Dynamic Formations Rendered Less Problematic with Solid Expandable Technology

Abstract To reach drilling objectives in dynamic formations requires robust technology that can adapt to unpredictable wellbore conditions. Such is the case with operations in Asia Pacific; a very tectonically active region. The shifting plates put the earth's crust under extreme stress, which has a propensity to cause various difficult drilling conditions including: FaultsHigh pore pressureWellbore instability These issues are difficult to predict, both in occurrence and true vertical depth (TVD), and are usually mitigated by running an unplanned string of casing. Unexpected conditions requiring a casing point put the drilling plan at risk when reservoir objectives are hole-size dependent. Standard oil country tubular goods (OCTG) reduce the wellbore inside diameter (ID) every time a casing string is set. When the situation dictates setting casing higher than planned, solid expandable technology has successfully minimized wellbore reduction and enabled the operator to get back to the casing program with an optimized hole size. Planning solid expandable systems into wellbore construction as a design element, rather than a contingency plan, has averted numerous problems identified during the drilling process. Conventional solid expandable systems minimize loss of hole size, while single-diameter expandable systems (including openhole cladding) provide solutions without loss of hole size. By utilizing single-diameter technology, zones and formations can be sealed, allowing the next hole section to be drilled with the same bit as the previous. In this capacity, expandable systems become an enabling technology for previously undrillable wells. This paper will discuss how solid expandable tubular systems have evolved to include a technology suite of options that addresses drilling challenges in active formations. Case histories will be used to illustrate the technical and economic value brought to projects by way of solid expandable system application.