The Kariman-1 well was originally drilled in 1967 targeting Jurassic formations at a depth of 3,069m and, in 2006, BMB Munai’s subsidiary deepened the well to 3,361m, penetrating upper Triassic formation and 7m of the middle Triassic formation.
Once middle Triassic formation was pierced, abnormally high pressure and difficult well construction design rendered it impossible for BMB Munai to continue further drilling, the company said.
The company perforated the upper Triassic pay zone and realized stable production of approximately 52bpd prior to commencement of sidetrack drilling.
In August 2010, the company started a sidetrack well, targeting middle Triassic layers.
The sidetrack well was drilled to a depth of 3,521m and the company experienced significant oil shows and high pressure during drilling which allowed penetration of only 160m of middle Triassic formations.
The current production rate of 925bpd is quoted for the choke of 14mm, set at the wellhead.
BMB Munai is engaged in the exploration and test production of crude oil and natural gas in western Kazakhstan.
