Chapter 5-Drillstem Test

Chapter 5 :
DST TEST
Chapter 5 : DST Test

1
DRILLSTEM TESTING

2
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Drillstem testing is a temporary well completion test undertaken before

or after casing is run. It enables us to look "deeper" into the reservoir
than the other wellbore measurement methods. In its simplest form, the
DST assembly is a set of measurement, control, and sample tools placed
on the drillstem (in limited cases, at the bottom of tubing). It consists of
one or more packers which isolate the test zone, a flow control valve, a
continuous pressure recording device, a fluid sample chamber, and a
perforated anchor for the fluids entering the tool string. The test tools are
run into the hole with empty drillpipe or tubing (in some cases a
carefully designed water, diesel, or nitrogen cushion is used). The
sequence of a typical test is shown in Figures 1 to 6.

3
DRILLSTEM TESTING
As the tool string is run into the hole, the increasing hydrostatic pressure
of the mud column is recorded by the pressure gauge ( Figure 1 ). When
the test tools reach the depth of the test formation, the packer is set
against the walls of the hole or casing, thereby isolating the pressure of
the mud column from the pressure in the test zone. Pressure is measured
at the very bottom of the tool string and within the tool string itself. The
gauge records the pressure imposed by the hydrostatic head and any
"squeeze" pressure developed when setting the packer.

4
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 1

5
DRILLSTEM TESTING
The hydraulic valve is then opened and the formation fluids are free to
flow into the low-pressure drillpipe ( Figure 2 ). This initial flow, or pre-
flow period, is usually short in duration, say 5 to 10 minutes. Its purpose
is to relieve any buildup in pressure that may have occurred due to
setting the packer(s), or supercharging. If the formation being tested is
permeable and a large overbalance in drilling mud hydrostatic pressure is
present during drilling, the formation may be ""supercharged'' with mud
filtrate. In this case, a longer flow period (perhaps 30 minutes) may be
necessary in order to obtain an accurate estimate of initial pressure.

6
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 2

7
DRILLSTEM TESTING
The control valve is then closed and, because fluids may no longer flow
into the drillpipe, the recorded pressure normally approaches the original
formation pressure ( Figure 3 ). This shut-in period typically lasts for 30
to 60 minutes.

8
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 3

9
DRILLSTEM TESTING
The control valve is then opened once again for the second, more
important flow period. Typically, an openhole test will last for 60 to 180
minutes and a cased hole test will last for 8 to 10 hours ( Figure 4 ). At
the end of this flow period, a fluid sample is collected and isolated in the
sample chamber. Additional samples are collected at the surface for wells
that flow to surface.

10
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 4

11
DRILLSTEM TESTING
The final flow period is followed by a final shut-in period ( Figure 5 ),

which lasts approximately twice as long as the final flow period. This
provides a final shut-in pressure value. Any produced hydrocarbons are
then reversed out of the test string, the packer is carefully released, and
the tool string is pulled to the surface. Note that as soon as the packer is
released, the hydrostatic pressure imposed by the mud column at the
bottom of the drillstem is reduced as the tool string is pulled out of the
hole ( Figure 6 ).

12
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 5

13
DRILLSTEM TESTING
Figure 6

14
DRILLSTEM TESTING
At the surface, the pressure recording device is retrieved from the tool
string, and the dynamic response of the test interval to the alternate
pressure drawdown and buildup periods is analyzed. If the test tools did
not operate properly, the test must be repeated. To avoid this potentially
costly remedy, it is now possible to display and record bottomhole
pressures at the surface while the test is being run. This provides
immediate information on the quality of the test, the opportunity to
analyze the data before the tool string is retrieved, and the ability to
terminate the test when sufficient data has been collected.

15
Information Obtained from a DST

16
The DST is the only immediate post-drilling formation evaluation

method which allows us to evaluate the reservoir environment quite
some distance into the formation from the wellbore. We are able to do
this because of the technological advancement in our ability to use
pressure transient data to specify reservoir and near-wellbore
environments. The following is a summary of the information about a
reservoir that may be gained from a drillstem test.

17
Information Directly Obtained Or Graphically Extrapolated:
· static reservoir pressure (if the shut-in time is sufficiently long);

· flow rate (STB/D or m3/d for liquid; Mscf/D or m3/d for gas);
· depletion (If the final stabilized shut-in pressure is less than the
initial stabilized shut-in pressure, the produced fluid volume
causes measurable depletion of the test zone and therefore, its
effective communicating volume is small.);
· fluid sample.

18
Information Mathematically Derived:
The following information may be estimated by comparing the pressure

and fluid data obtained in the test with available mathematical solutions
to the appropriate flow equations:
· effective permeability of the formation to the flowing fluid.
· transmissibility.
· skin factor (for both near wellbore damage and stimulation).
· radius of investigation.
· reservoir anomalies (barriers, fluid contacts, permeability
changes, layered zones).
· well productivity under various completion design conditions.
· wellbore storage effects .
· the basis for design of subsurface and surface equipment.

19
It is clear that the drillstem test is one of the more important reservoir
evaluation methods because it is the only method that tests potentially
productive zones under dynamic flow conditions for a significant time
period. It should not be used in isolation from the other methods listed
above, however. Rather, they should all be seen as an integrated whole
which allows us to see "deeper" into the reservoir. As with any
evaluation method, we must temper what we "see" with what is realistic.

20
Type of Drillstem Tests
Drillstem tests may be performed either in the openhole or after the
casing has been cemented.
Openhole Tests
1 conventional bottomhole
2 conventional straddle
3 inflatable
Casing Tests
1 conventional
2 pressure operated tools

21
Openhole Tests

22
Conventional Bottomhole Test
A conventional test, by definition, is one that uses conventional packers;
that is, solid rubber packers that expand and maintain a good seal when
drillpipe weight is added and maintained. The conventional bottomhole
test (generally referred to as the "conventional test") is run when the zone
to be tested is located near the bottom of the open hole, and the hole is
near gauge. The tool components are spaced to isolate the test zone, and
the assembly is run in the hole to bottom. With the tool on bottom,
weight is applied to the tool (20,000 to 30,000 lb) by lowering the
drillstem. This causes a compression packer to be set above the test zone
and the hydraulic valve to be opened ( Figure 7 ).

