A 300°C Directional Drilling System for EGS Well Installation
- Conference
- Geothermal Resources Council Transactions
- Year
- 2012
- Session
- Directional drilling; HDR/EGS; High temperature reservoirs;
- Language
- English
Abstract
Directional drilling is an essential service for well installation in an Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) power facility. The array of injector and production wells must be accurately placed in the formation fracture system for efficient fluid circulation and heat production. Current commercial offerings for directional drilling tools are rated for 175°C (347°F) service while demands of the EGS drilling environment require operation for significant periods at temperatures up to 300°C (572°F). A US Department of Energy Geothermal Technologies Program (GTP) project was initiated to develop a 300°C- (572°F)-capable directional drilling system consisting of a drill bit, directional motor and fluid. Research and development performed thus far in the project has identified a system concept that meets program requirements. Design and manufacturing is ongoing to produce field prototypes to be run in geothermal wells in 2013.
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