Innovative Rotary Closed Loop System - Engineering Concept Proven by Extensive Field Application in the Adriatic Sea

Abstract

Abstract The Rotary Closed Loop Drilling System (RCLS) was developed as a joint venture project between a major oil company and a leading service company. A long term research and development program within the service company was supported by the Italian oil company over the past five years. The resulting drilling system is capable of steering a wellpath while the drill string continues to rotate, so penetration rates are not sacrificed while slide drilling, as is necessary when using conventional steerable technology. Furthermore, this unique system has several integral downhole sensors, enabling two-way communication between the downhole system and surface, while also providing FEMWD data. In addition, several automated drilling functions enable the system to steer independently. During this operation, surface personnel are able to intervene at any time through direct control using a downlink signal. This paper will provide a detailed insight into the project's engineering strategy during the development. The paper also presents a review of the first year of field application, mainly in the Adriatic Sea offshore Italy, which concluded the prototype period. The philosophy of the pilot field application program is briefly described and an overview is given of the ongoing engineering efforts, as well as the considerable future development potential. P. 305