23
Figure 7: Conventional bottomhole

drillstem test assembley.

24
The control valve is then closed to cause a shut-in and opened to allow a
flow period. Depending on the type of tool used, the control valve may
be operated by reciprocating the drillstring, by rotation, or in cased holes,
by applying pressure to the annular fluid. Two packers, arranged in
series, are often used to increase sealing length and to help maximize the
possibilities of a good test. The conventional bottomhole test should be
run when the wellbore is in good condition and there is a minimum
amount of "fill" or drill cuttings on bottom. Many test failures are caused
by fill. Damage usually results when the packer is set and the tester valve
opens after the tool has landed on a false bottom of "fill." With the
sudden reduction in pressure, the cuttings explode into the tool, thereby
removing the support under the test string and causing it to slide down
the hole.

25
This usually tears the expanded packer elements, which destroys their
sealing ability. Often the fill settles back to bottom during the shut-in
period, and a stuck anchor pipe results. Fill can also cause anchor
plugging or test tool plugging. If bottomhole fill is a problem, the hole
should be conditioned before running the test string. This is
accomplished by circulating on bottom to remove all drill cuttings, and
carefully monitoring mud properties to insure the formation of a
protective mud cake.

26
Conventional Straddle Test
A conventional straddle test ("straddle test") should be run when thezone

to be tested is not near bottom or when it is to be isolated from other
potentially productive zones which are also located below the packer.
This test is often used when a well has been drilled to bottom, the hole is
in good condition, and several zones within the wellbore are to be tested.
This test has become more popular in some areas because it is more
economical to drill the entire well, run one log, and then conduct the
DSTs. The test zone is isolated with straddle packers. The straddle
packers isolate the zone not only from the mud column, but also from the
other potentially productive zones.

27
If the zone to be tested is not too far from the bottom of the hole, drill
collars (not drillpipe) are added below the packers so that the tool string
is in contact with the bottom of the hole and the packers are located
opposite the test zone. Collars are used to withstand the compressional
loading necessary to support the test string. The packers are then set by
lowering the drillstring and applying weight (compression) to the
packers.

28
The application of weight also opens the hydraulic valve. Figure 8
illustrates a conventional straddle test with a bottom anchor. With this
test, much care is needed to make up the drill collars to provide the
spacing below the bottom packer. If there is significant fill on bottom, it
may be difficult to accurately place the packers opposite the test zone.
For this reason, the operator should condition the hole before each test.

29
Figure 8: Conventional straddle

drillstem test assembly with a
bottom anchor.
30
When the zone to be tested is a considerable distance above the bottom

of the hole, a sidewall anchor is placed below the test tools ( Figure 9 ).
The anchor consists of mechanically activated slips that grip the wall of
the hole and withstand the weight applied to set the packers and open the
hydraulic valve. A belly spring, placed below the slips, is used to provide
enough drag to allow the slips to extend during setting operations. With
this test, we need not be as concerned either with bottomhole fill or with
making up drill collars below the test zone. We must have good hole
conditions for setting both the anchor and the packers, however. Note
that because spacing to the bottom of the hole is not important in this
test, the tools may be used to test several zones during a single trip into
the hole.

31
Figure 9: Conventional straddle

drillstem test assembly with a
side wall anchor.

32
Inflatable Packer Straddle Test
When an uphole test is required and the hole conditions near the test
zone are irregular (i.e., a formation washout condition), an inflatable
straddle test system is used ( Figure 10 ). Inflatable rather than solid
rubber packers are used in the test tool string. Drillstem weight need not
be applied to set and maintain the packer seal. The test string is made up,
attached to the drillstring, and measured into the hole. When the packers
reach the zone to be tested, a right-hand rotation of the drillstring
activates a downhole pump which uses drilling mud to inflate the
packers. The pump is operated by rotating the drillstring at a rate of 30 to
90 rpm for about 15 minutes, until the pressure inside the packers is
considerably higher than the hydrostatic pressure. The drag spring,
located at the bottom of the test tool string, prevents the lower part of the
test tool from rotating during the pumping of the packers. Inflatable
packers are reinforced with cable braid and form a continuous seal over
their entire length.
33
Figure 10: Inflatable

straddle drillstem test
assembly.
34
When the test is completed, the packers are deflated and the tool string
is withdrawn from the hole or moved up the hole to test another zone.
The inflatable straddle test offers a number of advantages over the
conventional test:
· The packers have the ability to conform to irregular hole size.
· Because weight is not used to set the packer, bending drillpipe is
not a concern.
· Time is saved by not having to make up drill collars below the
test tools.
· There is no concern that the accumulation of fill on bottom will
cause the tools to be set above the selected test zone.
· Rig time may be saved if lengthy hole conditioning is not
required.
· A number of zones may be tested with a single trip into the hole
(especially if one or more gas zones are available to displace the
test fluids out of the drillpipe between tests).
35
Casing Tests

36
Conventional
The casing drillstem test is run after casing has been set and cemented in
the hole. The casing is perforated opposite the zone which is then tested.
Perforating may take place before the test tools are run, or perforating
capability may be included in the test tool itself. In the latter case,
perforation may be accomplished with underbalanced pressure
conditions. As a general rule, cased hole tests are safer and more easily
controlled. Deeper, deviated, and high pressure wells are often cased
before testing. When cased hole testing is done, tubing can often be used
in place of drillpipe.

