Comparison of the Penetration Rate Models Using Field Data for One of the Gas Fields in Persian Gulf Area

Abstract Estimation of the drilling rate of penetration (ROP) has always been a challenge for drilling engineers, since it is the key parameter in drilling optimization. There are many parameters which have significant influence on ROP. Relating penetration rate to these parameters result in defining a model for penetration rate. Hence, several rate of penetration models have been proposed. Among these models, the most well-known ones are Bourgoyne and Young, and Warren's models. In each of these models different parameters have been used to estimate the ROP. The application of different parameters and their corresponding weights causes the models to predict the ROP with different accuracies. In addition, usage of different assumptions in developing the models results in quiet different areas of application for the two mentioned models. Hence, studying the models' applications and comparison of them would lead to the more successful model recognition. In this paper, ROP equations are obtained for some depth intervals based on the two mentioned models. For this purpose, drilling data from two wells in one of the Iranian gas fields in Persian Gulf area is used. Based on the resulted equations, the two models are compared and the more suitable equation for future drillings in the same field is proposed. The result of this study would leads to a large amount of saving in time and money in drilling the new wells. Although one of the models may excel the other one in some cases, it is not true in general. Therefore, some useful recommendations on the usage and application areas of each model will be worked out which leads to low cost drilling, real-time monitoring and optimization, and ROP enhancement.