The Construction of Exploratory Extended-Reach Wells within the Verkhnekamskoye Deposit of Potassium-Magnesium Salts

One of the largest in the world the Verkhnekamskoye deposit of potassium-magnesium salts (VDPMS) is located in the north-eastern part of the Perm region.The complexity of its development is determined by the high water content of the overlying above the salt rock massif strata and the danger of the groundwater penetration into the mine roadways, which could lead to flooding of the mine.

Each drilled well on VDPMS may be a channel for supplying fluid to the saline part of the section, that’s why the construction of wells within VDPMS requires compliance with the restrictions.

The Rostovitskoe oil field, discovered in 2013, is situated in the north-eastern part of VDPMS. The results of the construction of exploratory ERD wells, possible risks in the construction of wells and provides solutions are considered in the article.The working draft for construction of exploration well number 102, taking into account possible risks was prepared. As a result of the design decisions the well construction time was reduced from 168 days up to 95.7 days. The complex approach at all stages of well construction permits to drill in complicated geological conditions and achieve high commercial rates.