6,500ft. It could be safely assumed that the pulling tool attached to the tool string
has fallen down the well and has latched into the plug located at 9,967 ft.
Using the following details to calculate the top of wire :
Wire OD = 0.125”
Total length of wire = 6,500ft
Wire broke at 460 ft = 460 ft
Total length of straight wire in hole = 6,040 ft
Wire fall back in 41/2” × 1,500ft of tubing = -45 ft
(30* × 1,500 /10,000) = 45ft (* Refer to Table 3)
Total wire in 41/2” tubing = 5,995 ft
1
Wire fall back in 5 /2 tubing = -364 ft
*
(43 × 8,467 / 1,000) (* Refer to Table 3)
Total wire in 41/2” tubing = 5,613 ft
Total 51/2 tubing up to ‘XXN’ Plug = 8,467 ft
Approximate depth of top of wire from zero point = 5,631 ft (in 51/2” Tubing)
(8,467 ft – 5,631 ft) = 2,836 ft
The next point to consider is that as the pulling tool will have latched into the plug and it
would be inadvisable at this stage to attempt fishing the wire as this could mean trying to jar
the wire with the grab or wire finder whilst the wire is still attached to the tool string.
It is obvious that the wire must be cut off from the rope socket downhole.
The two most common tools for carrying out this operation are:
• Blind box or Cutter bar
• The side wall cutter.
NOTE: Using the side wall cutter will still leave long pieces of wire above the fish
(Rope Socket)

WELL CALCULATIONS
Figure 9 - Wire Broken Downhole

WELL CALCULATIONS
Tubing Size Wireline OD Wire Fall

(ins) (ins) ft/1,000 ft
27/8 0.092 12
1
3 /2 0.092 15
31/2 0.108 16
1
3 /2 0.125 17
31/2 3
/16 20
1 7
3 /2 /32 22
41/2 0.108 27
1
4 /2 0.125 30
1 3
4 /2 /16 35
1 7
4 /2 /32 38
1
5 /2 0.108 40
51/2 0.125 43
1 3
5 /2 /16 50
51/2 7
/32 54
7 0.108 90
7 0.125 93
3
7 /16 100
7
7 /32 109
Table 3 - Wire Fall Estimation

WELL CALCULATIONS
1.11 TO CALCULATE TOP OF WIRE USING A FORMULA

 (C + Z ) 
T = (D − [C + Z ]) +  × F+ H
 100 
Where
T = Estimated top of wire
F = Wire fall factor for wire/tubing size in % (Refer to Table 3)
D = Depth of the toolstring in the hole (when the wire broke)
C = Counter reading with the broken end spooled back to the counter
Z = Distance from the counter to zero point
H = Distance the toolstring falls back down the hole.
Example
F = 0.125 “ wire in 51/2” tubing = 3.5%
D = 7,000 ft (The toolstring depth when the wire broke)
C = 2,591 ft
Z = 43 + 21 + 27 = 91ft
H = 15 ft
 (C + Z ) 
T = (D − [C + Z ]) +  × F+ H
 100 
 (2,591 + 91) 
= (7,000 − [2,591 + 91]) +  × 3.5  + 15
 100 
= (7,000 − 2,682 ) + (26.82 × 3.5) + 15
= 4,318 + 93.87 + 15
= 4,427 ft

WELL CALCULATIONS
The amount of fall is measured from the level where the wire would be if it was standing
straight.
Figure 10 - Example of Wirefall
The following table is for IPS and alloy steel lines (excluding stainless steel, which is
approximately 50% of these values):
Tubing Fall Fall Tubing Fall Fall
Wire dia Wire dia
OD units/1000 % OD units/1000 %
23/8” 0.092” 10 1.0 51/2” 0.092” 45 4.5
23/8” 0.108” 8 0.8 51/2” 0.108” 40 4.0
27/8” 0.092” 12 1.2 51/2” 0.125” 35 3.5
27/8” 0.108” 10 1.0 51/2” 3/16” 50 5.0
27/8” 0.125” 8 0.8 7” 0.108” 90 9.0
27/8” 3/16” 13 1.3 7” 0.125” 80 8.0
31/2” 0.092” 16 1.6 7” 3/16” 100 10.0
31/2” 0.108” 15 1.5 7 /8”
5 0.108” 120 12.0
31/2” 0.125” 13 1.3 75/8” 0.125” 110 11.0
31/2” 3/16” 20 2.0 75/8” 3/16” 136 13.6
41/2” 0.092” 29 2.9 95/8” 0.108” 360 36.0
41/2” 0.108” 27 2.7 95/8” 0.125” 300 30.0
41/2” 0.125” 23 2.3 95/8” 3/16” 400 40.0
41/2” 3/16” 35 3.5
Table 4 - Wire Fall Estimates For IPS And Alloy Steel Lines
Wire remaining in the well is what is important, and this can be determined by the reading on
the counter when the broken end returns to the surface.

WELL CALCULATIONS

FISHING TOOLS
CONTENTS
1. FISHING TOOLS STRING 1

1.1 JARS 3
1.1.1 Mechanical Jars (Spang Jars) 3
1.1.2 Tubular Jars 4
1.1.3 Spring Jars 5
1.1.4 Hydraulic Jars 7
1.2 ‘JU’ & ‘R’ SERIES PULLING TOOLS 9
1.2.1 Camco ‘JU’ Series Pulling Tools 9
1.2.2 Otis ‘R’ Series Pulling Tools 11
1.2.3 Otis ‘S’ Series Pulling tools 13
1.3 CENTRE SPEAR 16
1.4 MAGNET 17
1.5 PCE ALLIGATOR GRAB 18
1.6 OVERSHOTS 20
1.6.1 O’ Bannon Overshot 20
1.6.2 Flopetrol Releasing Over shot 22
1.7 PETROLINE HEAVY DUTY PULLING TOOL 24
1.8 PCE BULLDOG SPEAR 26
1.9 RELEASABLE COLLET TYPE BULLDOG SPEAR 28
1.10 WIRE FINDER 29
1.10.1 Bowen Wire finder 31
1.11 WIRE SCRATCHER 32
1.12 WIRELINE GRABS 33
1.12.1 Preparing the Grab 33
1.13 FISHING CLAMP 34
1.14 GO-DEVIL 35
1.15 LEAD IMPRESSION BLOCK 37
1.16 TOOL SUMMARY 38
1.17 WIRE CUTTING TOOLS 39
1.17.1 Sidewall Cutter 39
1.17.2 Kinley Snepper 40
1.17.3 Flopetrol Slick Line Cutter 41
1.17.4 Centraliser Design 43
1.18 BLIND BOX 44

FISHING TOOLS
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Initial Fishing String 2
Figure 2 - Mechanical Jars (Spang Jars) 3
Figure 3 - Tubular Jars 4
Figure 4 - Spring Jars 6
Figure 5 - Hydraulic Jars 8
Figure 6 - Camco Type ‘JU’ Pulling Tool 10
Figure 7 - Otis Type ‘R’ Pulling Tool 12
Figure 8 - ‘S’ Pulling Tool/ Running Tool 14
Figure 9 - Otis Type ‘R’ Pulling Tools Reaches 15
Figure 10 - Centre Spear 16
Figure 11 - Magnet 17
Figure 12 - PCE Alligator Grab 19
Figure 13 - O’ Bannon Overshot 21
Figure 14 - Flopetrol Releasing Over Shot 23
Figure 15 - Petroline Heavy Duty Pulling Tool 25
Figure 16 - Conventional PCE Bulldog Spear 27
Figure 17 - Wire Finders 30
Figure 18 - Bowen Wire Finder 31
Figure 19 - Wire Scratcher 32
Figure 20 - Preparing the Wireline Grab 33
Figure 21 - Fishing Clamp 34
Figure 22- Go-Devil 35
Figure 23 - Lead Impression Block 37
Figure 24 - Sidewall Cutter 39
Figure 25 - Kinley Snepper 40
Figure 26 - Flopetrol Wireline Cutter 42

FISHING TOOLS
1. FISHING TOOLS STRING

Having established where the top of the wire should be, the first tool we would run is a wire
finder.
A typical tool string would include:
• Rope socket
• Lightest amount of stem required to get down the hole
• Tubular jars
• Jar-Up Pulling Tool
• Rope Socket
• Stem (for spacer)
• Wire finder.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 1 - Initial Fishing String

FISHING TOOLS
1.1 JARS
1.1.1 Mechanical Jars (Spang Jars)
The normal spang jar would not be used for wire fishing as jar action could easily be lost if the
wire gets snagged between the linkage. Therefore tubular jars would be used.
Tubular jars are commonly used when fishing because its moving components are, for the
most part, enclosed inside a housing, protecting it from entanglement with the wireline to be
fished and other well debris.
Tubular jars have screwed components which are susceptible to backing off during prolonged
jarring. Also, the efficiency of jarring down may be decreased due to the viscosity effects of
the fluid displaced from inside the housing.
Figure 2 - Mechanical Jars (Spang Jars)

FISHING TOOLS
1.1.2 Tubular Jars

Tubular Jars (Refer to Figure 3) are commonly used when fishing for wireline. Its moving
components are for the most part enclosed inside a housing, protecting it from entanglement
with the wireline to be fished and other well debris.
Tubular jars have screwed components which are susceptible to backing off during prolonged
jarring. Also, the efficiency of jarring down may be decreased due to the viscosity effects of he
fluid displaced from inside the housing.
Figure 3 - Tubular Jars

FISHING TOOLS
1.1.3 Spring Jars

Spring Jars (Refer to Figure 4) are used in situations where spang jars have been, or are likely
to be unsuccessful. This can be, for example, in deviated wells when wire speed is insufficient
or, in general, when more jarring force is required.
They can be used to jar-up but, because of their construction, it is possible for debris to enter
and make them difficult to reset. They also require regular maintenance. They are used in gas
wells in preference to hydraulic jars since they are not dependent on elastomer seals (this
removes the risk of fluid entry). In general, they are more durable than hydraulic jars as their
construction is purely mechanical.
The impact force of spring jars is determined by the selection or adjustment of the spring or
release mechanism. This spring or release mechanism prevents any relative movement of the
two parts of the jar, until a predetermined wire pull is reached. The first section of relative
motion of the two parts is to overcome the spring or release mechanism tension. This in turn
allows the release mechanism to actuate, freeing the inner rod to move upwards without
restriction and induce the jarring action.
If a spring jar malfunctions, it is not normally detrimental to the function of the rest of the
tool string. If unable to release, it acts as a rigid section of tool string. If unable to close, it acts
as an additional spang jar.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 4 - Spring Jars

FISHING TOOLS
1.1.4 Hydraulic Jars

Hydraulic jars (Refer to Figure 5) are used in similar circumstances to spring jars i.e. when
spang jars have been unsuccessful, or are likely to be unsuccessful.
The main advantage of the hydraulic jar is that the jarring force is adjustable, since it is
determined by the initial pull on the wire. In addition, this type of jar (in common with spring
jars) is more suited to extended jarring operations. This is because the wireline can be run
slower, since the impact force of these jars does not depend on the wire speed which results in
less wear and tear on the wire.
Hydraulic jars can only be used to jar up and, because their construction includes many
elastomer seals, regular maintenance is required since well fluid and debris can enter the
hydraulic chamber.
In the presence of gas, the hydraulic oil can become contaminated. This alters its volume and
compressibility, reducing the jarring efficiency and can prevent the jar closing. In addition, a
‘gassed-up’ hydraulic jar can seriously affect the jar-down action of the mechanical jar in the
string. Since the hydraulic jar is usually placed between the stem and the mechanical jar, it acts
as a shock absorber, reducing the weight transmitted.
Upward pull on the wire pressurises the oil contained in the upper chamber. The piston is
designed not to form a good seal on the chamber bore and this will allow a slow controlled
flow of oil past it. The piston will travel upwards slowly until it encounters a wider bore
section of the chamber. At this point there is no longer significant resistance to the oil flowing
past the piston which will then move rapidly upwards to produce the jarring action.
To speed up the resetting action (closing), the piston contains a one-way check valve which
opens as the piston moves down.
NOTE: When rigging up or down heavy tool strings, the hydraulic jars can be
opened under tool string weight.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 5 - Hydraulic Jars

FISHING TOOLS
1.2 ‘JU’ & ‘R’ SERIES PULLING TOOLS

1.2.1 Camco ‘JU’ Series Pulling Tools
The type ‘JU’ pulling tool (Refer to Figure 6) is designed to engage with external fishing necks
e.g. rope sockets, stems, equalising prongs, test tools and to shear and release by upward jar
action. Three types of ‘JU’ series tools are used and differ only by their core length which is
selected to give a desired reach:
• ‘JUC’ - Long core/short reach
• ‘JUS’ - Intermediate core/intermediate reach
• ‘JUL’ - Short core/long reach.
(All other parts of each type of tool are identical and completely interchangeable.)
On reaching the working depth, the weight of the tool string bears down on the device to be
pulled and, if necessary, is backed up by light downward jarring.
Once latched on, pulling operations can begin.
If the pulling operation is prevented by, for example, the build up of debris, differential
pressure or scale, the shear pin will shear and so unlatch the dogs from the fishing neck. The
pulling tool can now be retrieved, redressed or changed for another type.
NOTE: When jarring up with ‘JU’ tools, large forces can be imparted to the shear
pin. For this reason, these tools are generally fitted with larger shear pins
than those fitted to equivalent shear down tools. Despite this, as the shear
pin takes the full load of the force imparted by the jar, it can sometimes
shear before the pulling operation is accomplished.
It is recommended that the shear mechanism is tested prior to use. Following recovery from
the well, the tool should be redressed before storing.
The Reason for running a jar up pulling tool in fishing operations is that if a wire finder is
made up directly onto the bottom of the tool string there may be a chance that the wire finder
may get stuck in the wire being fished and cannot release causing another potential fish in the
hole. By gets stuck as a last resort the tool string can be released from the wire finder allowing
it to be pulled to the surface.
Always ensure that the shear pin is checked after every run as it may be weakened during the
run and as a result the tools below may fall off prematurely

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 6 - Camco Type ‘JU’ Pulling Tool

FISHING TOOLS
1.2.2 Otis ‘R’ Series Pulling Tools

The ‘R’ series pulling tool (Refer to Figure 7) is designed to engage with external fishing necks,
e.g. rope sockets, stems, equalising prongs, test tools and to shear and release by upward jar
action. Three types of ‘R’ series tools are used and differ only by their core length (Refer to
Figure 9) which is selected to give a desired reach:
• ‘RB’ - long core/short reach
• ‘RS’ - intermediate core/intermediate reach
• ‘RJ’ - short core/long reach.
(All other parts of each type of tool are identical and completely interchangeable.)
On reaching the working depth, the weight of the tool string bears down on the device to be
pulled and, if necessary, is backed up by light downward jarring.
Once latched, pulling operations can begin.
If the pulling operation is prevented by, for example, the build up of debris, scale or
differential pressure, the shear pin will shear and so unlatch the dogs from the fishing neck.
The pulling tool can now be retrieved, redressed or changed for another type.
NOTE: When jarring up with ‘R’ tools, large forces can be imparted to the shear
pin. For this reason, these tools are generally fitted with larger shear pins
than those fitted to equivalent shear down tools. Despite this, as the shear
pin takes the full load of the force imparted by the jar, it can sometimes
shear before the pulling operation is accomplished.
Two features of the ‘R’ Series pulling tool are its ability to sustain downwards jarring without
releasing and it is not dependent on the core bottoming out to achieve shearing.
In certain circumstances, the tool can be used in running operations.
the well, the tool should be cleaned and redressed before storing.
The ‘R’ pulling tool is attached to a standard tool string and lowered into the well. Upon
contact with the sub-surface device, the lower portion of the cylinder passes over the fishing
neck; the dogs are pushed outward, the force of the dog spring then makes the dogs spring
inward to engage the fish neck. Upward impact of the jars is used to pull the sub-surface
device from the well.
The shear pin should withstand considerable jarring before shearing. When the pin shears, the
cylinder spring acts between the cover and the cylinder and moves the core up in the cylinder.
This moves the dogs upward against the force of the dog spring. As the dogs move upward,
their tapered upper ends move into the cylinder, forcing the dogs inward thereby pushing the
lower ends of the dogs outward. This causes the dogs to release their grip on the fish neck.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 7 - Otis Type ‘R’ Pulling Tool

FISHING TOOLS
1.2.3 Otis ‘S’ Series Pulling tools

The ‘S’ series of pulling tool is designed to engage with external fishing necks e.g. rope
sockets, stems, equalising prongs, test tools and to shear and release by downward jar action.
Three types of ‘S’ series tools are used and differ only by their core length, which is selected to
give a desired reach:
‘SB’ Long core/short reach
‘SS’ Short core/long reach.
All other parts of the tools are identical and completely interchangeable.
‘SM’ Intermediate core/Intermediate reach. Used mainly to pull gas lift valves.
Operational
On reaching the working depth, the weight of the tool-string bears down on the device to be
pulled and, if necessary, is backed up by a light downward jar.
NOTE: Downward jarring at this stage should be kept to a minimum to avoid

premature shearing.
Once latched on, pulling operations can begin.

