A self propelled drilling system for hard-rock, horizontal and coiled tube drilling

Conference · Wed Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1997

OSTI ID:603431

Biglin, D; Wassell, M

Several advancements are needed to improve the efficiency and reliability of both hard rock drilling and extended reach drilling. This paper will present a Self Propelled Drilling System (SPDS) which can grip the borehole wall in order to provide a stable platform for the application of weight on bit (WOB) and resisting the reactive torque created by the downhole drilling motor, bit and formation interaction. The system will also dampen the damaging effects of drill string vibration. This tool employs two hydraulically activated anchors (front and rear) to grip the borehole wall, and a two-way thrust mandrel to apply both the drilling force to the bit, and a retraction force to pull the drill string into the hole. Forward drilling motion will commence by sequencing the anchor pistons and thrust mandrel to allow the tool to walk in a stepping motion. The SPDS has a microprocessor to control valve timing, sensing and communication functions. An optional Measurement While Drilling (MWD) interface can provide two-way communication of critical operating parameters such as hydraulic pressure and piston location. This information can then be telemetered to the surface, or used downhole to autonomously control system parameters such as anchor and thrust force or damping characteristics.

• Research Organization: USDOE Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Washington, DC (United States)
• OSTI ID: 603431
• Report Number(s): DOE/EE--0139; CONF-970376--; ON: DE98001891
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
58 GEOSCIENCES
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DRILLING EQUIPMENT
GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
GEOTHERMAL INDUSTRY
GEOTHERMAL WELLS
Geothermal Legacy
MWD SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
WELL DRILLING