Halliburton has acquired Sekal AS, a world leader in digital drilling autonomy, a move that will advance Halliburton’s strategy to strengthen its drilling automation services and maximise customer asset value.
Halliburton acquired Sekal from Sumitomo Corp., a move that will mark a shift in the digital well construction landscape.
The deal combines Halliburton’s established LOGIX automation and remote operations with Sekal’s advanced DrillTronics platform, creating an industry-leading portfolio for automated drilling.
By integrating real-time subsurface modelling with automated rig controls and smart directional drilling tools, the solution allows operators to manage complex wellbore hydraulics and well placement with the push of a button.
According to Halliburton, the results are tangible: customers have seen up to a 25 per cent reduction in well delivery times.
This is achieved through dynamic parameter optimisation and fully automated tripping operations, which significantly reduce the time a rig spends moving drill pipe in and out of the hole.
“This acquisition rapidly expands our automation capabilities and delivers industry-leading digital solutions that lower well construction costs, increase recovery, and reduce operational risks for our customers,” said Jim Collins, Vice President of Halliburton Sperry Drilling.
“By bringing together our field-proven technologies, we unlock the full potential of digital well construction and set a new standard for automated drilling operations.”
Sekal’s technology has already been deployed in more than 1,300 wells worldwide.
Sekal CEO Jarle Vaag described the move as a natural evolution, noting that while the company will continue to support its existing diverse client base, the partnership with Halliburton will accelerate the global adoption of integrated digital well construction.
