IPTC-24912-MS

Unlocking Production Potential: First Successful Deployment of Multilateral

Completion Feed-Through Selective Lateral Access Window with Intelligent

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Completion

Haidar AlRaml, Suresh Jacob, and Danang Widjaja, Saudi Aramco; Abdulrakeeb Almasri, Halliburton Saudi

Copyright 2025, International Petroleum Technology Conference DOI 10.2523/IPTC-24912-MS

This paper was prepared for presentation at the International Petroleum Technology Conference held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 18 - 20 February 2025.

This paper was selected for presentation by an IPTC Programme Committee following review of information contained in an abstract submitted by the author(s).
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Abstract
The continuous advancement of multilateral completion technology has significantly transformed the oil
and gas sector by enabling access to the reservoir. This has resulted in a substantial influence on production
capacity. This abstract analyzes the latest progress in multilateral completion technology, specifically
highlighting the incorporation of intelligent completion systems and lateral access throughout the lifespan
of the well. The monitoring system has effectively utilized the acquired data, resulting in an improved
accuracy and efficiency.
The efficacy of the Multilateral selective lateral access window has been demonstrated over the last
few decades. It has successfully identified reservoir problems and implementing necessary measures based
on obtained data. A substantial advancement in this field has been made by the creation of an advanced
completion lateral access window. This window enables the placement of the PDHG and flow control
devices below, and in close proximity to the reservoir. Consequently, there has been an improvement
in the monitoring and control of the main bore. This innovation led to a substantial revolution in the
implementation of drilling and completion deployment.
Practical knowledge has demonstrated that the integration of intelligent completion technology into gas
and oil wells enables precise evaluation and strategic planning through the utilization of predictive analytics.
By utilizing these analytics, one can gain a more profound comprehension of the reservoir's behavior. This
allows for predicting its future performance and devise a proactive strategy for decision-making that will
maximize the effectiveness of the well and the entire field. This ultimately leads to enhanced economic
recovery and advantageous outcomes. The well has been granted favorable conditions because of the
most recent development of a multilateral lateral access window, which enables access for any essential
operation in order to maximize its capabilities. Preventing the necessity for well completion removal while
enabling well access is a critical element in extending the well's operational lifespan. The progress made
in multilateral technology has significantly expanded the practicality and relevance of the information,
consequently improving the implementation of intelligent completion.
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Significant advancements in this field are made possible by the Feed-Through selective lateral access
window, which grants access for any required intervention for the duration of the well's existence.
This paper will focus on the recent development in multilateral completion technology, with a special
emphasis on the capability to access both laterals in wells completed with intelligent completion.

Introduction
The widespread adoption of multilateral drilling and completion technology has revolutionized the

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oil and gas industry. Recent advancements in this field have led to significant improvements in
reservoir management, production monitoring, and drilling in complex fields, while also upholding
operational integrity. Additionally, these technologies have made substantial contributions to environmental
conservation (Jacob, 2014).
The advancement of multilateral technologies occurs when additional requirements are integrated into
the well design to enhance performance, reliability, and production capacity. Recent studies have shown that
the use of intelligent completions, combined with multilateral access (specifically window lateral access),
has a beneficial impact on well productivity (Sharma and Almasri, 2022).
However, the integrated system requires additional deployment trips, as the deployment mechanism
varies significantly between the two systems. The industry requires further system development to improve
operational efficiency and performance. This includes enhancing rig time savings, seamless deployment,
intervention efficiency, and overall well integrity.
With these advancements, energy companies can achieve cost savings, better reservoir management, and
improved production outcomes.

Well Application and Requirements

Implementing the technique of drilling multilateral wells is a crucial component of the development plan.
To accomplish the objectives of the well, certain requirements were integrated into the well plan:

