Understanding Torque: The Key to Slide-Drilling Directional Wells

Abstract

Abstract An in-depth study of surface torque and its effect on drillstring and bit movement has led to the development of automated technology for optimizing directional drilling with a downhole motor/measurement while drilling (MWD) system. By assimilating surface torque with downhole bit and drillpipe behavior, the technology allows drillers to maximize drilling efficiency and improve wellbore quality (due to less trajectory tortuosity) during the sliding part of the drilling process. This paper describes this proprietary1,2,3 surface system and how developers used torque control to optimize slide drilling without introducing new equipment downhole. The new technology integrates surface and MWD data to provide the following benefits in the sliding mode: Improved ROP and horizontal reach capability Improved tool-face correction while drilling Improved well trajectory Improved motor life (less stalling) Quick and accurate tool-face orientation No lost-in-hole exposure Time savings from switching from rotating to sliding without coming off bottom; faster tool-face orientation; overall performance optimization (as listed above)