Due to the design of the tool, the downward force produced by the jarring action is exerted
through the pulling tool cylinder (skirt) and, in turn, through the shear pin. The core must
therefore remain stationary and the cylinder must move downwards in relationship to the
core, in order to shear the pin. The tool cannot be sheared if the cylinder is unable to move
downwards because it is resting on the fish or devices to be released.
A feature of the ‘S’ series pulling tool is its ability to sustain upwards jarring without releasing.
In certain circumstances the tool can be used in running operations.
Another version or type of ‘S’ series pulling tool is the ‘SM’. This is a special purpose tool
designed primarily to retrieve certain side pocket gas lift latches. Although it is a shear down
to release tool of similar design to the ‘SB’ and ‘SS’, various dimensions are different and
components are not usually interchangeable.
Operational Check
the well, the tool should be redressed before storing.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 8 - ‘S’ Pulling Tool/ Running Tool

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 9 - Otis Type ‘R’ Pulling Tools Reaches

FISHING TOOLS
1.3 CENTRE SPEAR

This tool is not recommended for general wire fishing operations. It is made by welding barbs
on a pointed rod, staggered around the outside and vertically. This tool can be very difficult to
move up the tubing should it be run too far below the end of the line and because engaged in
the wire. The wire above it will ball up and become tighter as it is jarred up the tubing until it
is impossible to move it. It can be released from its bite once the wire is wrapped around it.
About the only time this tool should be used is in a case where the wire is balled up so badly
that it is impossible to get hold of it with a two-prong grab. The pointed spear can sometimes
be driven into such a ball and break off a small piece at a time until the ball has been loosened
enough to be able to move it up the tubing. In this case, it is recommended that the two -
prong grab then be used since it will come nearer to straightening out the wire, making it
easier to pull.
Figure 10 - Centre Spear

FISHING TOOLS
1.4 MAGNET
The Magnet fishing tool is designed to remove small pieces of ferrous metals from the top of
tools in the wells. This tool does not have a hole through it for fluid bypass as do other tools.
The magnet is fitted with a sleeve on the outside and a spring which compresses the sleeve to
keep it below the end the magnet. Upon reaching the depth of the fish the operator sets the
tool string down gently on top of the fish. The weight of the tool string the forces the magnet
down the sleeve to pick up small pieces of wire or ferrous metals that might be lying on top or
around the fish. This should be retrieved from the well slowly so as not to lose the particles
that have been picked up.
Figure 11 - Magnet

FISHING TOOLS
1.5 PCE ALLIGATOR GRAB

The PCE Alligator Grab (Refer to Figure 12)is a wireline fishing tool utilised to catch and
retrieve loose objects (e.g. broken equipment) from the tubing. The grab is designed to allow
the operator to pre-determine the amount of jaw pressure required to effectively grip the fish
by adjusting the spring tension in the tool prior to running in the tubing.
NOTE: An external thread is available on the lower end of the top sub to allow the
attachment of a centraliser, if necessary.
The principle of operation is as follows. When the grab is set down on a fish, downward jar
action will shear the shear pin and the force of the spring will move the inner mandrel
upwards. This upward movement will also move the shot pin upwards and, due to the slots in
the upper ends of the jaws, rotate the jaws about the pivot to grip the fish.
NOTE: Prior to running the PCE Alligator Grab, it must be established that loose
objects exist in the tubing. This Alligator Grab is not designed to
withstand heavy jarring operations on a fish stuck in the tubing.
The PCE Alligator Grab is available in various sizes as listed in Table 1.
Size Fish Neck Size Thread Connection Maximum OD

ins (mm) ins (mm) ins (mm) ins (mm)
11/4 (31.75) 1.187 (30.15) 15
/16 (23.81) - 10 tpi 1.25 (31.75)
1 15
1 /2 (38.10) 1.187 (30.15) /16 (23.81) - 10 tpi 1.50 (38.10)
11
2 (50.80) 1.375 (34.93) /16 (26.99) - 10 tpi 1.75 (44.45)
15
3 (76.20) 1.750 (44.45) /16 (33.34) - 10 tpi 2.25 (57.15)
Table 1 - Specifications for the PCE Alligator

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 12 - PCE Alligator Grab

FISHING TOOLS
1.6 OVERSHOTS
Overshots are used to grip down hole tools when:
• The fishing neck is worn or broken
• There is no fishing neck (i.e. the tool has parted by unscrewing)
• When a larger upward force is required than could be pulled on a standard pulling
tool.
The principle of operation of all overshots is the same. A hardened set of steel slips with sharp
upward facing teeth grip the fish. A spring assists these slips to engage initially. However, an
upward pull and upward jarring sets the slips tighter because of the tapered ID in the skirt.
Upward movement of the matching taper on the skirt will increase the gripping force.
1.6.1 O’ Bannon Overshot

The ability of the O’ Bannon overshot (Refer to Figure 13) to catch various items is made
possible by an upper and lower set of segmented slips which sit in tapered bowls (dual catch
overshot). These slips are available in a 1/8“. incremental range of sizes giving this tool a broad
catching range. (It is usual to select the slip size required and check the grip by latching the
same sized object at surface prior to running.)
The principle of operation of the O’ Bannon overshot is as follows. The overshot is run in the
tubing with the ID of the slips slightly smaller than the OD of the fish. When the slips contact
the fish the slip segments move upwards in the tapered bowls increasing the ID of the slip
arrangement. The fish will move through the slips if the ID of the slips is big enough.
On picking up the tool string the teeth on the slips bite into the sides of the fish stopping any
movement of the slip segments. Further upward pull moves the tapered bowls up and a
wedging action makes the teeth bite tighter into the fish.
NOTE: O’ Bannon overshots have no release mechanism so they are always run
with a rope socket and latched into a shear up or shear down pulling tool.
On retrieval at surface the O’ Bannon overshot requires to be disassembled.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 13 - O’ Bannon Overshot

FISHING TOOLS
1.6.2 Flopetrol Releasing Over shot

The Flopetrol releasing overshot (Refer to Figure 14) performs the same function as the O’
Bannon overshot i.e. it will catch tool assemblies or parts of assemblies which have parted by
breaking or unscrewing. However, the Flopetrol overshot has a releasing mechanism built into
its upper assembly, that is, when the tool is subjected to downward jarring the slips will retract
and release the fish. (Release may be necessary if the wire needs to be changed to a larger
diameter line or a rope socket requires re-making.)
The Flopetrol overshot has a wide range of slips from 1/2” to 27/8” to fit the tool's two
different sizes of over shots.
Prior to running the overshot it is necessary to check that the correct core extension (long or
short), correct slip size, and correct shear pin (steel or brass) have been installed.
The principle of operation is as follows. On contact the slips stop at the top of the fish and
the remainder of the tool moves downwards. The spring then pushes the slips down and the
taper causes the initial grip.
An upward pull sets the slips tighter. Any upward jarring force to retrieve the fish is
transmitted through the skirt and the slips. The shear pin cannot be sheared by upward jarring
action.
Safety release is affected by downward jarring action; considerable jarring may sometimes be
required. The core remains resting on the fish, the remainder of the tool moves downwards.
Once the pin is sheared the two pawls hold the core in an upward position which keeps the
slips retracted from the taper.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 14 - Flopetrol Releasing Over Shot

FISHING TOOLS
1.7 PETROLINE HEAVY DUTY PULLING TOOL

The Petroline Heavy Duty Pulling Tool (Refer to Figure 15) is designed to minimise the
problem of wear and/or damage to fishing necks during operations where heavy jarring is
intended. This tool has been designed so that the latching dogs act on the full circumference
of a fishing neck. The Petroline heavy duty pulling tool can withstand extensive heavy jarring.
It is a shear down to release tool.
The pulling tool is run on the end of a wireline string that includes a jar accelerator, 8 - 10 ft.
of weight bar, tension jars, link jars and the heavy duty pulling tool. The wireline tool string is
run down to the fish and latched on to the fishing neck. Latching requires the core adapter
and finger core to move upwards in the latch housing; the fingers will move into the recess.
Latching is complete when the coiled spring in the upper housing returns the finger core to its
original position. Upward jarring should be continued until the object becomes loose or it is
necessary to cut off some wire or re-tie a new rope socket.
If safety disconnect is necessary several downward jars will shear the pin. The finger core will
be in the raised and release position and the wireline string may then be pulled to the surface.
NOTE: Prolonged jarring on non-heavy duty tools can result in tool failure and
the possibility of parts being left down hole.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 15 - Petroline Heavy Duty Pulling Tool

FISHING TOOLS
1.8 PCE BULLDOG SPEAR

Wireline Bulldog Spears are fishing tools specifically designed to catch stuck tubular
assemblies by spearing into their internal profiles. PCE offer three types of Bulldog Spears:
• Conventional type
• Collet type
• Releasable Collet type.
In all cases, the upward movement of a tapered rod will expand a set of Slips outward onto
the internal profile of a fish. When upward jarring is employed to free the fish, the Slips will
bite tighter into the internal profile of the stuck assembly due to the tapered arrangement
between the Slips and the tapered rod on the spear.
Conventional Spear
Figure 16 shows a conventional PCE wireline Bulldog Spear. This type of spear is primarily
designed to catch stuck tubular profiles with internal diameters ranging from 0.5 to 6.00”. The
Bulldog Spear consist of Top Sub/Fish Neck, Tapered Rod and hardened and tempered Slips
which are dovetailed into grooves in the Tapered Rod. The through bore in the Tapered Rod
and the hole drilled in the Top Sub facilitates fluid bypass when running the spear in the
tubing.
Depending on the ID of the fish, the number of Slips used will vary.
NOTE: The conventional Bulldog Spear cannot be released once it catches on the
internal profile of a down hole assembly. This Bulldog Spear must be run
with a jar-down-to-release pulling tool to ensure that release is possible
from the spear when necessary.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 16 - Conventional PCE Bulldog Spear

FISHING TOOLS
1.9 RELEASABLE COLLET TYPE BULLDOG SPEAR

The PCE Releasable Collet Type Bulldog Spear is used to catch stuck assemblies with internal
diameters ranging from 0.875 to 3.5”. The releasable collet type spear consists of a spear,
centre mandrel with attached fishing neck, collet slips, spring and outer mandrel with an
internal fishing neck. This spear has no fluid bypass features.
The principle of operation is as follows. A shear-up-to-release running/pulling tool (e.g.
Camco ‘JU’ or Otis ‘RB’) is used to run the spear into the fish. When the fishing tool spears
the down hole assembly, the collet will positively stop on top of the fish and the spear will
move into the bore of the fish. This action will compress the spring and simultaneously allow
the collet slips to retract as the OD of the taper on the centre mandrel reduces.
When the collet slips are retracted sufficiently, they will force the collet slips down the taper
and grip. An upward pull on the wireline will move the centre mandrel up and expand the
collet slips to bite into the fish. Upward jarring is then applied to free the fish or shear the
shear pin in the running/pulling tool.
To release the spear from the fish, a shear-up-to-release pulling tool is used (e.g. Otis ‘GR’) to
drive down the Centre Mandrel and latch into internal fishing neck on the outer mandrel. As
the centre mandrel is driven down, the collet slips retract on the taper until the pulling tool
latches. With the collet slips retracted, upward jarring will free the spear from the fish.
NOTE: Due to the presence of the spring, the downward movement of the centre
mandrel and the latching of the pulling tool is essential for the release of
the spear.

FISHING TOOLS
1.10 WIRE FINDER

This is run to locate the top of the wire to lift the broken edge away from the side of the
tubing and bend it allowing the wire grab to latch it (although the Bowen wire finder is
designed to find and retrieve the wire in 1 run, this seldom is the case and it is prudent to aim
for locating the wire and preparing it for the next run (wireline Grab).
Once we have run the wireline finder and located and tagged the top of the wire we next run
is to fish the wire back to surface.
The two traditional types of wire finder are the bell shaped finder and the Bowen
finder/retriever.
Bell Shaped Finder

This type of finder is a solid, thin walled device which is belled out to conform with the tubing
drift diameter. When correctly used it will seldom miss the top of the wire, however, the
disadvantages are:
• Difficult to get through the Christmas tree.
• Cannot pass through nipples.
• Cannot retrieve the wire.
Bowen Finder/Retriever
The Bowen wireline retriever consists of a top sub, mandrel, main sub, spear point, slip and
skirt. The retriever may be dressed with various skirt sizes to conform to tubing drift.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 17 - Wire Finders

FISHING TOOLS
1.10.1 Bowen Wire finder

In operation, the Bowen retriever is run into the well, the well fluid and friction cause the skirt
to ride up on the mandrel, exposing the spear point and the opening between the spear point
and the skirt.
When the tool contacts the broken line, the line will pass through the space between the spear
and the skirt. A loss of running in weight will show when contact has been made. Stopping the
decent causes the skirt to move down the mandrel, wedging the caught line between the
matching tapers of the skirt and the spear. Pulling up on the wireline securely wedges the line,
the entire wireline can then be pulled from the well.
The main disadvantages of this device are:
• Can be difficult to get through the tree.
• Difficult to pass through nipples and remain effective.
• If used roughly, the fingers which make up the skirt can distort or break off
causing further problems.
Figure 18 - Bowen Wire Finder

FISHING TOOLS
1.11 WIRE SCRATCHER

This is a tool originally designed for
'scratching' paraffin from the tubing
wall, but is ideally suited for finding
wire below nipples due to its flexibility.
The scratcher wire finder consists of a
5 ft length of 3/4” stem with 5 sets of
two adjacent 1/8” holes 180° opposed,
at approx. 1 ft intervals along the stem.
A length of wire, (approx. 15 ft) would
be fed through the topmost hole, until
the centre of the wire is reached. One
side of the wire will then be looped
around the stem to the next set of
holes, allowing the loop to cover a 270°
arc.
The other side of the wire is fed
through its adjacent hole and then
counter fed to cross the first loop and
also describe a 270° arc. This
procedure is carried out along the
length of the stem, so that a 360°
coverage exists, and the loop ODs
conform to the tubing ID. (This can
generally be gauged inside the
lubricator, or another piece of tubing.)
The main advantages of this tool are:
• It is extremely versatile in
that it can be used in
almost any size of tubing.
• It is flexible enough to be
tapped down through the
nipples without damaging
them, and then return to its
original shape.
• In most cases, this tool will
not only find the wire, but
also retrieve it.
• Easily passes through the
Christmas tree.
The disadvantage is that it is possible to
miss the top of the wire in the hole, as
with any type of wire finder.
Figure 19 - Wire Scratcher

