First Wired Drill Pipe Deployment in Adriatic Sea

Abstract

This paper presents the positive results of the first deployment of wired drill pipe (WDP) technology and along-string measurement (ASM) tools in drilling operations in the Adriatic Sea. The WDP system was used within the frame of a multi-objective testing program, in conjunction with an experimental downhole tool. The system allowed transmission of real-time, high-density, low-latency data from logging-while- drilling (LWD) tools and from ASM subs. These tools provided temperature, annular/internal pressure, rotation, and vibration data. This was the first time WDP and ASM tools were used by an operator in the Adriatic Sea. The system was also used for activation and communication with another experimental downhole tool on this project. The high-speed telemetry system made it possible to achieve impressive operational and performance benefits. Annular pressure measured along the string provided a better understanding of the drilling mud condition and behavior along the wellbore, thereby allowing the operator to stay in the safe mud-weight window and helping them to avoid unintentional hole fractures or collapse. During pumping in and out of hole, swab and surge were also monitored closely with downhole, real- time measurements from the ASM tools. The same effects were controlled after drilling each stand, when the interval drilled was reamed to ensure sufficient hole cleaning. While drilling, the system raised the rate of penetration (ROP) limit by removing constraints on data acquisition while still providing the confidence that the hole was being cleaned while drilling. Drillstring vibration was recorded as well, and potential benefit in preventing premature failure of downhole tools were highlighted. The test verified that improved drilling performance was enabled using WDP technology. Awareness of downhole conditions and a substantial reduction in risk were also benefits. In addition, the technology unlocked bidrectional communication and control with modern downhole tools.