Drilling Fluids Design and Management for Extended Reach Drilling

Abstract

Abstract This paper focuses on the potential problems facing the operator in extended reach exploration and development drilling. A practical review is presented of world-wide extended reach drilling fluid experience with examples of successful technology application from specific projects. Critical drilling fluid success factors in the planning and construction of an extended reach well include borehole stabilisation, hole cleaning, lubricity and equivalent circulating density (ECD) management. The latest techniques in monitoring drilling fluid and wellbore behaviour while drilling an extended reach well are also introduced.