Paper: Planning, The Critical Factor in Horizontal Drilling

Problems inherent in drilling horizontally make planning particularly critical in such projects. Reaction time for the ever-changing formation are much shorter than when drilling a conventional directional well. A medium radius horizontal well with build rates ranging from 15deg/100 ft to 30-deg/100 ft can go awry quickly. This paper discusses the specific information required to produce a detailed well plan that will help ensure a successful horizontal project, such as build rates, horizontal extensions, formation evaluation, drillstring components, pump restrictions and drilling fluid requirements. Several medium radius case histories are described briefly to illustrate the importance of planning.