Application of Laser and Plasma for Thermal Assisted Drilling in Carbonated Formations

Summary Managed pressure drilling (MPD) is a form of drilling that allows greater and more precise wellbore pressure control than conventional drilling. In addition, the mud weight used will be lower than for the conventional mud weight, and a secondary choke or frictional pressure will be applied on the surface to create a combined annular pressure profile within the well. For this paper, we investigated the effect of high power fiber laser heat tension on the carbonate rock body of the Kangan Formation during the irradiation process with accurate simulation work and by comparing the model with experimental results. First, the enforced stress by heat from the laser source was analyzed, and then the fracture propagation pattern in the rock body throughout the entire irradiation process was obtained. This research presented the weakening and fracturing mechanism that was generated from heat exposure during laser irradiation and determined numerical results for fracture pressure before and after laser irradiation. Also, MPD as an effective technology to control this induced anomaly was proposed during the laser-assisted drilling (LAD) operation to prevent any loss, gain, hole instability, or other drilling problem related to this fracturing and weakening.

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Exploring the Potential of Laser Technology in Oil Well Drilling: Recent Advances and Future Recommendations

Gowida,

Elkatatny

2024

Day 4 Thu, May 09, 2024

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Conventional rotary drilling techniques employed in crude oil and natural gas extraction present notable challenges and financial burdens. To mitigate these obstacles and minimize drilling expenditures, oil enterprises are investigating innovative cost-saving approaches. Laser technology has emerged as a non-invasive alternative to traditional methods, garnering attention within the oil and gas sector. This study assesses the feasibility of laser drilling as a promising departure from rotary drilling practices. The research undertakes a comprehensive examination of global studies on the utilization of lasers in oil and gas well drilling, providing insights into the technology's potential and offering recommendations for its practical integration in the oilfield. Extensive lab-scale experiments have showcased the proficiency of contemporary laser models in spalling, melting, and vaporizing various rock formations, ranging from Berea sandstone to highly resilient granite and basalt. Analyzing the rate of penetration against the required specific energy under diverse conditions facilitates an assessment of the technique's efficacy. Experimental findings indicate that fluid saturation within drilled rock does not impede the drillability rate. Advantages over conventional methods include heightened penetration rates, reduced tripping, casing, and bit costs, improved well management, and enhanced side-tracking capabilities. Consequently, laser technology promises to facilitate sustainable field operations, offering manifold benefits in operational efficiency, cost reduction, and environmental preservation. Nevertheless, technological challenges such as borehole cleaning, well control, beam downhole delivery, and complex formation conditions necessitate further exploration. The development of laser-assisted drill bits and downhole laser drilling machinery holds promise with advancing laser technology and sustained research into the technique's viability from both technical and economic standpoints. Crucial technical recommendations for laser drilling technology in the oil and gas industry encompass conducting feasibility studies, investing in research and development, validating technology through field trials, prioritizing safety and environmental concerns, performing cost analyses, instituting training programs, ensuring regulatory compliance, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, and continuously monitoring and enhancing performance. Adhering to these recommendations enables the industry to optimize drilling efficiency, curtail costs, and champion environmental stewardship, thereby advancing sustainable practices in oil and gas exploration.

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Application of Laser and Plasma for Thermal Assisted Drilling in Carbonated Formations

Cited by 3 publications

References 24 publications

Innovations in drilling and well construction technologies in natural gas reservoir drilling

Innovations in drilling and well construction technologies in natural gas reservoir drilling

Feasibility Study of Fracture Propagation Controlled by Use of Managed Pressure Drilling during Laser-Assisted Drilling Operation

Exploring the Potential of Laser Technology in Oil Well Drilling: Recent Advances and Future Recommendations

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