• The well is designed to be drilled as a multilateral to optimize contact with the reservoir and
enhance the sweep efficiency.
• The lower completion is designed to incorporate an Inflow Control Device (ICD). The ICD is a
passive component installed in oil and gas wells to optimize production by managing the flow of
fluids from the reservoir into the wellbore. ICD usually are strategically placed within the well to
prevent an imbalanced flow at the heel. An open hole packer is used during the lower completion
deployment to provide zonal isolation, hence preventing annular flow (Fig.1).
• The well will be equipped with intelligent completion technology. Intelligent completions refer to
advanced well completion systems that integrate monitoring and control technologies within the
wellbore. It is employed to enhance reservoir management and assist in doing predictive analytics
and making informed decisions. The Intelligent well completions are employed to regulate and
enhance production, boost recovery, manage water output, assign production in reverse, monitor
the mechanical integrity of the wellbore, and reduce environmental effect. The technology also
contributes to cost reduction by minimizing the need for additional wells and associated facilities.
IPTC-24912-MS 3

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Figure 1—Schematic of well Configuration

Exploring TAML Levels: Techniques and Applications in Multilateral Well

Construction
The TAML (Technology Advancement of Multilaterals) system classifies multilateral wells based on their
junction functionality and complexity, which are assigned TAML Levels 1 to 6. This ranking technique is
utilized to ascertain the suitable lateral design.
TAML levels are defined in the following manner:

• TAML Level 1: A lateral hole is drilled from an open hole main bore (Fig. 2). Level 1 multilaterals
are mostly drilled in consolidated formations, although flow control and lateral re-entry are not
possible. Although this approach is straightforward, it is not widely used in the industry.
• TAML Level 2: The main bore is cemented and cased, whereas the lateral is drilled as an open
hole, while in some areas, lower completion is dropped in the open hole with no connection at the
junction (Fig. 3). During the well completion, when an isolation packer is installed below each
window, flow control for each lateral is possible. Lateral access, however, is not feasible until the
entire completion is pulled out of the well. TAML level 2 is common in the industry.
• TAML Level 3: The main bore is cased and cemented; however, the lateral is cased but not
cemented. Although the lateral wellbore is mechanically connected to the main bore, the connection
is not hydraulically sealed (Fig. 4). In the oil industry, Level 3 construction is uncommon.
• TAML Level 4: Both the main bore and lateral are cased and cemented; the lateral liner is connected
to the junction. Hydraulic integrity depends on the cement quality (Fig. 5).
• TAML Level 5: The main bore is cased and cemented. While the lateral could be cased and
cemented or open hole. Therefore, the junction integrity is accomplished by the completion (Fig.
6). Level 5 systems are common in fields where gas migration at the junction is detected.
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• TAML Level 6: Two branches are drilled from the original wellbore, and both mechanical and
pressure integrity are achieved using the casing to seal the junction (Fig. 7).

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Figure 2—TAML Level 1.MB and L are OH

Figure 3—TAML Level 2. Cased MB and OH L

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5

Figure 4—TAML Level 3. Cased MB and L with casing

Figure 5—TAML Level 4. Cased MB and L

IPTC-24912-MS
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Figure 6—TAML Level 5. Cased MB and hydraulic isolation in lateral

Figure 7—TAML Level 6.

Ensuring Junction Integrity Across TAML Levels

The reservoir and completion engineers conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the available options to
ascertain the most effective deployment method for enhancing output while ensuring access to both laterals.
To guarantee junction integrity, it was determined that wells would be constructed as Level 4 multilaterals,
IPTC-24912-MS 7

considering the formation features and well designs. A liner in the lateral that extends to the main bore is
used to maintain junction integrity. Cement is pumped between the lateral and the formation to provide the
necessary support and prevent undesirable fluid migration into the main bore (Vento and Durst 2016).
The cement residue within the well is removed by a wash over assembly after the lateral liner is
cemented, resulting in a lateral window with a casing drift dimension. In the oil industry, Level 4 multilateral
construction is frequently employed when the window is cut off in the build section and a cemented section
is necessary (Alraml, 2023).

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Technology overview of the lateral access
Selection of Multilateral Completion Equipment
The well needed a cost-effective multilateral completion system for production access without rig
intervention (Al Ansari and Racine 2019). This system featured a completion window as part of the
production string, equipped with landing profiles and seal bores for setting deflectors or isolation sleeves.
These profiles allowed a specialized tool to enter the window for specific tasks.
The completion window is integrated into the production tubing and has internal profiles for a service
tool to access either the main wellbore or a lateral (Fig. 8). Its inner diameter must accommodate the entire
bottom hole assembly (BHA), ensuring smooth passage. A latch coupling with the casing positions the
window at the optimal depth, oriented towards the lateral.

