Halliburton launches EarthStar 3DX horizontal look-ahead resistivity service

Halliburton has launched EarthStar 3DX, a 3D horizontal look-ahead resistivity service which provides operators with geological insights into horizontal wells up to 50 ft before penetration by the bit

Positioned just 3m from the bit and integrated with the iCruise rotary steerable system, the service has the capability to gather real-time data, allowing operators to identify hazards and make informed decisions, helping them to anticipate and react to formation changes, optimise well placement, and maximise asset value. Early intervention mitigates wellbore instability challenges and facilitates safe and efficient operations for customers.

The EarthStar 3DX service detects geological changes in front of the bit and around the wellbore. Mapping geological changes in real time provides operators with the guidance to proactively adjust the well path earlier, before reaching formation changes. Early actions keep the wellbore in the most productive zone to reduce reservoir exits, increase net-to-gross ratios, and improve production efficiency.

In high-angle, horizontal, and extended-reach wells, the EarthStar 3DX service helps avoid unexpected geological or fluid changes that can lead to wellbore instabilities and costly corrections. The service detects hazards, such as formation changes, faults, or fluid boundaries, ahead of the bit before they impact drilling. Early trajectory adjustments help reduce the risk of wellbore instability and costly sidetracks to ensure a safer, more efficient drilling operation.

The EarthStar 3DX service offers detailed conventional resistivity readings that support in-depth petrophysical analysis of the reservoir. Phase shift and attenuation resistivity are measured over three spacings at two frequencies using an array of electromagnetic sensors and a 24-inch crossed-antenna spacing. The combination of digitally compensated resistivity with formation anisotropy measurements near the bit drives early fluid characterisation and a more accurate water saturation calculation to improve reserves evaluation.

“EarthStar 3DX service is the latest example of Halliburton’s leadership in reservoir mapping technology,” said Jim Collins, vice president, Sperry Drilling, Halliburton.

“True to our value proposition, we customise our subsurface and drilling solutions to maximise asset value for our customers. By mapping geological variations before they are encountered, operators can adjust well trajectories to minimise risk, improve wellbore placement, and increase reservoir contact.”