Shaped Charges
Shaped charges are used as part of testing and completion operations for perforating casing and formation. The charges are loaded on perforation gun and are lowered into the well either through wireline or drill pipe. Once on perforation depth, the charges are detonated through a detonating cord. The perforating jet formed as a result of explosion, penetrates the casing and deep into the formation. This creates a tunnel for reservoir fluid to flow into the well.
Shaped charges have four main parts; outer casing, premier charge, main charge and conical liner. Outer casing is the metal body that holds all other parts together. Ceramic or glass are also used as casing material. Premier charge provides the link between the detonating cord and the main charge. Liner is a cone shaped solid or powdered metalic layer that collapses under detonation pressure allowing the formation of perforating jet.