Dope-Free Technology Improves Health, Safety and Environment Performance of Casing and Tubing Field Operations in Vaca Muerta Play, Neuquen Argentina

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to describe the benefits provided by a dope-free technology applied to casing connections ran in the Vaca Muerta shale play, located in the Province of Neuquén, Argentina. The focus is placed on the health, safety and environmental (HSE) benefits obtained during pipe storage, cleaning, inspection, running and post running operations, including waste management. The method used to evaluate the benefits of the dope-free technology was the comparison of actual operations in the field. Some of these operations ran standard doped connections while others ran connections coated with the dope-free technology. Aspects related to the environment (i.e. water consumption, waste management), health and safety (i.e. risks and their mitigation) were registered. Operations were registered at the rig site and at specific service yards. The comparison included a complete and thorough analysis of each task and the associated risk for the personnel in charge of pipe preparation, running and storage operations. The dope-free technology eliminates tasks related to pipe preparation, pipe running and pipe storage, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing personnel safety. The dope-free solution is a "zero discharge" technology that reduces water consumption and the generation of effluents. Additionally, it simplifies waste management because the quantity of materials contaminated with dope is significantly reduced.