In a groundbreaking development for helium exploration, Pulsar Helium Inc. has announced a significant milestone at their Topaz project in Minnesota.
At 2:05 AM CST on February 28th, the Jetstream #1 appraisal well reached a total depth of 2,200 feet (671 meters), marking a pivotal moment in helium exploration at the Company’s flagship Topaz project.
Exciting helium concentrations encountered at the Topaz project
Prior to reaching total depth, the drilling operation unearthed promising signs of helium between depths of 1,750 to 2,200 feet (533 – 671 meters).
The concentrations observed were staggering, with helium levels peaking at an impressive 12.4%, as confirmed by on-site mass spectrometer measurements.
Natural flow of helium-rich gas
Upon reaching total depth, the well underwent conditioning with air to facilitate the removal of residual drill fluid.
Subsequently, the well commenced a natural flow of helium-rich gas, an event witnessed at 6:30 AM CST as the gas surged to the surface.
Over a five-hour clean-up period, the mudlog gas composition exhibited a notable increase from 3.7% to 5.1% helium.
The geological composition remained uniform along the well, alternating between troctolite and anorthosite, both types being mafic igneous rocks with occasional fractures.
Pulsar’s President & CEO, Thomas Abraham-James, emphasised the significance of the results: “This is an outstanding result. I am delighted that helium has been identified in the Jetstream #1 appraisal well.
“It is a big day for helium exploration, confirming the original discovery in the new jurisdiction of Minnesota. I look forward to keeping the market updated with further results as they are received.”
Because of circulation and returns loss during drilling, the exact depth of the gas shows cannot be determined until the full set of open-hole wireline logs is gathered and processed by Baker Hughes.
Baker Hughes conducted logging on-site yesterday, and the data now needs processing. Once the logging programme is finished, the well will be temporarily suspended for flow testing, and then the rig will be released and demobilised.
Path forward and regulatory compliance
Notably, the drilling at Jetstream #1 ended 50 feet higher than the planned total depth of 2,250 feet (686 meters) due to abnormally high winter temperatures and impending Spring Load Restrictions on local road systems.
A well testing package is planned to be assembled on Jetstream #1 to carry out a flow testing and pressure build-up programme. Additionally, it will gather pressurised gas samples for laboratory analysis once road conditions permit heavy traffic to resume.
In adherence to the State of Minnesota’s exploratory boring regulations, Jetstream #1 is under the oversight of the Minnesota Department of Health. Notably, the department visited the site and confirmed that Jetstream #1 is in full compliance with the state’s regulations.
The successful progress at the Jetstream #1 appraisal well underscores the immense potential of the Topaz project.
With promising helium concentrations, Pulsar Helium is poised to make significant strides in helium exploration and production, promising a bright future for the helium supply chain.
