IADD ’15: Technology Forum on mud motors focuses on collaboration to improve drilling efficiency
BASTROP, Texas – The International Association of Directional Drilling (IADD) is holding its first Technology Forum in the Lost Pines resort near Austin, Texas.
“Mud motors have been largely responsible for the growth in unconventional oil and gas activity,” suggested IADD President Jim Oberkircher. “Our goal for the technology forum is to get the word out about directional drilling and discuss technical issues and solutions that will help us improve performance.”
Obserkircher also cited the importance of the forum to “pass the torch to the younger generation by providing them with the knowledge that we’ve gained through our decades of industry experience.”
Steve Bosworth, IADD Forum Chairman and V.P. of Worldwide Drilling for Anadarko Petroleum, welcomed the audience of over 200 representatives of operators, directional drilling service companies and mud motor manufacturers.
“The first directional well was drilled in the 1930s in Huntington Beach, California to access offshore reserves from an onshore well,” explained Bosworth. “Since then, it is absolutely amazing the technology advancements we’ve accomplished together.”
Speaking of the current low-price environment, Bosworth said, “We all wish oil was at least $70/bbl, but at $45/bbl, we have some challenges. Do we just hit the ‘pause’ button to wait for oil prices to rise?" Bosworth suggested a focus on efficiency: faster, deeper, better and cheaper.
As representative of an operating company, Bosworth admitted that “we’re quick to take credit and quick to blame.” To demonstrate this attitude, Bosworth put up a banner, which read, "I'm not saying it's your fault, I'm saying I'm blaming you." He suggested a better approach of sharing information and collaboration. “You can help us look good and we can help you look good.”
The IADD Technology Forum continues until Wednesday, Nov. 11 afternoon, with technical presentations, panel discussions and technology exhibits.
