This project drilled horizontal wells with bottomhole assemblies (BHAs) with a topdrive as the primary drive mechanism. The rig in question was struggling to provide not only the required rotational speed but also to deliver consistent necessary torque. The complete paper analyzes how severe rig limitations were overcome through an optimization plan in which the optimal BHA was designed, and drilling practices were customized, for safe and successful execution of wells.

The project involved drilling multiple re-entry wells for oil and gas production. A typical well design in this operation featured a whipstock set in a 9⅝-in.

The Journal of Petroleum Technology, the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ flagship magazine, presents authoritative briefs and features on technology advancements in exploration and production, oil and gas industry issues, and news about SPE and its members.

ISSN: 1944-978X (Online) ISSN: 0149-2136 (Print)