Case Study: an offshore operator company avoids a potential kick and improves depth control with SLB's SonicScope real-time acoustic data

Operator saves an estimated USD 300,000 with a customized BHA that included a new large-hole multipole sonic-while-drilling service

SLB worked with Offshore Operator Company, an offshore operator in the Gulf of Mexico, on an appraisal well in a known geopressured area. The customer needed to reduce pore pressure and depth uncertainty from predrill models and improve depth control while drilling, using real-time acoustic data alongside logging-while-drilling measurements.

SLB deployed a BHA with PowerDrive X6 RSS, arcVISION array resistivity compensated service, and SonicScope multipole sonic-while-drilling service. The solution tracked the pressure ramp in real time, enabled an accurate seismic tie-in, and led to setting the 17 7/8-in casing 100 ft shallower than planned; it also helped avoid a potential kick, saving an estimated USD 200,000 to 300,000 in drilling costs.