Numerical analysis of running resistance of a completion string with packers and sliding sleeves in horizontal wells

The installation of a completion string in small-diameter horizontal wells often presents challenges such as instability, bending, and high frictional resistance. To accurately estimate the running resistance during deployment and ensure safe descent to the bottom of the well, a three-dimensional numerical model has been developed incorporates real-time contact interaction between the completion string and the wellbore, while maintaining precision and field applicability. The analysis evaluates several factors, including buckling behavior, average and dynamics transient value of contact force, axial forces, and frictional forces. Results reveal that the upper pipe string exerting thrust on the lower pipe string causes bending and spiral buckling along with resulting contact with wellbore. Maximum hook load and maximum negative axial force occur at a inclination angle of 65°. Contact strength is more pronounced in inclined and horizontal section compared to vertical section. Leveraging extensive data, the study has yielded a quick prediction formula for quickly calculating the resistance experienced by a completion string of field area. The numerical results offer valuable insights into comprehending the resistance encountered during the descent of a completion string in horizontal wells, and provide robust theoretical support for predicting descent resistance.