J.D.D"Agostino, Shell Oil Co.
Two techniques have been applied to exploratory well air drilling operations. These include air coring and operating the Dynadrill with air. The purpose is to maintain the ability to air drill below cored intervals and/or after making directional corrections or whipstock operations. Application of these techniques has allowed drilling the remaining footage of hole with air, at an increased penetration rate when compared with fluid, and thus reduce overall well cost. This paper presents the operating conditions and techniques used for air coring and operation of the Dynadrill based on actual well air and air-mist operations, are reviewed to established guidelines for equipment requirements and equipment performance.