37
Conventional
The downhole test assembly ( Figure 11 ) includes a retrievable packer
set directly above the perforations, slips, and a slotted or perforated tail
pipe. The packer is first lowered to the proper depth and then set. Packers
are set in different ways depending on manufacturer. These include
applying right-hand torque and setting down string weight, or by lifting
to disengage a J-slot in the packer assembly, and torquing to the right
while slacking off. This action causes mechanical slips to engage the
wall of the casing. These slips then support the string weight required to
compress the packer elements, seal the packer in the casing, open the
hydraulic valve, and isolate the zone below the packer from the annular
zone above. Weight is maintained on the packer throughout the test.

38
Conventional
Figure 11: Casing drillstem test

assembly.
39
Conventional
Because of the high cost of casing a well, the operator must be fairly sure
that he has a producing well if he chooses to perform a casing drillstem
test. This method is generally used to test deep wells where fractured
formations, sloughing shale, and high pressures exist. Offshore testing
from floating drilling vessels is always done behind casing. Because the
well is cased, the final flow period generally can last for longer periods
of time.

40
Pressure Operated Tools
When casing is present, pressure operated tools can be used rather than
rotating or reciprocating tools. This usually is the best way to test either
an offshore well from a floating rig, or a highly deviated well where
precise drillstring movements can be difficult. With a pressure operated
test string, the packer is set conventionally. The test valve is equipped
with an assembly which neutralizes the pressure of the mud hydrostatic
head. A N2.-charged pressure chamber keeps the valve closed. After
setting the packers, pressuring up the annulus to a preset value opens the
testing valve and allows flow. Releasing annulus pressure closes the
valve. A sampling unit can be attached to the test valve to obtain a
sample after the valve's final operation.

41
Pressure Operated Tools
Some companies provide a sample chamber incorporated into a reverse
circulating valve which is set above the test valve. Both of these
components operate at annular pressures above that which is needed to
operate the test valve. Pressure operated tools are available with internal
designs which allow through-tubing operation of wireline tools and
straight through flow capability for high volume testing.

42
Subsurface Test Equipment and Functional
Operation

43
Subsurface Test Equipment and Functional Operation
The test systems of the principal DST service companies are

substantially similar. There are some differences however. We shall
discuss the principal components of the subsurface test systems, and
show why and how each component is used. Differences exist among the
test tools of the principal service companies. In addition, each company
often has its own trade name for each test string component. Our
approach is to describe a DST test system without referring to specific
trade names.

44
Conventional Bottomhole Test Equipment--Overview
The major drillstem test tool components for a conventional bottomhole

test are shown in Figure 12 . The operation of this string of tools is best
understood if we discuss briefly the operation of the individual
components. We shall begin at the top of the tool assembly just below the
drillpipe or drill collars.

45
Figure 12: DST tool
assembly for a
conventional test.

46
REVERSE CIRCULATION SUB
The reverse circulation sub contains one or more reverse circulation

ports. It is run into the hole with the ports in the closed position. They
remain closed until all the data has been collected. When opened, they
provide communication between the annulus and the drillpipe. When the
drilling fluid is reverse-circulated, it displaces the produced fluids to the
surface before the tool is retrieved. This is especially important when
H2S, gas, or oil are produced during the test. This communication during
the test tool retrieval is also important for several reasons:
✓to circulate and condition the mud system;

✓ to prevent a blowout, it necessary; and
✓ to spot a lubricant when the drillstem is differentially stuck.

47
One type of reverse circulation sub contains hollow plugs ( Figure 13 ),

which extend from an outside port into the center of the sub. When the
ports are to be opened, a bar about 2 to 6 ft long, which is normally
housed in a bar releasing sub at the surface, is allowed to free-fall
through the drillpipe and break the plugs upon impact. The reverse
circulation sub is usually run one stand (90 ft) above the other tools.
Then any sand or shale that may have been produced during the test will
not prevent the drop bar from reaching the plugs. The section of drillpipe
below the sub will also contain samples of fluids produced during the
test, although they will not be at original pressure and may possibly be
contaminated with drilling mud. Reverse circulation valves can also be
operated by annular pressure in cased hole applications.

48
Figure 13

49
FLOW CONTROL VALVE AND SAMPLER
The flow control valve regulates the periods of flow and shut-in during
the test. It is operated either by applying weight to the drillstring, rotating
the drillstring, or applying pressure to the fluid in the annulus. A test may
include unlimited flow and shut-in periods where the valve is operated
by either weight or pressure. Where rotation is used to effect the opening
and closing of the valve, a limited number of shut-ins and flow periods
are possible (typically two or three). The use of pressure to control the
valve operation, rather than pipe manipulation, is only possible in cased
holes.

50
The fluid sampler, located above the hydraulic valve, retains a sample of
the fluid that is flowing through it just prior to the final shut-in ( Figure
14 ). Typically, a 2000 cc fluid sample, collected at final flowing
conditions, is available for laboratory analysis.

51
Figure 14

52
HANDLING SUB AND CHOKE ASSEMBLY
The handling sub and choke assembly serves as a place to latch pipe
handling equipment when making up and breaking out the tool string,
and as a place to locate a down hole choke if high flowing pressures are
expected and surface facilities need to be protected. Alternatively, if the
choke is not needed, the tool may become a handling sub only, or may
not be included in the tool string. Because chokes are present in the
surface equipment, the downhole choke is not often used, and so this test
tool component is optional.

53
HYDRAULIC VALVE
This valve, essentially the subsurface master valve, is closed when the
tool string is run into the hole in order to either keep the drillstem dry, or
to maintain any fluid cushion within the drillpipe. When the assembly is
in the proper location, the drillstring is lowered to set the conventional
packers, and the hydraulic valve opens. This tool has a hydraulic time
delay of 3 to 5 minutes before the valve quickly opens. This delay
mechanism prevents the valve from opening prematurely by giving the
driller enough time to "pick up" should the test string hang up on a
bridge or tight spot as it enters the hole.

