Tailored Support from Vallourec® Services: A Comprehensive Solution for Geothermal Operators
Ensuring the long-term integrity of geothermal wells while managing installation costs and optimizing the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) requires expert support. Vallourec® Services delivers a range of solutions to address these challenges, drawing on over 30 years of industry experience. Vallourec’s expertise spans engineering, manufacturing, and running supervision, providing comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of geothermal operations.
Precision Engineering for Long-Term Well Integrity
Vallourec’s engineering services combine decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to optimize geothermal well engineering. Expert engineers use advanced software to design well architectures that are specifically tailored to project needs. This precise design process ensures long-term well integrity by addressing potential issues such as corrosion and mechanical failure. By delivering a clear framework for well design, Vallourec not only enhances well integrity but also reduces engineering time.
In addition, Vallourec conducts casing wear, torque, and drag studies to help operators optimize casing dimensions. By calculating the expected wear and drag along the casing string, Vallourec’s experienced drilling engineers provide insights that lead to better casing and connection selection, ensuring both durability and efficiency.
Material selection is another critical area where Vallourec excels. Drawing from extensive experience across various energy sectors, Vallourec utilizes a comprehensive material behavior database, advanced simulation software, and dedicated testing facilities to select the most appropriate materials for challenging environments. This thorough approach ensures cost-effective solutions and improved performance for well installations.
For closed-loop wells, Vallourec has developed a proprietary simulation tool that provides optimized thermal calculations. This tool helps operators select the best materials and technologies to minimize heat loss and maximize temperature differences between injected and produced fluids, thereby improving power output and return on investment.
Case Study: Anticipating Well Needs in Europe
A European operator worked with Vallourec to review the design of multiple geothermal wells. The focus was on initial design considerations and expected loads, particularly the horizontal stress that could lead to casing collapse. Vallourec’s analysis enabled the operator to choose premium pipes and connections suited for both production and shut-in phases, resulting in enhanced well performance.
Tailored Manufacturing and On-Site Pipe Management
Vallourec offers manufacturing, repair, and pipe management services with a focus on proximity and flexibility.
Vallourec’s Tubular Management Services include optimizing pipe usage throughout their lifetime, from storage to rig preparation. This includes services such as pipe cleaning, inspection, setup, and accessory installation. Operators save valuable space on-site and improve rig efficiency through better pipe preparation and management at Vallourec yards or through trusted partners close to their operations. Vallourec’s real-time web portal also
Additionally, Vallourec’s network of around 150 VAM® Licensees worldwide ensures that operators have access to local manufacturing and repair services. This network allows for rapid response to maintenance needs and the production of custom pipe accessories adapted to specific well architectures and environments. This localized approach helps reduce lead times, accelerate repairs, and minimize transportation costs.
Case Study: Overcoming Logistics Constraints in Europe
In Germany, a geothermal operator faced space constraints at the rig site. Vallourec managed the storage, inspection, and preparation of pipes at a location within a six-hour drive from the site. Pipes were prepared and equipped with necessary accessories, ready for use upon arrival. This solution saved valuable time and improved onsite safety by ensuring that all pipes were prepped and ready to deploy.
Expert running supervision and real-time pipe tracking
Vallourec’s running supervision and traceability services provide critical support for well installation and operation, combining hands-on guidance with digital solutions. Vallourec’s VAM® Field Service technicians offer on-site support, overseeing well installation and operation to ensure adherence to safety standards and performance improvement. Their expertise includes conducting inspections of pipes and connections to detect defects early, extending well lifetime and enhancing operational efficiency. Rental equipment such as pressure test fixtures, stabbing guides, handling & well control equipment, are also readily available.
In addition, TallyVision, Vallourec’s digital solution, provides comprehensive traceability of pipes on the rig. By tracking pipes and accessories in real-time, TallyVision ensures that all components are used according to the planned sequence. This data-driven approach simplifies rig management, optimizes running operations, and drives continuous improvement through performance analysis.
Case Study: Applying Best Practices to a Pull-Out Operation
An American geothermal operator experienced high reject rates during a casing pipe pull out due to connection galling. By engaging a VAM® Field Service technician from Vallourec for the second pull out operation, the reject rate was successfully reduced to zero, demonstrating the effectiveness of expert support in addressing operational challenges.
Vallourec® Services offers geothermal operators a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to tackle the unique challenges of geothermal projects. By leveraging expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and running supervision, Vallourec ensures enhanced well performance, optimized cost management, and improved operational efficiency throughout the lifecycle of geothermal projects.
For more information on our offer of services for geothermal projects, visit our dedicated webpage and download our brochure