FISHING TOOLS
1.12 WIRELINE GRABS

These come in various designs such as two, three and four prong. The most important point
when choosing a grab is to choose one which is not too big for the job.
The largest inflexible OD on the grab must be measured. Assume that two wraps of wire, one
on top of the other are around that particular OD. Make sure that the total OD is smaller than
the smallest ID that the grab must pass through.
1.12.1 Preparing the Grab

Bend open the prongs of the grab until
approx. 1/2” larger than the tubing ID.
Compress the prongs (without bending
them) to less than the safety valve ID
and bind two wraps of packing tape
around the tips of the prongs. (This will
be worn off when running up and down
the tubing directly below the safety valve
nipple).
It must be considered that although the
main priority is to retrieve the fish, it
must not be achieved at the expense of
scoring the bore of the SVLN.
Therefore, all precautions must be taken
to avoid this happening.
Figure 20 - Preparing the Wireline Grab

FISHING TOOLS
1.13 FISHING CLAMP

If there is any possibility of losing any of the strands back through the wireline valve, then use
a fishing clamp, (consisting of two pieces of angle iron back to back, bolted together so that
the wire is clamped between the plates). The clamp must be long enough to straddle the
wireline valve.
Once the wire has been clamped, it would be removed from the grab, and the grab and pulling
tool replaced by a gauge cutter. The objective now being to pull the wire as far up the
lubricator as possible. (Additional lubricator sections would be an advantage at this stage.) The
broken ends of the wire would be looped over the skirt of the gauge cutter and secured by
tying a wrap around wire knot (as per type ‘B’ rope socket), or by using a 2 ins length of tube,
which would make a tidier and more secure method of anchoring the wire.
The ideal sizes of tube would be:
• 0.092 wire = 1/4 “ control line.
• 0.108/0.125 wire = 3/8” control line or copper pipe.
• 3
/16” braided line = 1/2” copper pipe.
CAUTION: It is tempting at this stage to attach the gauge cutter directly onto
the rope socket. This can be dangerous, as a certain amount of
weight is required to overcome the effect of the well pressure
acting on the cross-sectional area of the wire. Failure to allow for
this could cause the rope socket and gauge cutter to be blown up
to the top of the lubricator.
Figure 21 - Fishing Clamp

FISHING TOOLS
1.14 GO-DEVIL
The go-devil is similar in appearance to stem. It is available in 11/2” and 17/8” sizes in lengths
from 18 to 60 ins (5 ft). It has a slot milled along its length and a filler plate which is held in
position with roll pins, leaving a hole in the centre to run smoothly down the wire.
There are two major types of go-devil:
• Bevelled
• Flat-bottomed.
Figure 22- Go-Devil

FISHING TOOLS
Bevelled Go-Devil
A bevelled go-devil is used to slide down wire and cut at the socket by a ‘slicing’ action.
Length is determined by well content:
• Long in heavy oil.
• Short in light fluid.
This tool is NOT recommended in gas, as speed of impact could cause considerable
tubing/casing damage.
Ensure diameter is sufficient to prevent devil wedging alongside tool string.
The Flat-Bottomed Go-Devil

A flat bottom is used to:
• Trip Flopetrol cutter and Kinley.
• Provide cutting base on sand/wire.
• Add weight to tool string to jar down.
• Assist tool string back into tubing (past mule shoe).
NOTE: When assembling Go-devil above BOP or tree connection, pack Quick
Union with rags to prevent pieces being dropped inside.

FISHING TOOLS
1.15 LEAD IMPRESSION BLOCK

The lead impression block is similar in appearance to the blind box but it is filled with lead
which extends below the bottom edge. The lead is held in position by a roll pin or hex headed
bolt. either of these are installed prior to pouring molten lead inside.
Advantages
Lead impression blocks are used to obtain an image of a wide range of equipment down hole
to be latched or fished e.g. rope socket (with or without wire). prongs, lock mandrels and
parted tubing.
Disadvantages
Lead impression blocks have no shear off facility
A false or double impression can occur at obstructions while running in hole (RIH) prior to
reaching the obstruction/tool to be fished, causing difficulty when interpreting the image
obtained.
Only a single downward stroke is used to make the impression, otherwise multiple
impressions will confuse image or loosen the lead.
Figure 23 - Lead Impression Block

FISHING TOOLS
1.16 TOOL SUMMARY

Tool Use Comment
Bowen Wire Finder Difficult to pass nipple ID
Locate top of broken wire
Wire Scratcher Care required near Side Pocket Mandels
Wire Grab To latch ball of wire

Run on rope socket + RB
Centre Spear To pierce thick ball of wire
Tubular Jars When broken wire is in hole Reduce hazard of fouling jars
Cutter Bar To cut broken wire Consider – blind box size carefully
Go-Devil : Bevelled To cut wire at rope socket Do not drop in gas
: Flat As cutting force for Flopetrol Check sizes
Kinley Snepper To cut wire Does not return on line usually
Flopetrol Cutter Cut wire close to rope socket Returns on line
Side Wall Cutter To cut broken wire Leaves long pieces above rope socket
Magnet To recover small pieces Magnetic steel only
Over Shot Run on rope socket +SB

To latch worn smooth items
Flopetrol Over Shot Can be released by jarring DOWN
Broach To increase tubing ID Use with care
Impression Block To obtain ‘picture’ Smooth before use

Table 2 - Tool Summary

FISHING TOOLS
1.17 WIRE CUTTING TOOLS

1.17.1 Sidewall Cutter
The Sidewall Cutter is designed to run down the well beside the broken wire and cut against
the tubing wall.
This tool can be run on a jar down pulling tool. The cutters have a shear pin which prevents
them expanding prematurely.
Cut wire must be recovered before any attempt is made to pull this cutter as the loose end of
the wire would bail up ABOVE the cutter.
When running it may be advisable to use a weakened rope socket. It is possible for the cut end
of the wire to become entangled in the tool string and the use of this ‘weak’ rope socket will
allow the tool string to be left behind.
NOTE: Using the sidewall cutter will still leave long pieces of wire above the fish
rope socket.
Figure 24 - Sidewall Cutter

FISHING TOOLS
1.17.2 Kinley Snepper

The Kinley Snepper will cut any line up to and including 0.125 ins and 7/32 ins electric
(braided) line. It is 21/2 ft long and can be run in a 11/4” minimum ID or larger. It will cut the
line 21/2” above the rope socket, (this is important when fishing for the rope socket as a
pulling tool with an ‘S’ core would be required to grip the neck of the rope socket.)
It is designed to be dropped into the hole and operates by the impact of its own weight when
it hits bottom.
As the snepper cuts, it also crimps the line and clamps onto it. This action makes it possible to
pull the snepper back up with the cut line, (though only use the crimper if the snepper has
sufficient weight to overcome the force of well pressure on the cross-sectional area of the
wire).
Figure 25 - Kinley Snepper

FISHING TOOLS
1.17.3 Flopetrol Slick Line Cutter

A Flopetrol cable cutter can be used to cut wire in a well providing it is still accessible at the
surface. If the wire has broken down hole then a different type of cutter must be used.
The cable cutter is attached to the wireline and dropped into the well. It strikes the rope
socket or go-devil (used when there is sand etc. covering the rope-socket), and cuts the wire
simultaneously gripping the cut end. The cable cutter can then be retrieved with the fishing
wire. By changing the components it can cut all sizes of slickline and braided line up to ¼”.
diameter, leaving 1 ins. of wire remaining above the rope socket. The cutter can be used in
two ways, with the tool in 'standard' mode and the hammer an integral part of the tool or in
the 'interface' mode. If there is a restriction or a fluid level in the well, it is possible, due to the
operation of the 'standard' tool, that it will cut the wire at these points, For this reason the
Flopetrol cable cutter can be deployed in the 'interface' mode. This involves removing the
hammer section from the cutting section. The tapered wedge in the cutter is pinned with a
brass shear pin to avoid premature shearing. The cutting section is then attached to the
wireline. (Before starting this operation, the BOP must be closed and the pressure bled off
from the lubricator).
The lubricator can now be made up to the BOP, the pressure equalised across it and the BOP
opened. The cable cutter will now be free to drop down the hole. The time it takes for the
cutter to reach the rope-socket will vary depending on the depth, deviation and the type of
fluid in the hole. Once it is considered that the cutter has reached the rope-socket, an overpull
should be exerted on the wireline to ascertain whether the cutter bar above has cut the
wireline. If not, the wireline should be slacked off, the BOP closed and the lubricator bled off
and removed. The hammer/weight bar can now be installed and dropped in the same manner
as the cutter section. When the hammer section hits the cutting section, the impact is
transmitted through the cutting assembly, cutting and gripping the wireline.
The 'interface' tool can be retrieved on the wire in the same manner as the 'standard' cutter.
The cutter and go-devil are recovered with the wire and give a clean cut, close to the rope
socket. They can be used in oil or gas by varying the length of the go-devil.
CAUTION: the OD of tool string to be dropped on and the ID of tubing should

be known and if necessary centralisers should be added to the
cutter to prevent it going down the side of the tool string.

FISHING TOOLS
Figure 26 - Flopetrol Wireline Cutter

FISHING TOOLS
1.17.4 Centraliser Design

Ensure that the OD of the centraliser will sit against the tubing wall on one side with the
other side slightly overlapping the tool string OD.
Ensure that the centraliser OD with two wraps of wire around it will pass through the smallest
ID (calculated safety factor).
Having dropped the snepper, the current state of the operation is as follows:
1. The lubricator is in position with the wireline valve rams partially open and the
wire attached to the gauge cutter in the lubricator.
2. Attempt to pull the gauge cutter as high as possible into the lubricator, (this
should be possible if the wire is cut from the tool string, if not some manipulation
may be necessary or else a flat bottomed go devil dropped on top of the snepper).
3. Having established that the wire is cut, close the wireline valve and bleed off the
lubricator.
4. Knowing at this stage that there is only a 2.5 ft long snepper to pull back, the
lubricator can be rigged down to one section or even crossover and stuffing box
to sit onto the wireline valve. This makes back feeding the wire much easier and
less dangerous to fingers etc.
5. Once the line has been back feed through the stuffing box, it should then be
spliced (using pipe splices as discussed with gauge cutter), onto the 0.108 drum,
3
/16" drum, or direct to the spooling device, whichever is most convenient, and
having opened the wireline valve the wire can be retrieved from the hole.
CAUTION: When retrieving the wire, a stage will be reached where pressure
acting on the cross section area of the wire creates a force greater
than the weight of the wire in the hole, at this stage the wire could
blow out of the stuffing box and out of control. Ensure that non
essential personnel are aware of this, so that they may stand well
clear.

FISHING TOOLS
1.18 BLIND BOX

The blind box is used when heavy down ward jarring is required to dislodge a fish or push a
tool down the hole. It is flat on the bottom and hardened to reduce ware and damage
Advantages
Blind boxes are available in a wide range of sizes and incorporate a fishing facility. They
require little maintenance as they have no moving parts. They can be used when fishing
wireline.
Disadvantages
Blind boxes do not have a shear off facility and they can become entangled with wireline when
fishing and damage the restriction to be jarred on.

INTRODUCTION TO FISHING
OPERATIONS
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION TO FISHING OPERATIONS 1

1.1 PRE-PLANNING 1
1.1.1 Areas Of Problems 3
1.1.2 Fishing In Deviated Wells 4
1.1.3 Safety Precautions 4
1.2 FISHING PLANNER 5
1.3 WHAT CAUSES A SLICKLINE FISH? 6
1.4 MINIMISE CAUSES OF SLICKLINE FISH 7

OPERATIONS
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Typical Slickline Fishing Rig Up 2
Figure 2 - Fishing Planner 5

OPERATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION TO FISHING OPERATIONS

1.1 PRE-PLANNING
1. Before launching into a usually complicated and time consuming fishing operations the
following should be addressed:
• Does the tool have to be fished?
• Can the fish be left in place?
• Will fish have fallen to the bottom?
• Can the fish be pushed to the sump?
• Can the well be flowed in the interim?
• Can the operation be conducted using slickline?
2. The accuracy of the records taken may have a bearing on the success or failure of the
fishing operation. If the exact configuration of the tool string to be fished is not known
it could be far more difficult to retrieve.
3. Prior to starting the fishing operation give it a great deal of thought to the requirements
of the surface rig-up. The configuration of the surface equipment will almost certainly
need to be changed in order to accommodate the fishing plus the fish, or alternatively to
give access to the end of the broken wireline when it has been successfully brought to
surface. Especially important is the height of available lubricator which will be severely
limited when working under the rig substructure.
NOTE: Can it accommodate both tool strings above the swab.
NOTE: For the above reasons it is preferable to conduct fishing operations

through the rig. (If available.)
4. When fishing for broken wireline it is normal to rely on the wireline BOPs to isolate the
well from the fished wire in order to allow for example a double rope socket to be tied.
It is essential that the BOPs are dressed for the size of wire to be fished. They should be
certified and pressure tested before starting fishing operations.
NOTE: Under ideal circumstances two sets of BOPs would be used to fish for
broken wire giving extra barrier situation.
NOTE: If conducting the fishing operation using slickline you get a superior
jarring action and feel, but has a poorer mechanical strength compared to
braided line.

OPERATIONS
Figure 1 - Typical Slickline Fishing Rig Up

OPERATIONS
Although the techniques described in these Scenarios have proven to produce a more than
average degree of success, they are by no means the only method of wireline fishing and
alternative suggestions should also be given every consideration. Whichever techniques are
used, they can be assisted by following certain ground rules which can save time and money:
• Make sure that you have all the information required, preferably a completion
schematic and not just numbers written on the back of a cigarette packet. Attempt
also to find out differential pressures and well conditions which may well effect
the fishing operation.
• On any wireline job, make sure the equipment lengths and sizes are well
documented. Draw fishing sketch to scale.
• Think the job through before commencing and ensure that all equipment is
capable of doing the job, (i.e. wireline valve is tested etc.).
• Avoid large committee decisions, too many people involved tend to see too many
gremlins, and just serve to cloud main issues.
• Patience is the key word, short cuts during fishing operations lead to more
problems and longer fishing jobs. Fully record all fishing stages, even if not
successful. If crew changes have to take place, relief operators are less likely to
duplicate mistakes.
Relatively few and inexpensive tools are required for wireline fishing operations. Having a
good comprehensive fishing tool box on each platform with such things as blind boxes,
removable centralisers for go-devils and wire cutters, manufactured to suit 2 or 3 different
sizes of tubing on the platforms adds up to surprisingly few pieces but can certainly save a
great deal of money and time in extra helicopter flights for more equipment and extra time
spent fishing with the wrong size of equipment.
1.1.1 Areas Of Problems

Problem areas to be considered prior to commencement of fishing operations:
• Well Conditions
• Completion Component Layout
• Surface Conditions
• Communication Considerations
• Are persons competent/suitably trained to carry out fishing operations
• Availability of correct fishing tools.

OPERATIONS
1.1.2 Fishing In Deviated Wells

Of all of types of wireline operations, running in highly deviated wells is the most arbitrary
when laying down guide lines. Tool strings that according to well files have worked in the
past, fail to work etc. However it is important that the well files are consulted to at least give a
starting point:
• Hydraulic or spring jars should always be included in the string. In gas wells
spring jars are preferred as they cannot gas up and therefore adversely affect
downward jarring requirements.
• Consideration should be given to making the entire stem in the string roller stem.
Roller stem either side of the spang jars can assist jarring.
• Careful use of knuckle joints can assist in passing doglegs. Never place knuckle
joint immediately below the rope socket.
1.1.3 Safety Precautions

Safety while fishing, as in all wireline operations is of primary importance. The use of BOPs to
seal the well while attaching devices to the wire is common. Personnel involved in the
operation should be made fully aware of the procedures and changes involved and be wearing
the proper protective clothing and equipment. Only essential personnel should be within the
restricted area.
If tool strings are stuck, higher than normal pulls will be applied to the wireline, which can
result in the wire breaking at or near surface, possible causing injury, the eyes being especially
vulnerable. An increased level of safety awaness is essential during a fishing operation.
NOTE: Good communication is essential especially on a live well fishing

operation.
NOTE: If changing over to braided line to carry out fishing operations make sure
that the slings and shackles are suitable strength and in certification.
NOTE: During fishing operations equipment can be the subject of wear and tear.

