In the relentless pursuit of enhancing drilling capabilities for ultra-deep wells, a groundbreaking development has emerged from the CNPC National Engineering Research Center for Oil & Gas Drilling Equipment Co., Ltd. Led by Zhang Wei, a team of innovators has successfully developed an enhanced 9,000-meter hybrid power automatic drilling rig, poised to revolutionize the energy sector.
This cutting-edge drilling rig is designed to address critical industry needs, including reducing non-drilling waiting time, providing emergency power supply, and facilitating rapid relocation between well sites. “The rig’s advanced features are tailored to meet the demanding requirements of modern drilling operations,” explains Zhang Wei. “Its ability to handle heavy casing landing and operate efficiently in cluster well scenarios marks a significant leap forward in drilling technology.”
At the heart of this innovation lies a narrow-body five-cylinder drilling pump, boasting large displacement and minimal pressure fluctuation. This pump, coupled with a one-piece drawworks, enables high-level equipment arrangement and seamless operation. The rig’s unique guide rail translation and wheel transfer mode further enhance its mobility, ensuring swift relocation and adaptability to various drilling environments.
One of the most notable advancements is the integration of a single driller integrated control system, which, supported by a one-click control program and space management system, facilitates the handover and linkage control of string automation equipment. This system not only streamlines operations but also significantly reduces the need for manual intervention, enhancing both efficiency and safety.
The hybrid power system is another standout feature, incorporating a 1,700 kW·h battery energy storage system connected to the AC bus of the diesel generator set. This system offers both grid-connected and grid-disconnected operation modes, providing a reliable emergency power supply in the event of generator failure. “The hybrid power system ensures uninterrupted operations, even in the most challenging conditions,” notes Zhang Wei.
The rig’s performance was thoroughly tested, with type tests on main load-bearing structures and functional tests on equipment and systems confirming its robustness and reliability. The key welds of the main load-bearing parts remained intact, and the drawworks drum brake system showed no signs of deformation, underscoring the rig’s durability and safety.
Published in the journal *Petroleum Machinery*, this research offers a valuable reference for the design of future ultra-deep well drilling rigs. The implications for the energy sector are profound, as this innovation promises to enhance drilling efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve safety standards. As the industry continues to push the boundaries of exploration, developments like these will be crucial in unlocking new energy reserves and meeting global demand.
The enhanced 9,000-meter hybrid power automatic drilling rig stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration, setting a new benchmark for drilling technology and paving the way for future advancements in the energy sector.