Figure 8—Re-entry window. With accessories

Figure 9—Mule Sleeve alignment sub.

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Figure 10—Latching system. With alighment key

Pressure Isolation Sleeve: The completion window features a profile for setting a pressure isolation sleeve
which separates the lateral section and directs the bottom hole assembly (BHA) towards the main bore for
logging. This sleeve is operated and retrieved using a specialized tool.
Tubing Exit Whipstock (TEW): The re-entry window includes an additional profile for setting the TEW

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when lateral intervention is needed. Any BHA run will be redirected to the lateral with the TEW tool
mounted in the window. A specialized tool is also used for running and retrieving the TEW

Limitations of Current Deployment and Well Configuration

Multilateral wells that require lateral access often demand advanced monitoring solutions like permanent
downhole gauges (PDHGs) to optimize production and enhance reservoir understanding. In certain
scenarios, the synergistic deployment of flow control systems and PDHGs can unlock unparalleled insights
and operational efficiencies. However, integrating these advanced technologies requires vigilant approach
that carefully considers the inherent limitations of each component when used in conjunction.
Traditionally, the need for rotation while deploying the multilateral window access has prevented the
seamless, simultaneous implementation of lateral access combined with downhole monitoring tools within
the same operation. This constraint often necessitated a segmented, multi-phase execution strategy.

• Isolating the main bore: The bottom packer is run and set using drill pipe to create a reliable
isolation of the main bore, setting the stage for the subsequent operations.
• Enabling Lateral Access: The lateral access window and seal assembly are deployed, also utilizing
drill pipe, and securely stung into the lower packer bore receptacle (PBR), providing the critical
pathway for main bore and lateral intervention.
• Integrating Intelligent Completion: The tubing string, along with associated intelligent
components like PDHGs, ICVs, and the upper packer, are installed and connected to the system
using on-off tool, seamlessly integrating the advanced monitoring and flow control capabilities.
Hence, it is imperative to develop strategies for deploying them in more effective ways, reducing costs
and mitigating the risk of multiple connections that could potentially result in leaks.

Challenges Facing the Conventional Method

The integration of multilateral and intelligent completion technologies has seen significant progress in
recent years, with successful deployments and interventions across multiple wells. However, there are clear
opportunities to further optimize this combined system:

• Placement Limitations: The inability to deploy the intelligent completion equipment, such as
permanent downhole gauges (PDHGs), below the lateral access window can affect the quality
and resolution of reservoir monitoring data, as the distance between the sensors and the reservoir
increases.
• Inflow Control Constraints: The use of inflow control valves (ICVs) to manage flow in the main
bore is limited to larger casing sizes, as the ICV needs to be shrouded to function effectively.
• Operational Complexity: The multi-trip deployment required to install the complete system adds
to the overall cost and complexity of the operation.
• Leak Potential: The multiple connections necessitated by the multi-trip approach create potential
leak points, which require careful monitoring and maintenance over the life of the well.
IPTC-24912-MS 9

• Lengthy Remediation: If a leak were to occur within the deployed system, the de-completion
process would be time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring additional equipment and
substantial effort to rectify the issue.
These challenges highlight the ongoing need to refine the integration of multilateral and intelligent
completion technologies, optimizing the placement of monitoring and flow control equipment, streamlining
the deployment process, and enhancing the overall reliability and responsiveness of the combined system.

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Innovative Deployment Approach
Innovation Drive:
The need to install PDHGs and ICVs below the lateral access window, while reducing deployment trips
and enhancing system integrity, has driven the development of new technologies. Given the limitations of
traditional rotational methods when combined with electric and hydraulic control components, a multilateral
technology company has created an alternative approach.

Precision Orientation:
This novel methodology involves deploying an alignment sleeve deployed with the casing, which serves
as the latching point to precisely orient the lateral access window towards the desired azimuth, without the
requirement to rotate the entire string.

