Slickline or wireline operations are sometimes performed as preventative, sometimes surveying and sometimes the ‘we-have-a-problem’ type of intervention for identification of issues.  The common factor is it needs to be done safely, and it needs to be done quickly.  This means ensuring no repeat runs, minimum rig-up and demob time.

WnW brings to the operation the option to perform bi-directional sweeps with conventional tools plus the option for temporal data collection which permits issues obfuscated by moving tools to restore.  It could be a leak, or thief zones or failed liners/coupling.  None of these are as clearly shown as with DAS and DTS which takes a complete map of the wellbore from point of refusal to wellhead.  All of this is performed on the same cable with special terminations to ensure accurate readings without re-runs.

The combination of traditional diagnostic tools with DFOS provides the operator with a significantly clearer picture, enabling more precise decisions on any remedial work required.
Timely intervention, through a structured monitoring programme, also allows identified issues to be tracked and trended — providing a realistic timeline for a future workover that can be aligned with equipment availability.

This integrated, data-driven approach enabled by DFOS is still relatively new within the industry.