Plasma-Assisted Subterranean Borehole Drilling for Higher Rate of Penetration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and time required for drilling subterranean boreholes are directly related to the rate of penetration (ROP) of the drill bit, which is influenced by the resistance of the subterranean formation. Weakening the formation prior to or simultaneously with engagement by the drill bit can increase ROP and reduce drilling costs.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a tubular string with a drill bit coupled to a plasma inducing apparatus and a power conversion assembly that generates plasma from electric current to weaken the formation, using electrode assemblies to create cracks and fractures, thereby enhancing the ROP.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional drilling methods are used, then the borehole can be formed, but the rate of penetration is low and drilling time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma inducing apparatus activates electrodes that generate plasma channels in advance of the drill bit's mechanical engagement with the formation. This preliminary action weakens the formation by creating ionized pathways and thermal fractures, so that when the drill bit engages, the material is already compromised and easier to remove, thereby increasing the rate of penetration and reducing overall drilling time
2Productivity
If the drill bit engages the formation directly, then drilling can proceed, but the resistance of the formation increases drilling cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces purely mechanical drilling with a hybrid system that uses plasma physics to precondition the formation. The plasma inducing apparatus generates high-voltage electrical discharges that ionize the formation material and create channels of weakened material ahead of the mechanical drill bit. This substitution of mechanical action with plasma-based preparation reduces the force required by the drill bit and increases drilling efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for drilling a borehole are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system includes a drill bit and a plasma inducing apparatus coupled to the drill bit. The plasma inducing apparatus is configured to generate plasma.