Halliburton and Sekal AS deployed the world’s first automated on-bottom drilling system with the integration of Halliburton’s LOGIX™ automation and remote operations, Sekal’s Drilltronics®, and the rig automation control system.

The team delivered a well for Equinor on the Norwegian Continental Shelf with an integrated closed-loop control solution. This solution orchestrates autonomous directional drilling with automated wellbore hydraulics and dynamic surface drilling rig equipment control.

The team is now able to optimize drilling parameters in real time and deliver precise well placement with the single push of a button through integrated automated rig controls.

The system optimizes well placement and drilling within safe limits through real-time advanced models of subsurface, wellbore fluid, and pressure systems. It achieves this by coupling the models with smart directional drilling tools and the rig automation control system.

“This project demonstrated autonomous on-bottom drilling where we orchestrated industry leading technology of well placement, wellbore integrity, and rig process automation. The future for drilling automation is bright, and it is here,” said Josh Sears, senior vice president, Drilling and Evaluation, Halliburton.

The solution includes LOGIX orchestration, auto steer, vibration mitigation, and hole cleaning optimization with Sekal DrillTronics dynamic safeguards, and automation functions.

“With the execution of integrated automation, Halliburton and Sekal proved the benefits and viability of autonomous on-bottom drilling,” said Jarle Vaag, chief executive officer, Sekal.

About Halliburton

Halliburton (NYSE: HAL) is one of the world’s leading providers of products and services to the energy industry. Founded in 1919, we create innovative technologies, products, and services that help our customers maximize their value throughout the life cycle of an asset and advance a sustainable energy future.

About Sekal AS

Sekal AS is a global leader in digital solutions for optimized drilling performance and drilling autonomy. The company’s advanced technologies help the energy sector transition to autonomous drilling operations with increased efficiency, reduced costs, and minimized environmental impact.

About Equinor

Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future.
Our purpose is to turn natural resources into energy for people and progress for society. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Stavanger (Norway), Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf. We are present in around 30 countries worldwide.