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HP, = 25 (3)
7
= 37.3 (if only impeller diameter is changed)Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
.
HP, = 25 (33)
1450,
= 44 (if only RPM’s are changed)
Example 2: How much pressure should you have on the hydrocyclone if 9.5 ppg,
mud is being used?
P = 75 ft x 0.052 x 9.5
= 37 psi
2:3Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
‘XIIL_BOP ACCUMULATORS
Usable hydraulic fluid, to operate the blow out preventer equipment, is affected by accumulator
pressure and nitrogen precharge. The following rules apply to sizing accumulator (volume
required for nitrogen and hydraulic fluid) and for running a quick check on average nitrogen
precharge of system (without having to drain hydraulic fluid back into accumulator storage
reservoir and individually check each bottle, which is time consuming).
Rule 1: Ifthe nitrogen precharge is at the correct (recommended) precharge multiply the sizing
factor (see below) times the fluid required to operate a specified number of BOP
functions to arrive at required total accumulator volume.
Minimum
Accumulator ‘Recommended ‘Accumulator
Operating Precharge Useable Size
Pressure Pressure Biuid_ Faciort
1500 150 18 8
2000 1000 wB 3
3000 1000 12 2
“Based on minimum discharge pressure of 1200 psi
Cx
u
Bose Bene Bo
A * meg
Prec Minima reseun
$2 Biecrarge Op
rast
Rule 2: A quick check can be made on the average nitrogen precharge of the complete BOP
accumulator system with the following steps.
Note: Pipe out of the hole and blind ram closed and locked.
1. Read accumulator pressure (i.e., 3000 psi).
2. Close off hydraulic line going to air and electric accumulator pumps.
3. Pick up test joint and position in BOP’s. Operate one or more of BOP functions
(ie., closed hydril and opened Type F valve)
4. Read new manifold pressure (now drawdown because of operating BOPE, ice.,
1800 psi.
Calculate fluid required to operate BOP functions (i.¢., 29.94 gal),
6. Calculate average nitrogen precharge of accumulator system.
13:1Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
‘XI._BOP ACCUMULATORS (cont.)
Formula(s): (cont.)
¥ imum Discharge Pressure
(Accum.Press. - Min. Disch. Press.
(gal)
Vy = Vyx2
p= (Wol. Removed)(Starting Accum. Press.)(Final Accum. Press.)
bd (V,)(Starting - Final Accum. Pressure)
Vz = Total hydraulic fluid and nitrogen to base accumulator volume sizing on
V, = Volume required to operate BOPE that accumulator sizing will be based on
‘Accum, Press.= Pressure rating of accumulator system (or operating pressure)
1
Nitrogen
Precharge = Should be 1000 psi for 2000 and 3000 psi system. It should be 750 psi
for a 1500 psi accumulator system.
Minimum Discharge
Pressure = This is the recommended minimum discharge pressure to base design on
(200 psi above nitrogen precharge)
P, = The average nitrogen precharge in system (calculated after operating
BOPE and measuring drawdown)
Example 1; Calculate the required accumulator system if the design was based on
operating the following BOPE and having 50% SF; 3000 psi accumulator.
BOPE Close Open
1, Hydril, GK, 13-5/8, 10,000 psi (bag) 29.35 20.96
2, CIW, Type “U", 13-5/8, 10,000 psi (ram) 11.6 10.90
1, CIW, Type "F*, 4", 10,000 psi ydv.) 0.59 0.59
50% Reserve EY
Total (Hydraulic Fluid) 111 gal
Vy = (111 gat) 200 Psy 1200
1000 psi (3000 - 1200)‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIII__BOP ACCUMULATORS (cont.)
Example 1: (cont.)
(111 gal) (2)*
222 gal (nitrogen + hydraulic fluid)
*Note: The sizing factor comes from the pressure side of the above equation.
Example 2: Using the above accumulator system (222 gal/3000
psi). Calculate the average nitrogen precharge in
the system after the system had been in use several
days. Given: (from steps in Rule 2): drawdown
pressure = 1800 psi after removing 29.94 gal of
hydraulic fluid (operated hydril and Type F choke
valve),
(29.94)(3000)(1800)
(222)(3000 - 1800)
= 607 psi (average nitrogen precharge in
accumulator system)
Note: This system should have 1000 psi nitrogen precharge, and this
lower precharge pressure lowers the amount of usable fluid that is
available to operate the BOPE. To find out which bottle(s) are
low in nitrogen precharge the hydraulic fluid has to be drained
back into accumulator storage reservoir and each bottle checked
with a pressure gauge. Use clean nitrogen to pressure the bottles
back to 1000 psi.Murchison Drilling Schools, Ine.
