(WO) – ExxonMobil and Halliburton have completed what the companies describe as the industry’s first fully automated closed-loop geological well placement system during offshore drilling operations in Guyana.
The project integrated rig automation, automated subsurface interpretation and geosteering, and real-time drilling optimization into a single digital workflow designed to improve well placement accuracy and operational efficiency.
Halliburton deployed its LOGIX™ orchestration platform alongside the EarthStar® ultra-deep resistivity service and Sekal’s DrillTronics® automated drilling control system. The closed-loop system continuously analyzed geological data and automatically adjusted drilling parameters to keep the wellbore within reservoir boundaries while optimizing drilling and tripping operations.
According to Halliburton, the automated workflow eliminated traditional separation between subsurface interpretation and drilling execution by linking geological data, well placement decisions and rig control systems in real time.
The project was executed through the Wells Alliance Guyana team, which includes ExxonMobil, Noble and Sekal.
“Our teams create new performance levels when subsurface insight, automation and drilling systems operate through one closed-loop automation system,” said Jim Collins, vice president of Halliburton Sperry Drilling.
The system placed approximately 470 meters of lateral well section within the reservoir while reducing tripping time by about 33% and completing the reservoir section roughly 15% ahead of plan.
ExxonMobil said the achievement demonstrates how automation and integrated digital workflows can improve drilling efficiency and well placement accuracy in offshore developments.
