Frank Hartley, Drilling/Production Editor
Manufacturers of rotary steerable systems describe their technology in this year’s equipment directory. Two companies have been removed from the list: Target Well Control and Noble Downhole Technology.
New to this year’s survey is Baker Hughes INTEQ’s third-generation AutoTrack Rotary Closed Loop Steering (RCLS) system - AutoTrak G3.0 RCLS.
The new product is available in hole sizes ranging from 5 ¾ in. (14.6 cm) to 26 in. (66 cm) diameter. AutoTrak G3.0 RCLS delivers increased reliability while integrating advanced formation evaluation LWD and drilling performance improvement systems close to the drill bit, according to the manufacturer.
All AutoTrak systems feature, closed-loop, autonomous steering control. This allows targets to be intercepted more efficiently with greater accuracy and with low tortuosity, according to Baker Hughes. Combined with INTEQ’s Answers While Drilling approach to projects, maximum reservoir exposure is achieved for increased production and field recovery at lower risk and reduced development cost. Other benefits of the system include automated downlinking for time saving and the ability to maintain trajectory control even with stick-slip torsional vibration.
For deep drilling, AutoTrak systems are available to a 30,000 psi (206.8 MPa) pressure specification. On a Gulf of Mexico deep gas exploration well, the system was used to kick-off at 25,000 ft (7,620 m) TVDSS and accurately steer the well to TD where downhole pressure exceeded 27,800 psi (191.7 MPa).
Meanwhile, following extensive field trials, Baker Hughes’ AutoTrak eXpress service is to be launched this year. According to the company, based on the AutoTrak G3.0 operating principle, this new rotary steering service enables improved rig efficiency, effective 3D trajectory control, and ability to intercept smaller targets for improved production and recovery at lower expenditure in cost-sensitive drilling applications.
Also new to this year’s survey is Sperry Drilling Services’ Geo-Pilot HT/HP. It is the world’s first hot hole rotary steerable system, according to the manufacturer. With new electronics and materials to withstand extreme temperatures (175° C / 350° F) and pressures up to 25,000 psi (172.4 MPa) with 30,000 psi (206.8 MPa) in development, the Geo-Pilot HT/HP provides operators with efficient directional control in the most challenging temperature and pressure environments, the company says.
Click here to view 2008 Annual Rotary Steerable System Directory
