Wirelines are used in a variety of applications for oil and gas exploration and production. At Avalon Research, we specialize in providing top-quality oil tools that can be seamlessly attached to and deployed on slickline and electric wireline so you can conduct routine maintenance tasks, data collection, and well-completion projects efficiently.
Below, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of wireline and how tools like our e-line bridge plug variants can help simplify your upcoming well intervention operation.
What Is Wireline for Oil and Gas?
Wireline is a deployment method used to run tools into the wellbore with a cable. This same cable is used to collect data and serves as a conduit for logging, fracking, operating gauges, and other downhole tasks.
The goal of wireline is to evaluate well conditions, verify well integrity, and perform downhole operations before, during, and after completion. This method is often used as a cost-effective alternative to more traditional equipment, such as coiled tubing or workover rigs, where operations require a permit.
Some benefits of wireline include:
- Increased efficiency: The in-hole-to-out-hole process is faster than other methods, such as coiled tubing.
- Cost-effective: Less equipment and labour are required to run wireline in a wellsite.
- Small but mighty: Wireline takes up much less space than rigs or coiled tubing, helping you maintain a more organized and hazard-free work area.
Different Types of Wireline
“Wireline” is a composite title that groups together the different types of line equipment used in downhole operations. Slickline and electric (E-line) are the most common wireline variants and are intended for different wellbore conditions and operational goals.
Let’s break down their differences below:
Slickline
Slickline features one steel wire that lowers tools downhole for mechanical tasks. This type of wireline is very affordable and lightweight, and is usually deployed for standard wellbore maintenance.
Slickline is generally used for setting and removing bridge plugs, retrieving stuck or obstructed tools, pressure equalization, and other standard maintenance.
E-Line/ Electric Line
Electric wireline features a single or multi-conductor braided cable with embedded steel armour. In addition to lowering tools into a wellbore like slickline, E-Line is also designed to transmit power and collect data from downhole tools and systems.
This type of wireline is used for jobs like pipe recovery, bridge plug setting, and reservoir monitoring. This more advanced wireline is essential for downhole projects that require more precise evaluation of downhole formations and data collection for tool performance.
Many of our wireline tools from Avalon Research can be deployed on both slickline and electric wireline. With innovative tools like our QUP or permanent bridge plug, your worksite can save time and reduce on-site costs by having multiple setting options to choose from.
How Wireline Is Used in Well Completions
At Avalon Research, we specialize in wireline tools for well completion projects. So, what is the role of wireline in these types of downhole operations?
During well completion, wirelines are used to install permanent or retrievable bridge plugs, setting tools, fracking plugs, and other components used during zone isolation. Slickline is best suited for wells with standard mechanical requirements, while e-line is used for more complex well environments and data acquisition.
With the right wireline-compatible tools at your disposal, you can check your well completion project off your list without missing a beat. If you’re looking for quality wireline tools, partner with our expert designers and engineers at Avalon Research!
Get Quality Wireline Tools from Avalon Research
For over 30 years, Avalon has been an industry leader in oil tool research, design, and development. We’re a trusted partner with oil and gas companies all around the world, from local plants in Alberta to operations in Argentina. If you need wireline tools for your upcoming well completion, you can find the following items in our inventory:
- QUP Retrievable Bridge Plug
- Permanent Bridge Plug
- Permanent Miniature Bridge Plug
- Non-Explosive Setting System
- Gauge Hanger
All of our products are precision-machined in compliance with NACE MR0175 in our ISO-certified facility. If you’re looking for quality oil tools you can rely on, contact us today to place an order for your worksite!