Research Progress of Extended-Reach Well Antifriction Technology

Abstract

There is a remarkable friction between drill string and borehole in extended-reach wells and horizontal wells due to large deviation angle, contact between drill string and borehole, non-rotation of drill string. The large friction and torque will induce blocked bit weight, low ROP, constrained drill string extension. This article summarizes the common used antifriction methods and tools in extended-reach wells, focusing on Non-Rotation Drill Pipe Protector (NRDPP), roller antifriction tools and vibration antifriction tools. The working principle, structure design, performance and field application of which are introduced. With the increasing numbering of complex structure wells which include extended-reach well and horizontal well, antifriction technology has broad prospects for development.