What is Perforating Guns.
A perforating gun is a device that is used to pierce or drill perforations in oil and gas wells for the purpose of production. Perforating guns are comprisedof multiple-shaped explosive charges and are designed in a range ofconfigurations and sizes. A critical aspect of the gun is the diameter. The size is generally determined by the occurrence of wellbore restrictions or even limitations that are levied by the surface equipment.
These guns find application and usage across various industries
but the most common application are the oil and gas well industries. Many types
of perforating guns are available and usage is dependent on the application. In
the drilling industry, they are required to make openings in casings. They
contain multiple explosive-shaped charges that create the kind of openings
that are needed in opening different sizes and types of casings. In the drilling
industry, perforating guns are part of the regular tools that are used to
connect pipelines.
How are they used in the field?
When it comes to drilling in traditional oil wells, a number of
thick-walled product casings are put in and cemented into place. This solid sealing
is needed so that no liquid lying in the reservoir can reach the wellbore. When
the time is right to commence production, holes have to be made through the
casing and the cement. They need to be deep and vast and hence the usage of a
regular drill bit alone will not suffice. This makes it imperative to deploy perforating
guns. They enlarge these holes by deploying shaped explosives.
The types of perforating guns
There are primarily three types of perforating guns and their
usage is based on where they are needed:
The retrievable hollow gun
·
In this gun, a steel tube secures the charge
and this gun usually leaves a little debris behind.
Expendable gun
·
This variety of perforating guns makes use of individual
cases. The cases are sealed and they hold a charge. These guns leave behind a
negligible amount of debris in the well.
Semi-expendable gun
·
Charges in these guns are retrieved by using wire
carriers. At times, metal bars might be used. These guns extract the maximum
quantum of debris that has been left behind from the explosives. An advantage
of such guns is their durability and reusability.
Perforating guns are available in a range of sizes and their applicationis varied. Petroleum businesses have to maintain low overheads in the field and
safeguard valuable assets. The lifespan and efficiency of the guns are a
function of protecting the thread components on the guns. Many businesses use custom
thread protectors to help components stay dry and thus ensure an intact charge.
Lowering equipment cost
Replacement of assets is an expensive proposition. Hence, maintenance
and protection of the components and equipment are critical. Using perforating
gun protectors can enhance the life of perforating gun threads.
When it comes to the oil and gas industry, Hunt and Hunt has
undoubtedly earned a sterling reputation for manufacturing high volumes of
premier perforating gun systems and setting tools since 1954.
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