The Gazprom Neft company has successfully tested the first domestic technology for drilling sidetracks using titanium needles. A pilot project in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Yugra showed an increase production hard-to-recover oil by 36%.
Traditional methods such as hydraulic fracturing (fracturing) are not always suitable for thin formations near aquifers. The new development makes it possible to safely drill such areas without the risk of damaging deposits.
The key difference is the use of thin titanium needles with a diameter of 12 mm. They are lightweight, durable and corrosion resistant, making drilling easier in difficult conditions. The technology does not require additional equipment, which is especially important for remote deposits.
During the tests, 54 sidetracks were drilled, which led to an increase in production by a third. In the near future, the technology is planned to be implemented in the fields of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
“This method opens up new opportunities for the development of hard-to-reach reserves in Eastern and Western Siberia,” noted Sergei Doctor, head of the production department at Gazprom Neft.
Gazprom Neft’s innovation not only increases production efficiency, but also reduces environmental risks. The technology will become an important tool for the development of complex fields in Russia.
The material was prepared with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science as part of the Decade of Science and Technology.
Source: @menteetmalleo
Photo: gazprom-neft.ru
