Horizontal Drilling Reinforces a Business Model for Success

Technology continues to enhance the economics of exploration and development in shale plays across the country. In 2003-2004, it became clear that horizontal drilling could change the future of exploration.

With the introduction of horizontal drilling, although more expensive than vertically drilled wells, the initial flow rates and ultimate recovery rates have proven they can outperform vertical wells. Horizontal drilling, along with continued advancements in frac design such as multi-stage and simo-frac completions, has been increasing the ultimate reserve recovery.

The Barnett Shale is now the largest producing natural gas field in the country. As the gas phase of the Newark, East Barnett Shale field continues to expand; technology may serve to further increase this already impressive region.

Dual simultaneous multi-stage focus frac can expose additional exploitable pay and helps to penetrate more of the productive area. Click to open enlarged image.

Natural Gas Horizontal Shale Drilling Video