Case Study: ExxonMobil achieves zero-NPT completion success with SLB’s customized FORTRESS isolation valve

Customized FORTRESS Isolation Valve Proves Key to ENL’s Completion Design for Extended-Reach Wells

ExxonMobil faced a completion challenge on the Berkut platform offshore Sakhalin Island, where a proprietary openhole isolation packer used with UltiPac Alternate Path extended-reach gravel-pack screens needed to work alongside a FORTRESS premium isolation valve from SLB. During design and testing, there was a risk that the packer’s shifting tool could partially engage the valve and cause unintended actuation or excessive overpull, with no room for nonproductive time.

SLB modified the FORTRESS valve’s shifting profile and the shifting tool collet to eliminate interference with ExxonMobil’s packer, then validated the redesign through multiple system integration tests. The customized valve enabled a 100% complete openhole gravel pack, the valve was closed, tested, and later reopened for production, and the well was brought onstream with zero NPT.

ExxonMobil