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With the development of different segments within the drilling technology in the last three decades, well drilling has become possible in harsh downhole conditions. The vertical well provides access to oil and gas reserves located at a certain depth directly below the wellsite, and a large number of vertical wells are required for the exploitation of hydrocarbons from spatially expanded deposits. However, the borehole can deviate from the vertical well, which means that the target zone can be reached by a horizontal directional well. With this type of well, especially in the case of drilling an extended-reach well (ERW), the length of the wellbore in contact with the reservoir and/or several separate reservoirs is significantly increased, therefore, it is a much better option for the later production phase. Unfortunately, the application of extended-reach drilling (ERD technology), with all of its advantages, can cause different drilling problems mostly related to the increased torque, drag, hole cleaning and equivalent circulation density (ECD), as well as to an increase in the well price. Overcoming these problems requires continuous operational change to enable operators to address downhole challenges. Today, the longest well reaches 15,240 m (50,000 ft), which raises the question of the technological and economic feasibility of this type of drilling project, especially with the lower oil price on the energy market. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of extended-reach drilling technology, discusses the main problems and analyzes current achievements.
With the development of different segments within the drilling technology in the last three decades, well drilling has become possible in harsh downhole conditions. The vertical well provides access to oil and gas reserves located at a certain depth directly below the wellsite, and a large number of vertical wells are required for the exploitation of hydrocarbons from spatially expanded deposits. However, the borehole can deviate from the vertical well, which means that the target zone can be reached by a horizontal directional well. With this type of well, especially in the case of drilling an extended-reach well (ERW), the length of the wellbore in contact with the reservoir and/or several separate reservoirs is significantly increased, therefore, it is a much better option for the later production phase. Unfortunately, the application of extended-reach drilling (ERD technology), with all of its advantages, can cause different drilling problems mostly related to the increased torque, drag, hole cleaning and equivalent circulation density (ECD), as well as to an increase in the well price. Overcoming these problems requires continuous operational change to enable operators to address downhole challenges. Today, the longest well reaches 15,240 m (50,000 ft), which raises the question of the technological and economic feasibility of this type of drilling project, especially with the lower oil price on the energy market. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of extended-reach drilling technology, discusses the main problems and analyzes current achievements.
TotalEnergies, Petrobras, and SLB have partnered in a collaborative venture with the goal of revolutionizing the way subsea wells are completed. Their aim is to introduce an innovative intelligent completion system in the context of multiple wells that replaces the conventional electrohydraulic systems that have been in use for decades by electrifying the process. This groundbreaking system not only represents a significant advancement in well technology but also holds the promise of making a profound positive impact on the environment and enhancing safety. To evaluate the reduction of carbon emissions through electric wells, an electrification road map was implemented. This comprehensive approach included data collection, case studies, and techno-economic analysis. By closely examining the existing assets, detailed specifications were developed outlining the environmental, operational, and financial contexts in which electrical completions can offer effective solutions. The objective was to eliminate the need for hydraulic systems entirely, from surface installations to completion. This required a complete redesign of the flow control valve, downhole safety valve, and all associated interfaces. One of the most notable achievements resulting from this technological advancement is the optimization of reservoir management and reduced water production. Electric wells surpass conventional systems in terms of precision and control, enabling improved reservoir management practices. This, in turn, enhances hydrocarbon recovery and overall asset performance. The second breakthrough paves the way for exploring fresh opportunities in the development of multizonal wells, lowering the overall number of wells needed. The third significant accomplishment involved streamlining the design, resulting in reduced rig time and enhanced safety for personnel. The transition to electric wells has demonstrated that completion technology can play a pivotal role in addressing environmental concerns within the oil and gas industry. It underscores the significance of ongoing innovation and collaboration among industry leaders to drive positive change. This initiative serves as a model for other companies and industry stakeholders seeking to reduce their environmental footprint while improving project economics. It illustrates that electrification can facilitate the coexistence of sustainable practices and profitability, offering a promising outlook for the future.
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