YieldPoint RT

Drilling-hydraulics and hole-cleaning simulation program

Hole cleaning problems during drilling operations can have a significant impact on the cost of the well. YieldPoint drilling-hydraulics and hole-cleaning simulation program identifies potential problems with hole cleaning in the planning stage rather than during drilling operations. It aids drilling engineers in specifying mud type and mud properties to satisfy rheological models of drillstrings and well annuli.

The comprehensive YieldPoint drilling-hydraulics and hole-cleaning optimization program uses sophisticated algorithms to deliver solutions for conventional jet nozzle optimization and selection. After initialization data is input, the program creates simulations of mud properties, flow rate, ROP, and total flow area. The virtual model then demonstrates the respective effects on observed drillbit hydraulic factors and on hole cleaning.

YieldPoint RT real-time assessment

The most advanced version of the YieldPoint program is the YieldPointRT platform. It uses WITSML capabilities that enable well data to be directly linked to the system. Data can be analyzed virtually in real time, resulting in recommendations that can be implemented immediately. Hydraulics can be optimized to maximize efficiency as the well is being drilled.

Because well data is linked directly to the YieldPoint RT platform, the virtual model can include data from numerous contributors, including wellsite providers and off-location users:

• drilling contractors
• mud loggers
• rig instrumentation and wireline companies
• drilling fluid service companies
• casing running services
• directional drillers
• drilling and exploration engineers and managers
• reservoir engineers
• management personnel
• seismic survey companies
• process optimization consultants
• materials suppliers

Using the WITSML-defined standard and any common Internet connection, virtually all information created at or around a wellsite can be transferred to a common WITSML datastore for further retrieval and use by authorized parties, beginning with the well operator and including various vendors and service providers that contribute their data.

Wellsite service providers can contribute expertise to the common store via the WITSML interface and then query the datastore for combined information from other wellsite services. Their information can support programmatic analysis, visualization, and potential corrective actions, as well as influence decision-making in drilling and production operations.

Operating company personnel can compile information from any mix of vendor sources, view and monitor current wells via Web-based applications, and extract reports at any time. The result is a real-time solution that yields substantial cost savings to the operator.