Directional technology will extend drilling reach

Extended reach drilling (ERD) is an advanced methodology for drilling high-angle well bores with significantly increased horizontal displacements. Such well bores offer a variety of applications with the potential for reducing production costs. Problems of pipe movement, differential sticking, hole cleaning, and applying weight on bit can be reduced by the use of available technology. A field test drilling program will verify the ERD concepts. The ERD program calls for the use of advanced concepts and technology to achieve a significant increase in directional-drilling capability. The use of a special drilling mud, aluminum drill pipe, and continuous drill stem rotation and circulation when pipe is in the hole, will be used to reduce drag significantly. An eccentric tool joint will be used to decrease the tendency for differential sticking of the drill string while providing an increase in hole-cleaning efficiency. When necessary, a special wall-gripping, hydraulic drill collar may be used to pull pipe into the hole and produce bit weight.