Transforming Real Time Drilling Operation Center into a High-Performance Enabler in the Digital Era: A Brunei Case Study

Abstract

Abstract This paper documents the aim to develop the necessary integrated digital capability and initiative to enhance and improve operation performance and transform the way data is manipulated, visualized and interpreted within Real-Time Performance Center (RTPC) by an oil and gas operator in Brunei. The strategy to achieve enhancement of RTPC deliverables and performance KPIs demanded the following steps: Adapting an engineering solution to align performance monitoring and set measurable and achievable KPIs. This process begins with an assessment of the current working practice. Automating KPIs dashboard that is customizable to meet stakeholder's expectation. Implementing the New Way of Working with the change management support. Advancing with the historical data loading, data clean-up by data mapping process and detailed quality checks before computing the best composite well time (BCWT). Improved Drilling Efficiency & Optimization (DEO) workflow by monitoring Mechanical Specific Energy (MSE) to improve the drilling rate of penetration (ROP) and mitigate drilling dysfunctions. The technical scope of the operation center includes the transformation of the high-frequency data transmitted from sensors at the rig site into information that encourages continuous improvement of all operational activities, both offshore and onshore by well engineers through digital solution collaboration. The result of the collaborative initiatives an enhanced Real Time Performance Center, with which transparency becomes imperative, strong performance KPIs are continuously monitored and improved through benchmarking of drilling activities as well as off-bottom practices and flat-time operations in the current well against the offset wells. In addition, the daily data-centric performance-driven discussions that take place contribute to a successful enhancement strategy. Among key improvements observed between the start of RTPC implementation to Q3-2020: Operations time improvement: 32% reduction in backreaming time Invisible lost time (ILT) reduction: More than 30% improvement in 12.25in and 8.5in RSS BHA connection time and more than 60% improvement in tripping speed. Significant reduction in NPT categories within the RTPC's scope, e.g., well control, hole cleaning, stuck pipe and mud contamination. The value gained from monitoring and achieving performance goals is calculated in terms of financial incentives and frequently communicated to the rig teams. More importantly, the change was properly managed, and the leadership team recognized a smooth transition between the previous inefficient RTPC setup and the new data-centric ways of working. Ultimately, the enhanced RTPC with its digital portal, is the knowledge center that showcases Wells Team's continuous improvement and performance driven culture. This strategy of enhancing RTPC's performance though digital initiative can be adapted in other real time centers and it is envisaged that the implementation of these engineering solutions to the RTPC will facilitate practicing engineers to optimize the operational performance and efficiency.