Course content

The course covers in depth methods for planning extended reach and horizontal wells. This includes: survey calculation techniques, directional surveying techniques, survey errors, selection of bottom hole assembly, stuck pipe and fishing, torque and drag analysis in bore holes, flotation of casing and liners, and loads on the drill string. The course also covers innovative drilling techniques like the use of coil tubing, snubbing, underbalanced drilling (UBD), managed pressure drilling (MPD), and controlled mud level (CML) drilling. Further, wellbore hydraulics, cementing operations, well completion, drilling automation, measurements while drilling (MWD), and methods for real-time communication using wired pipe are also covered.

The course also includes the use of modern digital competence, automation, and optimization of the drilling process for safe and fast drilling, as well as reduced material consumption, resulting in a smaller footprint from the well construction process.

Learning outcome

Competence: After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Constructively participate in most areas of modern drilling operations, including high-deviated and horizontal wells, with minimal environmental footprint.
• Apply advanced engineering principles and digital tools to optimize drilling processes and ensure well integrity.
• Evaluate and discuss innovative drilling technologies, including automation and real-time communication systems.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams within the context of advanced drilling engineering.

Knowledge and Skills: After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Understand and apply well design criteria, including advanced well integrity and completion strategies.
• Design and evaluate trajectories using directional drilling techniques, downhole tools, and drilling bits.
• Perform torque and drag analysis and calculate loads on drillstring and bottom hole assemblies.
• Analyze drilling fluids and wellbore hydraulics for optimized pressure loss and flow efficiency.
• Plan and execute advanced cementing operations, ensuring long-term well integrity.
• Identify and mitigate downhole drilling problems using engineering analysis and operational strategies.
• Apply machine learning techniques to analyze drilling data and support decision-making.
• Utilize real-time communication technologies such as wired pipe systems for telemetry and monitoring.
• Evaluate unconventional drilling methods, including UBD and MPD.
• Integrate automation and digital optimization tools to enhance drilling performance and reduce material consumption.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises. Exercises also includes the use of programming tools (e.g. MS Excel and Python). Course evaluation is undertaken using reference group.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Required previous knowledge

TPG4210 Drilling Engineering 1, or equivalent.

Course materials

Course contents will be provided electronically.

Credit reductions