In Oman, a major operator consulted with SLB on drilling technology suited for Block 5, made up of then-tight reservoirs in limestone. The technology chosen was the AccuStrike™ short‑makeup drill bit with the HyperBlade™ hyperbolic diamond element bit, and the PowerDrive Archer™ high build rate rotary steerable system. This solution increased ROP by 34% and tightened the steering ratio by 53%.

The operator conferred with SLB on drilling technology suited for the Block 5 limestone reservoir. The goal was to decrease the steering ratio and increase ROP while, at the same time, protect the BHA by lowering the power setting on the RSS. Lateral and axial shock and vibration can lead to excessive BHA wear that shortens run lengths and could require multiple trip outs.

The operator selected the AccuStrike bit for its 37% shorter length that uses the HyperBlade bit cutting structure to maintain steerability in a sharp dogleg severity (DLS) curve. This bit design improves build rate by up to 64% while reducing equipment-damaging vibration. The PowerDrive Archer RSS produced a smooth wellbore with its internal steering pads, reducing sticking, torque, and drag. The directional drilling project increased ROP by 34% and tightened the steering ratio by 53%. The system delivered a longer, faster, smoother run without a trip out.