Real-Time Drilling Engineering and Data-Driven Solutions for Upstream Cost Savings: Coupling Earth Models, Digital Twins, Data & Drilling Automation

Abstract

AbstractDespite the market up-cycle efficient use of CAPEX for upstream well construction projects remain a key topic for E&Ps. Therefore, non-productive-time and invisible-lost-time (NPT & ILT) reduction continue to be paramount.Wells of such complexity require the introduction of new drilling automation technology to meet the challenge associated with inadequate hole cleaning, vibrations and connections practices resulting of the implementation of the i-Tral real-time monitoring used to mimic manual torque and drag parameters through artificial intelligence and machine learning allowing extrapolation, alarming and therefore early warning onset of friction and stuck-pipe, continuously supply required flowrate and visualize cuttings concentration along the wellbore and real-time multi parameters optimization for drilling dysfunction and penetration rate increasing tool longevity, trips for tool failure hence reduction in section delivery time.This paper details the features of the i-Trak torque and drag, Dynamic management and hole cleaning models capable of drive efficiencies to execute effectively and consistently each operations while meeting the goals set in the AFE.The technology was first deployed in Abu Dhabi (UAE) in xx Field, a producing conventional oil field located onshore and operated by ADNOC ONSHORE. In total 27083ft was achieved combining Well-I and Well-II where the objectives behind these 2 horizontals wells were to maximize reservoir contact, improve productivity and accelerate delivery while minimize construction costs by implementing mitigations in addressing concerns which helped in streamlining the drilling operations while reducing any potential risks. These wells were drilled in collaboration by ADNOC and Baker Hughes and considered to be the first maximum reservoir contact (MRC) project in this area.For primary mitigation, the output of cuttings mass existing in the wellbore (static and mobile) can give a clear indication of the amount of cuttings downhole which corresponds to 50% of the criteria analysis for an inclination range. Secondary mitigation is from the high-resolution torque and drag samples plotted real-time and compared against theoretical pre-well plan broomstick model for different frictions factors measuring the deviations to concisely convey the end users to apply the required procedures to alleviate risks of well constructions operations.Finally, the integration of dynamic management provides a unified user interface which combines ROP and VSS measurements in a single place to minimize maintenance and repair costs while driving higher ROP's.