One of the defining well construction trends in unconventional resource plays is ever-increasing horizontal lengths to increase recovery efficiency. Advances in drilling technology are redefining lateral length limits while also accelerating spud-to-total depth cycles. However, as lateral lengths have increased, so have the challenges associated with running casing and achieving good cement integrity in long horizontal wells. The high total-measured-depth to true-vertical-depth ratios seen in many wells presents challenges during casing and liner installation, and can become a limiting factor in long-lateral well designs. The primary issue is the high friction associated with extended-reach horizontal well profiles and the absence of adequate vertical pipe weight to overcome frictional forces. This friction can require the operator to apply excessive torque and force to the casing string and completion components, which can damage casing, frac sleeves, swellable packers, etc.
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