Innovative Multilateral Integration Solution

To address the long-standing challenges in combining multilateral and intelligent completion technologies,
a pioneering company has developed a breakthrough solution.
The key innovation is a specialized alignment sleeve that is deployed with the casing. This sleeve serves
as a precise latching point, allowing the lateral access window to be accurately oriented towards the target
lateral, without the need for rotating the entire string.
This innovative approach overcomes the operational constraints associated with traditional rotational
deployment methods, especially when dealing with electric and hydraulic control components. Importantly,
it also reduces the number of deployment trips required, streamlining the overall installation process.
Enabled by this technological advancement, now it is possible to seamlessly integrate critical monitoring
and flow control equipment, such as permanent downhole gauges (PDHGs) and inflow control valves
(ICVs), below the lateral access window. This unlocks the full potential of multilateral well assets, driving
enhanced production optimization and reservoir management (Asthana, 2023).
By addressing the historical challenges, this pioneering solution paves the way for a new era of
operational efficiency and improved recovery in multilateral well applications.

New mule sleeve alignment sub

A pioneering technology has been developed that combines an advanced latch coupling with orienting key
(fig-12) and mule-sleeve assembly (fig-13), addressing a critical challenge in multilateral well operations.
This innovative solution elegantly solves the long-standing issue of accurately orienting and guiding lateral
access tools to the target lateral, even when there is cable attached and passing through the window.

Figure 11—Isolation sleeve.

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Figure 12—Hookload graph.

Figure 13—String tension graph.

The key innovation lies in the mule-sleeve's unique profile, which features a precisely engineered slot.
As the lateral access tools are run into the well, an orienting key seamlessly engages at the face of mule
sleeve which then rotates against the face in either direction to orientate to the desired position on collet
and land in the slot. Once oriented, further push will allow the latch collet to engage in the latch coupling,
ensuring the tools are properly aligned towards the desired azimuth. This intelligent design not only enables
accurate orientation, but also provides robust depth control and anchoring.
This new design allows for more efficient combination of multilateral lateral access with intelligent
completion technologies, such as Inflow Control Valves (ICVs) and Permanent Downhole Gauges
IPTC-24912-MS 11

(PDHGs), where these accessories can be placed below the lateral access window. It also enables the use of
hydraulic and electric cables to support these intelligent completion features.
Key benefits of this innovative technology include:

• Ability to combine multilateral access window with intelligent completion accessories below the
window, utilizing both hydraulic and electric lines.
• Reduced rig time by minimizing the number of run-in-hole (RIH) trips from three to one

• Mule-sleeve's unique profile with a precisely engineered slot enables accurate orientation, depth

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control, and anchoring of the lateral access tools.
• Efficient access to both the main bore and lateral reservoirs

Having the ability to access the multilateral well targets confidently and efficiently, this breakthrough
technology unlocks new levels of production optimization and reservoir management. It represents a
transformative leap forward in multilateral well operations, paving the way for enhanced recovery, improved
well integrity, and reduced operational costs.

Selective Pressure Isolation Sleeve

The primary function of the pressure isolation sleeve is to offer lateral pressure isolation (fig.14) and regulate
the flow. The design of this tool has been optimized and made selective. This enables the simultaneous
installation of multiple lateral access windows with feed-through capabilities in a single well. The tool has
been designed to have a collet, which is run while retracted, the tool however can be activated as it passes
through activation sub before it latches the nipple profile of the window. The tool was meant to be deployed
and retrieved using a normal slickline running and retrieving equipment.

Figure 14—Design limit.

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Optimized Well Installation Approach

The deployment of the multilateral access window can be performed in a single trip, integrated with inflow
control valves (ICVs) and a permanent downhole monitoring gauge (PDHMG). A key enabler is the self-
orienting latching system, which aligns the components properly within the mule sleeve attached to the
casing. This ensures accurate installation while keeping the cables secure.
Crucially, the ICVs and PDHMS are positioned below the lateral window access point. This strategic
placement allows them to effectively monitor and control the flow in the main wellbore.

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Furthermore, the cable routing is thoughtfully designed, passing through the lateral access window and
being secured in a dedicated slot using clamps. This protects the cable and prevents it from being exposed
or damaged during installation and operation.
This single-trip deployment approach, combined with the self-orienting latching and protected cable
routing, represents an optimized well installation methodology. It enhances efficiency, reliability, and
functionality compared to traditional multi-trip deployment techniques.

