The 4000-meter-long drillstring, which was in use on Ekofisk 2/4 X and Eldfisk 2/7 B for twelve years was going to be phased out. However, it still keeps a high standard and has passed inspections confirming the condition.
“But the formations in the area are a gentle when it comes to wear on the drillstring, so it was still good for several years in less demanding surroundings. Therefore, we believed it would be reasonable to donate it to the research and development work taking place at Ullrigg in Stavanger,” says Ole C. Axelsen, drilling advisor in ConocoPhillips.
Replacement
ConocoPhillips has a longstanding collaboration with IRIS on developing knowledge and technology.
“Ullrigg needed a replacement for their old drillstring from the mid-80s. Since this string has many years of operation left, the time was ripe for contributing,” Axelsen continues.
Valuable Collaboration
“This is an example of valuable collaboration with the industry, and we are both grateful for and dependent on such collaboration,” says Oddvar Skjæveland, Ullrigg manager.
With a more modern string they can connect newer equipment, perform different tests and acquire better data, thus keeping pace with the technology development. Overall, this provides better opportunities within academia for disseminating research and completing the teaching they are responsible for, both at the University and other educational establishments.
Focus on Drilling and Wells
The donation coincides with a larger focus on oil-related research by the Research Council of Norway. In October, the Council awarded IRIS 40 million kroner for research purposes.
“Then we can make larger investments, which in turn trigger funds from other players. This enables us to be at the forefront of knowledge development in the industry. In this context, the drillstring was exactly what we needed,” says Skjæveland.
ConocoPhillips is one of the players in a new center for drilling and wells for improved recovery (the SBBU center), where research and development work in the subsurface disciplines, including drilling and wells, is key in sound resource management and improved recovery.