Fishing Tools

Fishing Tools: The Underwater Retrieval Specialists in Oil & Gas

In the complex and often unpredictable world of oil and gas extraction, things can go awry. Equipment can get stuck, tools can be lost, and even unexpected objects can find their way into the wellbore. When this happens, a specialized set of tools known as "fishing tools" are deployed to retrieve these lost items, affectionately referred to as "fish."

The Fish: A Variety of Lost Treasures

The term "fish" encompasses a wide range of objects that can become lodged in a wellbore, including:

• Downhole tools: Drill bits, reamers, casing scrapers, and other specialized tools used during drilling and well completion operations.
• Tubing and casing: Sections of pipe that can break or become disconnected during operations.
• Junk: Unintended objects such as metal shavings, wire, or even debris from previous operations.
• Foreign objects: Items accidentally dropped into the wellbore, ranging from tools to even personal belongings.

The Fishing Tools: A Range of Retrieval Strategies

Fishing tools are designed to tackle the challenges presented by different fish types and well conditions. Here are some of the most commonly used types:

• Magnetic tools: Used for retrieving ferromagnetic objects like steel tools or metal debris. They come in various shapes and sizes, including magnets on wire lines, magnetic grabbers, and magnetic fishing jars.
• Mechanical tools: Employ mechanical means like gripping, trapping, or pulling to secure the fish. Examples include:
  • Over-shot tools: Use a spring-loaded mechanism to capture the fish's outside diameter.
  • Fishing jars: Possess gripping teeth or jaws that can engage and secure the fish.
  • Fishing spears: Similar to over-shots, they have a spear-like design that penetrates the fish for a more secure grip.
• Wireline tools: These tools are deployed on a wireline, allowing them to navigate complex well geometries and reach deeper locations. They are often used in conjunction with other fishing tools, providing the means to lower and retrieve them.

The Process: A Careful and Calculated Approach

Retrieving a lost object from a wellbore requires a meticulous and skillful approach:

1. Diagnosis: Understanding the nature of the fish, its location, and the well conditions is crucial.
2. Tool selection: The appropriate fishing tool is chosen based on the fish's characteristics and the wellbore environment.
3. Deployment: The fishing tool is carefully lowered into the wellbore using a wireline or other methods.
4. Engagement: The tool attempts to secure the fish, and successful engagement is confirmed.
5. Retrieval: The fish is carefully brought back to the surface with the fishing tool.

Beyond Retrieval: Minimizing Future Fish

While fishing tools are essential for dealing with lost objects, preventing them from becoming "fish" in the first place is paramount. This can be achieved through:

• Proper handling and maintenance of equipment: Ensuring tools are in good condition and handled carefully reduces the likelihood of equipment failures.
• Thorough pre-operation checks: Inspecting tools and equipment before each operation can identify potential issues and prevent unexpected events.
• Best practices during operations: Adhering to safety procedures and established best practices can minimize the risk of losing equipment or materials.

Conclusion

Fishing tools play a critical role in the oil and gas industry, ensuring the safe and efficient retrieval of lost objects from wellbores. While their role is crucial in dealing with unexpected challenges, preventing "fish" from becoming a problem in the first place is the ultimate goal. By employing careful planning, meticulous execution, and continuous improvement in operations, the risk of "fishing" can be minimized, leading to a safer and more productive oil and gas industry.