Application of Innovative Extended Reach and Horizontal Drilling Technology in Oilfield Development

Abstract

Since the mid-1980's, key extended reach and horizontal drilling and completion technology has been successfully applied worldwide to improve offshore oil field developments. The prudent application of this technology has resulted in: extended field drainage radii, increased production rates and ultimate field recovery, improved reservoir management, a reduction in required platforms and well counts, improved field economics, new and patented completion tools and technology, and world drilling and completion records. Although extended reach (ERD) and horizontal drilling has been successfully applied in many other field developments (Figure 1), it has been most effectively applied in two offshore southern California oilfields (Pt. Pedernales and Dos Cuadras) and in the redevelopment of a Dutch North Sea project (Helder). The offshore California applications have resulted in the development and subsequent patenting of new ERD/horizontal completion tools and technology that were key to the successful completion of these wells, and in the process, several World and North American ERD/horizontal drilling and completion records were established. Moreover, the developed technology, and drilling and completion techniques have been or are planned to be utilized by other oil companies worldwide. The following paper overviews the application of ERD and horizontal drilling in the three aforementioned offshore oil fields, including a brief field overview, application of the technology, engineering considerations, and completion tool description, etc. The paper also describes other techniques and skills that have been important in completing these projects.