Field execution
The successful installation of the new multilateral access window system begins with the proper planning
and execution of the initial multilateral drilling operations. Careful well positioning and trajectory planning
are crucial at this stage, as they directly impact the success of reaching the target TAML level 4 multilateral
and maintaining well integrity. The formation selection also plays a vital role, as it affects the feasibility
and effectiveness of the multilateral drilling and access point installation. The new latch coupling and mule
sleeve design used to land the lateral access window serves a dual purpose. It not only provides the landing
point for the window, but also enables precise depth and orientation control for the critical casing milling,
whipstock setting, and window cutting operations. Precise planning and execution of these preparatory steps
are necessary for the overall success of the multilateral access window installation. Any deviations or issues
during the drilling and sidetrack preparation can jeopardize the subsequent deployment and integration of
the advanced monitoring and control systems.
By ensuring a robust foundation through meticulous planning and flawless multilateral drilling, the stage
is set for the seamless deployment of the multilateral access window and associated technologies.

Directional Survey Study

When Drilling Multilateral wells with their extended-reach capabilities buildup and multilateral sections
alone accounts for most of the total well construction time. This highlights the critical need for a
comprehensive drilling optimization roadmap to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the multilateral
drilling operations. The engineering method begins with a thorough assessment and analysis of the
offset well data. This comprehensive study aims to identify and understand the various drilling obstacles
and challenges encountered in the field. The insights gained from this analysis are then leveraged to
develop sustainable engineering solutions. The results of this comprehensive assessment are subsequently
integrated into an engineering program that optimizes the drill string design, BHA dynamics stability, system
hydraulics, hole cleaning design, and bit selection. When developing wells with advanced multilateral
completion requirements, the trajectory design becomes a crucial element. Various bidirectional profiles
can be utilized to achieve the desired goals, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Robust Multilateral Junction Design and Execution

Based on the well construction requirements, the well was designed as a TAML Level 4 multilateral
configuration. Maintaining the integrity of the multilateral junction is crucial, which necessitates the
isolation of the junction through the deployment of a liner and cement. The selection of the optimal formation
IPTC-24912-MS 13

to cut the window was thoroughly investigated, as this decision sets the stage for the successful execution
of the TAML Level 4 multilateral. The chosen formation had to be suitable for drilling the section and
performing the cement job without encountering losses that could jeopardize the cement integrity and the
overall junction quality (Alraml, 2023).
By carefully evaluating the formation characteristics and ensuring the right conditions for the window
cutting and cementing operations, the project team was able to establish a robust multilateral junction design.
This attention to detail during the planning and preparation stages was essential for the successful execution
of the TAML Level 4 multilateral well architecture.

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Anticipating and Mitigating Torque and Drag Challenges during Completion
String Deployment
To proactively address potential torque and drag challenges during the deployment of the completion
string, comprehensive calculations were conducted. The design phase focused on identifying the worst-case
scenario by utilizing the maximum friction factor, aiming to predict any potential issues during the run-in-
hole (RIH) process.
Additionally, the analysis considered high DLS variables to ensure accessibility during the operation.
String rotation and applied slackoff weight were identified as critical limiting factors in the torque and drag
analysis.
Figs. 15 and 16 illustrate that exceeding the work string limit was not anticipated during RIH and POOH.
Furthermore, no tension or compression restrictions were anticipated to be exceeded by the completion
string.

Figure 15—Lateral access window with intelligent completion.

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Figure 16—Pressure isolation sleeve retrieved by slickline.

Comprehensive Tubing Movement and Stress Analysis for the Completion

Design
The initial critical step in properly designing the intelligent completion system with multilateral access
window, is to accurately calculate the tubing movement and the various stresses acting on the tubing string
during production. These factors, primarily causing changes in tubing length, can lead to operational issues
or equipment failures.
Factors such as compression, tension, ballooning, buckling, and temperature variations are some of the
key stresses that need to be considered. Consequently, a thorough analysis should incorporate all the factors
that can impact the tubing.
Several simulations were run to cover a wide range of scenarios, including stimulation activities, initial
state, expected pressure tests, shut-in conditions, and various production scenarios. These comprehensive
investigations and simulations were crucial to prevent any issues that could potentially cause equipment
failures.
Based on the tubing movement and stress analysis (Fig.17), the packers pinning were set sequentially
for each well to ensure the integrity and reliability of the intelligent completion system. By proactively
addressing the tubing movement and stress factors, the project team could design a robust and dependable
completion solution.

