Horizontal Drilling

The most commonly drilled wells for Oil and Gas are vertical drilling wells. However, drilling at another angle, horizontally, enables drilling contractors to reach desired reservoirs that would be unattainable with strictly a vertical drilling method. 

The horizontal drilling Oil and Gas process involves drilling a well from the surface to a subsurface area, which is right above the target oil reservoir called the “kickoff point.” From there, the deviation of the wellbore begins from the vertical plane around a curve, intersecting the reservoir at the “entry point.” This occurs at a near-horizontal inclination and remains within the reservoir until the necessary bottom-hole location is attained. 

During horizontal oil well drilling, Operators use advanced steering tools and a specialized drill bit to guide the well through the targeted formation. These modern drilling methods allow Operators to access more of the productive reservoir while minimizing unnecessary surface disruption. 

The costs associated with horizontal drilling are higher than vertical drilling. However, in comparison to vertical drilling, Oil and Gas drilling produces anywhere from 2.5 to 7 times more oil since the pay zone is longer. This provides a much-improved potential return on investment for the drilling project. 

Why Horizontal Drilling Has Become So Important 

Modern horizontal Oil and Gas drilling techniques have transformed domestic energy production. By extending the well laterally through the reservoir, Operators can expose significantly more productive rock than with traditional vertical drilling alone. This improves production potential and may increase the efficiency of drilling operations. 

Horizontal drilling also allows multiple wells to be drilled from a single location. In some cases, Operators use a horizontal directional drill HDD approach to reduce the number of drilling pads required on the surface. This can help reduce environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. 

6 Key Benefits of Horizontal Drilling Techniques 

The use of horizontal drilling offers a multitude of benefits, such as: 

• Improved productivity by increasing the pay zone 

• Fewer drilling pads 

• Pressure relief 

• Reduced impact on the environment 

• Access to previously unreachable Oil and Gas reserves 

• Improved efficiency in modern drilling operations 

Horizontal Drilling vs Vertical Drilling 

When comparing horizontal drilling vs vertical drilling, the main difference is the direction of the wellbore once drilling reaches the target formation. 

With vertical drilling, the well travels straight downward into the reservoir. With horizontal drilling, the well curves and continues laterally through the productive formation. This extended reach may improve production rates and reservoir access. 

While vertical drilling may cost less upfront, horizontal drilling often provides better long-term production potential because it contacts more of the reservoir. 

How Crown Exploration Uses Horizontal Drilling  

For almost 30 years, Crown has set itself apart from other exploration companies by applying new technology to proven areas. Our team uses advanced drilling techniques, such as horizontal drilling, to expose more of the targeted Oil and Gas payzones. 

Crown Exploration strategically applies horizontal drilling benefits in proven formations across multiple states. By combining geological analysis with modern drilling processes, our team works to maximize production potential.

To learn more about how Crown Exploration uses horizontal drilling, contact our team today. 

FAQ 

What's the difference between horizontal and vertical drilling?

Vertical drilling travels straight downward into a reservoir, while horizontal drilling curves and extends laterally through the productive zone. Horizontal drilling may expose more of the reservoir and increase production potential. 

Why is horizontal drilling used in Oil and Gas production? 

Horizontal drilling is used because it allows Operators to access larger sections of Oil and Gas formations. This may improve production rates, reduce the number of drilling sites, and increase efficiency. 

Is horizontal drilling more expensive than vertical drilling? 

Yes, horizontal drilling typically costs more because it requires advanced equipment, steering technology, and more complex drilling operations. However, the increased production potential may help offset those costs over time. 

Sources: 

Horizontal Drilling PDF

Horizontal Drilling for Oil and Natural Gas Article

Geology Horizontal Drilling Article