If gravel packing is not used when needed, what problem is likely to occur?

• A. Sand intrusion
• B. Increased production
• C. No problem
• D. Water contamination

Answer: (A)

Gravel packing provides a granular filter around the well screen to stop sand from entering the well while letting fluid flow. If this packing isn’t installed when the formation produces sand, produced fluid can carry sand into the wellbore and up to surface equipment. That sand intrusion causes abrasive wear on pumps and valves, clogging of screens, accelerated equipment and formation damage, and a drop in production efficiency. The other options don’t fit because increased production isn’t expected when sand is free to enter the well, and water contamination isn’t the primary consequence of not controlling sand with a gravel pack.