Continuous Proportional Steering for a Re-Entry Multi-Lateral Well in Cretaceous Reservoir in UAE Saves Rig Days and Achieves Reservoir Contact Objectives in a One-Bit Run

The challenge was to achieve more reservoir contact in a cretaceous tight reservoir to improve production and maximize recovery. Multilateral well campaigns were performed to meet these objectives. This case study describes an effective workflow for performing openhole sidetracks in this challenging medium-hard carbonate formation. The workflow maintained reservoir contact and achieved the desired production objectives. Two 6-in. multilateral drain sections were successfully drilled by performing openhole sidetrack using the continuous proportional steering method (CPSM). This method is not new to the industry, but this case study describes the systematic, unique workflow that was designed and followed to ensure a successful sidetrack in this low-porosity, hard formation. The sidetrack implementation started by creating humps at inclinations ranging from 88 to 91 degrees into the formation in the original 6-in. section. These humps were confirmed using near-bit inclination data (4.5 ft from the bit) and were identified as the sites for initiating a sidetrack. This paper discusses the best practices that were key to the successful execution of the project in one run on the first attempt. After the sidetrack, use of appropriate combinations of shallow and deep logging-while-drilling (LWD) measurements in the same bottom hole assembly (BHA) enabled the direct geosteering of the well, exposing more reservoir surface area than planned. A reduction of 10% from the planned well duration was achieved. Two 6-in. laterals, each approximately 4000 ft, were drilled in a single run and 100% reservoir contact was achieved. This experience proved that planning and precise execution could enable drilling of openhole sidetracks, even through hard formations. These sidetracks can then achieve fishbone wells with desired reservoir contact and realize the field development objectives in a technically robust and cost-efficient manner. CPSM does not rely on a pressure drop for steering. Although this proof of concept was performed in a relatively hard formation, similar workflows with appropriate drilling engineering may be applied to less-competent formations as well. The detailed procedure and flowchart created from the experience with the sample well can be adopted for use in similar applications.