The multicycle system for actuated response (MSAR) is part of the ExaCT™ electrical downhole CT control system. Designed to bring greater operational flexibility to downhole tools, the ExaCT MSAR enables on-demand selective actuation of hydraulic tools, such as flow control valves for milling operations or third-party hydraulic tractors for extended-reach applications.
The ExaCT MSAR is available in a slim 2.125-in version and a rugged 3.125-in version for harsher, more robust operational requirements. The tool communicates with the ExaCT electrical multilateral module (eMLT) and integrates with the ExaCT direction and inclination (D&I) module. The eMLT and D&I modules precisely steer the BHA into laterals using electrical commands alone, eliminating the need for fluid pumping.
The ExaCT MSAR leverages the full suite of ExaCT system downhole measurements, enabling real-time mapping of lateral wells, quick lateral entry, and extended matrix stimulations with pinpoint accuracy. By decoupling hydraulic functionality from BHA operational mode switching, ExaCT MSAR provides faster, more efficient downhole adjustments that simplify operations and enhance overall efficacy.
The rugged ExaCT MSAR provides high-rate stimulation and cleanout with greater efficiency. In a cleanout operation, the high circulation rate enhances hole cleaning, reduces sweeping sequence, and prevents excessive or early wear to the milling or jetting tool below the rugged ExaCT MSAR. Additionally, the system can handle vibration and shock from a turbine or a positive displacement motor, enabling the rugged ExaCT MSAR to be incorporated into a single toolstring during milling operations.
The ExaCT MSAR is crucial for enabling complex CT BHAs, combining both electrically and hydraulically actuated downhole tools without compromising functionality. Its selective control results in more effective operations, often reducing the number of runs. With ExaCT MSAR, operators can use multilateral tools and hydraulic tractors for matrix stimulation in extended-reach, multilateral wells in a single run—eliminating the need to drop a ball to activate a circulation valve above the tractor or to search for specific pressure windows before pumping acid.
The versatile design of the ExaCT MSAR supports a range of downhole workflows, such as
The ExaCT MSAR consists of two primary components:
During intervention, the ExaCT MSAR toggles the valve between two states. In the first state, flow is directed to the annulus through user-replaceable nozzles (variable sizes support circulation or jetting). In the second, flow is directed to the downstream assembly. The CT operator initiates each shift via software, activating the downhole motor to toggle the piston. Downhole sensors confirm the shift, stopping the motor and providing the operator feedback.
The valve holds its current position regardless of downhole conditions like temperature, shock, pressure, or flow rate, without consuming power. In the unlikely event a manual intervention is required, operators can send a metal ball down the CT pipe to shift the valve through applied surface pressure. The ExaCT system software continuously monitors tool health by tracking downhole sensors, ensuring reliable performance and maintenance insights.
