Drillstem Testing
Drillstem Testing (DST) is a procedure to determine the productive capacity, pressure, permeability or extent of an oil or gas reservoir. Drillstem testing is essentially a flow test, which is performed on isolated formations of interest to determine the fluids present and the rate at which they can be produced. Typical drillstem tests consist of several flow and shut in (pressure buildup) periods, during which reservoir data is recorded. Depending on the predefined requirements and goals for the test, it may be of short (an hour or less) or long (several days or weeks) duration.
Applications of drillstem testing:
- Open hole
- Cased hole
- Fluid loss control & well control
- Closed chamber tests
- Well Stimulation
- Combo DST / TCP
Benefits of drillstem testing:
- Accelerate exploration timelines
- Prove reserves by producing hydrocarbons
- Lower finding costs, reduce risk
- Maximize available reserves

