Odfjell Technology has enabled Hunt Oil Company of Romania to reach a European depth record of 20 inch casing while drilling (CwD).
Hunt Oil set out to mitigate possible surface hole hazards like shallow gas, formations sensitive to swabbing, tight hole, loss of circulation and have the benefit of time saving for the surface section of its Macoveiu 3900 well, located at Buzau, Romania.
Casing while drilling was selected as the solution to these challenges.
During job planning, a cap was set on the maximum achievable working flowrate, due to rig surface equipment limitations.
This flowrate ceiling was lower than what was required for optimal operational performance, so this scenario required additional analysis of the drill bit performance, the wellbore hydraulics and hole cleaning.
The existing 20 inch casing by 24 inch bit design was analysed, optimised, and validated for the expected conditions.
A CwD record-breaking depth of 798 metres below rotary was recorded, alongside a range of other benefits.
By implementing Odfjell Technology’s CwD services, Hunt Oil reduced the number of runs required, with a significant saving on time and cost, thanks to the elimination of conventional bottom hole assembly handling and tripping times.
Hunt Oil was able to achieve its drilling objectives on this 24 inch section by using Odfjell Technology’s casing running tool (CRTi), torque turn computers, manual handling tools, hydraulic power tongs with high torque capacity and power packs.
Odfjell Technology Well Services EVP Elisabeth Haram said: “Enabling a European record CwD performance for this project is further proof that Odfjell Technology is a prime choice for the delivery of industry-leading well services – from planning and materials to execution.
“As an established CwD provider in this region, Odfjell Technology’s suite of well services has a track record of saving our customers substantial hours and costs on complex and varied projects.”
Hunt Oil Company of Romania Operations Superintendent Ciprian Rotareanu said the main challenges included shallow gas, swab, and hole stability.
