HYDRAULIC RIG AND ITS CHALLENGE TO CONDUCT SLIMHOLE GEOTHERMAL EXPLORATION DRILLING

Abstract

Exploration and drilling activity is required to prove the existence of geothermal sources. The result of drilling activity can be used to assess the feasibility of the project. Though, the resource uncertainty, drilling risks, and high costs during exploration activities make investors reluctant to invest. One of the alternatives is by using slim hole drilling instead of big or standard hole drilling. Slim hole drilling has the potential to minimize drilling costs significantly because the equipment, long lead item, and the requirement is less than a big or standard hole.
The hydraulic rig is commonly used in mineral drilling activity and potentially to be utilized in geothermal exploration since the well construction of mineral exploration well is similar to a slim hole well. The capability of the hydraulic rig needs to be assessed to execute slim hole drilling activity. This paper aims to give an overview of hydraulic rig capability to drill the slim hole well. The aspect that will be assessed is the hoisting system, circulating system, foot clamp opening, make-up tool equipment, substructure height, material handling, cementing equipment, and driller’s panel or console. The assessment result can provide an alternative and more economical option for drilling exploration in geothermal development, specifically in Indonesia.