Directional/complex wells

Drilling Dynamics, Mechanical Specific Energy Data Help Drill Record Extended-Reach Well

Effective use of downhole dynamics and mechanical specific energy data played a critical role in delivering a well that was the longest in the Middle East, and the fourth-longest globally, at the time of writing.

Reservoir layers A, B, C, D, E and F are separated by thin, lower porosity stylolites.
Reservoir layers A, B, C, D, E and F are separated by thin, lower porosity stylolites.
Source: SPE 203335.

Complex extended-reach-drilling (ERD) wells often present challenges with regard to geological aspects of data requirement and transmittal, reactive geosteering response times, and accuracy of well placement. Such scenarios may require innovative approaches in Middle East carbonate reservoirs. The objective of the complete paper is to illustrate that, by assessing the details of reservoir geology and key operational markers relevant for best practices, drilling approaches can be customized for each reservoir or scenario.

Reservoir Background and Geology

The planned reservoir section is a single horizontal of approximately 25,000‑ft lateral length at a spacing of 250 m from adjacent injectors. The well was drilled from an artificial island.

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