OPERATIONS
1.2 FISHING PLANNER
Figure 2 - Fishing Planner

OPERATIONS
1.3 WHAT CAUSES A SLICKLINE FISH?

• Bending stresses
• Testing of wire
• Lack of control when jarring
• Introducing well pressure
• The string entry into lubrication
• Exceeding safe limit of wire strength
• Tools blown up down hole
• Tools stuck down hole
• Kick in wire
• Bad spot in wire
• Unclear verbal communication
• Hydrates formation
• Well condition
• General condition of equipment
• Tool preparation
• Selection and care of wire
• Shear ratings (shear stock).

OPERATIONS
1.4 MINIMISE CAUSES OF SLICKLINE FISH

It is the aim of the wireline operator to carry out operations in a safe and timely manner
without becoming stuck, breaking the wire, being blown up the hole or losing tools etc. To
prevent these occurrences the following good wireline practices should be observed:
• Check and maintain equipment regularly. Function test all equipment to be run
including hydraulic and spang jars
• Check that running/pulling tools move to the sheared position by removing the
shear pins and testing them on an appropriate fish neck
• Always ensure that a tool with an OD larger than the rest of the tool string is run
below the jars and check that all thread connections are tight
• Observe that the load limitations of the wire being used are never exceeded
• Maintain the wireline and lubricate with oil when running into the well to reduce
friction and wear to the stuffing box. Take precautions to avoid kinking the wire
and check that the counter is correctly zeroed at the appropriate datum point
• Keep the hydraulic pressure relief valve correctly adjusted
• Use correct equalising procedures with the proper prong, wait until equalisation is
complete
• Concentrate on what you are doing. Try to visualise what is happening down hole
as the wire is manipulated at the surface. If unsure, ask for assistance
• Maintain a careful record of tool string dimensions i.e. fish neck sizes, ODs and
lengths. Think ahead, be prepared for problems
• Check the programme and/or well files for current well status and previous
problems en-countered. Follow the programme and do not deviate unless prior
approval has been obtained.
NOTE: However careful an operator is, fishing jobs will still occur due to
equipment failures, well conditions and unexpected problems.
NOTE: Discuss a fishing programme with all the relevant personnel and consider
all possible results of each time the well bore is entered and plan for the
various possibilities.
• Make sure that wire is not in contact with rig floor, beams etc. as this will cause
damage from abrasion.
• If taking control of well i.e. Hydraulic Pumps for SCSSV and HMV make sure
hold open pressure are not exceeded and closely monitored for any pressure drop
(Possible leaks).
• Make sure that signs and barriers are up to prevent anyone closing swab valve etc.
especially with adjacent operations ongoing.
• Make sure that all hydraulic pumps used have a back up air supply in case of an
emergency.

OPERATIONS

RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR
FISHING OPERATIONS
CONTENTS

OPERATIONS 1
1.1 WIRELINE BROKEN AT SURFACE AND TRAPPED AT HAY PULLEY 1
1.2 WIRELINE PULLED OUT OF ROPE SOCKET 3
1.3 WIRELINE BLOWN UP HOLE 4
1.4 STRIPPING OF FISHED WIRELINE 7
1.5 CUTTING WIRELINE WITH BLIND BOX 9
1.6 CUTTING WIRELINE AT THE ROPE SOCKET WITH KINLEY
SNEPPER 11
1.7 RETRIEVING A STUCK TOOL STRING 13
1.8 FISHING FOR KNOWN/UNIDENTIFIED OBJECTS 14
1.8.1 Fishing For Unidentified Objects 14
1.9 FISHING FOR WIRELINE TOOLS 15
1.9.1 Fishing For Wireline Tools With a Fish Neck 15
1.9.2 Fishing For Tools Without A Fishneck 15
1.10 LEAD IMPRESSION BLOCK 16
1.10.1 Recommended Running Procedure for a Lead Impression Block 16
1.11 RECOMMENDED RUNNING PROCEDURE FOR WIRE FINDERS 18
1.12 RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR RUNNING SCRATCHER /
WIRE FINDER 19
1.13 RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR RUNNING A WIRELINE GRAB 20
1.13.1 Running a Wireline Grab/Spear 21

FISHING OPERATIONS
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Chain Link Type Knot 2
Figure 2 - Double Adaptor Rope Socket Type 2
Figure 3 - Wireline Fish 4
Figure 5 - Kinley Snipper 12
Figure 6 - Camera Views 14
Figure 7 - Preparing the Wireline Grab 20

FISHING OPERATIONS

OPERATIONS
Of all the possible fishing situations broken wire is the most common and for this reason it
will be discussed first.
The two possibilities are:
• Wire broken ON SURFACE, and remaining visible.
• Wire broken DOWN HOLE.
1.1 WIRELINE BROKEN AT SURFACE AND TRAPPED AT HAY

PULLEY
When the wire breaks at the surface it occasionally gets trapped in the hay pulley or the
stuffing box. If it jams at the hay pulley the normal procedure is to fit the wireline clamp on
the wire, pull out the stack, if any and connect the two broken ends together by either looping
the ends round each other and wrapping them and/or using a double male crossover,
attaching a rope socket on each end of wire and connecting them together, you can also use a
nut or chain link to join wire together. Pull the wire out of the hole, remove the tool string
and the broke wireline. Spool on a new line if the remaining line is too short to carry out
further operations. If the wire is broken at the stuffing box and the tool string is free the
procedure would be:
1. Close the BOP rams to grip the wire. Bleed off all pressure in the lubricator. Remove
one section of lubricator, back-thread the wireline through the remaining lubricator and
stuffing box and reconnect wire as above.
2. Take up all wire slack with the wireline unit. Equalise and open the BOP rams. If there
is enough lubricator remaining to accommodate the tool string, then POOH. If not,
then enough wireline should be POOH to allow the section of lubricator to be re-
installed in the rig-up.
NOTE: Hay pulley may have to be repositioned to allow knot to pass. The wire
can also be removed from counter head to pass on to drum.
NOTE: The BOPs should be re-closed and pressure bled off.
NOTE: Always attempt, if possible, to make the connection so that it is wound

onto the reel a number of times before picking up heavy weights or
jarring.
3. Cut the wire at the wireline unit and rig-down lubricator. Pull the wireline out of the
stuffing box and lubricator. Add the lubricator section and back-feed through the
stuffing box. Re-rig the lubricator and re-connect the wireline as before. Take up all wire
slack with the wireline unit. Equalise and open the BOP. POOH with tool string.

FISHING OPERATIONS
The wire is reconnected, using a nut, link from chain, or disc or rope sockets and spooled
back onto drum. Hay Pulley may have to be repositioned to permit knot to pass. Wire can be
removed from counter head to allow the knot to go onto drum.
Figure 1 - Chain Link Type Knot
Figure 2 - Double Adaptor Rope Socket Type

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.2 WIRELINE PULLED OUT OF ROPE SOCKET

When it is suspected that the wire has pulled out of the rope socket on the tool string during a
wireline operation:
1. Remove all wire from the well, measuring it back on the wireline unit drum and leaving
the tools in the well. Check what fishing tools are available.
2. Inform the wireline supervisor of the situation and what equipment is available before
taking any further action.
3. If given instructions to proceed, rig up a second tool string consisting of 5 ft stem,
mechanical jars, knuckle joint and attach a lead impression block to suit the tubing size.
4. Pressure the lubricator. Run in carefully and take a single impression of the rope socket
by gently tapping down once only with the jars.
5. Pull out of the well, depressurise the lubricator and inspect the impression made in the
block.
6. If the impression indicates some wire is still attached to the rope socket, inform the
wireline supervisor.
7. If a clean impression is obtained, rig up extra lubricator and an additional wireline BOP
to enable both tool strings to be retrieved.
8. Attach an ‘SB’ pulling tool with brass shear pin installed and a flared skirt, if in 41/2”. or
larger tubing, to the tool string.
9. Pressure up the lubricator, run in and latch the rope socket.
10. On instruction from the wireline supervisor, either:
Jar down to shear pins in the device down hole, to free the tool string. This will
also shear the pin in the ‘SB’ pulling tool and a second run will be required to
latch and fish the tool string. Remove the ‘SB’ pulling tool and attach the pulling
tool, for the down hole device, and retrieve.
or
Jar up with the retrieving tool string on the device and retrieve it in one run.
11. If the reason for pulling out of the rope socket is apparent, e.g. a valve being run
becoming jammed in a nipple, lost jar action etc., check and re-arrange the tool string. If
necessary, also inspect the packing etc. on the device.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.3 WIRELINE BLOWN UP HOLE

This is the last, but most difficult of the
three types of fishing job, and deals with the
problems resulting in the tool string being
'blown up the hole'.
The most common causes of being blown
up the hole are:
• Opening a jar up to open
sliding side door.
• Pulling gas lift valves from side
pocket mandrels.
• Bailing sand bridges.
• Insufficient equalisation of
plugs.
When conducting these types of operations,
full consideration must be given to the
possibilities of differential pressure, and the
various methods employed to equalise them
in a controlled manner. A hydrostatic
differential pressure from the annulus to the
tubing can cause the same damage as a
pressure build up below the plug. Great
care must be taken to ensure that pressures
are equalised properly.
There are essentially three considerations
that will effect equalisation:
• Depth.
• Flow area through equalising
ports.
• Gas oil ratio (the more gas, the
longer equalisation will take.)
The amount of differential pressure will
have very little bearing on the equalisation
time.
Common equalisation port sizes used in
today’s down hole equipment can mean
equalisation times of 1-6 or more hours,
and this must be taken into consideration
before running down hole controls.
Figure 3 - Wireline Fish

FISHING OPERATIONS
An operator will know immediately when his tool string has been blown up the hole. The
symptom will normally be a complete loss of weight on the wire. The tool string will have
acted as a piston, and could be blown as much as 100 ft or more up the hole, overtaking the
wire and leaving a considerable loop below the tool string.
When the tool string loses upward motion and starts to fall back, it will generally create a
considerable tangle which will wedge itself into the tubing.
The immediate reaction is to try and pull the wire ball up the hole. However, if the operator is
successful in pulling the ball up the hole, there is a good possibility that the ball will get stuck
in the Christmas Tree, since there will be no jar action available and there is no way of telling
how long the ball is or where the tool string is located within the ball. There is a strong
possibility that the ball and tool string could straddle the tree and the wireline valve, leaving no
means of shutting the well in, also, pulling too much weight on the wire will tighten the ball
due to the wireline from the surface being connected to a point below the ball. The following
procedure is recommended.
When there is no longer sufficient weight showing on the weight indicator, and the operator
believes he has been blown up the hole, he should only pick up enough weight to establish
whether or not he has a ball of wire in the tubing, (i.e. if normal pick-up weight was 400 lbs,
he should pick-up to 450-500 lbs). By sitting down again, and losing weight, the operator will
know that the wire is balled in the tubing.
Close in the wireline valve, bleed down the lubricator, lift the lubricator and attach a flat
bottomed go-devil to the wire (make sure that the go-devil is centralised for the correct size of
tubing). The go-devil will form a base for a wireline cutter. Allow sufficient time for the go-
devil to fall and then drop the Kinley or Flopetrol cutter (also centralised), to cut the wire on
top of the go-devil. Retrieve the cut wire from the well, with luck the wireline cutter will also
be attached to the wire.
At this point it must be considered that any further fishing could result in the complete ball of
wire being retrieved. Therefore, the lubricator stack must be re-organised.
The wireline valve should now be placed at a higher point in the lubricator stack so that
sufficient room between the tree and the wireline valve exists to accommodate the tool string.
This manoeuvre allows the swab valve to be closed if the tool string becomes stuck across the
wireline valve, or vice versa.
A fishing tool string must now be assembled and should consist of a rope socket, stem
(shortest and lightest possible), tubular jars, knuckle joint. Below this should be a centraliser
(the same size as the go-devil centraliser), 3 ft - 5 ft of stem (as a spacer), ‘RS’ or ‘UO’ pulling
tool (with the smallest skirt considered necessary).
NOTE: The running of an lead impression block before trying to pull the go-
devil, could only serve to drive the go-devil further down in the wire ball,
therefore, it is recommended that an attempt is made to fish the go-devil
first, and only run the lead impression block if that attempt fails.

FISHING OPERATIONS
When the depth of the go-devil/wire is established, the amount of wire in the ball can be
calculated. This can aid in deciding on the techniques to be used.
Having either retrieved the go-devil or failed to retrieve it, an lead impression block would
now be run to establish whether a fishing neck or strands of wire are looking up. If an
impression of the go-devil is looking up through the wire strand, then a ‘BE’ type of pulling
tool may be necessary to grip the fishing neck.
In the event that the go-devil has been retrieved and an impression of the tool string rope
socket has been taken then the type of device that the tool string is attached to would dictate
whether an attempt is made to retrieve the tool string before the wire, or whether a wire spear
arrangement, or wire grab is to be used. The barbs on spears or grabs can break off if they
come into heavy contact with solid equipment, adding further complication to the fishing job,
so this step merits careful consideration and cautious wirelining.
If we are in the more likely position of having wire looking up, then a narrow bodied, two or
three prong grab with a rope socket attached, should be run on an ‘RB’ attached to a
conventional fishing string.
First, attempt to pull the wire up the hole, if this fails then light jarring will be necessary. If the
pin in the ‘RB’ shears, and the wire has not moved, then it is obvious that some heavier jarring
is necessary. The ‘RB’ would be changed for an ‘SB’ type tool, and the additional use of spring
or hydraulic jars must be considered.
At this stage, it is impossible to predict further occurrences, but consideration should be given
to circulating, flowing or killing the well. Remember to consider the forces applied to tool
string piston areas, and the potential damage or good that could be achieved, especially by
using high pump rates.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.4 STRIPPING OF FISHED WIRELINE

Prior to commencing fishing operations under pressure, the following important points must
be noted:
• When pulling wire with tool string and/or fish, sufficient lubricator length is
required to accommodate both tool strings above the swab valve (with both jars
open)
• When the wire is open-ended, it may be forcibly ejected from the stuffing box by
the well pressure when the wire end is close to the surface. Ensure that all non-
essential personnel are excluded from the immediate area.
1. Pull up until the wireline grab/spear is as far up into the lubricator as possible to leave
the maximum length of wire beneath it to work with.
2. Close the BOP rams and note the travel of the manual stems. This will indicate if the
rams have successfully closed or not. If closed completely, this usually indicates the wire
bundle/’birds nest’ is completely contained in the lubricator and the BOP rams are
closed on the fished wire.
3. Bleed down the lubricator. Close in the bleed valve and monitor lubricator pressure.
4. Before backing off the quick union, the pressure gauge should be checked and should
be reading zero pressure. The bleed off valve must be re-opened.
5. Back off the quick union and pick up the lubricator slowly, making sure that the wire
bundle/’birds nest’ inside does not snag.
NOTE: The wireline operator must slack off as the lubricator is being lifted.
6. Place and secure a wireline bar clamp to the wire immediately above the BOPs.
7. Lower the fishing string out of the lubricator and remove the wireline grab/spear and
wire bundle/’birds nest’.
8. Rig down the lubricator (or stand it to one side).
9. If necessary, strip through enough wire to feed back through the lubricator and stuffing
box. This is done by attaching a tugger line to the bar clamp and picking up. The line is
then secured at BOP level using a second bar clamp.
NOTE: The wireline can also be attached to a gauge cutter and the wireline
winch used to strip the wire through the BOP.
10. Thread the tail end through the lubricator assembly and the stuffing box. Make up the
stuffing box to the lubricator and position this assembly above the clamp on top of the
BOPs.
11. Remove the wire from the unit depth counter wheel assembly (to allow the knot to be
pulled onto the drum).
12. Join the ends of the wire using a nut and a standard wireline knot.

