NOV launches AgitatorX2 to improve drilling efficiency in extended laterals

NOV launches AgitatorX2 to improve drilling efficiency in extended laterals

Recognizing this limitation, NOV developed the AgitatorX2, a tailored friction reduction package that provides greater flexibility in extended laterals.

AgitatorX2 deploys two of NOV's proven Agitator tools within a single drillstring, with high-flow, on-demand, or zero pressure drop configurations available to match specific requirements. This dual Agitator system extends the reach of agitation, ensuring consistent performance over long intervals.

Proper placement of each Agitator is crucial to maximizing performance. Tools placed too close can interfere with each other, while those spaced too far apart may leave pipe sections outside the effective oscillation range, allowing drag to build up. NOV's proprietary placement software uses advanced torque and drag modeling to ensure optimal tool spacing and deliver effective friction reduction across the drillstring.

When paired with the AgitatorZP (zero pressure), AgitatorX2 uniquely delivers the power of two friction reduction tools with the pressure drop of just one. The AgitatorZP generates high-frequency axial oscillations like conventional Agitators, but with zero pressure drop across the tool. By reclaiming 500-600 psi of standpipe pressure (SPP), this tool enables greater motor differential pressure, directional control, sliding efficiency, and higher ROP.

The unmatched zero pressure drop feature not only maximizes hydraulic efficiency but also makes this Agitator the most measurement-while-drilling (MWD) friendly friction reduction technology. Unlike conventional tools that create powerful pulses potentially disruptive to MWD signal decoding, the AgitatorZP delivers effective oscillations without compromising demodulation quality. This capability is critical to maintaining real-time downhole communication, particularly in extended-reach wells where every psi and signal counts.

Field deployments in North and South America show how AgitatorX2, powered by the AgitatorZP, has enabled operators to improve drilling efficiency in demanding lateral applications. In West Texas, a major operator planned to drill a 3-mile (4.8-km) lateral in two runs in the Delaware Basin. A key challenge was managing friction in the deeper portion of the production hole section while staying within the SPP limits.

With the AgitatorX2 in place, a flow rate of 375 gpm was maintained all the way to total depth. And at 26,830 ft (8,178 m), the MWD system reported an impressive signal-to-noise ratio-a feat not possible without the AgitatorZP's zero pressure drop capability due to high mud weights and distance from the landing point.

In Argentina, a major operator had historically paired one Agitator with remote shock tools placed separately to extend oscillation reach. However, beyond 15,092 ft (4,600 m), a clear opportunity to improve ROP and tool face control remained due to increasing weight transfer challenges.

After deploying AgitatorX2 and maintaining the hydraulic efficiency across the BHA, the operator achieved a 29% increase in sliding ROP compared to direct offsets. In addition to enhancing tool face control, the dual-Agitator solution enabled the operator to drill longer intervals without pipe rocking and sustain improved sliding performance beyond the previous limit.

As the industry nears 4-mile (6-km) laterals, NOV's flexible dual-Agitator configuration helps operators drill longer wells efficiently while optimizing pressure allocation for better performance.

Learn more here.