IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

RESEARCH JOURNAL OF PURE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (RJPST )

E-ISSN 2579-0536
P-ISSN 2695-2696
VOL. 8 NO. 4 2025
DOI: 10.56201/rjpst.vol.8.no4.2025.pg56.76

Geomechanical Modeling for Safe and Efficient Horizontal Well Placement Analysis of Stress Distribution and Rock Mechanics to Optimize Well Placement and Minimize Drilling Risks in Geosteering Operations

Julius Olatunde Omisola, Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh, Odira Kingsley Okenwa, Gilbert Isaac Tokunbo Olugbemi, Elemele Ogu

Abstract

Geomechanical modeling plays a crucial role in optimizing horizontal well placement, ensuring both safe and efficient drilling operations. In geosteering, the ability to accurately predict and analyze stress distribution and rock mechanics is essential for minimizing drilling risks and enhancing well performance. This modeling integrates subsurface stress regimes, including horizontal, vertical, and differential stresses, with rock mechanical properties such as rock strength, ductility, and fracture gradients, to guide well trajectory adjustments. By simulating the interaction between the wellbore and surrounding rock formations, geomechanical modeling helps identify and mitigate potential drilling hazards, including wellbore instability, lost circulation, and stuck pipe incidents. The optimization of well placement through geomechanical analysis is vital for achieving maximum reservoir contact while avoiding high-risk zones, faults, and fractures. The integration of geological, geophysical, and geomechanical data enables accurate stress distribution modeling, which improves the prediction of wellbore behavior under varying conditions. Real-time data acquisition, along with continuous monitoring, further enhances the adaptability of well placement decisions and ensures timely interventions to prevent operational failures. This review discusses the principles of geomechanics in horizontal drilling, the importance of stress distribution, and the application of rock mechanics in optimizing well trajectories. Additionally, it explores how geomechanical modeling reduces drilling risks, improves operational efficiency, and ensures safety in challenging environments. Real-world case studies highlight the successful application of these models in various geosteering operations, demonstrating their effectiveness in improving well stability and drilling performance. As technology continues to advance, future research is expected to focu

Geomechanical, Modeling, Horizontal, Well placement

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