Published on: 07/31/2025
The PWDa’s automation module is part of a digital twin-based solution developed by ESSS O&G and Petrobras that optimizes drilling operations by providing real-time optimal setpoints direct to automated drilling control systems (ADCS) based on physics simulation and AI. A new project objective aims to add an automated contingency layer to the solution, allowing it not only to identify problems but also to respond to them, representing a significant step forward in the automation and optimization of drilling processes.
Throughout July, three key events marked progress for PWDa’s automation module across different fronts: defining automatic responses to drilling anomalies, conducting integration tests with control systems, and preparing the system for offshore deployment aboard drilling vessels. These strategic meetings aim to strengthen technical integration between ESSS O&G and its partners while consolidating critical steps toward fully automated offshore operations.
On July 1st and 2nd, in Florianópolis, Brazil, the second PWDa’s Automation Module for Contingency Technical Meeting was held, marking a collaborative R&D milestone between ESSS and Petrobras. The meeting brought together experts from both organizations to focus on the Contingency Module, an essential feature under development that aims to provide predefined action flowcharts to automated drilling control systems (ADCS) to resolve operational anomalies before they escalate.
With this module, PWDa evolves from a monitoring system into a fully responsive one, executing corrective and mitigative actions for fluid losses, kicks, washouts, stuck pipes, among other operational problems. This ability to react immediately to critical situations not only reduces response time but also enhances operational safety and stability. The meeting also included deep technical discussions and alignment on the strategies that will be automated in upcoming phases of the R&D project.
As part of the project’s ongoing development, a Features Integration Test (FIT) was conducted on July 3rd in Florianópolis, connecting PWDa with the NOVOS (ADCS – Automated Drilling Control System). During the test, in the presence of Petrobras technicians and NOV’s Brazil Sales Manager, a drilling operation was simulated with key PWDa’s automation modules activated: Tripping Speed, Pump Restart/Stop, and Drilling Optimization. The demonstration highlighted the maturity of the integration and proved the system’s ability to operate in coordination with an established automation platform.
To close the month, the IT Integration Workshop was held on July 17th and 18th in Macaé, Brazil, focused on the infrastructure required to bring PWDa’s automation module into a real operational offshore environment.
On July 17th, the meeting took place at HMH Brasil’s facilities and included representatives from HMH, Foresea, Petrobras, and ESSS. The group defined each company’s technical responsibilities to enable installation of the system aboard the Norbe IX drillship, which uses HMH’s ADCS platform.
On July 18th, attention turned to the Takatsugu J drillship operated by Etesco, which runs the ADCS system by NOV. This second session gathered NOV, Etesco, Petrobras, and ESSS to address technical requirements, network integration, and deployment timelines.
More than just the evolution of a system, PWDa’s automation module reflects the convergence of advanced technology and inter-company collaboration. The July events demonstrated that building an automated, safe, and effective drilling solution requires solid technical foundations and a shared vision.
As the project moves toward field implementation, ESSS O&G reinforces its commitment to technical excellence and the future of offshore automation.
Follow our updates to track the latest milestones in the PWDa journey and discover how simulation and automated control are shaping the next generation of offshore operations.
