Directional drilling is the process of drilling non-vertical wells. Four main types of direction drilling are in use today: oilfield directional drilling, horizontal directional drilling, directional boring, and surface in seam. A number of benefits come from these drilling practices.

Horizontal drilling is changing the game in the US oil and gas industry, allowing for some of the most cost effective drilling projects that pass savings on to the customer. As a result, this process is capable of making a positive impact on both local and global economies. It is also a drilling method packed with benefits for the environment, preserving ecosystems and limiting the impact of drilling on the environment.

The Advantageous Impact of Horizontal Drilling

Horizontal, or directional, drilling has many technical and environmental advantages over standard vertical well projects. While environmental engineers have used vertical drilling for years as their primary access to the subsurface, horizontal wells allow them to add a new dimension to their cleanup strategies.

In the past, it often took several vertical wells to complete a project. In contrast, only a few horizontal wells will suffice to create a line in the contaminate plane. According to HorizontalDrill.com, 256 vertical wells were able to be replaced with just 7 horizontal ones.

Less drilling equates to less environmental impact. Less impact on the environment generally equates to a healthier planet.

Directional drilling is efficient in comparison to other methods. It also allows for the more efficient and easier placement of wells. For example, horizontal wells can be placed under buildings, roads, and other surface obstructions. As a result, they can be installed under sites where vertical wells would run the risk of contaminating the subsurface or causing major renovations for installation.

Reduced Setup and Maintenance

Directional drilling can eliminate up to one dozen pumps from a standard treatment system. In some cases, it can eliminate the treatment as well! This type of drilling supplies reduced setup, limited replacement needs, and substantially reduces maintenance costs. So not only is directional drilling better for the environment, but it's also better for budgets!

Horizontal drilling limits the number of wellheads and conveyance lines associated with vertical wells. Wellheads and conveyance lines require placement in vaults, which often protrude above the ground, and they wreak havoc with buildings and obstructions.

The benefits of directional drilling are multifaceted. This method protects the environment while minimizing project cost, sometimes by thousands of dollars per project. For more information about well drilling, visit Henderson Well & Pump Co.