Modeling and Online Optimization of Hard Rock Drilling for Advanced Geothermal Systems

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Due to the depth of hot rock in most regions of Canada, the economic development of geothermal resources remains limited. Recent successful pilots of shallow, low temperature, geothermal energy production have validated the technology necessary for new generations of closed-loop geothermal systems, however, economic electricity production relies on the efficient drilling of igneous basement rock. There is significant experience in drilling softer sedimentary rock, but there is a gap in knowledge and experience in drilling deep wells through hard granitic formations. Allowing access to these hot basement thermal reservoirs would allow for widespread, economic development of geothermal systems. In partnership with Eavor Technology, Inc, this project aims to develop and validate (1) a hard-rock drilling model and (2) combine this model with existing, validated drillstring dynamics models to (3) develop a digital twin of a hard rock drilling system which may be used for optimization, system monitoring, and automation. Additionally, (4) fluid and thermal properties of high flow rate fluids will be investigated and (5) a data-driven model will be developed, compared, and combined with the physics derived model to extend the model capabilities. Over the course of this project, three Ph.D. students, one postdoctoral fellow, and one research associate will be trained.