54
Also, the packers are given time to seat properly before the valve opens.
Should an emergency occur, the flow can be stopped and the mud
hydrostatic pressure can be placed back against the formation simply by
raising the pipe to close the valve assembly. The time delay does not
function when the valve is closing. Once the hydraulic valve is open, it
remains open as long as weight is continually applied. Weight is
maintained throughout the test. The weight is then relieved and the valve
closes.

55
OPENHOLE BYPASS
The openhole bypass may or may not be an integral part of the hydraulic
valve sub. This bypass allows fluids to flow upward in the tool string,
through the packer assembly, and then to the annulus through ports as the
tool string is being lowered into the hole. When the tools are retrieved,
the process is reversed. This minimizes any hydraulic surging during
running-in, and formation fluid swabbing when pulling-out.

56
INSIDE PRESSURE RECORDER
Pressure recorders, located within recorder carriers, measure and record
the pressures that exist within the test tools during the DST. Typically,
there are at least two and often up to six recorders located within the test
assembly. Some carriers are designed to measure pressure internally, that
is, within the drillpipe (inside recorders); and others, externally, within
the annulus (outside recorders). The primary inside recorder generally
will be located above the packer in a special carrier which permits
passage of the well fluids when the tool opens.

57
Some service companies have recorder carriers that hold up to three
recorders so that multiple recordings are possible. Figure 15 shows one
type of inside and one type of outside pressure recorder, both of which
permit flow through the test string and past the recorders. Figure 16
shows another example. Note that in the latter figure, when the outside
port is plugged or blanked-off, the recorder becomes an "inside" type,
but does not permit flow past the recorder.

58
Figure 15: Two types of

pressure recorders: (a)
inside, (b) outside.

59
Figure 16: Inside and

outside recorders.

60
LOWER PRESSURE/TEMPERATURE RECORDERS
Pressure and, in some cases, temperature recorders are also located
below the packer near the test formation. Here, the pressure recorders
will generally be the "outside" type, and will often be located below the
perforated tail pipe or anchor. If there is any obstruction to flow within
the tool, it will be evident when the chart from the outside pressure
recorder below the packer is compared to the chart from the inside
pressure recorder above the packer.

61
HYDRAULIC JARS
Hydraulic jars are used to provide sharp upward impact blows to the
drillstring if the test tools and drillstring become stuck in the hole
(usually because the anchor pipe is stuck in debris). All hydraulic jars
operate according to the same basic principle. A hydraulic system, which
is operated by raising the drillpipe, causes a sharp hammer blow to the
drillpipe when it is in a stretched condition. This causes a jarring action.
By alternately reducing and increasing the tension on the drillstem, the
procedure is repeated with the goal of "jarring" loose the drillstring.

62
SAFETY JOINT
Should the lower part of the test tool become stuck in the hole, the safety
joint may be used to retrieve all of the tools above it. There are several
types of safety joint mechanisms. Some utilize a left-hand "back off"
thread connection, so a right-hand rotation allows the safety joint
connection to be unscrewed, while preventing the possibility of backing
off at a normal tool joint (which is unscrewed by left-hand rotation). A
spline and lug arrangement prevents the joint from being unscrewed
during ordinary manipulation of the drillpipe.

63
SAFETY JOINT
Other safety joints have normal right-hand thread connections. The

threads, however, are cut coarsely so that this joint will unscrew first if
the drillstring is turned to the left while the pipe is stuck ( Figure 17 ). In
any case, the section of the test string below the safety joint remains in
the hole to be recovered by normal fishing operations.

64
SAFETY JOINT
Figure 17: Safety joint showing

coarse thread.
65
PACKER
The packer generally used for a DST is a heavy-duty, openhole rubber
packer. The type of rubber used depends upon the specific application
(i.e., cool, shallow wells will require different rubber characteristics than
deep, hot wells) ( Figure 18 ). When weight is applied to the drillstring,
the packer assembly travels downward, compressing the packer outward
(usually 1 to 1 1/2. inches) against the wellbore. As long as the packer is
properly selected for the hole size and is held in compression, a seal will
be maintained. Some service companies suggest using two packers to be
sure a competent seal is obtained. Where hole washout is a problem,
larger packers can be used, but they must be run and retrieved more
slowly.

66
PACKER
Figure 18: Conventional packer.

67
PERFORATED ANCHOR
Anchor pipe usually consists of heavy-duty drill collar stock which

allows flow into the test string. It also serves as support for the
compression-type packers, and as a means for locating the packers at the
desired distance off bottom.

68
Pressure Recording Equipment

69
Pressure Recording Equipment
There are two types of instruments used to record pressures during a

drillstem test: mechanical gauges and electronic gauges.

70
MECHANICAL GAUGES
The pressure element of a mechanical gauge is normally a multiple coil

bourdon tube type ( Figure 19 ). Well pressure is transmitted through a
rubber diaphragm to fluid contained inside of the bourdon tube. Pressure
increases cause the tube to uncoil. The rotation is transferred to a stylus
which makes a mark on a coated metal chart. The recording chart is
moved vertically by a clock, with the time of movement along one axis
of the chart dependent upon the clock selected 2 to 360 hours). The
stylus is moved perpendicular to this direction by the bourdon tube as it
records pressures, and the movement of the chart by the clock records
time. The relative motion of each yields a pressure-time chart ( Figure 20
shows the charts for both the inside and outside recorders).

71
MECHANICAL GAUGES
Figure 19

72
MECHANICAL GAUGES
Figure 20

73
ELECTRONIC GAUGES
Electronic gauges, using quartz-crystal or strain gauge transducers,

provide high resolution pressure and temperature measurements. The
electronic gauges may either be coupled with downhole electronic
memories or connected through an electric wireline to surface
instruments. The downhole memory recorder can be set to register
pressure and temperature on a periodic basis (recording intervals
typically from 5 seconds to 128 minutes). When the drillstem test tool is
retrieved, the information stored in the memory is read by surface
electronics to provide an immediate digital printout of the data ( Figure
21 ).

