--> Abstract: Utilizing Solid Expandable Tubulars Into Shale Well Design, by Joseph Wallace; #90078 (2008)

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Utilizing Solid Expandable Tubulars Into Shale Well Design

Joseph Wallace
Enventure Global Technology, Houston, TX

Harnessing the detrimental effects that come when drilling in the high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) conditions of shale gas wells has presented challenges requiring the adoption of new, innovative solutions. One application that clearly illustrates this adoption is planning solid expandable tubular technology into the casing design.

Incorporating these systems into the original well design has enabled operators to drill smaller wellbores and reach total depth (TD) with a larger hole size. In particular, one operator in East Texas used expandable systems to achieve a larger wellbore at TD results in the following features, advantages and benefits:

Higher rate-of-penetration (ROP) in long intermediate casing section (36% enhancement)

Overall drilling cost savings (15-20%) using slim well vs. big bore program

Improved drilling performance and lower equivalent circulation density (ECD) below the solid expandable tubular system

This proactive approach saved the operator over $1M per well. Applying this technology across field development project leads to substantial savings.

This presentation will discuss this case history in which the operator utilized solid expandable technology to reach targeted objectives thus achieving desired flow rates while reducing drilling time. It will also go into detail about the features, advantages and benefits of solid expandable tubulars in the drilling design. Other case histories will be highlighted as well, detailing how operators incorporated expandables into the wellbore plan in order to realize enhanced value of their assets.

 

AAPG Search and Discover Article #90078©2008 AAPG Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas