Well completions and workovers. Part 8. The systems approach to perforating

A systems approach to well perforating suggests that specific considerations are involved in achieving maximum deliverability. First, steps should be taken to avoid well bore damage due to drilling fluids, cement filtrate, or completion fluids. Secondly, perforators should be used that produce good penetration and that provide good clean-up characteristics. During the completion operation, conditions should be conducive to rendering the entire perforated system effective; that is, to produce a high effective shot density. Objectives are recommended which will govern perforation planning and operations: maximize well deliverability (or injectivity), achieve more efficient reservoir drainage (particularly in laminated strata), and divide fluid flow between perforations to minimize mechanical damage and to reduce tendency to produce sand from marginally consolidated media. Planning is recommended based on examination of the perforating environment, resources available, objective of the specific completion or workover, and attributes and constraints of available perforating equipment. 12 references.