Drillstem Testing

22.3

22.3-1

DST assembly
using two
straddle
packers

22.3-2

Test Tree

22.3-3

Test Choke

22.3-4

Typical DST
The typical drill stem test will be split into four period,
Pre flow. initial shut in period, a main flow period and
a final shut in period. Times of for each test are
dependent on conditions at the well site Drill stem
tests may be run at any time during the drilling
operation at the current depth or may be used to test
any interval in the hole after TD has been reached.
Using these data and based on the evaluation of
engineers and geologists, management can base a
decision to complete the hole for potential production
of oil or gas or proceed with abandonment.
22.3-5

Pre-Flow Period
is a production period to clean up
the well and is used to remove any
supercharge given to the formation
due to mud infiltrating into the
prospective formation during the
drilling operation.

22.3-6

Initial Shut In
This period is to allow the
formation to recover from pressure
surges caused during the pre flow.
this is often referred to as "closed
in for the pressure build up" this
period will be longer.

22.3-7

Main Flow
a more lengthy production period designed
to test the formations flow characteristics
more rigorously. Samples of any fluids will
be checked for water content Gas bubble
bust pressure temperature and many other
nice surprises. This will be done using set
choke or variable chokes. Sample reaching
surface will be measured as to volume and
gathered for analysis in a laboratory.
Samples of any fluids in the drill string at
the conclusion of the test will be measured
as to volume and gathered for analysis.
Flowing pressures and temperatures will be
recorded.

22.3-8

Final Shut-In
formation pressure is recorded over
this period. The shape of the pressure
build up curve will tell us the
permeability of the formation, the
degree of formation damage (likely
caused during the drilling operation),
It will also tell us if we have found a
small reservoir but there is no telling if
it a big one.
22.3-9