OpenLab is now used as the front-end for running advanced coiled tubing (CT) simulations, developed in the research project "Towards Autonomous Coiled Tubing Operations". An alpha version of the CT simulator is already running in OpenLab, and coiled tubing simulations can be included in later versions of OpenLab.

Coiled tubing is widely used for well intervention, plug and abandonment (P&A), and coiled tubing drilling. Compared with jointed pipe drilling, CT operations still rely heavily on manual decision-making, and the level of automation has great potential to be developed further towards autonomy. More efficient CT operations are key to reducing costs, operational risks, and emissions.

The project "Towards Autonomous Coiled Tubing Operations" (2025–2028) is led by NORCE, in collaboration with the University of Stavanger (UiS) and TU Clausthal in Germany. The project is financed by the Research Council of Norway and the user partners Aker BP, ConocoPhillips, Equinor, Harbour Energy, and TotalEnergies.

The project is a Collaborative and Knowledge-building Project with the RCN, with the purpose of developing new knowledge and generate research competence needed by society or the business sector to address important societal challenges.

Advanced simulation models, accessible through OpenLab

A central part of the project is the development of a transient hydro-mechanical simulation model for CT operations. The model includes transient multiphase flow (liquid, gas, and particles), transient temperature in the flow line, tubing, annulus, and near-well formation, transient torque and drag, counter-torque from downhole motors, dynamic buckling limits, and tubing elongation from tension and temperature. It also models the flow through the tubing on the reel.

In the research project, OpenLab plays an important role by providing a web-based front-end for configuring and running these simulations. Users can configure CT-specific parameters such as the reel and topside CT equipment, and the well architecture and downhole tools, including the motor, and then run and monitor the simulation directly in the web client. This builds on the same infrastructure that has made OpenLab Drilling a widely used tool for research, education, and technology qualification worldwide.

Access and future releases

During the project period, the CT simulator in OpenLab will be available to project participants under a license agreement, and to researchers, students, and collaboration partners in the project.

Looking ahead, the project will use OpenLab as the environment for real-time model calibration and for developing and testing an autonomous control system integrated with the CT simulator. This follows the same path that OpenLab has already demonstrated in drilling automation: develop and test in OpenLab first, then move towards higher Technology Readiness Levels in later developments outside theKnowledge Builring Project.