RESEARCH INNOVATIONS IN DIRECTIONAL AND HORIZONTAL DRILLING AND SIDETRACKING TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Directional and horizontal drilling, and sidetracking techniques have become integral components of the oil and gas industry, which allows access to hydrocarbon reserves in challenging environments. This paper provides an overview of these drilling methods and explores recent trends in the development of technical equipment for horizontal drilling and sidetracking. Directional drilling allows for drilling at various angles, including horizontal and multilateral, providing access to reservoirs beneath the Earth's surface. This technique involves specialized equipment and precise control of the drill bit's direction and deviation, resulting in better reservoir management, increased productivity and reduced environmental effect. Horizontal drilling, on the other hand, involves drilling laterally through subsurface rock formations, particularly beneficial for accessing unconventional reservoirs (shale formations). Horizontal drilling allows operators to access more of the formation, resulting in increased productivity and reduced environmental footprint. Sidetracking techniques are employed to redirect the path of a wellbore, necessary for avoiding geological hazards, accessing untapped reservoirs, or bypassing damaged sections of the well. This process requires careful planning, specialized equipment, and skilled personnel to ensure successful execution while minimizing risks. The paper also discusses modern trends in the development of technical equipment for horizontal drilling and sidetracking technology. These include automation and robotics to improve drilling efficiency and safety, advancements in drilling fluids and measurement-while-drilling (MWD) technologies for better wellbore stability and real-time data acquisition, and innovations in extended reach drilling (ERD) tools and casing and cementing solutions. Additionally, there is ongoing development in sidetracking techniques to improve efficiency and reliability, such as whipstock and casing exit technologies. The Ultrashort-Radius Radial System (URRS) is highlighted as an advanced drilling technology, enabling access to reservoirs with restricted space or challenging geometries. Although challenges such as cost and adaptation to downhole conditions remain, ongoing research and development is aimed at overcoming these barriers and demonstrating the feasibility of innovative drilling technologies. Ultimately, these advances contribute to the industry's goal of maximizing hydrocarbon production while ensuring operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Keywords: directional drilling, horizontal drilling, sidetracking techniques, technical equipment development, ultrashort-radius radial system, laser drilling.