Experimental Study of the Stability of Multilateral Well Junctions using Point Load Test

The strength of rock formation around multilateral (ML) well junctions is
important. The objectives of this project were to determine the strength of
cylindrical shape rock samples drilled with different geometrical configuration
(inclination angle of lateral hole) and different orientation using Point Load Test
(PLT). Vertical compressive forces were applied to several cylindrical shape rock
samples that were placed between platen at the Point Load Tester. Maximum
applied load were recorded and the index rock strength of each sample was
recorded. Results proved that the highest strength of rock were shown from the
sample drilled with the lowest inclination angle and sample drilled with horizontal
parent hole.