Turbodrilling in the geothermal environment

Conference · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1981

OSTI ID:7369362

Herbert, P

Geothermal drilling, historically, has presented what seemed to be insurmountable barriers to the efficient and extended use of downhole drilling motors, especially those containing elastomeric bearing or motor components. In addition to being damaging to rubber, the typical temperatures of 177/sup 0/ to 371/sup 0/C (350/sup 0/ to 700/sup 0/F) create other operating problems as well. Recent innovations, specifically in turbodrill design, have opened heretofore unrealized potentials and allowed, for the first time, extended downhole drilling of geothermal wells. A considerable amount of experience has been obtained both in The Geysers and Imperial County areas of California primarily in directional drilling applications using insert, diamond, and polycrystallines diamond compact bits. Other hot-hole applications are currently being drilled successfully or planned in other states, both on- and off-shore. The turbodrill is devoid of any elastomers or other temperature-sensitive materials, hence, its capabilities are closely matched to the requirements of the industry. The bearing assembly can withstand the rigors found in the drilling of typical geothermal formations and provide the performance necessary to stay in the hole, thus providing increased penetration rates and, hence, more economical drilling. This paper will present case histories of recent turbodrill performances in all areas where used. Furthermore, data will be presented showing the performance of insert, diamond, and polycrystalline diamond bits as they relate to the turbodrill, together with forecasts as to the potential that turbodrills have to offer in accelerating and controlling the drilling of geothermal wells.

• Research Organization: Sii Dyna-Drill, Irvine, CA
• OSTI ID: 7369362
• Report Number(s): SAND-81-0036C; CONF-810105-
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
150901* -- Geothermal Engineering-- Drilling Technology & Well Hardware
CARBON
DESIGN
DIAMONDS
DRILL BITS
DRILLING
DRILLING EQUIPMENT
DRILLS
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
GEOTHERMAL WELLS
Geothermal Legacy
MACHINERY
MINERALS
NONMETALS
PERFORMANCE
ROTARY DRILLS
TURBODRILLS
TURBOMACHINERY
WELLS