Definitive Dynamics Survey: Redefining Efficiency in Wellbore Surveys, A Novel Approach in Andaman Sea Deepwater

Abstract Since the 1960s, the oil and gas industry has utilized six-axis stationary surveys with measurement-while-drilling (MWD) technology, requiring torque and pressure release for stationary downhole surveys, leading to time wastage and increased stuck pipe risks. The innovative definitive dynamics survey (DDS) technology improves MWD efficiency by allowing definitive surveys during bottom drilling without the need for a stationary mode. This paper highlights DDS's benefits over conventional MWD, that was introduced first time in deepwater frontier exploration in the Andaman Sea – Indonesia, which is essential for cost management. The deployment method involves comparing actual survey amounts using DDS against scenario survey amounts with ±120-ft intervals (based on rig tubular handling capability). The study focuses on evaluating the technology's benefits, as follow: eliminating static survey time; reducing the ellipsoids of uncertainty; and enhancing accuracy in determining actual trajectory (wellbore positioning and tortuosity index). Furthermore, the evaluation is performed on benefit of potential reducing the differential stuck pipe risk for future development projects with deviated well trajectories. The result of this pioneering technology represents a significant advancement in the oil and gas sector, providing operators with key benefits such as reducing EOUs, improving rig time efficiency, and offering enhanced insights into wellbore position and tortuosity. By surpassing the limitations conventional MWD technology that required static time for surveying and provided less accurate trajectory data, this innovation emerges as a compelling replacement. Finally, this paper validates the directional drilling survey selection method used and emphasizes the pivotal role accurate surveying technology plays in enhancing operational efficiency. In addition, DDS technology provide potential benefits for the highly deviated well development by having accurate surveying enables precise reservoir mapping, optimal well placement in geo-steering applications, reducing stuck pipe risk and enhances reservoir drainage.