For operators, surface casing vent flow (SCVF) and sustained casing pressure (SCP) are more than technical challenges. They represent regulatory risk, environmental responsibility, and long-term liability if not managed and documented correctly.
This case study highlights how the Ventbuster® supports end-to-end SCVF and SCP management across Plugging & Abandonment (P&A) operations, delivering continuous, regulator-ready measurement and proof-positive validation from initial detection through final cut and cap.
The Challenge: Managing and Proving Compliance
Energy regulators require SCVF and SCP testing throughout the well's lifecycle. When venting is detected:
Serious leaks must be immediately and permanently sealed
Non-serious leaks must still be sealed, with documented proof of restored wellbore integrity at abandonment
In both cases, operators must provide clear, auditable evidence that the issue has been permanently resolved.
Traditional approaches can create challenges, including:
Limited sensitivity at ultra-low flow rates
Gaps between testing and mitigation phases
Manual or fragmented data collection
Limited visibility during P&A operations
The real challenge isn’t just stopping the leak; it’s proving, beyond dispute, that it’s gone.
The Solution: Continuous Digital Measurement With The Ventbuster®
The Ventbuster® meets and exceeds regulatory digital Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) requirements by providing continuous, real-time SCVF and SCP measurement.
In this case study, the Ventbuster® was used across all phases of testing, mitigation, P&A, and validation, creating a single, continuous data record operators could rely on.
With Ventbuster®, operators can:
Measure venting from ultra-low flow rates to high-volume emissions
Continuously record and live-stream data via a secure IoT dashboard
Monitor flow rate, pressure, and temperature in real time
Maintain uninterrupted measurement throughout P&A operations
Produce regulator-ready digital records without data gaps
From Baseline Testing to Real-Time P&A Oversight
Baseline Testing
The Ventbuster® is installed on the wellhead vent assembly to establish stabilized flow and pressure conditions. All data is recorded and streamed in real time, with built-in pressure protection aligned to regulatory limits.
Continuous Monitoring During P&A
Ventbuster® remains installed throughout downhole mitigation and abandonment activities. Live data allows supervisors to observe trends as they occur and adjust remedial actions in real time — improving precision and confidence during critical operations.
Validation and Confirmation
Following P&A, operators often continue monitoring for days or weeks to confirm permanent isolation of the gas source. Ventbuster® supports extended monitoring through continuous digital measurement and an auxiliary solar battery system. Before cutting and capping, operators can provide proof-positive confirmation of a successful repair.
Why This Matters for Operators
This case study demonstrates clear operational and regulatory value:
Reduced regulatory risk through auditable, continuous data
Improved decision-making with real-time visibility
Greater confidence before final abandonment
Stronger environmental and compliance assurance
Instead of relying on isolated tests, operators gain a continuous, defensible record of well integrity from detection to closure.
Want the Full Technical Detail?
The full case study provides deeper insight into testing workflows, continuous monitoring, and validation processes. Download the full Ventbuster® case study to explore the complete methodology and results.