74
ELECTRONIC GAUGES
To obtain a more direct surface readout of pressure/temperature data, it is

possible to connect the sub-surface electronic gauge through a wireline,
which is run inside the drillpipe, to a surface recorder. Using this
equipment, real time test data is immediately available at the surface so
that the quality of the test may be observed and, with a suitable
computer, immediate test calculations may be performed. It is possible,
then, to perform a complete analysis of a dril -stem test on the rig floor
even before the test tools have been moved from the test zone. This
means that if the test was not properly designed or conducted, it may be
repeated without a substantial loss in time (and money!). It also means
that a test may be continued until sufficient data has been obtained (not
too long and not too short!).

75
Figure 21

76
INDIRECT MEASUREMENTS
The closed chamber form of drillstem testing is one where pressure
measurements are recorded at the surface (and also with downhole
gauges) with the surface valves closed. The closed chamber is the
volume of the drillstem from the closed surface valve downward. The
measured pressures in the closed chamber during the test and those
during controlled blowdown of the chamber provide input to a computer.
This input is then used to solve the appropriate equations to yield
estimations of gas or liquid flow rates and type of recovery during a test.

77
INDIRECT MEASUREMENTS
The data obtained from closed chamber testing sometimes can be

considered questionable because this limited flow period does not correct
for mud volume produced from the borehole below the packer and
supercharged formation pressure. However, advances in computer-
assisted calculations are improving this method, and increased test safety
is a definite advantage of closed chamber testing.

78
Surface Equipment

79
Surface equipment provides for the safe control, sampling, flow rate
measurement, and disposal of fluids that reach the surface during a
drillstem test. A typical surface equipment installation ( Figure 22 )
includes the following elements:
· control head
· steel flow hose
· floor manifold
· flare line
· separator/treater

80
Figure 22: Typical DST
surface equipment.

81
Control Head
The control head is a combination of a swivel joint and control valves
located at the top of the drillstem ( Figure 23 ). The valves provide
surface control of flow; the swivel allows rotation of the drillstem if
necessary to set packers or operate DST tools. A dual master valve
control head is normally used if high pressures are expected or when
testing offshore ( Figure 23 ). This allows for operation at high pressures
(15,000 psi) and for the remote pressure operation of the control valve.
The valve is opened when pressure (300 to 500 psi) is applied through
nitrogen lines and closed when the pressure is released.

82
Control Head
Figure 23: Control heads.

83
In addition to the control valves, a bar releasing assembly ( Figure 24 ) is
located at the surface so that the hollow or fluted bar may be released to
open the ports of the reverse circulation sub.

84
Figure 24

85
Steel Flow Hose
The steel flow hose (also called "Chiksan" pipe) consists of a series of
high-pressure tubing sections, swivels, and unions which provides a flow
path from the control head to the floor manifold for any production that
reaches the surface during a test. Some testing companies also use high-
pressure, steel-reinforced rubber hose. For added safety, cables or chains
are attached to each section of the flow hose and to the floor.

86
Floor Manifold
The floor manifold ( Figure 25 ) is a set of control valves placed on the
rig floor which performs the following functions:
· sample taking
· choke placement
· pressure measurement
· additional pressure control
It is the direct link between the control head and the flare, separator, or
production line. Usually it is designed in a square with positions for
placing chokes on both sides. One side usually has a fixed but
interchangeable choke size; the other side has a variable choke.

87
Figure 25

88
Flare
In today's petroleum operations, any fluids produced during testing
operations must be disposed of safely, without polluting the environment.
The ideal procedure is to direct the fluids to production equipment or to
vessels that may be transported to production equipment. In many cases,
the DST is conducted on an exploratory well which is located at a remote
site. In this case, flaring is required. This is especially true offshore. In
any event, a flare must be located a safe distance from the wellhead and
operated so as to protect the environment and personnel. Off shore, this
usually requires the use of a specially designed burner and boom. The
burner has one or more combustion heads which atomize and burn the
production completely. The boom, typically 60 ft long, provides the
necessary piping to supply the burner and a gas flare. Sometimes a water
"curtain" is sprayed at the edge of the burner to reduce the radiant heat of
the flare.
89
Separator/Treater
Even when production may be safely disposed of with a flare, the
produced fluids of wells that flow to surface during the test are directed
to a separator/treater system from time to time in order to measure
production rates of the various phases and to collect samples. Production
rates are measured by using appropriate meters or by collecting fluids in
tanks. For gas well tests, a heater and solvent injection system may be
needed to control hydrates.

90
91
Drillstem Test Design and field procedures

92
Factors Required to Obtain a Good DST
It seems clear that these main conditions must exist in order to

obtain a good DST:
· proper functioning of the test tool

· good hole conditions
· proper DST design

93
PROPER FUNCTIONING OF THE TEST TOOL
The following problems cause test tool malfunctions:

· clock malfunctions
· drillpipe leaks
· human error, such as picking the wrong interval or measuring the
pipe incorrectly
· packer seat failures
· valve operation failures
Having several pressure recorders will overcome the first potential
problem. Pressure testing the drillpipe from time to time will tend to
avoid the second. The third potential cause, however, is one that is
avoided only by being especially careful in planning and carrying out the
test. Packer seating failure can be avoided by picking smooth sections of
the test interval to locate the packers. Tool string component failures can
be minimized by using equipment that is in good condition.
94
GOOD HOLE CONDITIONS
Hole condition problems may result from the following conditions:
· excessive fill on bottom, which may result in damage to

conventional packers and sticking of the bottom anchor;
· out-of-gauge hole, which will not allow the packer to seat;
· tight or bridged hole, which will not allow the test tools to reach
the test zone;
· poor packer seating; and
· plugging of the tools by fill or material in the mud system.

