Evaluating the maximum drilling length of horizontal geothermal wells utilizing temperature constraints

Abstract

The geothermal industry faces a significant challenge in exploring and developing resources due to elevated temperatures in downhole environments. Successful drilling in high-temperature geothermal wells requires precise thermal management. This research assesses constraints on horizontal section length and temperature during geothermal horizontal well drilling, aiming to formulate effective wellbore temperature management guidelines.The study utilizes thermal resistance analysis to establish a tailored transient heat transfer model for high-temperature horizontal geothermal well drilling. Parameters such as circulation time, horizontal section length, flow rate, drilling fluid properties, formation thermal conductivity, and drill string thermal conductivity are thoroughly investigated. Treating input parameters as triangular distributions, Monte Carlo simulation techniques conduct sensitivity analysis. Tornado diagrams quantitatively determine key parameter impacts on bottom-hole temperature. The research introduces a procedural framework for geothermal well drilling, aiding engineers in swiftly identifying operational parameter combinations for effective wellbore temperature management. This workflow provides practical guidance for geothermal resource development, ensuring drilling safety in diverse conditions.