Comparative Analysis of Penetration Rates Using Downhole Motor and Rotary Steerable System in an Onshore Directional Hole

Abstract

Directional drilling is a costly method used in drilling operations, as it requires investments in special tools such as downhole motor and rotary steerable system (RSS). This paper performs a comparative study between the penetration rates achieved when using downhole motor and RSS tools. To make the study feasible, the drilling of the 8 ¾ in diameter phase of an onshore directional hole, comprised between 197 m and 957 m, was analyzed using the equipment referenced. The average penetration rates and the costs generated by each one of them were calculated as a function of the total operating time. Considering these parameters, we found that the use of downhole motor was more advantageous than using the rotary steerable system because, despite its longer operating time, it presented much lower costs.