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Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Cooper Energy operator and 30% JV interest-holder in Tunisia’s Bargou Permit updated the testing of the Hammamet West-3 well. As previously advised, production testing of the well began on August 5, with an attempt to flow the well without acid stimulation. Cooper said that the initial flow period produced 25 barrels of fluid to surface and the well was then shut-in to obtain an accurate measurement of reservoir pressure.
Clean-up flows were conducted during a 6.5 hour period on August 6. During the clean-up flow period, 111 barrels of fluid (formation oil, base oil1, and drilling brine) were produced to surface tanks along with formation gas. Flow rates, measured by 15-minute tank dips, averaged 413 barrels of fluid/day with surges up to a maximum of 1,700 barrels of fluid/day. Gas flared at surface contained 3% CO2 and no H2S.
Prior to commencing the main flow period, coiled tubing operations were conducted in preparation for the introduction of acid into the wellbore. On August 7 the coiled tubing became stuck inside the production tubing due to an accumulation of loss circulation material produced from the Abiod Formation.
Operations to free the obstruction have been unsuccessful to date. Cooper intends to remove the coiled tubing so that testing operations may resume. Specialized cutting equipment has been mobilized to the rig to assist removal of the coiled tubing from the well bore. It is expected that, depending on the results of the ‘cutting’ operations, testing operations may recommence in another 7 to 14 days.
Cooper’s executive director, Exploration and Production, Hector Gordon, said: “While the well has continued to progress slowly, the results have been positive. Our pre-drill reservoir model has been confirmed by the fractures defined while drilling and the oil recoveries to date.”
“We are confident that the Hammamet West structure contains a material oil resource. Whilst there have been delays, the results so far are very encouraging” he continued.
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