Schlumberger releases new wireless rotary steerable system
Offshore staff
AMSTERDAM -- Schlumberger has released the PowerDrive vorteX RT powered rotary steerable system (RSS) with wireless communicator. The new modular system combines power, speed, and accuracy in addition to a totally flexible bottom-hole-assembly (BHA) design, the company says.
According to Schlumberger, the system allows near-bit information above and below BHA components, so accurate targets can be reached in less time. It uses induction propagation antenna coils to generate and detect an electromagnetic field. The bi-directional, half-duplex communication runs in all formation types, jumping up to 20 m of BHA, and includes real-time gamma ray, resistivity, and neutron density information.
An operator in the Middle East drilled a 4,567-ft (1,392-m) section in one run with no non-productive time and reduced stick/slip from 100 to 25 rpm. This increased rate of penetration 33% higher than the field average, with the well setting the field record for the longest 8 ½-in. hole drilled in a single run.
This fully rotating powered RSS reduces stick/slip, maximizes torque, weight on bit, and penetration rates allowing operators to maximize drilling performance and reduce rig time, according to Schlumberger.
"The ability to now communicate over a drilling motor power section enhances geosteering BHA capabilities and lets you place third-party hardware anywhere on the string, says Ian Falconer, marketing manager, drilling & measurements, Schlumberger. "It is possible to fine-tune the borehole trajectory while drilling ahead at high-speed. This maximizes drilling performance while directly reducing drilling costs."
03/17/2009
