Why Should I Use Directional Drilling?

Directional drilling is a drilling technique that allows a wellbore to be drilled at an angle or curve to reach a specific target. This technique is commonly used in the oil and gas industry to extract resources from reservoirs that are difficult to reach using conventional drilling techniques. In this article, we will discuss why you should use directional drilling and its benefits.

Access to Hard-to-Reach Reservoirs

Directional drilling provides access to reservoirs that are difficult to reach using conventional drilling techniques. This can include reservoirs that are located beneath sensitive areas such as wetlands, residential areas, or national parks. By drilling at an angle or curve, directional drilling can reach these reservoirs without disturbing the surrounding environment.

Increased Efficiency

Directional drilling can increase efficiency by reducing the number of wells needed to extract resources. By drilling at an angle or curve, a single well can access multiple reservoirs, reducing the need for additional wells. This can result in significant cost savings and reduce the environmental impact of drilling activities.

Reduced Surface Footprint

Directional drilling can reduce the surface footprint of drilling activities. With conventional drilling techniques, a well is drilled vertically, and the surrounding area must be cleared to make room for the drilling rig and equipment. With directional drilling, the well can be drilled at an angle or curve, reducing the surface area required for drilling activities.

Increased Safety

Directional drilling can increase safety by reducing the risk of blowouts and well control incidents. By drilling at an angle or curve, directional drilling can avoid areas of high pressure, reducing the risk of a blowout. Additionally, directional drilling can provide better control over the wellbore, reducing the risk of well control incidents.

Improved Production

Directional drilling can improve production by increasing the contact area between the wellbore and the reservoir. By drilling at an angle or curve, the wellbore can intersect with more of the reservoir, increasing the amount of resources that can be extracted. This can result in increased production and improved efficiency.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Directional drilling can reduce the environmental impact of drilling activities. By drilling at an angle or curve, directional drilling can avoid sensitive areas such as wetlands, wildlife habitats, and residential areas. Additionally, directional drilling can reduce the amount of land that needs to be cleared for drilling activities, reducing the impact on the environment.

Conclusion

Directional drilling is a valuable drilling technique that provides access to hard-to-reach reservoirs, increases efficiency, reduces the surface footprint of drilling activities, increases safety, improves production, and reduces the environmental impact of drilling activities. If you have a drilling project that requires access to hard-to-reach reservoirs or that needs to minimize its environmental impact, consider using directional drilling to achieve your goals.