Abstract: This chapter describes the drilling process for a more detailed and quantitative presentation. The confirmation of the optimistic outcome of the exploration phase comes with the successful drilling of the first exploratory well. Generally three wells are drilled as the first step in the field confirmation stage. The wells are sited at the most promising locations as determined by the synthesis of all the exploration studies. Geothermal fields are often remote, far from developed areas, and require significant site preparation before drilling can begin. The study further illustrates drilling operations and shows that the drilling fluid, or ‘mud’, is a critical element in the operation. One of the main problems encountered involves the loss of cement to the formation through permeable zones. There is always the risk of a blowout when drilling a geothermal well. This occurs when an unexpected, high-pressure permeable zone is encountered. Enough of these dramatic and dangerous events have happened so that there are now strict regulations in most countries on the proper safety precautions to be followed during drilling.
Publication Year: 2012
Publication Date: 2012-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 2
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