R 324.411 Cementing.

          Rule 411.      Well casing shall be cemented by the pump and plug method or by a method approved by the supervisor and allowed to set undisturbed at static balance with the casing in tension, with surface pressure released, and with no backflow until the tail-in slurry reaches 500 psi compressive strength, but for not less than 12 hours; however, if backflow occurs, then the surface pressure shall not be released.  The cement mixture shall be of a composition and volume approved by the supervisor or authorized representative of the supervisor.  The casing shall be pressure-tested before the cement plugs are drilled or the casing perforated.  The pressure at the top of the cement shall be equal to the expected operating pressure of the well; however, the test pressure shall not exceed the API specification for hydrostatic test pressure for new casing, API specification 5CT, specification for casing and tubing, April 1995, fifth edition, which is adopted by reference in these rules.  Copies are available for inspection at the Lansing office of the geological survey division of the department of environmental quality. Copies may be obtained from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Geological Survey Division, P.O. Box 30256, Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost as of the time of adoption of these rules of $42.00 each, and from the American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20050, at a cost as of the time of adoption of these rules of $42.00 each.

History: 1996 MR 9, Eff. Sept. 20, 1996.