Search
Filters
Close

Revolutionizing Non-Metallic GRE Tubulars in Downhole Applications: First Deployment of Hybrid Coupler in a Geothermal Well: Case Study

As the petroleum and energy industries relentlessly push boundaries to achieve operational efficiency and sustainability, the materials they utilize come under increasing analysis. Historically dominated by metallic components, downhole applications are witnessing a transformative shift towards non-metallic composite material such as Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) tubulars. These non-metallic solutions guarantees enhanced durability, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to the corrosive environment.

Product Number: MECC23-20002-SG
Author: Ralph El-Mir; Ghassan Zein; Adil al Mahasna
Publication Date: 2023
$20.00
$20.00
$20.00

Non-metallic Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) tubulars have gained significant momentum in the oil, gas, and energy sectors due to its unique non-corrosive properties which reduces Opex and overall Life Cycle Cost (LCC). Hence, it is being widely offered as an alternative to the traditionally used steel tubulars in various downhole applications.


Throughout the years, the use of high pressure GRE threaded tubulars has expanded to multiple water, oil, and gas applications such as: Production wells, Injection wells, hydrocarbon pipelines, gas pipelines, and liners for repair of corroded steel, etc.


In Downhole applications - previous deployments of GRE tubulars, past experiences, and case studies are used as references/basis to design casing systems that are fit-for-purpose and in-line with typical well design. Hence, all resultant loads acting on the casing are considered for different phases of its life: Installation, start-up operation, steady production operation, and shut down. Moreover, to confirm the GRE design and verify its mechanical properties and performance, several long- and short-term qualification tests are conducted such as tensile tests, internal pressure and survival tests, collapse tests and wear tests. In this paper, a case study is presented on the first Carbon/Glass hybrid coupler deployment in a Geothermal well as a source of renewable energy.


The novelty of this Non-Metallic GRE expansion tackles the corrosion and scaling challenges faced in steel systems. The use of Non-Metallic GRE tubulars in multiple oil and gas applications ensures an efficient installation and operation throughout a 20-year design life. It also provides an increased profitability and longevity of projects, all by reducing the carbon footprint.

Non-metallic Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) tubulars have gained significant momentum in the oil, gas, and energy sectors due to its unique non-corrosive properties which reduces Opex and overall Life Cycle Cost (LCC). Hence, it is being widely offered as an alternative to the traditionally used steel tubulars in various downhole applications.


Throughout the years, the use of high pressure GRE threaded tubulars has expanded to multiple water, oil, and gas applications such as: Production wells, Injection wells, hydrocarbon pipelines, gas pipelines, and liners for repair of corroded steel, etc.


In Downhole applications - previous deployments of GRE tubulars, past experiences, and case studies are used as references/basis to design casing systems that are fit-for-purpose and in-line with typical well design. Hence, all resultant loads acting on the casing are considered for different phases of its life: Installation, start-up operation, steady production operation, and shut down. Moreover, to confirm the GRE design and verify its mechanical properties and performance, several long- and short-term qualification tests are conducted such as tensile tests, internal pressure and survival tests, collapse tests and wear tests. In this paper, a case study is presented on the first Carbon/Glass hybrid coupler deployment in a Geothermal well as a source of renewable energy.


The novelty of this Non-Metallic GRE expansion tackles the corrosion and scaling challenges faced in steel systems. The use of Non-Metallic GRE tubulars in multiple oil and gas applications ensures an efficient installation and operation throughout a 20-year design life. It also provides an increased profitability and longevity of projects, all by reducing the carbon footprint.