New-Generation Drillpipes Enhance Extended-Reach Drilling in South China Sea

Abstract

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper IPTC 16798, ’New Generation of Aluminum Drillpipes Enhanced ERD Performances in the Huizhou Field, South China Sea,’ by W. Scaruffi, E. Cristofanelli, S. Yu, and A. Trocchia, Eni China, and C. Molaschi and A. Merlo, Eni, prepared for the 2013 International Petroleum Technology Conference, Beijing, 26-28 March. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2013 International Petroleum Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission. This paper presents the results of a performance-improvement effort in extended-reach drilling (ERD) in three campaigns in the Huizhou HZ 25-4 oil field in the South China Sea. The new methodological approach and the deployment of new-generation aluminum drillpipes (ADPs) have resulted in a reduction of drilling risk and increased cost savings. Introduction ERD allows the reduction of the number of drilling sites, including offshore platforms, artificial islands, or other structures, and allows better control of total field-development costs. In addition, ERD technology makes it possible to reach reservoirs located at a considerable distance offshore, reducing the environmental impact of a wellsite. ERD operations are gaining momentum in the industry because they allow reserves exploitation previously considered too expensive when using conventional drilling methods. In addition, ERD techniques increase singlewell production by enlarging the drainage area. Because of their lighter weight when compared with steel drillpipes (SDPs), the use of ADP is a key solution for drilling extended- reach wells for the following reasons: A reduction in operating costs of approximately 10–20% (including savings in rig-capacity upgrade costs, transportation and energy costs, time-hosting costs, and tool-joint/casing-wear costs). An increase in the horizontal deviation of wells of approximately 10–30% (reduced torque-and-drag effect, less pressure drop, higher buckling resistance). Heightened reserves and production growth. A reduction in operative risk. Comparison of ADPs and SDPs Eni E&P first considered ADPs in July 2003, during the proposal and approval of a research-and-development project.