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Tubing Conveyed Perforating Solutions
Smith delivers a complete range of advanced equipment and operational expertise for the most challenging tubing conveyed perforating (TCP) applications. Our perforating guns and associated packers and ancillary equipment give operators maximum flexibility in deploying a system that will provide the optimum solution for the target application.

Smith Means Superior Tubing Conveyed Perforating Solutions

Smith delivers a complete range of advanced equipment and operational expertise for the most challenging tubing conveyed perforating (TCP) applications. Our perforating guns and associated packers and ancillary equipment give operators maximum flexibility in deploying a system that will provide the optimum solution for the target application.

TCP Guns

Guns are configured and assembled to cover the target production interval. A firing head is placed at the top and/ or bottom of the guns, and the entire assembly is run-in on the desired pipe string with a marker sub installed above the packer for accurate depth positioning.

Positive Depth Control

All components of the TCP assembly are measured, and the strapped distance from the top shot to the marker sub is carefully established before tripping into the wellbore. When the perforating depth is reached, a gamma ray or neutron depth-control log is run inside the tubing. This log locates the exact position of the TCP assembly with respect to the open hole log from which perforating intervals were selected. Alternatively, the gun assembly may “tag” an electric line-set packer and raise pipe to place the assembly at the correct depth.

Underbalance & Flow Subs

An underbalance tool assembly allows the tubing to be run dry or with the proper fluid cushion, various types of underbalanced methods are available for specific completion applications. Underbalanced assemblies can be opened by dropping the detonating bar. Some tools close additional ports with hydrostatic pressure used during shoot-and-pull applications. Various vent assemblies are used for both completion and gravel pack perforating.

Perforating Safety

All wellhead work is completed before charges are detonated. The BOP is removed and the wellhead is installed. A choice of mechanical or pressure-actuated firing systems is available, eliminating the risks of electrically detonated blasting caps.

Immediate Backsurging

Immediately after guns are detonated, differential pressure to the wellbore backsurges debris, mud filtrate and other contaminates, along with any rathole fluid, to the surface. Backsurging can be performed at pressure differentials as high as 5,000 PSI. Or, if sand is expected, back pressure can be maintained with a fluid cushion in the tubing. Some operators use nitrogen gas to hold back pressure during perforating and to “bring” the well in easily. In most cases, natural clean-up is completed quickly.