Application of Laser and Plasma for Thermal Assisted Drilling in Carbonated Formations

Abstract

Employing novel drilling, and tunneling methods are active area of study since 1930s. In the present report, an Experimental study of the thermal impact of laser and plasma torch on carbonated rocks as part of thermal assisted drilling operation is presented. The experimental findings are then evaluated and verified by the Kirch's equations for stresses and strains around a cylindrical borehole. Since it is vital to carefully studying the wellbore stability in this type of drilling method, especially if it is associated with underbalanced drilling (UBD) and or Managed pressure drilling (MPD), further numerical investigations are carried out to highlight the necessary considerations in this regard.