Due to a distinct weight advantage, the pipes increase buoyancy and in turn reduce friction forces up to 50% versus steel drill pipe. Drilling tests in the Niobrara formation showed up to a 30% ROP improvement in sliding mode – the result of a more effective weight-to-bit transfer.
FuchsRohr AluDrill has proven performance in demanding horizontal drilling applications. Key attributes include the pipe’s flexibility and durability: The reduced weight and stiffness mean that torque and drag are reduced and weight can be transferred more efficiently to the bit.
The cutting-edge pipe solution was developed and marketed by OTTO FUCHS Drillings Solutions (OFDS), whose parent company OTTO FUCHS KG is a best-in-class German non-ferrous materials company with a client portfolio extending across the automobile, aerospace and engineering industries.
Looking forward to the upcoming SPE ATCE event in San Antonio, OFDS president Peter Kaufmann said: “Low margins have put significant pressure on the oil and gas sector. As drilling efficiency increasingly becomes an issue, next generation aluminium alloy pipe can play a key role. The potential for substantial cost reductions should not be underestimated.”