FISHING OPERATIONS
13. Pick up tension on the line using the wireline winch. Examine the knot closely. Make
sure that it does not begin to unwind under tension.
14. Remove the bar clamp from above the BOPs and stab on the lubricator, making up the
quick union (as the lubricator is lowered, the tension in the wireline will drop off).
15. Take up the tension in the wireline using the winch and open the equalising valve on the
BOPs.
16. Allow the pressure to equalise across the BOP and open same.
17. Pull out of hole with the wireline until the wireline knot and several wraps are on the
drum. Place a wireline clamp on the line and slack off the tension.
18. Replace the wire in the unit depth counter wheel and take up the tension on the
wireline.
19. Remove the wireline clamp and continue to pull out of hole.
20. Pull out of hole carefully, observing the weight indicator closely. Any sudden increase in
weight may indicate that there is a knot or kink in the wire.
NOTE: When a knot is encountered, steps 1-19 must be repeated.
21. When the end of the retrieved wireline is approaching surface, ensure that all personnel
are well clear of the immediate area in case the tail end is ejected from the well or the
wire breaks unexpectedly.
22. Post a responsible person at the BOP control to be ready to close the BOPs when the
tail end reaches the surface.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.5 CUTTING WIRELINE WITH BLIND BOX

This procedure applies when the tool is
stuck and the wire has parted prematurely
before a cutter bar has been dropped and
there is too little wire left in the well to reach
the surface.
A boxing off blind box assembly consists of
one or more lengths of wireline stem which
has a blind box attached to its lower end and
a wireline socket made up on the upper end.
(Refer to Figure 4)
The purpose of the boxing off blind box is
to cut the wire at the top of the rope socket
of the fish (toolstring), so that the wire can
be retrieved separately from the rope socket.
If the well is deviated to more that 25° the
boxing off blind box assembly, should be
dropped down the well. This is to prevent
the fishing tool string from getting tangled
up with the wire, which is to be cut.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1. Select and make up a suitable tool string. (If available, a weak point rope socket should
be used.)
NOTE: Only tubular jars should be used for fishing operations. Spang jars have
an open linkage which can become fouled by the loose wire.
2. Select a suitable blind box as follows:

• Approx. 0.250” diameter below smallest restriction to be encountered
• Hard faced
• Edges chamfered at 45° at both ends.
3. Calculate the approximate top of the loose wire. This will vary depending on the size of
wire and the tubing diameter.
4. Zero the blind box at the tubing hanger or on top of the rotary table when working
from the drill floor.
5. Pick up the tool into the lubricator and stab the lubricator on top of the BOP.
6. Pick up the tool into the lubricator and slowly open the swab valve, counting the
number of turns.
7. Run in hole slowly continuously observing weight indicator.
8. At the depth of the wire tail (top of loose wire), pay close attention to the weight
indicator. Some fall off in weight is to be expected once the tool is inside the loose wire
coils. Excessive loss of weight indicates that the tool is not being introduced cleanly into
the coils and is pushing the tail end down hole with it.
9. Sit down on top of rope socket.
10. Jar down on top of rope socket to cut/break the wire.
NOTE: When the wire has been successfully parted at the rope socket, the newly
freed end will spring up the hole. Observe weight indicator carefully for
excessive increase, indicating that the tool is not entering the bottom of
the coils cleanly.
11. Pull blind box back to surface.

12. Once the tool is confirmed to be inside the lubricator, close the xmas tree and bleed
down lubricator.
13. Back off the quick-union and raise the lubricator.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.6 CUTTING WIRELINE AT THE ROPE SOCKET WITH KINLEY

SNEPPER
This procedure applied when the tool string is stuck and the wire is still attached to the winch
at surface.
The Kinley Snipper can be used in three ways:
• Dropped onto the rope socket.
• Dropped and followed by a flat bottomed Go-Devil for cutting large OD wire, in
deviated wells or wells with high viscosity fluid.
• Dropped upside down when a rope socket is covered with sand; this gives a firm
base for a flat-bottomed Go-Devil to be dropped on to.
The objective now is to prepare the broken wire for the application of the Kinley Snipper so
that the wire may eventually be cut at the rope socket. To do this, the jars on the down hole
tool string must be closed, (so that the Kinley Snipper will strike solidly), and enough slack
wire must be played out to avoid fouling the Kinley Snipper against the tubing wall.
Satisfactory results can be achieved by allowing approx. 3” of slack per 1,000 ft in a straight
hole and approx. 6” per 1,000 ft in a deviated hole. Sufficient time must also be allowed for
the Kinley Snipper to reach the tool string. By assuming a speed of 250 ft per min in an oil
well and 350 ft per min in a gas well, 45 minute should be adequate waiting time for this
scenario.
It is important that the operator does not prematurely manipulate the wire at surface , as this
could cause the Kinley Snipper to cut the wire before reaching the rope socket, this may
possible complicate the fishing operations.
The next and most important point, is to consider the OD of the Kinley Snipper, and the OD
of the tool string versus the ID of the tubing. The Kinley Snepper for example, has an OD of
1.5”. The tool string in our case has an OD of 1.875”. Side by side that equals 3.375” OD.
The ID of 51/2” lbs per ft tubing is 4.892”.
The Kinley Snipper is designed to stay attached to the wireline once it has cut it, however, if
the Kinley Snipper fell off the end of the wire, it would locate itself beside the tool string,
possibly wedging itself between the jars and the tubing wall, creating what could be an
impossible fishing job. Therefore the Kinley Snipper MUST have centralisers fitted in order to
avoid this problem. These centralisers should be designed for each size of tubing, and kept in
a fishing box ready for fitting should the occasion arise.

FISHING OPERATIONS
Figure 5 - Kinley Snipper

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.7 RETRIEVING A STUCK TOOL STRING

This procedure refers to the recovery of a stuck tool string with a clean rope socket. Previous
to this, boxing off and LIB runs will normally have been made to prepare and check the rope
socket.
Prior to commencing any fishing operation, attempt to determine the cause of the ‘stuck tool’
from the well history. If the causes are connected with settling of debris etc., check to see if
these conditions can be removed by circulation, change of well fluid etc.
1. Ensure that there is enough length of lubricator above the swab valve to accommodate
the combined fishing and fished tools. (With both Mechanical and Hydraulic jars open)
2. Select a suitable fishing tool and shear pin type (jar-up or jar-down release mechanism)
depending on the tool to be fished.
3. If appropriate, select the correct size of guide skirt and fit a centraliser above the pulling
tool instead of a guide skirt.
4. Make up the complete fishing string with sufficient weight (when selecting the fishing
string, consideration must be given to the combined weight of the fishing string and the
tool string to be fished). Ensure that a spring/hydraulic jar is included in the fishing
string.
5. Pick up fishing string into lubricator after taking the zero on the tubing hanger flange.
6. Make up the lubricator quick union to the BOP.
7. Pressure test the lubricator and open the swab valve, counting the number of turns.
8. Run in hole slowly, observing the weight indicator closely. Run in hole to approximately
100 ft. above the top of the stuck tool.
9. Take an accurate pick-up weight and run in hole slowly. Sit down on top of the stuck
tool.
10. Pick up on the wireline and observe the weight indicator. Over pull will indicate that the
stuck tool is successfully latched. If not latched, repeat previous steps as required.
11. Once the stuck tool has been properly latched, attempt to free it using the
spring/hydraulic jars.
12. If stuck tool is freed, pull out of hole slowly and retrieve as normal.
13. If jarring produces no result, shear off fishing tool by jarring in the appropriate
direction. Pull out of hole and revert to fishing operations using heavier equipment.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.8 FISHING FOR KNOWN/UNIDENTIFIED OBJECTS

Every time wireline operations take place there is always the possibility of coming across some
sort of obstruction whether it be in the xmas tree, tubing, above an SCSSV or plug. If this is
the case then we have to find out what the obstruction may be.
In an ideal situation the down hole cameras on the market could be used but as they are
expensive and are still being experimented with basic fishing for unidentified objects would
take place. To identify and clear or free obstruction/obstructions from the well.
1.8.1 Fishing For Unidentified Objects

The down hole video camera is a state-of-the-art video system providing high resolution
pictures describing the exact situation down hole.
Applications
• Tubing/casing corrosion identification
• Inspection of down hole components for correct operation, damage or scale build
up
• Location and orientation of equipment lost in hole prior to any fishing operation
• Perforation analysis to review performance, visually confirming flow, plugging or
sand production
• Casing or tubing inspection to locate possible problem areas due to splits, leaks or
damage.
Figure 6 - Camera Views

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.9 FISHING FOR WIRELINE TOOLS

1.9.1 Fishing For Wireline Tools With a Fish Neck
Generally this type of operation is the easiest of all fishing operations. The job should be very
similar to a conventional wireline job akin to pulling a plug or safety valve, provided the fish is
free.
From the notes taken prior to the fish being lost, it will be known what type and size of
fishing neck is on the fish, it will than be a case of selecting the appropriate size and type of
pulling tool with which to latch the fish.
The most commonly used Otis pulling tools are the ‘R’, ‘S’, and G series tools. The ‘B’ series
tool would only normally be run where there is junk around the fish neck to the extent that it
could not be latched with a skirted tool such as the ‘R’ series.
The choice of tool will initially be made on whether the fish neck is internal or external, then
whether we want to shear up or down. Shear up is always the safer option, particularly when
the pulling tool is run in conjunction with spring jars. Generally the first attempt should
always be made with a shear up to release tool, so that even when fishing at depth, provided
the spring jars fire, the tool can be released. Obviously if the fish is stuck and requires upward
jarring to free it, a jar up to release pulling tool is unlikely to retrieve the fish. The next stage
will be to go to a jar down to release tool, which will allow multiple attempts to jar the fish
free using the spring jars. Careful consideration needs to be given to the amount of stem to be
put in, particularly when fishing at depth.
Too little stem (particularly if using braided line) will make shearing off extremely difficult, for
this reason pin the jar down to release pulling tool with brass shear stock at least until enough
confidence in the ability to release has been gained.
Fishing for tools with a fish neck will be complicated in case of where a small diameter tool
has fallen through tubing restrictions into the liner. In these circumstances, because the tool
may be lying across the well bore, a pulling tool may be unable to latch. Thought should be
given to using a releasable crocodile grab or similar tool in these circumstances.
1.9.2 Fishing For Tools Without A Fishneck

Usually these circumstances are caused by failure of the tool string at a threaded connection.
Inspection of the part retrieved from the well will obviously give a clue about what type of
tool should be employed to fish the rest.
If the fish has a hollow core, it may be possible to use a spear of some type; otherwise a form
of overshot will be required. Under both circumstances it is possible a special releasable tool
will need to be fabricated before the fishing operation starts.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.10 LEAD IMPRESSION BLOCK

The Lead Impression Block (LIB) is an important and useful tool to have available during
fishing operations. A selection of LIBs should be kept in the wireline toolbox in a range of
ODs to suit the various tubing and completion equipment sizes. Tapered LIBs can be used to
check damage inside internal fishing necks.
The lead core is normally pinned through the body and should be checked prior to running
the tool to ensure that it is firmly secure. Other pre-running checks are to measure the OD.
accurately and ensure that the lead base is clean and smooth and has no markings on it that
would confuse the operator when interpreting an impression.
When running in the tubing, the LIB should be lowered slowly through the Xmas tree, landing
nipples, side pocket mandrels (SPMs), and sliding side doors (SSDs); the operator should have
the depths of these completion components prior to running the tubing.
Running the LIB without a knuckle joint can avoid excessive movement of the tool while
running in. This will reduce the marking of the lead and will tend to centre the LIB for a more
representative impression.
The LIB should be handled with care on recovery to avoid making any other marks on the
lead that would make the impression taken down hole difficult to interpret. The LIB can be
used with excellent results and will assist the operator in selecting the correct fishing tool to
clear the tubing and return the well to normal operations.
1.10.1 Recommended Running Procedure for a Lead Impression Block

1. Select a suitable size of lead impression block. It should be at least 0.25 ins. below the
smallest tubing restriction to be encountered.
2. Prepare the base of the lead impression block. Remove all marks and dents using a file
and polish the face. The lead impression block should then be properly protected and
handled with care to prevent damage to the prepared face.
3. Make up the lead impression block onto the tool string taking care not to mark the
polished face.
4. Pick up the tool string into the lubricator and make it up to the BOP.
NOTE: Make sure that the tool string is pulled up well inside the lubricator to
avoid the lead impression block making contact with the BOPs as the
lubricator is lowered.
6. Run in hole slowly with the lead impression block Stop approximately 100 ft. above the
object of which an impression is required.
7. Take an accurate pick up weight.
8. Run in hole slowly and sit down gently on top of the object.
9. Pick up and partly open the jars. Jar down once only.

FISHING OPERATIONS
NOTE: Jarring down more than once may confuse the impression and loosen the
lead.
NOTE: Heavy downward jarring will cause the lead to extrude (spread outwards)
and may interfere with the retrieval of the LIB through any restrictions in
the tubing i.e. landing nipples etc.
10. Slowly pull out of hole with lead impression block.

11. When certain that the tool is inside the lubricator, close in well and bleed down
lubricator.
12. Back off the quick union and pick up lubricator.
13. Pull lubricator to one side of the xmas tree to ensure that the lead impression block
cannot make contact with the top of the xmas tree or any object as it is being lowered
out of the lubricator.
14. Remove lead impression block for inspection, taking care not to damage the polished
face.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.11 RECOMMENDED RUNNING PROCEDURE FOR WIRE FINDERS

The wire finder is a circular device with fingers which pick up the tail end of the wire from the
tubing wall and bend it into the middle of the tubing, preparing it to be retrieved by another
device (wireline grab/spear):
1. Select the appropriate size of wire finder for the tubing and restrictions. Adjust the
diameter of the wire finder fingers according to the particular tubing weight or
restriction size. The fingers should be adjusted to bear on the tubing walls so that the
wire cannot pass.
2. If necessary, attach a rope socket to the pin end of the wire finder.
3. Make up a suitable tool string using tubular jars instead of spang jars.
4. Attach wire finder to releasing tool. (Normally a jar up to release tool is preferred.)
5. Attach wire finder assembly to the tool string and zero on the tubing hanger flange.
6. Pick up tools into the lubricator and make it up to the BOP.
8. RIH slowly and continuously observe weight indicator.
Once close to the wire pull up the hole every 100 ft. to ensure that the wire has
not been bypassed.
9. The wire tail (top of loose wire) depth will be indicated by weight loss. Sit wire finder
down on top of wire tail. (Care must be taken to ensure that the wire finder does not
run past the wire tail.)
10. Open jars and tap down on wire several times. This action will bundle the wire end into
the middle of the tubing forming a ‘birds nest’.
11. Continue to tap down on the wire until approximately 3 ft. of wire has been ‘bird-
nested’. POOH with the wire finder, ensuring that it has not attached itself to the
wireline.
12. Once the tool is confirmed to be inside the lubricator, close the swab valve and bleed
down the lubricator.
13. Back off the quick union and raise the lubricator.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.12 RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR RUNNING SCRATCHER /

WIRE FINDER
Having chosen the equipment to use, run in the hole to locate the wire. It is possible that the
scratcher / wire finder will be a little tight in the tubing and that some gentle jarring will be
required before the scratcher / finder will run freely in the tubing. When the finder runs
freely, proceed down the tubing monitoring the weight indicator and looking for any kind of
running pattern i.e. finder binding on tubing joints, etc.
In our example, upon reaching 300 ft, the running speed should be extremely slow. Ideally,
when the scratcher / finder reaches the broken end of the wire, downward movement should
cease, however, the most difficult part of fishing is pulling the broken end of the wire away
from the tubing wall and it is quite likely that the scratcher will run down inside the wire spiral.
When this happens, the operator should run in no further than 400 ft. It is quite likely that the
running pattern will change when the scratcher is inside the wire spiral. If 400 ft is reached,
pull back up to 300 ft and try again, watching for the pattern change and try to pin-point the
depth at which it changes, it may take some 5 or 6 attempts running slowly up and down the
tubing. When the depth has been established, start to increase the speed at which the scratcher
is run, past the position the top of the wire is believed to be at (run no more than 30 ft past
the end of the wire at this stage).
The objective now is to pull the end of the wire away from the tubing wall and try and kink it
enough for a grab to get hold of it. Regardless of the type of wire finder, it is not good
practice to BALL the wire, as a wire grab with a tight ball on it could lead to problems and
could cause damage to the safety valve landing nipple.
As soon as the wire scratcher / finder has sat down on top of the wire, jar down lightly 2 - 3
times and if the scratcher remains at the same depth, pull out of the hole. Its quite likely that
the wire will have become entangled with the scratcher finder and will be retrieved, however,
let us assume that the wire is still left in the hole.
It must be taken into account that, if the first few runs with the wire scatchers are
unsuccessful, it must be pulled out of the hole, re-adjusted and re-run. It is essential that
patience and strict discipline are maintained.
The majority of fishing jobs which go sour are due to prematurely running wireline grabs
hundreds of feet below the end of the wire, causing the wire above the tool string to ball and
tangle, thus leaving a second tool string in the hole.

