Case Study: PEMEX achieves efficient underreaming in a challenging offshore well with SLB's Rhino XS2 10000 reamer and StingBlade bit

PEMEX Uses Rhino XS2 10000 Reamer to Underream 1,033-ft Section in Challenging Offshore Formation

PEMEX worked with SLB on an offshore well in the Gulf of Mexico that required underreaming while drilling through a 1,033-ft vertical section of interbedded sand and shale. The challenge was to use an underreamer that could pass the casing shoe, maintain full circulation while tripping out, and avoid the sticking and nonproductive time problems seen with earlier tools.

SLB recommended the Rhino XS2 10000 full-cycle expandable reamer with Predator cutter blocks and a 105/8-in StingBlade conical diamond element bit, using BHA analysis to optimize drilling dynamics. The section was completed in a single run with no added NPT, full circulation was maintained on the way out of hole, shock and vibration were negligible, and the well was drilled at an average rate of 25.6 ft/h while both the bit and reamer showed little to no wear.

PEMEX