Here are some of the key issues that can occur with radioactive residues in OCTG after P&A as well as mitigation solutions.

Radioactive Contamination

Well logging tools often contain sealed radioactive sources for various measurements, such as gamma-ray logging, neutron porosity logging, or density logging. These sources can potentially leak or become damaged, leading to radioactive contamination of the OCTG.

Improper handling and disposal of radioactive residues can result in regulatory violations and legal consequences.

Radioactive residues can pose health risks to workers involved in handling and transporting OCTG. Exposure to ionizing radiation can lead to radiation sickness and an increased risk of cancer. Proper training and safety measures are essential to protect workers.

Radioactive residues, if not properly managed, can contaminate the environment, including soil and groundwater. This can have long-term environmental and health impacts, especially in cases of leaks or spills. Companies that fail to manage radioactive residues appropriately may face long-term liabilities and financial burdens.

Managing Radioactive Contamination in OCTG after Plug and Abandonment

To address these issues, it is crucial to follow established protocols for handling, storing, and disposing of radioactive residues in OCTG after P&A. This typically involves:

Identifying and Segregating Radioactive OCTG Components

Properly identify and segregate any OCTG that may be contaminated with radioactive residues. This may involve labeling and storing such materials separately.

Secure Storage and Transportation

The usage of secure storage facilities and transportation methods prevents leaks, spills, or unauthorized access to radioactive materials.

API 5 CT Compliant Solutions with “One Product Fits All” Functionality and Re-usability

One of the quickest and safest API 5 CT compliant solutions for dealing with radioactive contamination in OCTG after plug and abandonment are pipe protectors from PipeProteq®.

These protectors employ a push mechanism to secure the protector to pipes and protect equipment from leakage damage during transportation up to API 5CT (see comment) specifications. The tightness of the protectors have been tested for leakage from inside and out resulting in no leakage. This is also valid on cut-off connections.

Because of this patented clamping technology, almost all pipe connections can be protected by simply using this one product, including non-threaded connections (e.g., cutoff pipes). PipeProteq® supports almost all connections (dope and dopeless) with just one product focused on usability and TCO . With its "no touch" application design, PipeProteq® makes application a quick and very safe solution for equipment and people.

PipeProteq® is built to maximize the lifetime of each individual protector, thereby reducing each protector’s carbon footprint. The reusability and repairability of each pipe protector is in focus as each one may be used several times.