Application of branch horizontal well technology in HFY Oilfield of Iraq

Through research into the characteristics of Mishrif Reservoir in Iraqi HFY Oilfield and the drilling and production engineering, we determined that the wells be drilled and completed by suspended sidetracking in openhole in dual branch wells and by running screen tubes in openhole; by stabilizing the sidewall of the branch connecting hole sections and optimizing the design and drilling of the main hole and branch hole trajectories, we have developed the key technology for suspended sidetracking of branch openhole in HFY Oilfield, reduced the difficulty and risk in the drilling of the main wellbore and branches, and have succeeded in drilling of four branch horizontal wells. Oil production test in the first branch well flowed at a rate of 1 638 m3 of oil per day, two times up compared with the initial production of single horizontal well. The application of branch horizontal wells in HFY Oilfield shows that the proper drilling and completing manner for branch wells determined in line with oilfield conditions is a critical approach to optimizing well drilling and development of the oilfield and improving the overall development benefits. The success in the drilling of branch wells to Mishrif Reservoir provides experiences for the drilling of branch wells into large carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East areas and has expanded ways for low cost development of the oilfields.