Drilling System With Built-In Kickoff Ramp Allows for Dependable Curve Building

JPT • MAY 2013 The Granite Wash formation presents several challenges in drilling the build section from a vertical open hole to form a lateral. The formation is hard and abrasive, and it is difficult to anticipate downhole rock properties. The erratic nature of the formation results in unpredictable performance by the steerable drilling assembly and drill bits. In most cases, the target build rates are not achieved, forcing multiple trips. An innovative drilling system has been developed that provides a dependable kickoff ramp and a firm beginning for initiating the build section without having to rely on the fulcrum point of the drilling bottomhole assembly (BHA) in a single trip downhole.