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.13 RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR RUNNING A WIRELINE

GRAB
The grab would be run on the same tool
string as the scratcher, except that now
an ‘RB’ pulling tool will be attached to
the jars and latched onto a rope socket
which is in turn, attached to the top of
the wireline grab.
If the wire finder has found where the
top of the wire is, but has not removed
the broken end from the tubing wall, it
may be preferable to either run the grab
below the wire finder, or else 'bait the
grab' by looping wire around the top of
the grab prongs (only if sufficient
clearance exists between grab OD and
SVLN ID). Both methods have been
known to be successful.
Figure 7 - Preparing the Wireline Grab

FISHING OPERATIONS
1.13.1 Running a Wireline Grab/Spear

A wireline grab/spear is a device used for retrieving loose wire in the well. It is usually run
after a wire finder has bundled the wireline:
1. Select the appropriate size of wireline grab/spear for the tubing and restrictions. The
fingers should be adjusted to as close to the tubing internal diameter as possible.
2. If necessary, attach rope socket to the pin end of the wireline grab/spear.
3. Make up a suitable tool string using tubular jars instead of mechanical jars. Depending
on the operation spring jars may also be used.
4. Attach wire grab/spear to releasing tool. (Normally a jar up to release tool is preferred.)
5. Attach wire grab/spear assembly to the tool string and zero on the tubing hanger flange.
6. Pick up tools into the lubricator and make it up to the BOP.
8. RIH slowly and continuously observe weight indicator.
9. Stop at approximately 100 ft. above ‘bent wire’ and note pick up weight accurately.
10. Open jars and tap down on wire several times. This action should engage the wireline
grab/spear in the bent kinked wire.
11. Pick up and note the tool string weight while POOH. A steady over pull when
compared to the pick up weight in step 9 indicates successful retrieval of the wire.
12. If the retrieved wire becomes stuck, the releasing tool can be sheared leaving the
wireline grab/spear down hole. The wire size or tool string configuration can then be
changed and another attempt made to retrieve the wire.
13. POOH carefully, monitoring the weight indicator continuously. A sudden loss of weight
indicates that the retrieved wire has disengaged from the wire grab/spear. It this should
happen, repeat steps 8-14.
14. Recover the wire to surface by following the procedure for stripping wire.
CAUTION: Be very careful, when pulling through the Xmas Tree and landing
nipples particularly the safety valve landing nipple.

FISHING OPERATIONS

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES FOR
SPECIAL TOOLS
CONTENTS
1. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE FOR SPECIAL TOOLS 1

1.1 ‘BDK’ TIME DELAY RELEASABLE ROPE SOCKET 1
1.1.1 Description 1
1.1.2 Maintenance 1
1.1.3 Operation 1
1.1.4 Release Times 2
1.1.5 Technical notes 3
1.1.6 Safety notice 3
1.1.7 Disassembly (Pear Drop Rope Socket) 4
1.1.8 Assembly (Pear Drop Rope Socket) 4
1.1.9 Disassembly (Pre-loaded Braided Rope Socket) 4
1.1.10 Assembly (Pre-loaded Braided Rope Socket) 5
1.1.11 Disassembly (Lower Assembly) 5
1.1.12 Assembly (Lower Assembly) 6
1.1.13 Setting & Testing the TDR Rope Socket 9
1.1.14 Setting & Testing The TDR Rope Socket 10
1.1.15 Topping up oil 10
1.1.16 Technical Information 11
1.2 ‘BDK’ HEAVY DUTY PULLING 13
1.2.1 Description 13
1.2.2 Maintenance 13
1.2.3 Disassembly 13
1.2.4 Assembly 14
1.3 HYDROSTATIC BAILERS 16
1.4 SAND BAILING 17
1.4.1 Introduction 17
1.4.2 Sand Bailers 17
1.5 OTIS DRIVE DOWN BAILER 19

SPECIAL TOOLS
List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Secure It in A Vice 7
Figure 2 - Setting & Testing 9
Figure 3 - Indicator Bands 10
Figure 4 - Time Delay Releasable Rope Socket 12
Figure 5 - ‘BDK’ Pulling Tool 15
Figure 6 - Pump Bailer and Hydrostatic Bailer 18
Figure 7 - Bailers 19

SPECIAL TOOLS
1. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE FOR SPECIAL TOOLS

1.1 ‘BDK’ TIME DELAY RELEASABLE ROPE SOCKET
1.1.1 Description
The TDR rope socket is used for everyday wireline operations in place of the traditional rope
socket. The TDR rope socket allows the operator to leave the tool string in the hole and
recover the wire if desired, thus making fishing operation less hazardous.
When situations occur downhole where a wireline toolstring becomes stuck, the TDR can be
released and the top section is returned to surface complete with the wireline. The well is then
clear of all obstructions and a clean fishing neck is left for future recovery operations. All this
is achieved without closing wireline BOP’S or dropping further devices downhole.
The TDR can be used as a soft release tool to deploy gauges and other delicate instruments.
The TDR rope socket - upper assembly is the uppermost component in a wireline toolstring
when using a TDR rope socket and forms the link between the toolstring and the wire.
The pear drop type incorporates a tapered plug (pear drop) which is grooved to accommodate
the wireline. This acts against the sleeve retaining the wire. The pear drop and sleeve are
housed in the rope socket body.
The pre-loaded type uses specially designed slips and a pre-loaded initiator clamp assembly to
secure the braided wireline to the rope socket.
1.1.2 Maintenance
After each use, disassemble and thoroughly clean and inspect all components (see
disassembly/assembly procedures). Replace all screws, ‘O’ rings and back-up rings.
1.1.3 Operation
The TDR releasable rope socket is a patented tool, designed to release after a specified time.
To release the TDR rope socket the operator must land off the toolstring and slack off wire
from the winch, so that the wire is lying on the deck. The wire is then lift in this position for
the stated time before pick up and release from the toolstring. It should be noted that if the
wire is picked up early the TDR rope socket may reset and the whole operation will have to be
repeated.
When the TDR rope socket is used, the release mechanism within the tool will remain
redundant while toolstring weight hangs below.
During operations however this is not always the case, i.e. resetting jars, downward jarring etc.
This should not concern the operator, because when the weight is slackened off, the release
mechanism takes a considerable time to release. It should also be noted that every time weight
is picked up by the winch the TDR ropes socket will reset. However using the TDR rope
socket it is good practice to retain some wire tension when operations are delayed.
It is recommended that the TDR rope socket should be run at the top of the toolstring as any
weight above the tool will effect the release time.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.4 Release Times

As well conditions affect the time the tool takes to release it is supplied calibrated for use
throughout the operating range.
Temp Time (Minutes)
20 °C 120
50 °C 90
0 psi 100 °C 60
150 °C 90
200 °C 120
20 °C 150
50 °C 120
2,500 psi 100 °C 90
150 °C 120
200 °C 150
20 °C 180
50 °C 150
5,000 psi 100 °C 120
150 °C 150
200 °C 180
20 °C 210
50 °C 180
7,500 psi 100 °C 140
150 °C 180
200 °C 210
20 °C 240
50 °C 180
10,000 psi 100 °C 140
150 °C 180
200 °C 240
Table 1 - Approximate Release Times for Various Temperatures/Pressure Well Conditions
NOTE: When well temperature and pressure fall between stated values always use
the longer release time e.g. well conditions are 75°C at 9,000 psi use 10,000
psi at 50°C to give a release time of 180 minutes.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.5 Technical notes

The TDR rope socket has a balanced pressure system that allows it to operate at temperatures
from 20°C up to 200°C and pressures up to 10,000 psi.
Only pure silicone oils are recommended for use in the too. 500 silicone oil is used as
standard.
CAUTION
The operating characteristics of the TDR rope socket are such that the release mechanism will
start to operate when toolstring weight/line tension drops below a particular threshold. The
release sequence will be activated if the following line tension is not maintained:
11/2“ OD TDR rope socket - minimum line tension : 80 lbs
17/8” OD TDR rope socket - minimum line tension : 130 lbs
21/2” OD TDR rope socket - minimum line tension : 180 lbs
NOTE: The operator must pick up toolstring weight every 5 minutes
1.1.6 Safety notice

Although ordinary working practices remain largely unaffected, the following points should be
observed:
• Storage when not in use - TDR rope sockets should not be left suspended,
where self-release could cause damage or injury.
• Changing too string configurations in between runs - normal safety
precautions when working with a hanging tool string should always be adopted. If
left suspended, always ensure that sufficient tools are attached so the line tension
is equal to or greater than that stated above.
• Light tool-strings - e.g. when running gauges, add sufficient weight to the tool
string to meet the minimum value stated above.
• Deviated wells/restricted wells - the operator should ensure that sufficient line
tension is maintained during operations

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.7 Disassembly (Pear Drop Rope Socket)

1. Remove grub screw from rope socket body and unscrew mandrel.
2. Slide pear drop assembly out of rope socket body and unscrew grub screw.
3. Separate the sleeve from the pear drop and remove the wireline.
4. The tool is now ready for inspection.
1.1.8 Assembly (Pear Drop Rope Socket)

1. Thread wire through rope socket body.
2. Slide sleeve over the wire.
3. Wrap the wireline around the groove in the pear drop fit and tighten the grub screw and
slide the sleeve over the pear drop.
4. Place rope socket body over the assembly.
5. Fit and tighten mandrel and replace and tighten the grub screw in rope socket body.
6. The tool is now ready for use.
1.1.9 Disassembly (Pre-loaded Braided Rope Socket)

1. Remove grub screw from rope socket body and unscrew mandrel.
2. Slide clamp assembly out of rope socket body and unscrew grub screw. The initiator
clamp can now be removed from the wire.
3. Using circlip pliers remove circlip from the initiator clamp and remove the belleville disc
springs.
4. With sleeve supported release the slips using a punch.
5. Remove the slips.
6. The tool is now ready for inspection.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.10 Assembly (Pre-loaded Braided Rope Socket)

1. Assemble the Belleville disc springs on initiator clamp.
NOTE: Refer to drawing for Belleville disc spring arrangement.
2. Fit the circlip to initiator clamp.

3. Thread the wire through rope body socket.
4. Place the sleeve over the wire.
5. Slide the initiator clamp onto the wire so that no more than a 1/4” of wire shows beyond
the end of the initiator clamp and fit and tighten grub screw.
6. Place slips around the wire above the initiator clamp as shown and slide the sleeve over
the slips to retain them in place.
7. Place rope socket body over the assembly.
8. Fit and tighten mandrel and replace grub screw in rope socket body.
9. The tool is now ready for use.
1.1.11 Disassembly (Lower Assembly)
1. With the TDR rope socket held in a suitable vice, remove all external grub screws (4
off).
2. Unscrew top sub from spring housing.
NOTE: This operation can take place with the upper assembly in place, care
should be taken to catch the latch keys when removing the top sub.
3. Remove grub screw from latch key housing, unscrew latch key housing from spring rod.
4. Unscrew spring housing from the intermediate sub and remove spring and washer.
NOTE: Take care as the spring is under tension.
5. Remove spring road from piston top.

6. Hold piston housing in vice. Unscrew intermediate sub and remove balance piston
spring.
7. Invert piston housing and unscrew bottom sub.
NOTE: The oil can now be drained from the piston housing.
8. Unscrew bleed screw from piston housing and remove ‘O’ ring from bleed screw.
9. Holding the piston top push the piston assembly out through the bottom of the piston
housing.
10. Using a rod carefully push the balance piston out of the piston housing .

SPECIAL TOOLS
11. Remove grub screw from the piston top .

12. Using the correct open ended spanner unscrew sleeve retainer from the piston top.
Separate the assembly and remove inner and outer sleeves.
NOTE: Care should be taken not to damage the inner sleeve and outer sleeve as
damage may affect the function of the tool. Do not use any kind of
abrasive to clean the inner sleeve.
13. Remove ‘O’ ring from piston top.

14. Remove ‘O’ ring from piston top.
15. Remove ‘O’ ring complete with anti-extrusion rings from outer sleeve.
16. Remove ‘O’ ring complete with anti-extrusion rings and wiper ring from balance piston.
17. Remove internal ‘O’ ring complete with anti-extrusion rings from balance piston.
18. Remove ‘O’ ring from bottom sub.
The TDR is now completely disassembled.
1.1.12 Assembly (Lower Assembly)
NOTE: Use only silicone oil to lubricate components when assembling the
hydraulic unit.
1. Thoroughly clean and dry all components.

Check that there is no debris present in the hydraulic system and that the holes around
the outer sleeve are clean as any debris may affect the flow of hydraulic oil through the
sleeve metering system.
2. Visually check each component for damage and wear (replace as required).
3. Replace wiper ring, back-up rings, ‘O’ ring, and the ‘O’ ring on the balance piston.
4. Lubricate the seal bores in piston housing using silicone oil only. Fit the balance piston
into the piston housing. Ensure that the balance piston is inserted correctly - i.e. tapered
bore into piston housing first.
5. Fit the balance piston spring.
6. Screw intermediate sub into the piston housing and tighten.
7. Fit ‘O’ ring and backup rings onto outer sleeve.
8. Replace ‘O’ ring in the piston top and replace ‘O’ ring in the sleeve retainer.
9. Fit sleeve return spring into the inner sleeve.
10. Using silicone oil to lubricate and fit inner sleeve into the outer sleeve and place the
assembly over the sleeve retainer.

SPECIAL TOOLS
11. Screw sleeve retainer into the piston top and fit and tighten the grub screw in the piston
top.
12. With the piston housing inverted fit the piston assembly carefully into the piston
housing and ensure that it is bottomed out. Care should be taken when fitting the piston
assembly to prevent damage to the internal seals in the balance piston.
13. Replace ‘O’ ring into bleed screw.
14. Fit the bleed screw into the piston housing.
15. Fill the piston housing with oil until the level is approximately 1/4” above the thread.
16. Holding the piston top apply a downward force. This will break the seat at ‘O’ ring and
allow any trapped air behind the piston assembly to vent. The spring rod can be fitted to
the piston top to give better purchase during this operation. Top up the oil level as
required.
17. Replace ‘O’ ring in bottom sub and screw the bottom sub by hand into the piston
housing so that approximately 1/2” of thread is engaged.
18. Invert the piston housing and secure it in a vice at approximately 45° with the bleed
screw uppermost (Refer to Figure 1). Remove the bleed screw and slowly screw the
bottom sub and slowly screw the bottom sub into the piston housing until all the air is
bled from the system.
Do not make the bottom sub up fully - leave a 1/8” gap
Figure 1 - Secure It in A Vice
If air is still present in the hydraulic system, i.e. Air is till being expelled from the bleed screw
port, then the bleed sequence, 14 through 19, must be repeated by topping up the oil level.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1. Fit and tighten the bleed screw.

