Schlumberger releases new ultra-high-temperature drilling technologies

Offshore staff

LONDON –Schlumberger has launched the TeleScope ICE ultra-high-temperature measurements-while-drilling (MWD) service and PowerDrive ICE ultra-high-temperature rotary steerable system (RSS). Schlumberger hopes that these new technologies will enable standard drilling operations in reservoirs with extreme temperatures, expanding the applications and the range of the field-proven PowerDrive RSS and Scope measurement services.

“In high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) projects, customers are under intense pressure to manage costs and achieve drilling objectives. This is particularly challenging because HP/HT environments can affect the reliability of conventional downhole equipment,” said Steve Kaufmann, president, Drilling & Measurements, Schlumberger. “Our new drilling services for ultra-high-temperature wells help our customers eliminate runs, drill wells with precision, and mitigate operational risks to make the un-drillable wells possible.”

The PowerDrive ICE RSS is the only commercially available RSS rated to 200°C (392°F). Together with the TeleScope ICE MWD service, these technologies make up the industry’s first 200°C bottomhole assembly, Schlumberger commented. The fully rotating RSS provides precise directional control and automatic steering, resulting in an increased rate of penetration and reduced operational risks in ultra-high-temperature wells.

The TeleScope ICE service transmits survey and formation evaluation data at high speed, enabling real-time well placement and risk mitigation in harsh drilling conditions. Both technologies include integrated ceramic electronics (ICE) and multi-chip modules that are specifically designed and ruggedized for hostile downhole environments.

The technologies have been field tested in the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico, Malaysia, and the Gulf of Thailand.

03/18/2015