Ufa State Petroleum Technological University, Ufa, Russia

R. I. Ganiev, Research Engineer, radmirganiev@mail.ru
A. Kh. Agliullin, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Associate Professor
R. A. Ismakov, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Professor
L. Deboir, Research Engineer

To meet the rising demand for hydrocarbons from Russia’s friendly countries, domestic oil and gas companies should stick to the most advanced methods of oil and gas production. In conformity with the 2030 Energy Strategy of Russia, it is required to create conditions for reliable supply of markets with fuel at sustainable prices. One of the common problems connected with accumulation of drill cuttings in a well is sticking. Understanding of drill cuttings transport process, as well as development of new technologies and facilities towards optimization of these processes is critical for enhancement of directional drilling efficiency and for prevention of complications. In case of drilling with incomplete removal of drill cuttings, a pad of broken chips forms on the well bottom. When a drill string is pulled out of the well, the pad moves together with the wider lower portion of the drill string assembly. The annular blockage and gripping happen as a result, which can lead to sticking of the drill string and to total loss of circulation. Special attention is given to the use of self-opening circulation subs designed to increase the upward flow rate in the annular space, which facilitates more efficient cuttings removal and reduces the risk of complications such as mechanical sticking and increased wear of equipment. The results of the field tests of these subs under challenging drilling conditions, conducted in West Texas and in Russia, are presented, demonstrating increased drilling rates, improved wellbore cleaning efficiency, and significant reductions in well construction time. The findings confirm the potential for substantial improvements in drilling technology through the implementation of innovative solutions, and strengthen the position of Russian technologies in the context of import substitution. These results open up prospects for further development of methods and technologies for drilling in complex geological conditions.
This work was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation under Agreement No. 075-15-2022-297 within the framework of creation and development of the World-Class Research Center for Liquid Hydrocarbons.

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