Mehsana Asset of ONGC, in North Cambay Basin in India, emphasizes on increased oil production with the use of new technologies. Non Damaging Drilling Fluid (NDDF) is the basic part of this paradigm shift. Application of NDDF is the most direct method for controlling formation damage during drilling. NDDF was introduced in Linch field of the Asset for drilling of pay zones. The paper covers formulation, field optimization and application of NDDF in three wells of Linch field and subsequent application in North Kadi field. Laboratory results as well as field behaviour and parameters of NDDF along with drilling parameters and production testing results are discussed. The paper also touches the constraints in application and their solution by coordination and ingenious use of available resources. Field optimization of NDDF formulation has shown encouraging results in terms of compatible mud parameters. No complications were faced while drilling and testing. Gauged holes have shown good quality of logs. The wells have given a distinctively increased productivity in terms of oil production with instant activation.

Keywords:
drilling fluid selection and formulation, drilling fluid property, Upstream Oil & Gas, conventional well, drilling fluids and materials, oil production, field application, rig, non damaging drilling, initial oil production
Subjects:
Drilling Operations, Formation Damage, Drilling Fluids and Materials, Drilling fluid selection and formulation (chemistry, properties), Drilling fluid management & disposal
Copyright 2006, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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