Horizontal Completions - Improvements in Fluid and Tool Technology Continue to Redefine the Application Envelope

Abstract

TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractOne technological concept that has been capable of successfully coordinating drilling and completion disciplines is horizontal openhole gravel packing. The synergy required to deliver a reliable high-rate well completion has been evidenced in recent completions, and the successful results have brought about the use of horizontal gravel packing as a mainstay completion technique in deepwater development. The technique has been successfully used in Brazil and has shown the same potential in the upcoming deepwater developments in West Africa. This paper will address how and where the concept was started, how the technology has evolved, and lessons learned that are being applied to increase the application envelope and the reliability of this completion method. The review will cover advances in openhole drilling techniques that eliminate openhole tortuosity, gravel-pack fluids that can reduce rig time and enhance well productivity, and improvements in downhole tools that have or will potentially reduce risk while reducing completion cycle time.