Published: 03/23/2021
Published: 03/23/2021
The operator wanted to reduce problems while drilling a 12¼-in horizontal well in shale, conglomerate, claystone, and sandstone. The challenges included induced losses, poor hole cleaning, and excessive ECD when drilling, tripping, and running casing. In addition, the operator wanted to optimize points of circulation and tripping time, reduce the quantity of weighted viscosity sweeps pumped, and increase operational safety for personnel.
The operator used VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS software and PRESSPRO RT software for real-time hole cleaning and ECD management. VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS software helped the operator plan and determine optimal circulating time and backreaming schedules. PRESSPRO RT software monitored cuttings buildup and transported flow regime in the wellbore while drilling and circulating.
PRESSPRO RT software and VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS software enabled the operator to minimize induced fracture and stuck pipe events and optimize tripping and circulating operations. The software improved ECD management while drilling and running casing at different points of the openhole interval, minimizing fracture and blowout events.
An operator in Ecuador used a combination of PRESSPRO RT real-time downhole performance measurement software and VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS drilling fluid simulation software to manage and monitor ECD and hole-cleaning parameters while drilling, circulating, and tripping out in six horizontal wells. The combination helped plan upcoming operations and determine optimal circulating time and backreaming schedules. Preventing lost circulation and improving the BHA tripping velocity and casing run helped save an average of USD 45,000 per well compared with wells not running PRESSPRO RT software.
