Case Study: Eagle Ford Shale boosts ROP and toolface control with SLB’s AxeBlade bit

AxeBlade Bit Increases ROP 29% and Improves Directional Control in Eagle Ford Shale Interval

SLB worked with Eagle Ford Shale to improve drilling performance in limestone and shale formations where high differential pressure motors made toolface control difficult. The operator needed high instantaneous rate of penetration while maintaining steerability through curve and lateral intervals with frequent formation transitions.

SLB deployed the AxeBlade ridged diamond element bit to drill the curve and lateral sections. The well was drilled 3,586 ft in 35 hours at 102.5 ft/h, a 29% improvement over previous wells, while holding toolface better, building angle more effectively, reducing reactive torque, and delivering a better dull condition than offset runs.

Eagle Ford Shale