Schlumberger Unveils UltraHT Drilling Technologies

Schlumberger announced today the launch of TeleScope ICE* ultrahigh-temperature measurements-while-drilling service and PowerDrive ICE* ultrahigh-temperature rotary steerable system (RSS). These new technologies enable standard drilling operations in reservoirs with extreme temperatures, expanding the applications and the range of the field-proven PowerDrive* RSS and Scope* measurement services.

“In high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) projects, customers are under intense pressure to manage costs and achieve drilling objectives. This is particularly challenging because HPHT environments can affect the reliability of conventional downhole equipment,” said Steve Kaufmann, president, Drilling & Measurements, Schlumberger (SLB). “Our new drilling services for ultrahigh-temperature wells help our customers eliminate runs, drill wells with precision and mitigate operational risks to make the undrillable wells possible.”

The PowerDrive ICE RSS is the only commercially available RSS rated to 200 degC (392 degF). Together with the TeleScope ICE MWD service, these technologies make up the industry’s first 200-degC bottomhole assembly (BHA). The fully rotating RSS provides precise directional control and automatic steering, resulting in increased rate of penetration (ROP) and reduced operational risks in ultrahigh-temperature wells. The TeleScope ICE service transmits survey and formation evaluation data at high speed, enabling real-time well placement and risk mitigation in harsh drilling conditions. Both technologies include integrated ceramic electronics (ICE) and multichip modules that are specifically designed and ruggedized for hostile downhole environments.

The technologies have been field tested in the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico, Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand.

PEMEX ran the PowerDrive ICE RSS to correct trajectory of a packed BHA that veered off track in highly abrasive formations. The RSS delivered the well and increased ROP 16% compared with the previous record in this field, saving PEMEX nine operating days and USD 1.35 million.

In the Gulf of Thailand, PTT Exploration and Production Company Limited (PTTEP) was operating in a reservoir with maximum temperature of 204 degC (399 degF). PTTEP used the TeleScope ICE service to obtain real-time downhole measurements and drilled the well to TD in one run. The operator also eliminated the need for a BHA trip to protect electronics as well as a gyro run to determine the location of the well, which saved 12 rig hours and decreased operational cost by USD 300,000.

These two technologies are the first two members of the ICE ultrahigh-temperature drilling services family. For more information, visit www.slb.com/ultraht.