2. Now tighten the bottom sub.
3. Fit spring rod, onto piston top
4. Fit the washer and main spring onto the spring rod.
5. Place spring housing over spring rod.
6. Insert a bar through the hole in the top of the spring rod. This is used to prevent the
spring rod and piston assembly from rotating when the spring housing is tightened.
7. Tighten the spring housing this will compress the main spring.
8. Secure the latch key housing onto the spring rod and tighten, fit and tighten grub screw
in the latch key housing.
9. Fit the latch keys in latch key housing
Note: Do not grease or oil the latch keys.
10. Place the upper assembly in the top sub, screw top sub onto the spring housing and
tighten.
11. Fit and tighten all external grub screws (4 off).
The TDR rope socket is now completely assembled and ready for test.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.13 Setting & Testing the TDR Rope Socket

Resetting the TDR rope socket (when the tool has released)
1. Place the upper assembly into the lower assembly.
Figure 2 - Setting & Testing
The two small slots in the spring housing are staggered to provide sufficient movement to
latch the upper assembly.
2. Insert rod into the longer of the slots in the spring housing and lever the rod as shown
in the diagram, now repeat the process on the shorter slot. This will ensure that the
latch keys are fully engaged.
3. Follow the operations Section 1.1.14 to set and function test the TDR rope socket.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.14 Setting & Testing The TDR Rope Socket

The TDR rope socket should be bench tested following each re-dress.
The upper assembly has a top and bottom indicator band to aid setting and testing. The
bottom indicator band is 1/8” wide.
To set the TDR rope socket (prior to the tool releasing).
Note: With the tool correctly latched, the tool can be manually set.
1. With the lower assembly secured in a vice, pull on the upper assembly to release. This is
best done by placing a rod through the hole in the upper assembly. The bottom
indicator band will then show - maintain the pull for at least 10 seconds. Stand the TDR
rope socket upright, the bottom indicator band will still be visible.
The TDR rope socket is now set.
2. Carry out a bench test to check that the TDR rope socket is functioning correctly.
Place the assembly in an upright position and allow the upper assembly to release.
Release will occur when the top indicator disappears into the lower assembly top sub.
Release should occur within the time range 40-80 minutes dependent on the ambient
temperature and variations between batches of oil.
Should the tool fail to reset at the bottom indicator band or release within the specified
time scale then there is probably insufficient oil in the hydraulic chamber. The tool
should be topped up with oil and vented. Refer to oil top up procedure 1.1.15.
Figure 3 - Indicator Bands
1.1.15 Topping up oil

It is only necessary to remove the top sub, latch key housing and main spring from the lower
assembly before removing the bottom sub if the oil needs to be topped up. Refer to assembly
procedure 14 onward to re-assemble TDR rope socket.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.1.16 Technical Information

TDR rope Socket 1.500”
• Assembly number 12596-**
• Make up length (Threaded) 37”
• Make up length (QRJ’s) 42”
• Tool OD 1.500”
• Fish neck 1.375”
• Minimum line tension 80 lbs
• Maximum applied Load 1,000 lbf
• Temperature range 20 - 200°C
• Maximum working pressure 10,000 psi

• Make up length (QRJ’s) 44”
• Tool OD 1.875”

• Make up length (QRJ’s) 48.5”
• Tool OD 2.500”

SPECIAL TOOLS
Figure 4 - Time Delay Releasable Rope Socket

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.2 ‘BDK’ HEAVY DUTY PULLING

1.2.1 Description
The BDK heavy duty pulling tool is designed for running and retrieving downhole flow
control devices with external fishing necks. Incorporated in the design is a feature that allows
the tool to be used in very heavy wireline operations. With the pulling tool in the latched
position, the dogs are supported within the skirt of the tool. This allows the operator to
continue heavy jarring without the fear of shearing the dogs. For surface operation the dog
assembly has a finger grip to enable the tool to be manually released from the fishing neck
whilst in the pinned position. The tool can be converted from a shear-up tool to a shear-down
tool by changing the fishing neck is available with the standard reach cores: short, medium
and long.
1.2.2 Maintenance
It is recommended to strip the pulling tool down completely after each operation. Always
check the shear pin after each run and replace if any signs of pre-shear are visible.
1.2.3 Disassembly
1. Remove the top sub retaining screw and unscrew the top sub, this will expose the core
and the core spring.
2. Unscrew the core cap grub screw, slowly unscrew the core cap and remove the cap and
core spring.
3. Using the conventional re-pinning tool - screw spindle into internal thread at base of
core. Remove the shear pin retainer to expose the shear pin. Punch out the shear pin.
4. Extract the core.
5. Using a pin punch - tap in the pawls. This will release the spacer and dog spring.
6. The dogs can now be removed.
7. The pulling tool is now disassembled.
8. Check all parts for wear and corrosion and replace if necessary

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.2.4 Assembly
1. Assemble dogs from top of cylinder and position with fingers in appropriate slots.
2. Insert dog spring and spacer from bottom of cylinder.
3. Compress spacer onto spring and insert pawls to locate in appropriate slot in cylinder
and dogs.
4. Carefully release the compression on spring which will in turn force the spacer against
the pawls.
5. Insert the core from bottom of cylinder until shoulder locates with pawls.
6. Insert a pin punch in shear pin holes. This will retain the core and stop it rotating.
7. Assemble core spring and screw on core cap compressing core spring until core cap
screw hole is in line with locating groove in core.
8. Install core cap screw and secure in place.
9. Using conventional re-pinning tool - screw spindle into internal thread at base of core
spring remove the pin punch. Insert shear pin remove re-pinning tool.
10. Install shear pin retainer ring.
11. Assemble top sub as required.
Shear up Top sub shear up - screw onto core and tighten, install core retainer
screw and secure.
Shear down Top sub shear down - screw onto cylinder and tighten, install cylinder
retainer screw and secure.

SPECIAL TOOLS
Figure 5 - ‘BDK’ Pulling Tool

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.3 HYDROSTATIC BAILERS

A hydrostatic bailer consists of a chamber sealed at atmospheric pressure. When the bailer
reaches the top of the sand and is jarred down, a shear disc is ruptured and the bottom hole
pressure surges into the chamber, sucking up the sand. A ball check valve in the bottom
serves to trap the sand in the chamber. These bailers are used to clean off sand or foreign
materials from around a fishing neck and are very successful but are not recommended for
normal bailing operations. In soft sand, this bailer will bury itself each time it operates and
usually requires a hard object against which to shear the disc.
Always use a pump bailer to remove the bulk of sand or debris until it is resting on the tool to
be removed. Only then should a hydrostatic bailer be used to clean around the fishing neck.
Hydrostatic bailers are not recommended for normal bailing operations because they are too
slow and there is the possibility of sticking in sand due to the suction action when the sealed
chamber is opened.
DANGER: Sand pumps and hydrostatic bailers can be extremely dangerous,

after pulling them to the surface, when unloading the sand due to
pressure trapped inside the chamber. Caution should be taken
when removing the check valve on the bottom to make sure there
is no pressure inside. This can be determined usually by how hard
the bottom is to unscrew. You should never completely remove the
bottom while the bailer is pressured up.
Do not hammer on a bailer to remove the sand as the barrel may
be damaged and could subsequently rupture with the bottom hole
pressure trapped within it. Visually inspect these bailers for wear
and wall reduction before running.
Hydrostatic bailers have pressure relief valves and some have an
automatic pressure relief valve. These can become plugged and be
dangerous to handle so observe the above caution when
unscrewing the bottom.
Prior to running, check that the expected bottom hole pressure
does not exceed the pressure rating of the bailer.

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.4 SAND BAILING

1.4.1 Introduction
Occasionally wireline service involves sand bailing prior to the actual pulling or setting of
subsurface flow controls. Techniques vary, but the operation of sand pumps are very much
similar. After a few trips, the operator will know how to get the bailer full each trip; how long
he must stroke the pump, whether it is necessary to drive down on the bailer, (although this
seldom helps), or how fast he must work the plunger.
Short bridges of sand in the tubing will require some extra precautions due to the possibility
of pressure being trapped under such a bridge. The operator should never stroke the pump
and stop at the top of the stroke. He should keep the tools moving up the tubing until he is
sure there is no overpull, then set the pump back down to make another stroke.
When the bailer falls through a bridge, the tools should be pulled back up several feet above
the point where the bridge was first encountered to make sure the bridge is completely clear
before going deeper.
Sand is prone to become packed tight on the top when pressure has been applied to the
tubing above, which is very often done to keep the pressure equalised above and below the
sand bridge. This makes it difficult to pick up the sand with the pump and, in this case, it
might be necessary to run a centre spear, to drive down into the hard sand and loosen it when
pulling back out. A round tool with teeth cut around the bottom edge (e.g. serrated gauge
cutter), will sometimes loosen it enough for the pump to pick it up, or the bailer bottom itself
can be serrated. There are two basic designs of sand bailer; pump bailers and hydrostatic
bailers. There are also drive down bailers, which as the name suggests, are designed to be
driven into the fill and when picked up, a ball or flapper moves on a seat and holds debris etc.
in the bailer.
1.4.2 Sand Bailers

The pump bailer is used to remove the bulk of the sand from above wireline tools or
equipment. It is a hollow tube with a check valve, either a ball or flapper, at its lower end
which is usually ‘mule shod’ (cut at 45°). It contains a piston and valve attached to a rod which
passes through a loose hole at the upper end of the tube for fluid bypass. This rod is attached
to the tool string. As the bottom of the bailer sits on the sand, the weight of the tool string
pushes the piston to the bottom of the tube. As this piston is picked up, it sucks sand and
debris into the bottom of the bailer. This slow stroking process continues until the bailer is
full.

SPECIAL TOOLS
Figure 6 - Pump Bailer and Hydrostatic Bailer

SPECIAL TOOLS
1.5 OTIS DRIVE DOWN BAILER

The Otis Drive Down Bailer, consists only of a fishing neck, cylinder, ball check, and bottom
sub. The lower end of this bailer has a sharp mule shoe type profile which enables it to
penetrate sand or debris when down hole jarring is performed.
The sand bailer is lowered into the tubing to the proper depth and driven into the sand or
debris. The downward motion of the bailer will move the ball off-seat and sand should enter
the cylinder. The sand is retained within the cylinder above the ball check.
Figure 7 - Bailers

SPECIAL TOOLS

INTRODUCTION TO BRAIDED LINE
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION TO BRAIDED LINE 1

1.1 BRAIDED LINE SURFACE EQUIPMENT 1
1.2 GREASE INJECTION HEAD 4
1.2.1 Flow Tubes 6
1.3 SAFETY CHECK UNION 7
1.4 BRAIDED LINE BOPS 8
1.5 BRAIDED LINE ROPE SOCKET 9

List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Congenital Braided Line 2
Figure 2 - Dye-Form Braided Line 2
Figure 3 - Braided Line Fishing Rig Up 3
Figure 4 - Grease Injection Head 5
Figure 5 - Flow Tubes 6
Figure 6 - Safety Check Union 7
Figure 7 - Hydraulic Dual BOP 8
Figure 8 - Braided Line Rope Socket 9

1. INTRODUCTION TO BRAIDED LINE

1.1 BRAIDED LINE SURFACE EQUIPMENT
The conventional cable comprises 16 (9+6+1) strands (Refer to Figure 2). The core and the
right - lay inner wires are thinner than the left-lay outer wires. By using right and left lay the
twisting tendency of the wire under load is prevented.
Table 1 gives wireline data relating to conventional braided line.
Minimum Breaking Load

Flow Rec. Min.
Size dia. Weight 316 Stainless Supa 70
Tube Bore Pulley dia. Galvanised Supa 60
ins lbs/1,000 ft Steel /Supa 75
ins ins lbs lbs
lbs lbs
3
/16 0.196 71.1 12 4,960 3,990 3,680 4,320
7
/32 0.228 95.9 14 6,610 5,400 4,960 5,842
1
/4 0.261 125.5 16 8,640 7,030 6,480 7,600
3
/4 0.327 195.9 20 13,490 11,000 10,120 11,660
Table 1 - Relative Strengths of Various Conventional Braided Lines
Some time ago Bridon introduced Dye-form cable. Around the single centre core are nine
thinner right-lay wires, the outer wires are also right-lay, but thicker. The finished cable is
pulled through a die, and by doing this the following improvements are made:
• 20% increase in breaking load, because there is more steel in the same diameter
• Smooth external periphery and closer tolerance of outside diameter, reducing
leakage at the stuffing box
• Higher crush resistance because of the increased steel content of the cable. Low
twist tendency because of the Dye-form process.
Table 2 gives wireline data relating to Dye-form braided line.
Minimum Breaking Load

Size Flow Rec. Min.
Weight 316 Stainless Supa 70
dia Tube Bore Pulley dia. Galvanised Supa 60
lbs/1,000 ft Steel /Supa 75
ins ins ins lbs lbs
lbs lbs
3/ 0.196 85.21 12 6,170 4,930 4,560 4,960
16
7/ 0.228 111.4 14 8,370 6,500 5,990 5,990
32
1/ 0.263 147.6 16 11,200 8,640 7,830 8,530
4
3/ 0.330 231.5 20 17,540 13,550 12,080 13,380
4
Table 2 - Relative Strengths of Various Dye-Form Braided Lines

Figure 1 - Congenital Braided Line
Figure 2 - Dye-Form Braided Line

Figure 3 - Braided Line Fishing Rig Up

1.2 GREASE INJECTION HEAD

The grease injection head is designed to effectively seal off stranded wire lines, such as fishing
and logging cables. The grease injection head utilises grease or honey oil, pumped under high
pressure from a grease pump, into a very small annular space between the outside of the wire
and the inside of a tube covering it. The high viscosity fluid provides two sealing mechanisms:
• Since stranded lines have interstices between the strands and between layers,
which cannot be packed off in a more direct conventional manner, the sealing
fluid fills these spaces, depriving the well fluid of escape paths inside the wire.
• The sealing fluid in the small annular space is held at a higher pressure than that in
the well, forming a barrier to the flow of wellhead fluids and gases.
This results in the complete sealing and also lubrication of the wireline which reduces friction
to a minimum.
NOTE: When calculating the amount of stem required to overcome the well
pressure, a percentage must be added to compensate for friction.
The grease injection control head is composed of flow tube sleeves, a flow tube sleeve
coupling, a quick union pin end, a flow hose and a line rubber and hydraulic packing nut
assembly at the upper end. The number of flow tubes and flow tube sleeves used, depends on
the well pressure:
• 2 Flow tubes 0-2,000 psi
• 3 Flow tubes 2,000-10,000 psi
• 4 Flow tubes 10,000-15,000 psi
The flow tubes are close-fitting around the wire line and they, along with the tube sleeves,
form the main length of the grease head. This appreciable length affords sufficient length to
form an effective pressure barrier.
The flow tube sleeves are simplified body parts which hold the various other components
rigidly together and seal them. In addition, they are made of a very hard metal, and the wire
predominantly bears on them, preventing wear on the other parts. The flow tube coupling
forms a junction for the flow tubes and acts as the point of entry for the grease.
The hydraulic packing nut is a simple, but efficient device which is remotely operated by a
hydraulic hand-pump assembly. The hydraulic packing nut is actuated by pumping pressure
into the cylinder. When a complete seal is established, the pressure is maintained by closing
the valve at the hand pump assembly. The pressure may be relieved by opening the valve and
relaxing the seal. Thus the piston in the packing nut is retracted by a strong spring when the
pressure is relieved from the piston.
The body has a port into which is assembled a flow hose, to lead off any seepage that migrates
through the line and finds its way above the two flow tubes.
The optional differential pressure regulator valve, when used, controls the flow of grease to
the control head which is supplied by the grease supply system. In all cases, the grease is
delivered at a pressure of 350 psi to 400 psi greater than the wellhead pressure.

