Optimal Hole Cleaning and ECD Management with RheGuard System Overcomes Well Drilling Challenges | SLB

Optimal Hole Cleaning and ECD Management with RheGuard System Overcomes Well Drilling Challenges

Published: 11/08/2021

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The RheGuard system ensured a clean hole, drilling 5,700 ft [1,737 m] of the 18.125-in section in under 24 h without the need for additional circulation at TD.
The RheGuard system ensured a clean hole, drilling 5,700 ft [1,737 m] of the 18.125-in section in under 24 h without the need for additional circulation at TD. Prior to reaching the reservoir in one interval, the RheGuard system was weighted up to 15.5 lbm/galUS (1.86 sg), pushing the limits of the 15.8-lbm/galUS (1.89-sg) leak-off test. When drilling commenced, tool readings indicated the rheological profile would permit higher flow rates, which enabled optimal hole cleaning and ECD management. With proper fluid management and wellbore strengthening, the interval reached TD with no losses to the formation. The liner was run and set with minimal losses, ensuring full zonal isolation.
Location
Gulf of Mexico, North America, Offshore
Background
A major operator expected record ROP while drilling all intervals on a multiwell project but requested no additional time be spent at TD circulating the well clean. Hydraulic windows were expected to be narrow, so careful management of fluid properties, ROP, and hole cleaning would be required to maintain suitable equivalent circulating density (ECD) in each interval.
Products Used