Sidetracking
Sidetracking is the workover term for drilling a directional hole to bypass an obstruction in the well that cannot be removed or damage to the well, such as collapsed casing that cannot be repaired.
Sidetracking is also done to deepen a well or to relocate the bottom of the well in a more productive zone, which is horizontally removed from the original well.
To sidetrack, a hole (called a window) is made in the casing above the obstruction. The well is then plugged with cement below the window. Special drill tools, such as a whipstock, bent housing, or bent sub are used to drill off at an angle from the main well. This new hole is completed in the same manner as any well after a liner is set.
Potential Hazards and Solutions:
- The hazards and solutions associated with sidetracking are similar to drilling.
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7-3. What is the purpose of sidetracking during workover operations?
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