Figure 4 - Grease Injection Head

1.2.1 Flow Tubes

A range of flow tubes are available with small increments of IDs so as to provide an effective
seal over the life of a wireline which reduces in size with usage.
The OD of the line should be measured and the size of the tubes selected for the closest fit
(ID of flow tubes should be 0.004 ins - 0.006 ins larger than OD of wireline). Slip each tube in
turn over the wire and physically check that they do not grip the wire as this can lead to bird
caging of the outer strands when running in the well. This is an effect where the drag on the
outer strands gradually holds them back with regard to the inner strands so they become loose
and spring out from the cable like a birds cage until they jam at the packing nut. If the packing
nut is too tight, it can also cause this same effect.
Alternatively, if the tubes are too big, they will not create an effective barrier and too much
grease will be wasted and an effective seal will not be maintained.
Figure 5 - Flow Tubes

1.3 SAFETY CHECK UNION

This device is normally included in stranded wireline lubricator hook-ups just below the grease
injection head. The wire is threaded through both these units and if the wire breaks and is
blown out of the grease injection head, the well pressure is automatically shut off by the safety
check union. Shut-off is accomplished by the velocity of the escaping well effluents causing a
piston to lift a ball up against a ball seat. Well pressure holds the ball against the seat. This
device does in fact fulfil the same function as the internal BOP in the solid wireline stuffing
box. As with all lubricator equipment, this safety check union is furnished with quick unions.
Figure 6 - Safety Check Union

1.4 BRAIDED LINE BOPS

Ram type BOPS are self-actuating. Once an initial seal is established in closing the difference
in pressure above and below the rams assists the sealing action. The seals are arranged so that
the pressure differential forces the rams together and upwards.
This means that:
• The sealing force is in depended of the closing force often after the seal is
established.
• The ram sealing action is directional
• The pressure must be equalised before opening.
Ram type BOPs are designed to seal with the cable static and all cable movement should be
stopped before closing the rams.
Braided line dual ram BOPs are configured with the lower set of rams inverted and with a
grease injection port in between the rams. This allows the two sets of rams to trap a cavity full
of grease between them of higher pressure, preventing escape up or down. This is mandatory
in gas well since, gas will migrate up the cable between the inner and outer armour by filling
the cavity at a pressure higher than wellhead pressure, the grease fills the spaced and prevents
escape.
Dual ram BOPs are normally integral but they may be made up by stacking two single BOPs
on top of each other
Figure 7 - Hydraulic Dual BOP

1.5 BRAIDED LINE ROPE SOCKET

This design is available for braided line up to 5/16”
diameter. There are two types of slips, the overload
type and the plain type.
The overload release type is designed to cause the
line to break under severe loading at a specific
percentage of the full strength of the line. A range of
five breaking strength slips are available, for 50%,
60%, 70%, 80% and 90% of line strength.
The plain type is designed without the overload
release feature. Experience indicates that the line will
usually break near the top end of these slips at
approximately 90% of the breaking strength of the
line.
The rope socket incorporates a fishing neck at its top
end. This allows a fishing tool to latch on to a stuck
or dropped tool string to fish it from the well.
NOTE: It is important to record the fishing

neck size of each individual section
of tool string, as this data is required
for the selection of fishing tools,
should fishing operations become
necessary.
Figure 8 - Braided Line Rope

Socket
Make sure that you choose the correct percentage slips.

Even with no overpull or jarring the rope socket should be rebuilt after a predetermined
number of runs, and a length of wire cut and discarded. The aim of this is to change the
section of wire continuously run over the pulleys. If this is not done, and particularly if the
operations are repetitive and at the same depth, the wire will become embrittled at the pulleys,
break at the surface, and fall into the well.
With poor well conditions, or when overpull or jarring occurs, the rope socket must be rebuilt
more often, preferably every trip.
For each operation, a safe maximum pull is determined. This depends on a number of factors,
particularly the diameter, type and condition of the wire.


BRAIDED LINE FISHING
CONTENTS
1. BRAIDED LINE FISHING 1

1.1 PRECAUTIONS FOR BRAIDED LINE OPERATIONS 1
1.2 PREVENTION 2
1.3 WIRE BIRDS NESTED 3
1.4 TO CLEAR BIRD NESTING AT GREASE INJECTION SEAL UNIT 3
1.5 HYDRATES 7
1.5.1 Introduction Hydrates 7
1.5.2 Hydrate Inhibition 7
1.5.3 Effects of Hydrates on Wireline Operations 7
1.5.4 Prevention Of Hydrates 8
1.5.5 Cure Of Hydrate Problems 8

List Of Figures
Figure 1 - Birds Nest Of Wire 5
Figure 2 - Shear Seals Actuator Assembly 6
Figure 3 - Shear Seal Ram 6
Figure 4 - Pressure/Temperature Graph for Predicting Hydrate Formation 9

1. BRAIDED LINE FISHING

1.1 PRECAUTIONS FOR BRAIDED LINE OPERATIONS
When using 3/16” braided line to carry out fishing operations. the fishing techniques are
basically the same as for slickline. The changes are in the equipment.
If possible it is better to carry out braided line fishing operations when the well has been killed
or of low pressure.
Braided line is normally used where slickline fishing techniques have not been successful or
where greater pulls are required.
• All braided line operation should take place with either a mast or rig if possible.
• Rope sockets must be functionally checked prior to running in the hole. Several
instance have been recorded of cable slips cutting the cable, or wire pulling out of
the rope socket.
• Downward jar action when using braided cable is poor in comparison to slickline
therefore preference should be to ‘jar up to release’ tools if practical.
• Consideration should be given to using accelerator in the tool string.
• A safety check union should be included in the rig up, placed immediately below
the grease head.
• Do not deform the cable when rigging up as this will cause passing through the
flow tubes.
• With electric line ensure the tool trap is rigged up and checked.
• There are different grades of grease all of which are suitable for H2S.

1.2 PREVENTION
In order to mimeses fishing problems associated with braided line operations, certain criteria
in the choice of fishing equipment should be considered. The following are some of the
essential equipment:
• Know capabilities of braided line
• Know size and age of braided line
• Use correct size of flow tubes
• Check grease head internals for wear
• Check pack off internals for wear
• Check for any blockages in grease return line
• Check for correct size of sheaves
• Always use a sheave above rig-up
• Only use correct size braided line clamp
• Use appropriate range of weight indicator
• Use certified slings and shackles
• Have a clear path for line from winch to grease injection head
• Use correct counter head system.
• Ensure all pressure control equipment is pressure tested in accordance with laid down
procedures
• Ensure BOP inner seals and ram line guide are the correct size
• Ensure the grease injection equipment are hooked up and tested etc.

1.3 WIRE BIRDS NESTED

If a broken strand of cable has not been detected promptly, it will quickly form a ‘birds nest’
inside the lubricator.
NOTE: That when the gap left by the missing strand becomes visible close to the
unit, more than 200 ft of strand may already be missing.
In the early stages the ‘birds nest’ may not be too big, or at least may not have caught on the
fingers of the head catcher. In this case handle as for broken strand.
However, most often the ‘birds nest’ will be stuck inside the lubricator and the main problems
is to gain access to it. The action taken will depend on the wellhead pressure.
1.3.1 To clear bird nesting at grease injection seal unit

A gradual or jerky/sudden increase in tension may be the first indicator of a broken strand
beginning to ‘birds nest’.
The winch operator should regularly ‘sight’ along the wire as a matter of routine. On a clean
cable, a missing strand can clearly be seen as a dark spiral.
1. As this is a potentially serious situation, stop immediately and investigate.
2. Close the BOP rams hydraulically. Close the manual spindles to check that the rams
have reached the end of their travel.
3. Bleed down the lubricator. Close the needle valve and monitor the pressure gauge to be
sure that there is no pressure build up.
NOTE: If a gas column exists and dual BOPs are included in the rig-up, it may
be necessary to inject grease between the rams to obtain a seal.
4. Once a seal has been achieved, back off the quick union, release the tension in the cable
and lay out some slack and slowly raise the lubricator.
5. If the ‘birds nest’ is not jammed in the lubricator, continue to raise it and/or pull down
on the cable to expose the ‘birds nest’. If the ‘birds nest’ is jammed in the lubricator,
continue to raise it slowly until about 1 ft. of cable is exposed, even though this means
stripping through the BOPs.
6. Place a cable clamp on the cable immediately above the BOPs and tie it down securely.
The lubricator can now be gently raised without fear of damaging the BOPs through
stripping.
7. Cut off the ‘birds nest’ until the individual strand(s) is/are left.
8. Attempt to lay the strand back into the interstice. If several strands have broken, stagger
their ends.
9. If the armour end will not remain flush, it may be necessary to insert a shim underneath
adjacent armour wires to hold it in place.

10. File down any protruding strands or shims to ease the cable's entry into the flow tubes.
11. Pick up the tension in the cable and remove the cable clamp. Stab the lubricator on the
BOPs and make up the quick union.
12. Close in the lubricator manifold and equalise across the BOPs.
13. Fully open the BOPs.
14. Attempt to pull the wire through the grease tubes slowly.
15. If all broken strands pass through the flow tubes, continue to POOH, monitoring the
cable. If the strands will not pull through, repeat steps 2-14. The old shim must be
removed and a new one placed close to the BOPs. Note, that in this way, fresh cable
equal to the length of the lubricator is pulled up at each attempt. This may need to be
done several times until relatively undamaged cable is found.
16. If this is not successful, then the cable must be cut and knotted. In this case, replace the
wire clamp and cut the cable close to the shim. Remove one or more sections of
lubricator and thread the cut end through the flow tubes manually from bottom to top.
17. The tool can be retrieved after the knot has been pulled back onto the drum.
18. If the tool string cannot then be accommodated in the lubricator, then the cable must
be clamped using the appropriate wireline clamp and the BOPs closed around the cable.
The cable can then be cut (leaving enough cable length to facilitate extra lengths of
lubricator to be rigged up) and the lubricator bled off. The existing lubricator must now
be rigged down and sufficient extra sections installed. Back feed the cable through the
grease head and re-install the lubricator assembly. Re-knot the cable, equalise and open
the BOPs and continue to POOH with tool string.

Figure 1 - Birds Nest Of Braided Line

Figure 2 - Shear Seals Actuator Assembly
Figure 3 - Shear Seal Ram

1.4 HYDRATES
1.4.1 Introduction Hydrates
Hydrates are ice-like solids made up of water molecules and other molecules contained in
hydrocarbon gas.
The frozen material in the tubing at points where the temperature and pressure undergo rapid
reduction, for instance, through a choke bean.
A pressure drop causes the gas to expand rapidly. The energy loss in this process, known as
the Joule Thomson effect, reduces the temperature to the extent that the dew point is reached
and precipitates occur.
1.4.2 Hydrate Inhibition

If the temperature drop is great enough, the water droplets will freeze, forming a restriction.
This can happen at any point in tubing, wellhead or surface line where the temperature and
pressure create the necessary conditions. Consequently reducing the pressure drop at any one
point (by increasing choke size or having multi-stage choking if possible) or maintaining the
temperature above the dew point of the gas stream would be advantageous.
Subsurface hydrating may begin before hydrates are observed at surface and will result in
reduced temperature rate and pressure. Freezing down hole is difficult and costly to
overcome, so that flowing methods should be modified to obviate this problem.
Another way of reducing hydrates is by chemical means, using glycol or better, methanol, so
that prior to certain operations, methanol will be spotted down hole and/or injected during
tests.
Several undesirable effects are apparent.
1.4.3 Effects of Hydrates on Wireline Operations
• Hydrate plugs can prevent the tool running in.
• Hydrate plugs can prevent the tool pulling out.
• Safety valves, choking devices etc. can have their actions ‘frozen’ by the gas
pressure/temperature increase at the device and consequent decrease after the
device.

1.4.4 Prevention Of Hydrates

For the prevention of hydrates caused by the introduction of water whilst pressure testing for
wireline entry, glycol will have to be added to the water for use as a hydrate suppresser wells
are tested with pure glycol.
Present techniques for prevention and removal of hydrates are mainly geared to a well with a
gas cap. This allows the methanol to gravitate down to the hydrate level, and therefore act
directly on top of a hydrate, should one occur.
If the well does not have a gas cap (Above bubble point at surface), the methanol will simply
dissolve into the oil at the point of injection and, therefore, will not reach the area of the
possible hydrate plug.
To minimise the risk of hydrate formation in the well bore and surface equipment, the
following actions points can be taken:
• Prior to opening a well to flow, methanol injection must be started at maximum
rate at the tree upstream of choke until the flowline temperate becomes high
enough to prevent hydrate formation at the FTHP.
• During wireline operations care must be taken to avoid hydrate formation in the
cold, highly pressured tubing/riser from the seabed to lubricator, therefore,
during such operations methanol could be injected continuously at the wellheads.
• Prior to pressure testing with neat glycol or glycol mix, the glycol density should
be measured to check the water content. The acceptable density range for neat
‘MEG’ and ‘TEG’ are:
Glycol Specific Gravity Range

‘MEG’ 1.115 - 1.120
‘TEG’ 1.123 - 1.128
Table 1 - Acceptable Density Range for neat ‘MEG’ and ‘TEG’
1.4.5 Cure Of Hydrate Problems

The main guidance for removal of hydrate plug is to reduce the pressure or increase the
temperature, or use methanol, or any combination of these.
NOTE: It is hazardous to bleed down pressure no only one side of a hydrate plug
in any pipe work. This risk is that if pressure is bled from one side of a
hydrate it will begin to dissolve. As it dissolves, pressure from the other
side may dislodge the plug at considerable velocity. Bleed down can be
effective, but it is not recommended as a routine practice.
NOTE: Methanol is a hazardous liquid and special precautions are required when
rigging up and injecting methanol.

Figure 4 - Pressure/Temperature Graph for Predicting Hydrate Formation


Draining PW Inside Debottleneck Line

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CONTENTS

1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 1

2  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE 1

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 i

ii  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION TO SLICKLINE

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 1

1.1 CARBON STEEL WIRELINES

Figure 1 - Liquid Chamber

2  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.1.1 Wire Testing - Carbon Steel Wirelines

WARNING: ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN USING WIRE

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 3

1.1.2 Fracture Classification

Figure 2 - Single-Square Ended Primary

Grade 1 Fracture With Secondary Breaks

Figure 3 - Single-Square Ended Primary

4  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

Figure 4 - Slightly Stepped primary Fracture

Figure 5 - Single-Helical Spear Type Fracture

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 5

1.1.3 General Guidance Notes

1.1.4 Stainless Steel/Special Alloy Lines

1.1.5 Wrap Testing

Figure 6 - Stainless Steel Wire Test Wrap

6  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.2 TORSION TEST MACHINES

Figure 7 - Old Style Torsion Tester

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 7

Figure 8 - New Style Torsion/Wrap Wire Tester

8  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.2.1 Slickline Failures In Service

Figure 9 - Classic Tensile Break

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 9

1.3 RELATIVE STRENGTHS OF SLICKLINE

1.3.1 General Comparison of Grades

1.3.2 Carbon Steel Wires to API-9A

10  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.3.3 Stainless Steel and Special Alloys

1.3.4 Bending Stresses

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 11

Figure 10- Re-Spooling Methods

1.3.6 Handling and Storage

12  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.4 GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 13

Fault And Causes Results Correction

14  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

FAULT AND CAUSE RESULT CORRECTION

5. Wire indentation: Reduction in strength. Avoid excessive tension in winding and

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 15

1.5 EXAMPLE OF WIRE LOG

16  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 i

ii  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 1

Figure 1 - Typical Wireline Rigup

2  RIGTRAIN 2002– Rev 1

1.2 WIRELINE UNIT

Figure 2 - Typical Single Drum Wireline Unit

 RIGTRAIN 2002 – Rev 1 3

Basic controls/instruments are: