Rotary Liner Drilling Application in Deepwater Gulf of Mexico

Abstract Many wells drilled today have complex well paths or are drilled through depleted or problem formations. In these wells, the liner may have to be reamed or drilled in, either to pass through the previously drilled hole or to make a new hole in the problematic formation. In many cases, the liner cannot be run to bottom as planned because unexpected problems are encountered. This situation can cost millions of dollars due to the required remedial work and deferral of production. This paper will discuss a rotary liner drilling application utilizing an expandable liner hanger in the Gulf of Mexico. The primary objectives of the trial were to develop a better understanding of the status of current technologies and how these apply to the challenges of this type of application.