Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, the Nojol-1Exp well targets Mesozoic formations. The drilling operation involves maneuvering through an interbedded soft formation of primarily shale and sandstone layers dating back to the Miocene Epoch. Initially, standard bits were used to drill into the formation, enabling reaching a depth of 1,300 m [4,265 ft] at speeds up to 62 m/h [204 ft/h]. However, upon retrieving the BHAs from the wellbore, it was discovered that some of the bit cutters had become chipped. In view of this, the aim for the 18.5-in section was to drill from 1,280 m [4,200 ft] to 2,640 m [8,700 ft] in a single run, targeting a planned ROP of 48 m/h. The proposed solution to successfully carry this section to its total depth was the SDi616 directional bit with Aegis Aegis 3D-printed armor.
The Nojol-1Exp operation at the 18.5-in section was outstanding, especially considering that exploration wells at such depths typically involve trial-and-error approaches and standard directional bits. Despite a planned ROP of 48 m/h to complete the entire section in 30 hours, the bit with Aegis armor exceeded expectations, achieving a total ROP of 50 m/h and completing the operation successfully in just 27 hours. This achievement resulted in significant time and cost savings for the operator.
Aegis armor technology comprises individual caps made from tungsten carbide 3D printed material to optimize erosion resistance, especially at high ROP with maximum flow rate to achieve the highest daily drilled footage record and overall, longer runs. Aegis armor cladding increases bit erosion resistance by 400% and strength by 40% in comparison with conventional matrix polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits.
