Well Construction Process in a Digital Era: Data Driven Approach to Support Well Operations

Abstract

Way of working is continuously changing in O&G field thanks to digital solutions and the possibility to have consistent data driven analysis to support decision-making process. Well Construction cycle from planning to execution and post well analysis is evolving as well, since data are at the base of all the analyses allowing higher operational safety, more efficient engineering, better real time optimization and more effective comparison of performances at the end of operations. Eni Well Operations Department has invested a lot in advanced analytics tools able to extract value from historical and real time data focusing the attention first of all on data coverage, quality and reliability, that are extremely important enablers to let the tools work and perform analyses, and then on proper data transmission system from different rig site locations towards a centralized database. High frequency performance measurement and data intelligence tools allow reaching the technical limit, predictive analytics help in reducing downtime while drilling and well simulation software enhances not only planning phase but also operational real time follow up activities. Applications of digital solutions have run in 2019 on most challenging activities with tangible results in terms of safety improvement, operational efficiency and time and cost savings. Almost 50 wells (more than the totality of most complex wells as per Eni classification) have been analysed in real time with both advanced analytics and predictive algorithms achieving: avoidance of specific Non Productive Time events (about 25% of NPT reduction), with a major impact on operational safetybetter performances throughout development projects, thanks to an improved learning curve and a reduction of Invisible Lost Time (average of 2,5% of time saving per well)enhanced real time monitoring and early detection of well events, leading to a faster decision making and adoption of corrective actions (anticipated actions by average 6 hours) The development and the application of these tools have been made possible thanks to a proper Data Management System. In fact, several initiatives have been put in place to provide proper data gathering, data transmission, data quality check and assurance and data storage. This paper will show in details how the results have been obtained starting from creating an appropriate data infrastructure up to real case of application along 2019 Eni drilling activity. The extensive use of digital tools, both in Geographical Units and Headquarters, has been proven to provide effective support to plan, monitor and evaluate performances during all well operation activities.