95
PROPER DST DESIGN
Improper test design will also lead to a faulty DST. There are a number
of ways in which a DST may be designed improperly:
The drillpipe (or tubing) may not have the proper collapse pressure,
internal yield, or tensile strength necessary for the imposed test
conditions. Because the drillpipe is usually lowered into the hole dry,
there is a substantial difference between the external (annulus) and
internal pressure. If the hydrostatic pressure is greater than the collapse
pressure, drillpipe collapse could occur. This is one of several reasons for
adding a fluid cushion (e.g., water, diesel oil or nitrogen)to the
drillstring. The tensile strength of the drillpipe should also be considered.
If the test string becomes stuck, making it necessary to activate the jars,
the imposed force may be 100,000 lb of impact load above string weight.

96
Too severe a pressure shock imposed on the formation when the
formation pressure is exposed to the empty drillpipe may damage the
packer to the point where it will not seal. (A severe pressure shock may
also damage unconsolidated formations.) As a "rule of thumb," if the
difference between the hydrostatic pressure of the mud column (which
will be somewhat greater than the formation pressure) and the drillpipe
exceeds 4000 psi, then a water cushion (nitrogen or diesel fuel in some
cases) should be placed in the drillpipe to reduce the pressure differential
to 4000 psi or less when the valve is opened.

97
This means that:
Hydrostatic pressure - cushion pressure =4000 psi
(Hydrostatic gradient)(Depth) - (Hydrostatic gradient of water)
(Height of Cushion) = 4000 psi
Height of Cushion =
Hydrostatic Pressure(psi) - 4000psi

(1)
0.433 psi / ft
Note: 0.433 psi/ft if freshwater cushion is used; if diesel

cushion is used, gradient is 0.368 psi/ft.

98
·It is possible that pressure surges set up by pipe movement and packer
setting may cause abnormally high pressures near the wellbore in
permeable formations. It is important that this supercharge be depleted
during the first flow period so that it does not contribute to faulty test
results during the initial shut-in period.
·It is important that the flow and shut-in periods of the test be
sufficiently long so as to obtain meaningful results. Rules of thumb,
although not always to be followed, suggest the following test period
durations:

99
Initial flow period 5 to 10 mins
Initial shut-in period 30 to 60 mins
Final flow period onshore, openhole, which is 60 to 80
mins, depending on permeability
Offshore, cased hole daylight hours, typically 8 hrs
Final shut-in period 1.5 to 2 times the duration of the second flow
period
Of course, if the bottomhole pressures are being recorded in real time at

the surface, the test may be terminated when pressures stabilize. If this
occurs offshore when daylight remains, a second choke could be in
stalled and a second flow rate test obtained.
·The proper gauge (mechanical or electronic) must be selected
according to the necessary range, accuracy, resolution, and test
objectives.
100
Information That Should Be Supplied To DST
Service Company
The following information, as a minimum, should be given to the DST
service company prior to the test so that it can be properly prepared:
· hole size (for packer size)
· downhole temperature (packer material)
· mud weight (recorder pressure ranges)
· depth (proper recorders)
· H2S possibilities
· arrival time on location (24 hour notice usually required)
· number and kind of tests anticipated (so sufficient equipment is
available)
· duration of test (pressure recorder clock selection) and
· drillpipe and collar connections (for proper crossover sub sizing)

101
DST Interpretation

102
Figure 26 (a) shows a pressure-time plot for a typical DST chart. Note
that pressure, on the vertical scale, increases upward. Time, on the
horizontal scale, increases from left to right. Based on either the
convention of an individual service company or the design of a particular
manufacturer's pressure recorder, the pressure scale ( Figure 26 (b)) or
the time scale ( Figure 26 (c)) may be reversed. The results should not be
affected by the way the chart is recorded.

103
Figure 26: Various ways
in which DST charts are
recorded.

104
Before the test tool is run into the hole, the tester loads the chart into the
recorder, and draws the baseline on the chart using the recorder stylus (
Figure 27 ). This represents zero psig for the mechanical pressure gauge.
When the clock is started, the tool is assembled and run in the hole. For
the electronic pressure gauge, the accuracy of its readings at the surface
is checked before going into the hole. Pressure gauges should have been
calibrated recently at reservoir temperature.

105
Figure 27: Drawing baseline on DST chart.

106
A typical DST chart is shown in Figure 28 . AB on the chart represents
the buildup in hydrostatic pressure as the tool is run into the hole. The
line is not smooth, either because of pressure surges as each connection
is made, or because of tight spots encountered in the open hole, or
because of delays required to add cushion fluid or repair surface
equipment. After the tools reach the test interval, the surface equipment
is connected to the drillpipe. During this time the hydrostatic pressure
stabilizes (B), pressure surges end, and the initial hydrostatic pressure
value is recorded at the point where the pressure is relatively flat.

107
Figure 28: Typical DAT chart.
108
The packer is then set, the tool is opened (BC), and the initial flow
period takes place (CD). This period typically lasts for about 5 to 10
minutes. The initial pressure recorded at (C) is usually near atmospheric
unless a cushion has been placed in the drillpipe, or a highly productive
formation is being tested. When formation flow capacity is greater than
the tool string's flow capacity, the tools act as a choke. Since both
pressure recorders are below the hydraulic valve and flow control valve
(normally the smallest ID in the tool string), they record this
backpressure. In such cases, the recorded initial pressure will be higher
than atmospheric. During this initial flow period the pressure increases as
fluid enters the drillpipe. The magnitude of the increase will be
proportional to both the volume and density of fluids in the drillpipe. The
slope of pressure increase will be relatively low for a tight formation or
for one that is producing gas.
109
The tool is then closed and the initial shut-in period, with a duration of
30 to 60 minutes, takes place (DE). Surface flow indications cease. If the
shut-in is sufficiently long, the initial shut-in pressure, now without any
supercharged effect, is recorded at (E).
The tool is then opened again (EF) for the final flow period (FG). The
initial pressure during the final flow period should be about equal to the
pressure at the end of the initial flow period. The shape of the flow curve
will depend upon the properties of the formation and the produced fluids.
The duration of this period of the test will typically be 60 to 90 minutes
for openhole tests. For cased hole tests, the period may last as long as
surface recorded pressures indicate that further flow is needed. Safety
regulations may require that offshore testing be conducted during
daylight hours and therefore, may affect the length of the test period.

