Drilling technology for extended reach directional well Lao168-Xie18 in Zhuangxi Shallow Sea Oilfield

Well Lao168-Xie18 was an extended reach directional (ERD) well with the maximum hole inclination of 63.70°.It was an offshore well producing from onshore location in Zhuangxi offshore field. Great difficulties were encountered in drilling the well due to the shallow kick-off point, large diameter and soft formation of the angle-building section, long horizontal displacement, and so on.In order to insure the drilling operation, based on those characteristics in different strata, effective trajectory control scheme was designed, reasonable deflecting tool and drilling tool assembly were selected with reasonable drilling parameters and technology.Meanwhile noticeable effects in simplifying the drilling structures and safety management were acquired.The techniques and measures taken in the drilling phases are introduced in this paper, including accurate control of well trajectory, application of high quality drilling fluid, safety drilling measures, running casing in long hold section with big inclination, etc.The application of these technologies and measures not only avoids and decreases downhole accidents but also meets development requirements. These techniques offer significant reference for drilling of ERD wells in this block.