More and more industries are putting their trust in directional drilling because of what it can do to access resources and minimise surface disruption. Some of those industries include infrastructure development, the oil and gas industry, and geothermal energy. However, like other businesses you encounter, directional drilling Sydney services have their share of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of them:
Pros of Directional Drilling
Enhanced Resource Recovery
Resource recovery is possible, especially in locations that were inaccessible before. Directional drilling can reach areas other drilling methods cannot do, resulting in increased production rates and access to hydrocarbon reserves. If you want to achieve the same, this drilling service is available to help.
Reduced Surface Footprint
There is no need for multiple wellheads because directional drilling does not require too much. And if you lessen its use, you can also reduce the surface footprint that drilling operations need. If you are in an urban area, this factor is more helpful because it only causes minimal surface disturbance and proposes environmental protection. Extracting resources without damaging the environment is a success for many.
Efficient Wellbore Placement
With directional drilling, you can provide precise and clean wellbore placement. You do not need to create multiple holes because you can get everything you need in one. It optimises production potential and reservoir drainage, targeting extended reach and reduced drilling time. Knowing everything about directional or horizontal drilling can guide you in well-planning and other drilling techniques.
Mitigation of Environmental Impact
Many companies want to do directional drilling because of its environmental impact. And if you are one of them, this service might be what you are looking for. Some of its environmental impacts include preserved wildlife and biodiversity, conserved water resources, and improved air quality. If the area has sensitive ecosystems, you do not have to worry. It is also the same if you want to lessen habitat fragmentation.
Increased Safety
Since there is less number of wellheads, you can increase safety and minimise the risk of accidents and potential blowouts. You can guarantee production operations to be more efficient than before since there is also minimised personnel exposure. Experience enhanced wellbore stability, improved emergency response, and rigorous safety planning and training with directional drilling.
Cons of Directional Drilling
High Initial Investment
Many would say that directional drilling will help you save money. But before the job starts, you must invest in it to ensure everything is complete and correct. You will need specialised equipment and skilled personnel to ensure the job is in the right hands. Trusting directional drilling to unprofessional ones can cause issues instead of having positive results. A high initial investment is needed to guarantee the safety of the people and the job.
Technically Complex
Just like other things, directional drilling requires complex planning and execution. Not having a proper plan can cause chaos once the job starts, damaging the site and tools you invested in. It can be a disadvantage to some because of the time they must spend and the deadlines they must meet, but proper time management and hiring skilled personnel can save it.
Increased Risk of Equipment Failure
Since directional drilling is complex, there is a chance that there is an increased risk of equipment failure. And when it happens, you should know what to do. Some of what you might experience are drilling fluids and downhole devices. Malfunctions in your equipment can cause longer days for the job to get done or damage to your other tools. The directional drilling tools are crucial in the overall results.
Environmental Concerns
Even if directional drilling is known for helping the environment, it is still necessary to remember that environmental concerns still need to be addressed. These potential environmental mishaps can happen if there are mistakes in the process. Also, drilling fluids or accidental spills can cause those issues.
Limited Accessibility for Maintenance
Maintenance is a huge factor after the drilling job. Directional wells in offshore or remote areas could be the ones to experience these limited accessibilities. Ensure you coordinate with professionals to know what to do if this happens.
Directional drilling has advantages and disadvantages that businesses need to consider. With these factors mentioned, you can make an informed decision in your drilling projects and see if your plans will be a success.
