Technology

The new solution extends SLB's autonomous drilling capabilities. (Image source: SLB)

SLB has added AI-driven geosteering to its autonomous drilling solutions with the launch of Neuro autonomous geosteering, which dynamically responds to subsurface complexities to drill more efficient, higher-performing wells, while reducing the carbon footprint of the drilling operations

Using artificial intelligence (AI), Neuro geosteering integrates and interprets complex real-time subsurface information to autonomously guide the drill bit through the most productive layer or “sweet spot” of the reservoir. Instead of geologists needing to manually interpret this data to identify a well target, update the well plan and trajectory, and communicate this to the directional driller, Neuro geosteering performs all of these steps end to end — without any human intervention.

“Neuro autonomous geosteering is a remarkable industry-first achievement that is for drillers what the autonomous vehicle is for drivers,” said Jesus Lamas, president, Well Construction, SLB. “Using advanced cloud and edge AI capabilities, the system automatically selects the best route for drilling the well based on high-fidelity downhole measurements, bringing the well trajectory in line with the real-world conditions of the reservoir. By drilling more consistent and higher-producing wells, our customers can optimise their field development plan while reducing operational emissions from drilling over the lifetime of the asset.”

Neuro autonomous geosteering builds on SLB’s Neuro autonomous directional drilling, introduced in 2022, which drills wells to a defined well target in accordance with the well plan, using AI with surface and downhole automation workflows to self-determine steering sequences and deliver the well trajectory on plan. Neuro autonomous geosteering takes this a step further — incorporating high-fidelity downhole measurements that ensure certainty of well placement in the best part of the reservoir.

The new services can help operators benefit from improved well insights, extended asset life, and reduced total cost of operations. (Image source: Halliburton)

Halliburton has introduced the Intelli suite of diagnostic well intervention wireline logging services, which can help operators benefit from improved well insights, extended asset life, and reduced total cost of operations

The Intelli suite of services can be used separately or as a package. In the latter case, it acquires data in a single run, saving time and costs. The Intelli suite consists of the following services:

The IntelliSat pulsed-neutron logging service provides reservoir insights either in open hole or after a well is completed. It improves recovery with the detection of bypassed pay, and provides spectroscopy and KUTh measurements. The IntelliSat service delivers a more robust and efficient method of reservoir saturation measurement, fluids monitoring, and borehole diagnostics compared to legacy sensors.

The IntelliFlow array production logging service enhances reservoir insights with the incorporation of co-located fluid ID and flow rate sensors. IntelliFlow provides more accurate production profiles, precision phase analysis, and dynamic flow information. The compact design allows for a simpler, more efficient operation.

The IntelliGuard corrosion evaluation service represents the latest generation of high-definition casing inspection technology. It quantifies metal loss in up to seven concentric casings, and pinpoints damage without the need for costly well intervention.

The IntelliScope leak and flow diagnostic service identifies precise leak sources and flow paths vertically and radially behind pipe in a single, continuous pass.

“As customers look to maximise production and improve the efficiency of their wells, our Intelli suite helps improve downhole insights in a highly customisable way. Because each job is unique, we wanted to develop a suite of products that could be used individually, or as an integrated solution, ultimately, delivering a better experience and result for our customers,” said Chris Tevis, vice president of Wireline and Perforating.

The high-pressure radial shaft seal portfolio. (Image source: Trelleborg Sealing Solutions)

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has launched the Stefa high-pressure radial shaft seal portfolio for demanding applications

Stefa high-pressure radial shaft seals (HPRSS) are optimised to improve sealing performance for various speed, chemical compatibility and pressure challenges. Suitable for various types of hydraulic motors and pumps, Stefa seals are proven at pressures of up to 20MP a and speeds of up to 17 metres per second (MPS). They also feature innovative engineered designs that compensate for shaft misalignment, ensuring reliable sealing under extreme conditions.

The range includes the well-established HP20 series which utilises a patented design geometry that self-balances under strong pressure with a metal retainer that prevents lip extrusion and dissipates heat, extending service life. Millions of the HP20 seals have been sold since its introduction in 2010.

Inderjeet Singh, global product line director, said, “Working closely with our customers and utilising our own advanced manufacturing, R&D and testing facilities, we have delivered a step change in performance and durability with the enhanced Stefa radial shaft sealing range. Equipment that requires high-pressure radial shaft seals is typically complex and high value, and any seal failure will be an expensive liability for the operator.

"Over several years, we have leveraged our advanced global in-house R&D capabilities to optimise geometries and materials to provide customer assurance in terms of performance and durability across a wide range of applications with differing requirements.

"Performance expectations for high pressure radial shaft seals are becoming ever-more challenging, with customers in recent years demanding solutions that work at even high speeds and accelerations. To meet the challenges, we have built advanced test rigs with wider capabilities in terms of operating parameters such as temperature, speed, torque and pressure, as well as pressure spikes and side loads.Trelleborg’s customer proximity has been critical to the successful innovations in our Stefa portfolio, leveraging our materials expertise and design capabilities alongside deep collaboration with customers to provide optimised solutions.”

AIQ, the Abu Dhabi-based AI pioneer developing innovative solutions for the energy sector, and Kent, a leading global engineering and digital solutions provider, have signed a Strategic Collaboration Agreement to explore advanced AI applications in engineering optimisation and digital transformation

Potential areas for co-development include an AI-powered Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) Optimization Platform designed to enhance the effectiveness of engineering teams by improving the efficiency, accuracy, and speed of FEED processes. Additionally, AIQ and Kent will investigate AI-driven innovations in autonomous operations, digital twins for asset management, which can be utilised for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and performance optimisation, and health, safety, and environment (HSE) applications. The latter encompasses predictive maintenance technologies, real-time monitoring, and other digital tools that improve operational safety, reduce downtime, and extend asset lifespans.

Magzhan Kenesbai, acting managing director of AIQ commented, “AIQ is at a pivotal stage in its development as we seek to expand our capabilities and geographies of operation. Collaborating with an established engineering and solutions provider like Kent will allow us to accelerate the scale and delivery of our transformational AI solutions as we progress autonomous and intelligent systems across the entire energy value chain.”

Tush Doshi, chief operating officer at Kent said, “Working with AIQ allows us to combine our engineering and project management expertise with cutting-edge AI technology to address some of the most pressing challenges in the energy sector. We are committed to delivering solutions that not only meet today’s demands but also pave the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and digitally driven future. Together, we can create innovative solutions that make a real impact for our clients and the industry.”

The agreement was announced at ADIPEC 2024, where the transformative impact of AI was one of the major focuses.