Case Study: Shell achieves USD 8.5 million savings in Gulf of Mexico salt drilling with SLB’s PowerDrive Orbit RSS and AxeBlade bit

Optimized BHA incorporates PowerDrive Orbit RSS with AxeBlade bit to achieve 311-ft/h net ROP in salt interval

Shell worked with SLB to improve drilling speed and efficiency in a Gulf of Mexico salt drilling project. The challenge was to beat previous salt-drilling benchmarks while maximizing penetration rates and lowering operating costs, using an optimized bottomhole assembly and best practices for the well.

SLB recommended a drill-on-torque approach with PowerDrive Orbit RSS and the AxeBlade ridged diamond element bit to maintain directional control at higher rpm and reduce reactive torque. The solution set new salt-drilling benchmarks, including 311 ft/h net ROP in the 16½-in salt section, and delivered USD 8.5 million in savings versus the expected well plan.

Shell