Advances in Coiled Tubing Re-entry Access Bypassed Reserves on Alaska's North Slope

Abstract

Abstract Technology improvements continue to advance the capabilities of coiled tubing directional drilling (CTDD). Alaska's North Slope, with its prevailing dedication to expanding the technological envelope, has served as a testing ground where advanced CTDD techniques mature into economically viable systems. Even after over 500 successful CTDD sidetracks on the North Slope, impetus remains to further improve this economical drilling technique. Through a close working relationship between field operator and the service company, significant research and development has led to the introduction of novel tools and services to overcome the intrinsic hurdles of conventional CTDD. Through a process of miniaturization and innovation, small-diameter systems have been developed for CTDD. The most recent introduction of tools and services includes rib steering technologies, bidirectional wireless mud pulse telemetry, gyro-based MWD services, and ultra-slim, high-resolution, real-time resistivity. Straighter, longer horizontal laterals, improved steering, and real-time resistivity in openhole sizes as small as 2 3/4-in. ID has been achieved, consequently improving precision in geosteering within the narrowest of payzone. This paper highlights two case histories describing CTDD technology, real-time formation evaluation, and multilateral drilling processes used to access previously unreachable oil-bearing rock on Alaska's North Slope. While proven in this region, CTDD advances are applicable in other mature fields for the economical extraction of additional reserves.