Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing fluids from a production zone(s) by drilling and completing multiple laterals from primary wellbore. One or more pre-formed window units are provided in a casing string before it is cemented in the well. Each unit is comprised of a housing having an inlet and two outlets, one of which forms the pre-formed window. The axes of the two outlets forms a relatively small angle (e.g. from 1.degree. to about 10.degree., preferably 3.degree.) whereby a well string will follow a gently curved path as it exits through the window. A re-entry line from the surface can be attached to the housing so that a work-over string can be lowered into a selective lateral without having to shut-in production from the other laterals.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for forming a hole within an unconsolidated hydrocarbonaceous fluid-bearing formation, installing a slotted liner and gravel packing the liner in a single trip into the formation. The apparatus includes a drill bit for drilling a pilot hole; a housing mounted above the pilot hole drill bit; means for enlarging a pilot hole, the pilot hole -enlarging means pivotally mounted within the housing and capable of pivoting between a retracted position and an expanded position for enlarging a pilot hole to a diameter larger than the pilot hole and sufficient for gravel packing; a slotted liner having a first end and a second end, the first end joined to the apparatus above the housing; and a drive assembly joined to the second end of the slotted liner.

Abstract: A process for installing a gravel pack within an unconsolidated hydrocarbonaceous fluid-bearing formation.