A New Hybrid Cased Multilateral Junction Improves Flow Area in High Volume Applications
By
Karl DeMong1, Jim Oberkircher1
(1) Halliburton, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Multilateral systems are finding applications in more and more wells than
ever before. Demands for specific features and capabilities are driving
development into non standard hybrid designs that have features of several of
the TAML junction classifications but do not fit neatly into any of the
categories. Design has moved away from TAML paradigm and toward find fit for
purpose solutions
. The development of new high volume sealed junction
multilateral systems will be examined to see the results that this new approach
can bring.
This innovative
system is a hybrid, most closely resembling a TAML Level 5,
that provides mechanical and hydraulic isolation at the created multilateral
junction without cement, and re-entry capabilities into both the main and
lateral well bores. This system also is very mechanically simple to run,
utilizing a minimal number of trips to establish the junction and achieve
mechanical and hydraulic isolation. Originally designed for use as a method of
keeping debris out of an open junction, this system has potentially a much
broader set of applications. Originally a design for high volume low-pressure
applications, development of this junction in a higher-pressure variant will be
discussed. The paper will describe the mechanical and operational functionality
of the system and two variants of the system that provide unique features that
meet the requirement of these applications.