Soft-Gauge Bit and MEMS Gyro-While-Drilling Service Optimize Drilling, Offshore Russia

While drilling with PowerPak steerable motors, the operator used the GyroSphere MEMS gyro-while-drilling service which enabled taking surveys to proactively steer the high-risk interval—0 to 755 ft [0 to 230 m]—of one remaining infill well (left) on a 32-well pad away from nearby producing wells. To further reduce drilling risks, the aggressive bit teeth, teeth standoff, and sharp edges were reduced on the Xtra standard roller cone drill bit (right). The outer material was made of soft bronze alloy for added assurance against damaging the steel casing in case of contact. The high-risk interval was successfully drilled and created a basis for further infill well development.