Coiled Tubing Drilling Technology Evolution and Applications

This technical report discusses the advancements in Coiled Tubing Drilling (CTD) technology over the past thirty years, focusing on its application in revitalizing mature oil and gas fields. The report outlines the challenges faced by aging fields, including declining production rates, and presents CTD as a cost-effective alternative to drilling new wells. It details the evolution of CTD from its initial deployment in the early 1990s to the latest high-temperature versions, highlighting technological advancements such as rib-steered motors and enhanced measurement capabilities. The report also examines specific regional applications, particularly in the Middle East, where CTD has been instrumental in accessing previously untapped reserves. Furthermore, it discusses the operational advantages of CTD, including the ability to drill laterals without pulling production tubing and the integration of advanced logging services to improve well placement. The report concludes with examples of long-term successful CTD projects, demonstrating its technical and economic viability for field redevelopment.