WWT Non-Rotating Protectors Protect Drill Pipe on 8-lateral ERD Well

WWT Non-Rotating Protectors Protect Drill Pipe on 8-lateral ERD Well

Operator Concerns 
An operator was looking to resolve issues with drill pipe wear while drilling an eight lateral ERD 
well. Due to the abrasive formations, the drill pipe hardbanding wore out after every bit run and 
needed to be re-applied in the field. WWT’s Non Rotating Protectors (NRPs) were deployed as a 
solution to mitigate steel to steel contact between the tool joint and the casing as well as reducing 
torque while delivering weight to the bit throughout each challenging lateral.

 
NRP Performance 
With a significant amount of hardbanding wear throughout the string, WWT used available 5-1/2’’ 
SS3 and SS model inventory within the casing.Using the NRP placement shown on the right, the 
hardbanding on 99% of protected tool joints were in good condition after completing the well.  The 
NRPs also helped preserve the 9-5/8” casing after enduring an estimated 2.5 million drill pipe 
rotations. The NRP torque benefit was analyzed, showing 15% to 30% torque reduction, 
dependent on TD and number of NRPs in each lateral. With the ending updips, the weight to bit 
was able to be maintained; exceeding target TDs and completing the well in just two bit runs.