Description
Wells drilled in the Tuscaloosa Trend near Baton Rouge have long been recognized for the extreme nature of the HP/HT operating environment and the potential for well control problems. Highly abrasive formations in the intermediate sections have been a major cause of bit, directional tool and drillstring failures. Below the intermediate sections, significant directional tool constraints are encountered as in situ temperatures range between 300° and 400° F. Directional complexity has also increased due to surface location constraints and reservoir compartmentalization.
This presentation focuses on the improvements which have been achieved over a 5-year period due to the implementation of Powered Rotary Steerable Systems coupled with Rotary Steerable Bit technology. The step-change in performance has been evidenced by a reduction in days per 10,000 ft drilled from 86 days to 55 days. The improved time to first production has been attributed to the systematic learning and the successes of several office-based, wellsite, and third party teams.