Fundamentals of Cementing Operations

Introduction to Cementing Operations 

• API cement classification
• Basic cement chemistry and manufacturing
• Primary cementing

The course will begin with an HSE orientation before moving into a discussion of the course objectives and an overview of course content.  Participants will learn about the API Cements Classification System and will be provided with an overview of basic cement chemistry and introduce cement manufacturing.  The day will conclude with discussion of the following topics primary cementing, cementing equipment, well construction objectives, role of cement and its functions, cementing equipment, and casing hardware.

Cement Slurry Design

• Cement slurry selection
• Mud removal
• Gas migration

On the second day, participants will learn the details of designing a cement slurry and the associated additives (plus their applications).  API lab testing for different cement slurries and their additives will be reviewed in relation to their mechanisms of action.  Mud Removal will be discussed in detail with particular emphasis on removal techniques and its importance to long term zonal isolation and well integrity.  Gas Migration theory will be covered with added details concerning everity, lab testing, and field solutions.              

Cement Equipment, Plug Placement, and Software

• Cementing equipment
• Remedial cementing
• Software demonstration

This day will start with a detailed look at cementing equipment and casing hardware.  Various plug types will be reviewed and their placement discussed.  Potential plug failure modes as well as best practices will be covered in detail.  The fundamentals of remedial cementing (squeeze jobs) will be covered with emphasis on placement and pumping techniques.  The tools utilized in remedial cementing and the job procedures will be covered.  This day will conclude with a live demonstration of the CemCADE software platform in order to design a full treatment for a real-life well. 

Cement Evaluation and Cement Job Practical

• Cement evaluation
• Cement job design and execution
• Rig site cement job practical

Cement evaluation logging (basic theory) including a review of the commonly used logging tools will start this day, before the participants perform some routine cement bond log interpretations.  Following a quick review of the cement job design (from CemCADE), the class will move outside to the training pad where they will follow a demonstration on rig site equipment.  This will cover how to prepare and mix the cement slurry before pumping it 'downhole' (PPE will be required).                

Specialized and New Technology Cement Systems

• New technology cement systems
• Introduction to deepwater cementing
• Round-table and course close

The final day will review new technology cement systems such as light-weight slurries, lost circulation solutions, self-healing cements, flexible cement, and ultra-HT cementing.  The final classroom presentation will introduce the participants to deepwater cementing and the associated challenges.  The course will conclude with a round-table and feedback session before closure.