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Changes in The Directional Drilling and Surveying Markets
Changes in The Directional Drilling and Surveying Markets
And
Surveying Markets
Introduction
The purpose of this discussion is to update everyone with what is available in the market
and give a general description on why and how this technology can assist you with
your drill programs. It will cover the main items that you may run into, or be asked
about, in the field today.
Surveying
Brief History Starting years ago with Acid tests and standard film
single shots, Canadian Drilling Contractors have been taking survey tests in drill
holes to provide requested information to their clients. Over the past decade
extreme changes have come about with the introduction of numerous new tools
and suppliers.
With these changes have come secondary survey methods, contractors who
work solely in this market and some introduction of in-house divisions to handle
these requests.
Types of instruments
Magnetic Survey Instruments Single and Multishot
Most everything has benefits and some disadvantages so knowing your project and
clients needs is key to selecting the proper tool, Supplier or Contractor. This will
mean less down time for you and proper data for them.
Federal requirements are starting to change and going forward it is believed due
diligence in regards to survey data and hole location will take a larger role. Better
to know your options than to be behind when the questions arrive.
Directional Drilling
A self described definition of directional drilling is any drill hole that the
contractor attempts to change or alter the azimuth or inclination of the
drill hole through downhole assembly selections, wedging or directional
drilling tools.
Under this definition almost all drilling contractors have been required at
some point to directional drill or control their drill holes. When these
times arise, being prepared, planning, proper method selection, having
the right know how, and incorporating these items will result in a
smoother completion. This also assists in quicker, more cost effective
completion of the total project.
Main Methods for Directional Drilling
Bottom hole assembly selection - with the introduction of stabilized full hole
barrels, longer reaming shells and better bit technology it is now easier to control
a drill hole by setting parameters for crews to follow. This will not steer a hole in a
particular direction but will assist in minimizing or using the formations natural
tendencies. Not a new method but becoming more efficient.
These options are fairly common in the Canadian Drilling Industry and are handled
almost exclusively by the drill contractors.
Positive Displacement Motors - Directional motors got their start in
the oilfield years ago. For the past 15 to 20 years they have been
available in sizes that are more common for the mining industry. This
equipment uses a large amount of fluid to pass through a power section
and transfer rotational power to the bit. In using fluid to rotate the bit the
motor can then be manufactured with a bend and create side hole force
to deviate drill holes.
Over the last 5 years or so we have seen major changes to the power
sections to provide more HP and bearing changes to avoid unnecessary
wear. These have also benefited for better bit technologies and survey
tools. This has allowed for easier use and more accurate control of
doglegs and target requirements. Motor have been used throughout
Canada and have controlled deflections past 2000m in depth.
Because of these changes some drill contractors are electing to run this
equipment on certain projects without the need for an outside contractor.
Devico Directional Corebarrels - This tool has been around since 1999
in a NQ wireline option. For the first few years it had some difficulties but has
come a long ways and is now proving to be a reliable option for directional drilling.
It works by utilizing two outer barrel and an inner tube to retrieve the core.
When the water is pumped past the tool it expands a packer and disengages a
locking pin which holds the outer barrel in place against the hole wall and allows
the inner barrel to provide the rotation to the bit. The system is complicated and
requires frequent repairs and cleaning as well as strict attention to pressures and
variables.
The system is available in standard form B and H sizes but requires the tool to be
pulled from the hole every drill run. These tools may work similar to a retrievable
wedge but for longer deflections would be labour intensive.
This system can be run by contractors but requires personnel commitment and
proper service planning to avoid breakdowns and delays.
List of Manufactures / Suppliers
International Directional Services
Major Drilling Group
Devico Directional Tools
Other Canadian drilling contractors have also used these tools to great
success by using experienced supervisors and foreman to oversee
these projects.
Additional Specialty Tools
Core orientation tools,