Argentina’s Vaca Muerta region is experiencing a surge in oil production, driven by government incentives, operator investments, and technological advancements. Nabors is at the forefront of this growth, supporting the region’s development with advanced drilling solutions.
Nabors’ Increased Presence in Vaca Muerta
Nabors has made significant efforts to support the drilling surge in the Vaca Muerta region, deploying multiple rigs to meet the increasing demand for drilling services. Leveraging what we learned from the shale boom in the Permian, Nabors has positioned its PACE-F rigs with cutting-edge technologies and a skilled crew to outperform these complex environments and intricate formations. This strategic move has positioned Nabors as a leader in drilling excellence, providing essential support to operators in the region.
A Case in Point
For instance, one of the first PACE-F rigs deployed in the region has set a new industry standard for drilling efficiency in the Vaca Muerta. PACE-F automated land rigs are specifically designed to enable quicker rig moves by reducing the number of loads during rig up and rig down and using hydraulic power instead of rig power.
Just six months after spud, the rig successfully drilled an 18,500+ foot well in just under 12 days, surpassing previous regional records. The PACE-F rigs have a hydraulic substructure and advanced walking capabilities for multi-well drilling, reducing flat time between sites. This remarkable achievement demonstrates Nabors’ ability and expertise to deliver exceptional performance in challenging conditions.
Automation Technologies in Action
Nabors’ rigs in Vaca Muerta come fully equipped with cutting-edge automation technologies, including the SmartDRILL®, SmartSLIDE®, ROCKit®, REVit®, and integrated MPD and TRS services. These technologies have significantly improved efficiency and consistency, resulting in one operator observing:
- Reduced connection times: SmartDRILL® has further reduced connection times, saving 2.8 minutes per connection across 18 wells, and improving BHA longevity. Read the full case study here.
- Improved drilling stability: REVit® has reduced stick-slip by 22%, minimizing vibrations and tool failures and increasing equipment reliability.
- Enhanced operational efficiency: Since introducing SmartSLIDE® automated directional steering has gradually reduced curve time by 47%, and has increased ROP by 87%.
Integrated MPD Services Directly on the Rig Substructure
Integrating the MPD services directly on the rig substructure reduces the footprint and saves time on the rig move, increasing drilling efficiency with less equipment. By implementing the integrated MPD Ready services in their recent drilling activities in the region, one operator witnessed 6.5 hours per well saved of rig up and rig down times compared to the conventional approach used with another operator. The benefit lies in the cost savings.
Read more on MPD successful performance in Argentina here.
Keeping the momentum going
Nabors’ commitment to innovation and efficiency has played a crucial role in supporting the growth of Argentina’s Vaca Muerta region. Through the deployment of advanced technologies and a focus on operational excellence, Nabors continues to deliver exceptional results and drive the future of drilling in the region.
Watch our recent rig deployment in Argentina