Exertion of 4 Key Elements in Horizontal Drilling, Fostering Cycle Time and Cost Efficiency of Horizontal Well in P-Field, Rokan Area, Sumatera

Abstract Cost efficiency becomes the most prominent aspect in horizontal well to ensure the project remains economically viable, whereas ameliorating cycle time during drilling operation is the simplest way to seize it. The specter of surface and subsurface issue during drilling horizontal well have often been a main cause of either "Diminished Capacity" or "Non-Productive Time". Hence, an appropriate plan in design and execution phase must be done. Four key elements that must be addressed in horizontal well in an attempt to improve cycle time which incurring underrun in cost allocation were examined and emphasized in this paper, it encompasses a robust game plan in hole cleaning, proper bit design for stability and steerability, vigorous BHA design to mitigate hang up issue, and reliable Rig equipment to alleviate possible vital surface equipment failure. A case study in P-field, Rokan Area with 3D horizontal well (turning in high inclination) and historical problems which mostly associated with potential drilling hazards and other related operational condition that must be taken into account such as potential surface leakage, wellbore stability issue, potential kick with formation gas, loss circulation, high torque and drag that lead to potential occurrence of differential sticking and mechanical stuck, as well as limited drilling efficiency. By putting center of attention in those 4 key elements in horizontal drilling in design and execution phase, the well in this study fruitfully represents successful drilling as the fastest horizontal well in the Field Horizontal Well Campaign with improvement in cycle time and cost efficiency. A notable result from the combination of engineering design and process of resolving the potential operational issue in this study can be emulated in horizontal drilling campaigns elsewhere around the world.