Paper: SHALE COMPLETION CEMENTING IN THE ARKOMA BASIN

Successful primary cementing of shale completions requires slurry design considerations that conventional cementing operations typically do not consider. The unique petrophysical and geological properties of shale must be factored into the design along with future stimulation plans to provide zonal isolation and casing support. This paper focuses on shale wells cemented in the Arkoma Basin. Cement slurry design is a critical part of any successful cementing operation. This is particularly true for shale wells where the unique nature of shale and its completion methodologies put additional demands on the cement. Slurry design considerations and successful slurry formulations for the area will be discussed along with an overview of primary cementing practices. Operational considerations as they apply to cementing vertical and horizontal shale wells in the study area will be discussed. Conclusions and recommended practices for optimum results will also be presented.