Machines. Technologies. Materials.
Vol. 20 (2026), Issue 2, pg(s) 59-62

TECHNOLOGIES

Fiberglass casing string cementation operations in wellbore

  • 1 University of Zagreb, Faculty of Minning, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, Croatia

Abstract

Casing string is critical component in wellbore construction, defining wellbore diameter and providing structural integrity throughout drilling and production operations. Traditionally, steel casings are generally used due to their mechanical strength; however, problems connected with corrosion, particularly in environments containing hydrogen sulfide or saline formation water, presents significant operational and financial challenges. This paper explores the use of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) casing as a corrosion-resistant alternative, focusing on glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composites, especially concerning cementing operation. FRP casing properties depend on the fiber–matrix composition, fiber type, and manufacturing quality, which affect tensile and compressive strength, thermal stability, and resistance to environmental degradation. Laboratory and field studies, including pilot projects in Argentina, Oman, Brunei, and Kuwait, evaluated casing handling, rig down speed, anchoring, and cement bonding. Special attention was given to cementation procedures, fluid formulations for mud cake removal, and ultrasonic methods for assessing casing-to-cement bonding, adapted for the acoustic characteristics of FRP materials. Results indicate that while steel casings exhibit superior cement bonding, FRP casings can achieve adequate structural performance when mechanical stresses during handling and installation are carefully controlled and proper chemical compatibility between fluids and cement is ensured. Field data show that FRP casings can be deployed with only minor reductions in installation speed for smaller diameters and that optimized handling and cementation practices are crucial for operational success. These data demonstrate that FRP casings offer a technically feasible and economically advantageous alternative for wells in highly corrosive environments. However, their successful implementation requires tailored operational procedures, including modified handling equipment, optimized fluid systems, and specialized evaluation methods. Further field studies are needed to develop comprehensive guidelines for widespread adoption.

Keywords

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