Improved productivity compared to conventional wells
A new offshore well was drilled in a sandstone reservoir characterised by high heterogeneity, with multiple shale and calcite stringers. The average horizontal sandstone permeability was 45 mD, but local values ranged from as low as 0.2 mD up to 1,500 mD. The open-hole section was 740 m / 2,428 ft long, and the operator needed a completion concept that could manage this variability and significantly improve productivity compared to conventional wells.
The well was completed with a 5½” liner incorporating 28 Fishbones Drilling subs, providing 84 laterals into the sandstone formation. The Fishbones system was combined with stand-alone screens fitted with inflow control devices (ICDs), and swellable packers were used to secure zonal isolation and compartmentalisation along the well. This configuration ensured controlled inflow and efficient drainage of the most productive zones.
Productivity doubled versus offset well
Following installation, the well delivered a 100% productivity increase compared to an offset well completed without Fishbones, demonstrating the value of combining laterals with ICD-based inflow control.
Repeatable results in subsequent wells
A second well completed in 2025 with a similar Fishbones Drilling design achieved comparable results, confirming that the concept is repeatable and robust for the field conditions.
Potential reserves upgrade
On the strength of the productivity gains and improved reservoir contact, an increase in recoverable reserves for the field is under consideration, highlighting the long-term impact of the Fishbones Drilling completion.
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