An Ulterra 8 3/4-in. U513S PDC bit drilled a high-angle build section in an Eagle Ford well in 6.5 hr., beating the best offset rate of penetration (ROP) by 16.4%, according to the company.

 

The shale-specific PDC bit drilled the 15 degree /100-ft-curve section with a 30-degree change in azimuth in a Dimmit County oil well, 129 mi. southeast of San Antonio.

 

Typically, directional programs such as these are challenging and require high bend mud motors which can decrease efficiency, ROP, and overall well bore quality.

 

"The unique design features of Ulterra U513S, which focus on sliding and tool face optimization, are a perfect match for aggressive directional plans. The ability of the U513S bit to effectively build the curve at an aggressive rate of 15 degree /100 increases the wells production zone and allows operators to reach the pay zone faster than possible with typical motor-driven drilling assemblies," says Ulterra Sales Engineer, Ross Pearce. "This gives operators a deeper kickoff with higher vertical ROPs, thus reducing the time to drill the well."