Case Study: West Texas Operating Company achieves 16% higher ROP with SLB's HydraGlyde Drilling Fluid System

HydraGlyde Drilling Fluid System Improves ROP 16% by Reducing Torque in Challenging Wolfcamp Shale

West Texas Operating Company needed to drill the interbedded Wolfcamp Formation in West Texas with a water-base mud while minimizing torque and improving penetration rates. SLB, through its M-I SWACO drilling fluids offering, was brought in to address the torque limits that were slowing drilling performance in the curve and lateral sections.

SLB recommended the HydraGlyde high-performance water-base drilling fluid system, using HydraCap encapsulating additive, HydraHib shale inhibitor, and HydraSpeed lubricant to improve inhibition and lubricity. The 8½-in production interval was drilled in 3.5 days, boosting average ROP by 16% versus prior inhibitive WBM wells and reducing maximum torque by 18%, with as much as 5,000 ft·lbf less torque than offset wells.