Reelwell introduce new drilling method helps getting more oil out
Norwegian company Reelwell introduces a new patented drilling method that overcomes the limitations of conventional drilling. The first applications for the innovative technology will include mature fields experiencing recovery difficulties from depleted reservoirs. The technology also allows for drilling further away from the platforms, reaching previously inaccessible reservoirs.
Drilling conventional, recovering the last hydrocarbons from depleted reservoirs of mature fields could seem very expensive or even impossible. Due to the closed circulation system in the patented dual drill string, the Reelwell method offers better control of the pressure in the well. Drilling is made safer, reducing the chance of a blow out – the most feared phenomenon in the petroleum industry.
Conventional drilling also has limitations when it comes to drilling over longer horizontal distances. The Reelwell method is not dependent on gravity for pushing the bit forward. Instead it uses a hydraulic piston as a ramp for the drill string. The idea behind the Reelwell solution is that it is possible to drill in any direction and to increase horizontal range considerably.
“All in all, the Reelwell method will enable us to recover a lot more oil and gas out of the ground. Calculations indicate that we can create an added value worth tens of billions of NOK as a result of this technology each year in Norway alone”, says General Manager Ola Michael Vestavik.
The technology has been validation tested, and in 2009 it will be used in onshore and offshore pilot wells.
