Successful Innovative Implementation of Look Ahead Technology Maximized Production Potential While Enhancing Drilling Efficiency and Cost Reduction Through Pilot Well Elimination

Abstract Key Performance Indicators for successfully drilling a well include improved drilling efficiency, reduced cost, and safety without compromising data requirements. These are crucial to achieving the well objectives and maximising the production potential. This case study showcases the successful implementation of look-ahead deep resistivity while drilling technology to eliminate a planned pilot hole in a challenging and dynamic environment. Historically, a pilot hole is drilled to confirm the Gas-Oil Contact (GOC) and Oil-Water Contact (OWC). Based on the pilot hole data, a sidetrack well is drilled to land below the GOC, maintaining a standoff of approximately 5m between the landing point and the GOC. GOC and OWC levels from the pilot's data are projected laterally to be consistent during planning. However, data from nearby offset wells established that these positions along the lateral could vary, increasing the challenges and uncertainty during landing and navigation. The look-ahead capability of the Extra Deep Azimuthal Resistivity (EDAR) tool was identified as the optimal solution as it can detect resistivity contrast deep enough to avoid penetration by the bit. To evaluate its capabilities in this environment, a feasibility study was conducted based on data from nearby offset wells and the area's geological setting. The study found promising results with EDAR inversion mapping the GOC and OWC ahead of the bit. As a result of the feasibility study, the EDAR technology was included in a triple combo BHA to enable informed and proactive geosteering decisions during the landing, and this resulted in an optimal final solution that met all drilling and landing requirements. EDAR inversions mapped the GOC ahead of the bit, which helped to optimize and successfully land the well without a pilot hole. The OWC was consistently mapped from entry into the reservoir. Both the GOC & OWC were mapped along the length of the landing section and were found to vary in position consistent with the data from the offset wells. EDAR's look-ahead capability mitigated fluid contact uncertainties and achieved the landing objectives, marking a significant advancement in drilling efficiency and cost reduction.