110
At the end of the final flow period the tool is shut in (G) and the final
buildup period takes place (GH). The latter period typically lasts 1.5 to
2.0 times the duration of the final flow period. The packer is then
released (H), the hydrostatic pressure caused by the mud column is again
"felt" by the pressure recorder (I), and the tool string is retrieved from the
hole (IJ).

111
Validity of Test Results
Before beginning the analysis of test results, it is important to check that
the proper data has been collected and that it is valid. The following are
important in this regard.
PACKER SEAL
The packer seal should have been maintained throughout the test.
Depending upon the type of test run, it is possible to verify that a
competent packer seal was maintained by observing measured pressures
at different times during the test, by comparing measured pressures at
two different recorders during the test, or by noting changes in the casing
pressure or annulus fluid level during the test.

112
PRESSURE RECORDER
Most DSTs are run with at least two or three pressure recorders; two
within the test interval and one either above or below the interval. We
must decide which recorder data is to be used. The following guidelines
are suggested:
· Use a recorder that was run nearest the test interval.
· Use a recorder with pressures recorded in midrange (20% to 80%
of full scale) of the capacity of the recorder and with the shortest
clock (more spread).
· Use a recorder whose measured values agree with other recorded
readings.
· Use a recorder which closely matches the real time sequence of
events.
· Check the recorded data for malfunction.
113
When two recorders are used, one should measure the pressure in the
flow stream and the other should measure the pressure outside the tool
string to aid in analyzing the test. Always look at both the inside and
outside recorder charts to confirm a valid test.

114
Qualitative Interpretation

115
All of the marks and lines on the DST charts are important; they coincide
with some operation of the tools, the motion of drillpipe or tubing, and
the operating and closing of surface control valves. The base line is the
only mark on the chart that ias not influenced by the operation of the
tools. For this reason, it is possible to interpret the chart to make a
qualitative assessment of such factors as reservoir properties, type of
fluid recovery, and tool string plugging. Some examples which show the
extent to which the qualitative interpretation of charts is possible are
presented here.

116
Reservoir Properties
PERMEABILITY
It is possible to state the relative level of formation permeability within

the region of the wellbore being tested (assuming a fairly homogeneous
interval). Figure 29 shows three levels of permeability: low, average, and
excellent.

117
Figure 29: DST charts for various permeability formations A) low, b) average, c)
excellent.

118
WELLBORE DAMAGE
Wellbore damage exhibits ( Figure 30 ) a weak blow at the surface, very

little recovery, low flowing pressures, a sharp pressure rise after the tool
is shut in, a short radius pressure transition during buildup followed by a
flat pressure increase. Fluid depletion during the test is minimal. If the
wellbore cleans up during the test, then there will be a change in the
character of the curves from that shown in Figure 30 to one of those
shown in Figure 29 .

119
Figure 30: Typical DST chart showing formation
damage.

120
DEPLETION
In a normal DST, a drop in pressure between the initial and final

stabilized shut-in values indicates a limited or finite reservoir provided
the initial value has not been affected by supercharging ( Figure 31 ). The
produced fluids have caused a measurable depletion ("drawdown") of the
reservoir. A pressure change of 1.5% or greater is considered serious and
more careful evaluation or retesting is warranted. A barrier effect or
nearby production may also cause the same effect to be recorded.

121
Figure 31: DST chart showing depletion.

122
RESERVOIR BARRIER
Figure 32 is an excellent example of a decrease in pressure buildup levels

between the initial and final flow periods. These are caused by a reservoir
barrier or a permeability problem as opposed to depletion. The change in
the slope of the buildup curve indicates a reduction in transmissibility
some distance from the wellbore.

123
Figure 32: DST chart showing barrier effects.

124
Fluid Recovery
A visual inspection of the DST chart will reveal,in most cases, the type
of fluid recovered during the test.
Liquid Recovery
When liquid is produced during the test, an increase in flowing pressures

is noted ( Figure 33 ). The pressure at the beginning of the final flow
period is equal to that at the end of the initial flow period that which is
caused by the column of recovered liquid. If the liquid flows to surface (
Figure 34 ) during the test, there will be an initial increase in flowing
downhole pressure, followed by a surge as liquid reaches the surface.
Thereafter, there will be a stabilization of flow rate and pressure. This
chart also shows the reverse circulation procedures conducted after much
of the drillstring was recovered.
125
Figure 33: DST chart showing liquid recovery.

126
Figure 34: DST chart showing liquid recovery to surface.

127
It is possible, particularly when testing a highly permeable zone, that
liquid is produced at a high rate during the flow period and fills the
drillpipe to a level where the pressure imposed by the hydrostatic column
(or backpressure imposed by insufficient flow area) equals the reservoir
pressure. The well kills itself and flow stops ( Figure 35 ). Production
does not reach the surface.

128
Figure 35: DST chart showing stabilized liquid recovery.

129
GAS RECOVERY
When gas, as opposed to liquids, is produced during a DST, the

characteristics of the chart are different. Gas will normally flow at a
reasonably constant downhole pressure unless the well is producing at
such a high rate as to cause a back-pressure at the formation. In some
cases, the flowing pressures will actually decrease during flow ( Figure
36 ). Flowing pressures that are flat or slightly decreasing, then, are
usually an indication of gas production. Liquid cushions (or inert gas
cushions) can be run on gas zones. In such cases, flowing pressures will
rise until the cushion is unloaded, just as in oil wells. Every effort should
be made to obtain a stabilized flow rate, since this is critical to valid test
analysis. In cases similar to Figure 36 , smaller chokes should be tried to
obtain a stabilized flow rate.
130
Figure 36: DST chart showing gas production at
decreasing rates.

