Successful Utilization of RSS in 22? Section Delivering the 1st S-Shape Worldwide A Case Study of KOC and SLB
Authors: Saffar A. Hussein , Shadad N. , Ragaey M. , Albannai K. , Alraish A. , Chambers B. , Mustafayev A. 
Published: October 2023

The oil and gas industry is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field characterized by the continuous pursuit of innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate environmental impact. One such innovation that has revolutionized drilling operations is the Rotary Steerable System (RSS). This technology offers unprecedented directional control, enabling the drilling of complex well trajectories with high precision and efficiency. In the context of limited surface locations, anti-collision with other wells, and the complexity of reaching targets, directional drilling in the 22″ Section has become a necessity. This paper presents a unique case study of the successful utilization of RSS technology in a 22″ section, marking a significant milestone in drilling operations. This achievement, a result of the collaborative efforts between KOC and SLB, is the first of its kind worldwide, demonstrating the successful drilling of an S-Shape well and the first directional run in the Middle East. The project under discussion was carried out in the challenging environment of Deep Gas, where the teams faced numerous obstacles, including formation washout and unconsolidated formations. Despite these challenges, the project was executed flawlessly, resulting in significant performance improvements and cost reductions.

The successful deployment of the Rotary Steerable System (RSS) in the 22″ section has provided invaluable insights into its operational efficacy, demonstrating its potential to transform drilling operations. This achievement has not only bolstered confidence in the technology but also paved the way for its wider application in the drilling industry, fostering the development of novel drilling techniques to optimize well construction. The oil and gas industry is perpetually striving to push the boundaries of technological possibilities, and the successful drilling of an S-Shape well in a 22″ section using RSS technology is a testament to this relentless pursuit of innovation. This achievement signifies a substantial technological breakthrough and underscores the power of collaboration in surmounting challenges and attaining extraordinary results. The utilization of RSS technology in this project has showcased its potential to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in the oil and gas industry. By enabling precise directional control, RSS technology can help mitigate the risks associated with drilling in complex environments, reduce the time and cost of drilling operations, and ultimately enhance the efficiency and sustainability of oil and gas production.

This paper offers a comprehensive overview of the planning, execution, and decision-making processes involved in the 22″ RSS run in North Kuwait. It underscores the critical challenges encountered during the project, the innovative solutions devised to surmount them, and the significant performance improvements achieved. The paper also discusses the potential implications of this project for the future of drilling operations, including the potential for broader application of RSS technology and the development of new drilling techniques.