Halliburton acquires Sekal to boost drilling automation services

Halliburton is strengthening its drilling automation services offering with the acquisition of Sekal, a leader in advanced drilling automation solutions

The acquisition of Sekal, formerly a subsidiary of Sumitomo Corporation, combines Halliburton’s LOGIX automation and remote operations with Sekal’s advanced DrillTronics automation platform and services to deliver a comprehensive and industry-leading drilling automation portfolio. These solutions can also be combined with Halliburton’s LOGIX Automated Geosteering service, which combines automation, real-time intelligence and advanced geological modelling to optimise well placement, maximise recovery and improve operational efficiency. This integration supports seamless automated control and optimisation of drilling operations, integrating well placement, wellbore hydraulics, and rig operations in real time.

The Halliburton-Sekal automation solution is currently deployed across a number of projects worldwide and provides real-time advanced models of subsurface, wellbore fluid, and pressure systems, along with smart directional drilling tools and automated rig controls, thereby facilitating accurate drilling and well placement along with automated tripping operations and enabling a reduction of up to 25% in well delivery times.

"This acquisition rapidly expands our automation capabilities and delivers industry-leading digital solutions that lower well construction costs, increase recovery, and reduce operational risks for our customers. By bringing together our field-proven technologies, we unlock the full potential of digital well construction and set a new standard for automated drilling operations", said Jim Collins, vice president, Halliburton Sperry Drilling.

Jarle Vaag, Sekal CEO, added, "Joining Halliburton is a natural evolution for Sekal. The team at Sekal has worked closely with our clients providing our technology and services to the industry regardless of the service providers. While we will continue to support this market, the opportunity with the combined expertise of Halliburton and Sekal to advance our technical capability and accelerate the adoption of digitally integrated well construction will deliver a unique automation solution to our new and existing customers worldwide."