Case Study: Southwest Algeria Operating Company achieves well integrity and eliminates fluid losses with SLB FORM-A-BLOK AS and FORM-A-PLUG II

Enhanced Lost Circulation Solutions Provide Well Integrity and Eliminate Losses for Well Control

Southwest Algeria Operating Company was drilling a vertical gas well in southwest Algeria when a gas kick caused total downhole losses in the 8½-in section, leading to severe mud losses and lost circulation problems. SLB, through its M-I SWACO lost-circulation technologies, was brought in after earlier pills and materials had failed to restore returns.

SLB proposed a tandem solution using a FORM-A-BLOK AS acid-soluble lost circulation pill and a FORM-A-PLUG II acid-soluble lost circulation plug. After three 50-bbl tandem pills reduced losses and a fourth was pumped to secure the BHA, circulation was fully re-established, well control was restored at 1.11 relative density, and the well was stabilized so drilling could resume; the operator eliminated losses, successfully pulled the BHA, and set and cemented the 7-in liner.