Figure 17—Pressure isolation sleeve outside the window.

IPTC-24912-MS 15

Comprehensive Well Program Developed Based on Thorough studies

Drawing insights from the extensive studies conducted, the project team developed a comprehensive well
program to guide the safe and effective execution of well operations. The well program served as a detailed
blueprint, incorporating key elements such as:

• Tubing movement and stress analysis findings

• Operational procedures for each construction phase

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• Risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans

• Quality control checkpoints and technical data

By consolidating the technical analyses and planning into a structured execution plan, the team could
systematically translate the project requirements into a robust and actionable well program. This level of
preparation was crucial to carry out the well construction and completion activities safely and efficiently
as per the designed specifications.

Shop Preparation
All shop preparation, including equipment setup and subassembly construction, was primarily guided by
the well program. The following equipment tests were conducted in accordance with well criteria:

Component Verification:
All components were visually inspected to ensure they matched the approved well schematic's outer and
inner diameters.

ICV Testing:
ICVs were operational, with all steps validated multiple times, yielding consistent results.

Subassembly Creation:
• The packer, ICV, splice subassemblies, and pup joints were assembled, torqued, and pressure tested.

• The number of shear pins in the packers adhered to the well program and packer design
specifications.
• Connections were made, lines were flushed, and pressure tests were performed.

Isolation Sleeve Installation:

The isolation sleeve and tubing exit whipstock were installed and retrieved using the appropriate running
and retrieving tools to verify functionality.

Lateral Access Window Setup:

The isolation sleeve was installed at the lateral access window, and pup joints were connected to the window
and pressure tested.

Wellbore Cleanout
Before deploying the intelligent completion, it is essential to ensure the wellbore is clean. Excessive metal
debris in the casing can lead to issues with the intelligent completion system, including flow control valve
failures resulting in "non-operable" valves and the decision to pull out of hole (POOH) Any encountered
16 IPTC-24912-MS

obstacles must be cleared. During the wellbore cleaning process, the torque and drag simulations performed
during the design phase will be validated and updated.
The wellbore cleanout bottom hole assembly (BHA) included latch coupling clean tool, scraper, string
mill, high-strength magnet, debris recovery tool, and circulation tool.
Appropriate cleaning criteria were established to ensure the intelligent completion was ready for
deployment. Acceptable debris should weigh less than 2 kg, with no particles larger than 25 mm. Additional
trips will be required if cleanout conditions are not met after the initial run.
The latching clean tool, featuring a jetting nose for cleaning of the interior profile, successfully

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landed, and latched onto the latching coupling and mule sleeve, allowing it to clean the inner profile
of the tool.

Completion RIH Sequence

Intelligent Completion with lateral access window Operation Sequence.
The intelligent completion accessories (Fig.18) with the lateral access window was run in one trip as per
the approved program. The operation sequence was performed as follows:

• Before running completion accessories, clean out BHA was utilized until the well criteria met the
requirement.
• Completion assemblies were drifted and deployed in the well. Multiple drift was made as pe the
approved program.
• The completion accessories with tubing was run in hole until 30 above the desired setting depth.

• Equipment was run slowly to allow a seamless alignment of the orienting key with the mule sleeve.
Further moving down allowed the latching key to latch and lock in the latch coupling profile.
• Set down weight was applied to confirm latching. Control line integrity test was performed.

• Latching assembly was unlatched from the mule sleeve profile by over pull.

• Tubing hanger, space out pup joints, tubing joints and trubing retrievable safety valve was made
up and ran in hole.
• Latching procedure was repeated and set down weight was performed.

• Control line integrity was check and PDHMG cable reading was verified.

• Tubing hanger landed.

• Before setting the packers, lateral access was performed as follow:

Figure 18—TEW run on slickline and installed in the window.

IPTC-24912-MS 17

Lateral access sequence

• Isolation sleeve retrieval
Retrieving tool for the isolation sleeve was made up to SL and ran in hole, engaged in the profile
of the and by over pull, the isolation sleeve was retrieved. Fig.19 and 20

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Figure 19—TEW installed inside the re-entry window.

