The rise in unconventional resource exploration relies on strategically placed sensors to record critical information during multiple forms of testing and reservoir enhancement techniques. The accurate data gained during the testing phases are what ultimately lead to the best flow regime design and successful optimization of the resources. New completion design or reservoir stimulation techniques are also effectively evaluated using data acquisition, aiding the development, refinement, and implementation of these techniques. Subsequently, suspension of the sensors in wellbores without decreasing flow can be challenging when introducing new techniques or modifications. Additionally, these flow rate conditions can prevent the determination of production at the most economically advantageous time and rate.

This paper examines difficulties associated with acquiring data that can exist because of new completion designs or exploratory methods tested as a means to optimize a resource’s economic viability. Solutions offered by a new high-expansion hanger that can be used to meet these difficulties are also discussed. The tool has been proven to be a durable and flexible solution for an increasing array of completion and reservoir enhancement techniques for many styles and types of well testing under varying pressures and conditions. The tool is available in a wide range of pipe sizes and types, enabling positioning inside liner sizes of larger inside diameter (ID) than that of the uphole completion tubing string within the wellbore. The high-expansion design also provides the assembly a generous bypass flow area, which helps increase the accuracy of the data received during flowing events.

Case histories are presented to illustrate the varying range of situations where the high-expansion hanger has been proven both a viable and valuable solution for reservoir analysis and optimization.

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