【ECF Weekly】Sun Huanquan Leads Shale Oil Development Review
ECF China Shale Week Report - May 3, 2025
【Sun Huanquan Leads Shale Oil Development Review in Shengli】 On April 24, Sun Huanquan, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and chief scientist of Sinopec, visited Shengli Oilfield to investigate shale oil exploration and development. During a dynamic analysis meeting, experts from Shengli and Sinopec's exploration institutes discussed production trends and future strategies. Sun emphasized strengthening fundamental research, accurate data collection, and developing fine geological models. He called for advancing unconventional technologies, enhancing recovery rates, and forming replicable, cost-effective development strategies. Liu Huimin of Shengli Oilfield pledged to integrate expert advice, reinforce collaborative innovation, and improve research-application synergy to further shale oil progress. Exploration & Production 【Changqing Drills Nation’s First 2500m CBM Horizontal Well】 On April 23, Changqing Oilfield completed China’s first 2500-meter ultra-long horizontal coalbed methane (CBM) well, setting three national records for horizontal section length, single-run drilling, and open-hole length. This marks a major breakthrough in CBM development under complex geological conditions. As the leading developer in the Ordos Basin, Changqing overcame technical challenges like weak structures and borehole instability through integrated geologic-engineering optimization. The project applied proprietary technologies, high-efficiency drilling methods, and customized cementing solutions, boosting drilling safety and efficiency. So far, 50 horizontal wells have been drilled, producing over 190 million cubic meters of gas. 【China Launches Deep Fault Drilling in Red River Zone】 China has officially launched its most challenging fault science drilling project at the Red River Fault in Yuanyang County, Yunnan. The project features the country’s deepest drilling depth, highest technical difficulty, and most extensive observation program. Over 18 months, it will drill a 3,000-meter main borehole and an 800-meter pilot borehole to collect deep core samples and conduct in-situ geophysical and geochemical observations. The initiative aims to build a core repository and lab, offering critical insights into the deep structure and seismic behavior of the Red River Fault Zone. Technology & Equipment 【Baoshi Develops China’s First Titanium Alloy Coiled Tubing】 Baoshi Pipe has successfully trial-produced China National Petroleum Corporation’s first titanium alloy coiled tubing, marking a major breakthrough in high-end energy pipe technology. Designed for harsh environments like deep-sea and ultra-deep wells, the tubing features high strength, light weight (43% lighter than steel), superior corrosion resistance, and fatigue resistance. It is suitable for long-term use in highly corrosive conditions such as hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide-rich fields. The project team overcame key technical challenges in cold forming, laser welding, and protective annealing, ensuring the tubing meets performance demands across drilling, completion, and oil-gas transport. 【 Inner Mongolia Seeks Major CBM Innovation Proposals】 On April 24, the Science and Technology Department of Inner Mongolia issued a notice soliciting major innovation demands for coalbed methane (CBM) development and utilization. The initiative aims to align with regional resource conditions and support breakthroughs that enable industrial application, strengthening the region’s role as a national energy base. Relevant institutions, including universities and enterprises, must submit proposals through designated authorities by May 9, 2025. Submissions must include a sealed summary form and a Word version of the demand document. Contact details and templates are provided to facilitate participation.
