GA Drilling, a Slovakia-based deep drilling technology provider, has initiated a technical cooperation program with Brazil’s Petrobras. Along with Petrobras’ Cenpes research, development, and innovation center, the partnership aims to revamp the downhole drilling system, reducing well construction costs and risks in challenging drilling scenarios.
GA Drilling’s technology, featuring a downhole anchoring and drive system, will be the foundation for an autonomous reeled drilling system. Combined with Petrobras’ expertise, this technology will enable drilling deep and complex offshore wells from a light well intervention vessel rather than a semi-submersible or drill ship, which is more expensive. The Slovak company claims this approach can reduce well construction costs by 30%.
DOF secures multiple contracts with Petrobras in Brazil | OilNOW
“Taken together, the benefits of our drilling technologies equal better efficiency, leading to lower costs, smaller operational footprint, and ultimately, lower risk overall,” said Igor Kocis, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of GA Drilling. He added that collaboration with Petrobras and Cenpes allows for rapid development using their advanced testing infrastructure, advancing the mission of global geothermal energy adoption.
GA Drilling’s system enhances drilling efficiency and minimizes hazards associated with pipe handling, tripping times, and well control. It also incorporates sophisticated drilling automation and control systems, enabling real-time wireline communication with the surface to optimize the drilling process at the rock face.
Petrobras and Brazil’s Cade amend natural gas and refining divestment deals | OilNOW
“Investing in drilling technologies is crucial for a smooth and efficient energy transition. By making ultra-deep drilling more environmentally friendly and cost-effective with our cutting-edge technology, we are not just improving current operations but also laying the groundwork for the future of clean energy,” added Kocis.
Petrobras has had a busy summer. The energy major recently hired Borr Drilling’s Arabia I jack-up rig after its assignment in Saudi Arabia was suspended, with the 2020-built rig expected to start work in Q1 2025. Additionally, a naming ceremony was held for a large floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel for Petrobras’ Búzios field. Seatrium awarded a classification contract to the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for two newbuild FPSOs destined for Petrobras’ Atapu and Sépia fields.
