Digital Innovation – Outstanding Performance through Ai-Driven Autonomous Drilling Operations
Authors: Khazali-Rosli K. , Amiruddin M. I. , Bohro M. N. , Mokhti M. A , Zurhan M. , Mohamed Q. , Said M. , Mat Noh N. , Kereshanan M. , Rashid K. Abdul , Ting S. , Cheng C. , Wicaksana D. A. , Wibowo V. K. , Pincay V. , Panwar N. , Armani A. 
Published: August 2024

Recognizing areas of opportunity where performance and efficiency can be achieved and sustained by implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based autonomous solutions marks a transformative phase in drilling operations. In this project, a technology collaboration project was delivered to integrate automation systems into an operating rig. This, together with autonomous directional drilling complement the overall drill a stand workflow. The paper focuses on analyzing the results achieved, with the aim of evaluating the methodology and solution's effectiveness, performance, and its impact on drilling operations.

An automation system that is integrated into the rig control system to control the top-drive, drawworks, mud pumps, auto-driller, and downhole tools, to autonomously execute drilling activities was implemented in this project. The rig automation system uses a goal-based approach to handle changes in drilling conditions like rate of penetration (ROP) optimization, stick & slip mitigation, shocks & vibration, stringer mitigation and telemetry downlinks to achieve the user requested goals. An AI powered autonomous directional drilling system was utilized with surface automation system to suggest next course of action and downhole automation executing directional drilling autonomously.

This paper focuses on two salient points, the first will be the technology employed and its integration with another digital provider and an OEM, its impact on processes and user adoption, procedural adherence, and its role in improving operational efficiency and performance.

The second focus point will be the continuous process and technology enhancements introduced during the project based on the result and user feedback e.g., reducing multiple handovers between different applications, adapting the functionality of automated workflows to the operator's and user's needs, integrating new functionality such as autonomous directional drilling through the collaboration of the automation platform to facilitate system's use.

After one year of operation, this delivery exceeded all expectations, surpassing its improvement targets. The astonishing levels of adoption have served as a powerful catalyst, driving relentless enhancements in procedural adherence and operational efficiency within the project. These innovations have made a substantial contribution to increased operational safety, and the project has witnessed up to an impressive 20-30% improvement in the Rate of Penetration (ROP). The remarkable success of the implemented drilling workflows is underscored by an exceptional utilization rate, with 96% of the distance drilled being accomplished through automation in the majority of sections. In total, over 18,000 meters were drilled using automation, with more than 400 auto-downlinks executed autonomously, saving rig time. The improvements brought about by surface and downhole automation seem to point to a digital future for directional drilling. We were able to hit all targets & provide smoother boreholes.

The achievements will showcase the highlights of drilling automation, ushering a new era of possibilities for the industry.