Figure 20—Wellbore treatment run inside the lateral.

• Tubing exit whipstock setting

Tubing exit whipstock was made to Slick line and ran in hole and successfully set in the desired
profile of the window. Fig 21 and 22.
18 IPTC-24912-MS

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Figure 21—Comparison chart.

• Lateral access.
Drift run with adequate outside diameter was made to slickline and run to 500 feet inside the
lateral. Fig.23
• Tubing exit whipstock retrieval.
Tubing exit whipstock retrieving tool was made to Slickline and ran in hole, engaged in the
profile inside and by over pull, it was retrieved and pulled to surface.
• Isolation sleeve installation
Isolation sleeve was run with slick line and set inside the window.

• Production packer was set by the pressure applied against the isolation valve below the lower
packer.
• The blowout preventer (BOP) was nipple down, and the Christmas tree was nipple up.

• ICVs were functioned and set to the position as stated in the well program.

Best Practices and Lessons Learned

The following best practices and lessons have been identified from this work:

• The well program should clearly specify all relevant well and equipment details, with particular
emphasis on tool dimensions and compatibility.
• Accurate space-out calculations are critical for the success of this installation, as multiple latching
points are involved, and the latching process must be performed and cross-checked by multiple
personnel. Clear markings should be made at every step during and after latching, and they must
be verified multiple times.
• All tools intended for deployment should be checked for geometry to prevent interference with the
sleeve, requiring collaboration with all involved parties.
• The well program should explicitly state the position of the inflow control valve (ICV) during each
stage of the completion process.
• All necessary calculations should be completed before running the equipment, with parameters
clearly established and documented in the well program.
IPTC-24912-MS 19

• Before running in hole (RIH), all intelligent completion equipment should be inspected against
the shop report.
• The ICV should be tested for functionality in the shop, at the rig site, and before RIH.

• The control line should be flushed prior to RIH.

• On-site checks of the outer diameters (ODs) and inner diameters (IDs) for all completion
components should be conducted.
• The maximum slack-off during RIH should be explicitly defined in the program, based on torque

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and drag studies and considering the weakest equipment. This should also be cross-checked against
recent cleanout runs before picking up the completion.
• Equipment requirements and limitations must be clearly identified in the well program.

• Use a dog collar until a sufficient completion weight of 10,000 lbf is achieved.

• Extra attention should be paid to the number of feed-through ports required in the packer and tubing
hanger.
• Thorough wellbore cleanup is essential for successful completion deployment, as any debris
downhole could interfere with the operation of flow control valves or the connect tool,

Value Added
Developing a solution that integrates inflow control devices and monitoring systems with a lateral access
window, placing them below the window, represents a significant advancement in the industry. The key
benefits include:

• Enhanced Reservoir Management: Accurate data from each lateral is critical for effective
planning. Positioning the PDHMG closer to the reservoir enhances data quality, adding significant
value to well data analytics.
• Rig Time Savings: Traditionally, installing the intelligent completion equipment and the lateral
access window required three separate trips. The new system reduces the number of trips by 70%.
• Improved Well Integrity by Eliminating Multiple Connections: Completing the installation
in a single trip removes the need for multiple connection points, which could otherwise become
potential leak paths. Additionally, any issues or leaks within the completion system can be
identified and resolved more easily.
• Reduced Number of Trips for Lateral Access: The new system reduces the need for multiple
trips to access the lateral since the isolation sleeve does not need to be permanently installed in
the window.
• Optimized Production Management: The system allows production flow through the window,
eliminating the need for side door devices and reducing intervention trips during lateral access.

Benefit Tradition system New System

RIH trips 3 1

Rig time in days 5 2

Number of trips to access main bore 3 1

Number of trips to access lateral 5 2

Number of lateral access window can be installed 1 1

20 IPTC-24912-MS

Conclusion
• Developing the lateral access window with feed-through capability has revolutionized industry
practices.
• This innovation has enabled solutions that were previously impossible.

• It has significantly contributed to enhanced reservoir management.

• While the industry's achievements are evident, further improvements are necessary to:

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◦ Enable the use of multiple feed-through access windows within the same well.

• Enhancing well performance and intervention operations:

◦ Minimizes the risk of shutting in the well due to intervention failures.

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