Jan 19 2010
Potter Drilling offers the drilling technology that is specifically designed for Engineered Geothermal Systems (EGS) in crystalline hard rock environment. The technology has the ability to provide drilling up to 30,000 feet, enabling geothermal drilling anywhere. The drilling technology does not come into contact with the rock. Hence, there is no need to replace drill bits. This also reduces the wear on drill string, and lessens the non-productive tripping.
The geothermal wells that are drilled using the drilling technology may need less casing intervals. This significantly reduces the costs and operating time for casing materials. The drilling tools, offered by Potter Drilling, are compatible with conventional drill equipment and rigs. The drilling tools also work with new technologies including down hole motors and drill strings that are neutrally buoyant. The drilling technology is based on thermal spallation, and it can penetrate the granite, five times faster than the conventional drilling technology.
The drilling technology, available from Potter Drilling, features enhanced trajectory. The possibility of the drilling technology deviating from vertical is less, as there is little or no weight on the bit. Unless the steering assembly directs it, the technology does not deviate for most of the time. The drilling technology features small spall sizes and need minimal cooling. Hence, the technology can use water as well as water-based muds. This reduces the damage to subsurface formation.
Source: http://www.potterdrilling.com