Well integrity management is a critical theme in the oil and gas industry, with incidents such as the Macondo and Elgin field leaks demonstrating the need for increased attention. Well integrity failure can have significant impacts on asset revenue, cash flow, profitability, and safety/environmental damage, as well as reputational damage and withdrawal of a company's "license to operate." Industry research indicates that a large number of wells are affected by integrity problems, with severity and frequency depending on region, fluids handled, and well age. Globally, it is estimated that 38% of oil and gas wells are affected by integrity issues, with this number expected to increase as wells age, are drilled in harsher environments, and experience increased water-cut. Even if one barrier fails, the safety factor is reduced, but it does not necessarily mean that there has been or will be a leak. Operators must monitor wells closely to ensure integrity and prevent potential incidents.
