In many basins, longer lateral wells represent the next step in the evolution of shale development. Some see extended-reach drilling as a path to greater efficiency and recovery, while others weigh the risks and cost implications more cautiously. Whether seen as a strategic advantage or logistical challenge, longer laterals continue to define the future of unconventional oil plays. Their viability depends on a combination of factors, including the drilling contractor’s ability to overcome inherent challenges and deliver on the extra mile.
Engineering the Rigs of the Future
Nabors is equipped to meet these challenges head-on with high-spec Nabors SmartRigs® engineered for the demands of extended-reach wells. Representing one of the world’s youngest and most advanced fleets, Nabors’ PACE® rigs offer hook load capacities ranging from 750,000 to 1,000,000 pounds, three 2000 horsepower mud pumps capable of 10,000 psi, and up to six 3512C engines to support increased drilling horsepower. The 500-Ton AC Top Drive delivers 51,400-65,000 ft-lbs of torque to overcome friction and drive consistent execution throughout the wellbore.
Racking Capacity Upgrade
A recent engineering advancement from Nabors is the upgraded racking capacity on the PACE®-X rig, now capable of housing up to 35,000 feet of 5-7/8-inch drill pipe in the racking board with a 1,000,000-pound setback capacity. This upgrade allows operators to eliminate the flat time associated with laying down pipe when drilling extended-reach wells. The rig design supports greater amounts of drill pipe while preserving the mobility required for efficient pad-to-pad and well-to-well moves. The result is a rig that delivers both the capacity and flexibility needed for today’s complex drilling programs.
Navigating Complex Well Paths
In addition to the necessary rig upgrades, drilling solutions such as Nabors’ Performance Tools and RigCLOUD® real-time data visualization play a key role in executing extended-reach wells.
Nabors’ SmartNAV® directional guidance system ensures the well is drilled in zone for extended-reach laterals. By integrating real-time downhole data through an MWD, the SmartNAV® system enables accurate wellbore placement whether using a motor or rotary steerable. As a result, operators achieve consistent curves and greater accuracy in laterals.
The use of rotary steerable systems (RSS) for complex trajectories is trending in many basins. The SmartNAV® directional guidance system can downlink to Halliburton’s iCruise® and SLB’s PowerDrive Orbit RSS, allowing operators the flexibility to choose the tools that best fit drilling objectives and formation characteristics.
Avoiding Unplanned Trips
As laterals extend farther, the time and cost associated with tripping out increase significantly, making motor reliability essential. At these lengths, a premature mud motor failure can result in a full day of tripping. SmartDRILL® process automation mitigates this risk through proper tag bottom procedures, stall detection, and a recovery functionality, helping to avoid unplanned trips and maintain drilling continuity. Coupled with SmartNAV® slide commands, SmartDRILL® standardizes the rotary-to-slide transitions, providing a more consistent starting point for slides and increased BHA longevity following a slide.
Drilling the Wells of Tomorrow, Today
Nabors rigs in the Lower 48 are setting new benchmarks:
- Hess recently brought two four-mile lateral wells online in the Bakken formation. This milestone was made possible by the performance of the PACE®-X rig, which drilled Hess’ first four-mile lateral wells in North Dakota.
- In the Williston Basin, Nabors’ PACE®-B achieved two back-to-back four-mile laterals for an operator.
- In East Texas, a major operator utilizing the PACE®-X rig design successfully executed the longest lateral ever drilled in the Haynesville Shale at 20,000 feet, reaching a total depth of 32,000 feet.
- Nearby, another operator contracting a PACE®-M reported the longest well ever drilled in the Eagle Ford at 32,525 feet, with lateral lengths extending 22,500 feet.
As extended-reach wells continue to reshape unconventional oil plays, Nabors remains prepared to support operators pursuing the extra mile.
Interested in learning more? Contact your Nabors sales representative.