Operators are continually pushing the drilling limits, with respect to on-bottom performance, departure distance and well density. Multiple unconventional wells have been drilled in the last several years, with lateral lengths exceeding 19,000 ft and measured depths greater than 27,000 ft.
Other wells of similar design have exceeded drilling rates of a mile/day in specific intervals and 1,200ft/day in overall well performance.
Pushing the physical limits present both technical and economic challenges. Directionally drilling these long wells with minimal tortuosity and acceptable collision risk is critical. Selection, performance and reliability of downhole tools are key. Even with optimal trajectories,
drilling torque may push the limits of topdrives and drillstrings. With weight limitations, alternative solutions to increase horsepower to the bit can introduce new modes of dysfunction, which are undetectable at surface.
Economics and completion requirements have driven some well designs to use uncomfortably slim annular clearances, 5-1/2-in. casing in 6-3/4-in. holes for example. The margin for error when running and cementing production casing further reduces as lateral displacement increases, resulting in
the application of non-traditional techniques to reduce risk.
This poses the question: what lateral length and geometry optimizes the overall internal rate of return (or other economic metric) for both oil and gas wells?
Join us at the IADD Pushing the Limits Topical Forum as we present insightful presentations and discussions on fundamental principles, engineering practices, and actions that should be considered when planning and drilling these well types. It is prudent to challenge the drilling
performance limiters of horizontal wells and work with key suppliers to achieve the comprehensive well objectives.
To view a message from our chairperson, Derek Adam, click here.
FORUM
DETAILS
- Tuesday, February 12,
2019, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 13,
2019, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Occidental Petroleum Corporation: 5 Greenway Plaza, Houston, TX 77046
- Members: $295; Nonmembers: $375; Pay at the door Fee: $100
Seating for this event is limited to 105 people.
Thank you to Oxy for hosting the IADD Pushing the Limits Topical Forum. If you are traveling from outside Houston (or want to stay closer to the forum location), Oxy has a special rate with the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Houston - Greenway Plaza, located at 6 E Greenway Plaza,
Houston, Texas, 77046. The rate is $186. Simply call +1-713-629-1200 and ask for the Oxy rate.