131
MULTIPHASE RECOVERY
Pressure fluctuations during the flow periods are an indication that both
liquid and gas are being produced. The fluctuations shown in Figure 37
(a), for example, were caused by gas unloading slugs of liquid at the
surface.

132
Figure 37: Typical DST charts a) showing multiphase
flow b) showing the effect of a water cushion.
(a)
(b)

133
TESTING WITHA CUSHION
A fluid cushion is usually run on deep tests to avoid excessive fluid

shock to the packer. A water cushion is shown in Figure 37 (b). The
cushion was added to the drillpipe at (A) as the drillpipe was run into the
hole. When the tool was opened for the initial flow period, the pressure
dropped to that imposed by the cushion rather than atmospheric. If a
nitrogen cushion is used, nitrogen is pumped into the drillpipe to the
desired pressure before the flow control valve is opened. The valve is
then opened and the nitrogen bleeds off slowly at the surface to allow the
test zone to begin flowing.

134
Tool Plugging
Plugging at the anchor, either within the test tools or at the surface, may
also be observed on the DST chart. The degree of plugging may vary
from complete to partial to a gradual unplugging as the test progresses.
ANCHOR PLUGGING
In Figure 38 , the charts from both the inside and outside recorders
indicate that the anchor was beginning to plug during the initial flow
period and then it became completely plugged just after the onset of the
final flow. This is evident because there is no pressure buildup during
both the flow and subsequent buildup periods on the inside recorder, but
the outside recorder continues to "feel" the formation pressure.

135
Figure 38: DST charts showing anchor plugging.

136
Figure 39 shows the result of intermittent anchor plugging. On this type
of test the charts show a series of spikes during the flow period. The
spikes on the inside and outside recorders are in opposite directions.
Plugging causes a rapid buildup on the outside recorder. When the
pressure becomes high enough to force the cutting through the anchor
perforation, the pressure outside is reduced and the pressure inside is
increased simultaneously.

137
Figure 39: DST charts showing intermittent anchor
plugging.

138
TOOL PLUGGING
If the tool becomes plugged above the inside recorder during the final
flow period ( Figure 40 ), both recorders will show a continuous buildup
after plugging. This will continue for the remainder of the open period
and the following shut-in period. The small line on the charts indicates
the valve closing for the final shut-in period.

139
Figure 40: DST charts showing tool plugging.

140
SURFACE PLUGGING
Surface plugging or restrictions may be caused by fluids freezing in the

steel hoses, plugged flow measuring equipment, or closed valves: The
effect of complete surface plugging can be observed both at the surface
and at all downhole recorders.

141
In conclusion, qualitative interpretation of DST charts is an important
aspect of the overall evaluation of the test. This is especially true when
pressure measurements are being made in real time at the surface, and
when it is possible to retest a zone without adding significantly to the
time and cost.

142
Quantitative Interpretation

143
Conventional Well Test Interpretation
Methods
The conventional well test interpretation methods are based upon the
original Horner pressure buildup analysis (Horner, 1951). This analysis is
based upon an assumed wellbore-reservoir model. The basic model
assumes a homogeneous reservoir of infinite lateral extent with
impermeable upper and lower boundaries and uniform initial pressure
throughout. The inner boundary condition is one which allows the well to
flow at a constant rate for a period of time, tp and then to be shut in (no
flow) for a period, ∆t. The inner boundary conditions for this model also
allow for a "skin" to exist near the wellbore. The outer boundary
condition normally provides a constant pressure. (Note that a
modification to this model can be made in the case where a reservoir is
known to have a limited lateral extent.)

144
145
146
TRANSMISSIBILITY (kh/µ)
k 0 h 162.6q 0 b 0
=
µ0 m
SKIN FACTOR (s :
p 1hr − p wf (∆t = 0) tp+1 k0

s = 1.151 + log − log + 3.23 .
m tp φµ 0 c t rw2

147
Modern Well Test Interpretation Methods

148
149
150
151
Well Test Interpretation and System Design
With data obtained from a DST analysis, the inflow performance curves
for the well may be calculated using Vogel's method (Brown, 1982). They
also may be obtained by using the basic model that we have found
represents our wellbore-reservoir system, and then carrying out a series of
simulations to obtain flow rate versus flowing bottomhole pressure curves
at various values of bottomhole pressure (example, Figure 1 , Inflow
performance curves for Williston Basin Wel ). Note that the inflow
performance curve "shrinks" as the reservoir is depleted and the average
reservoir pressure decreases.

152
153
154
155
EN

156

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Chapter 5 :

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Drillstem testing is a temporary well completion test undertaken before

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The final flow period is followed by a final shut-in period ( Figure 5 ),

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The DST is the only immediate post-drilling formation evaluation

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Information Directly Obtained Or Graphically Extrapolated:

· static reservoir pressure (if the shut-in time is sufficiently long);

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The following information may be estimated by comparing the pressure

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Figure 7: Conventional bottomhole

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

A conventional straddle test ("straddle test") should be run when thezone

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Figure 8: Conventional straddle

When the zone to be tested is a considerable distance above the bottom

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Figure 9: Conventional straddle

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Figure 10: Inflatable

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Figure 11: Casing drillstem test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The test systems of the principal DST service companies are

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The major drillstem test tool components for a conventional bottomhole

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test

The reverse circulation sub contains one or more reverse circulation

✓to circulate and condition the mud system;

Chapter 5 : DST Test

One type of reverse circulation sub contains hollow plugs ( Figure 13 ),

Chapter 5 : DST Test

Chapter 5 : DST Test