‘XIV._KICK TOLERANCE
By utilizing known rig data and a series of formulas (in which part are rules-of-thumb) kick
tolerance can be calculated for several "what-if" situations. A leakoff test sometimes leads to
false security unless the size kick is considered. Kick size greatly affects control capability and
in fact itis the number one limitation to control capability. ‘The size kick a drilling crew allows
is a direct reflection of motivation and well control awareness of rig personnel and places a high
priority on rig-selection. When kick tolerance, based on a realistic kick size, is calculated to
be below one pound per gallon (1 ppg) an operator may consider running casing to prevent lost
circulation (the greatest associated problem to well control)
Rule: To evaluate kick tolerance choose two or three hypothetical (realistic) pit gains
and: calculate DC annular volume (formulas); evaluate whether the kick is large
enough to cover the drill collars and part of the drill pipe or not--after making
this determination use either formula 7 or formula 6 to calculate length of influx;
calculate estimated shut in casing pressure (formula 8); calculate maximum
allowable pressure (formula 1); calculate bottom hole pressure maximum
allowable (formula 2); calculate bottom hole pressure maximum mud weight
equivalent (formula 3); and calculate kick tolerance (formula 4). Make decision
about the safety of drilling operation related to well control (taking a kick that
would break the formation down somewhere in open hole),
Formula(s)
1. Max Allo Press = (L.O.T. - MW) .052 x Shoe TVD
2. BHP Max = (TVD - Len InFx)(.052)(MW) + (Max Allo P) + (Length Influx x 0.1))
3. BHP MWE = _BHP Max
TVD x 052
4. Kick Tolerance = (BHPMWE - MW)
5. DC Ann Vol, = (it Size *= DCOD’) DC Len
1000
it Gain - Ann (de) Vol) 1000
6. Len Inf, ane + DC Len)
‘Bit Size *- DPOD*)
1. Len ifhkegg = (Pit Sais) 1000
it Size* - DCOD*)
8. SICP = (SIDPP + Len Influx (Mudgrad - Influx Grad)) sk
9. Equiv MW Shoe = (Hole MW + sICP )
0.052 x Shoe TVD
10. Shoe Pressure = (Form Press - (Hydrostatic Pressure below Shoe))
14:1Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIV. KICK TOLERANCE (cont.)
Where:
Max Allo Press
L.o.T.
MW
Shoe TVD
BHP Max
TVD
Len Infl
Max Allo P
BHP MWE
Kick
Tolerance
DC Ann Vol
Bit Size
DC Size
DC Len
Len Inf a
Len Inflxe pun
sIcP
Mud Grad
Infux Grad
Equiv. MW Shoe
Shoe Pressure
Form Press
= Maximum Allowable pressure, psi
= Leak off test mud weight, ppg
= Mud weight in hole, ppg
= True vertical depth of shoe, ft
= Bottom hole pressure maximum (a partial step in
kick tolerance calculation), psi
= True vertical depth (TD), ft
= Length of influx, ft
= Maximum allowable pressure based on leak off
test at shoe, psi
= Bottom hole pressure mud weight equivalent
(partial calculation in kick tolerance program), ppg
= The maximum kick intensity (Kill wt.) that can be
taken for the size (pit gain) kick and the
L.O.T. calculated, ppg
= Drill collar annular volume, bb!
= Bit outside diameter in inches, in
= Drill collar OD, in
= Drill collar length, ft
= Length of influx in drill pipe and de annulus, ft
= Length of influx in drill collar annulus, ft
= Shut in casing pressure, psi
= Mud gradient (MW x 0.052), psi/ft
= Influx gradient (assumed to be 0.1 psi/ft), psi/ft
= Equivalent mud weight at shoe based on shut in
casing pressure, ppg
= Pressure applied to a casing shoe, psi
= Formation pressure (hydrostatic pressure +
SIDPP), psi
BRBRERRRRKKLKRHRR RK Hkh Hh benabBnbhnnannnnnnunnunana:‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
‘XIV._KICK TOLERANCE (cont.)
Example 1: Calculate the kick tolerance for a 26 barrel kick.
Given:
BitOD —-- 8.5 inches
DC OD - 6.5 inches
DPOD —- 5.0 inches
DC Len - 720 feet
PitGain - 26 barrels
TVD Shoe - 8,000 feet
TVD TD — - 12,500 feet
MW Hole - 14 ppg
MWL.O.T. - 16.7 ppg
SIDPP 650 psi
eg
1000
21.60 bbl
Size Kick = 26 bbl; therefore part of the kick is above
drill collars
Ter Inflxy, = (26 - 21.6) 1000 +720
850
= 813 feet
sICP = 650 psi + 813 (14 x .052 - 0.1)
1161 psi
Equiv. MW Shoe = 14+ 161 psi
(0.052 x 8000)
= 16.802
Max Allo Press = (16.7 - 14) .052 x 8000 ft
= 1123 psi
BHP Max = (12,500-813)(0.05)(MW)+(1123)-+(813 x 0.1)
= 9713 psi
BHP MWE aos
12,500 x .052
= 14.9 ppg
14:3‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIV._KICK TOLERANCE (cont.)
Example 1: (cont.)
Comparing a 10 bbl kick with the above 26 bbl kick.
Size Length Maximum = BHP BHP. Kick
Kick Influx SICD ~—SIDPP_-— Allowable. += Max. +©=MWE Tolerance.
10 333-826 650 1123 10.014 15.4 14
26 813.1161 650 1123 9713 14.9 09
*Note: A 10 bbl kick could be taken but a 26 bbl would probably break the shoe down,
14:4Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XV: WATER HAMMER EFFECT
‘A well that is flowing with great intensity (high flowrate) can cause high hammer force which
may damage BOPE or wellhead. However, most kicks that are detected early and that are not
too much underbalanced (<1.5 ppg kick intensity) will have only minimum hammer effect on
equipment. The once recommended soft closure to minimize the water hammer effect has lost
some of its popularity and many operators are recommending hard closures to minimize kick
size. Kick size has the greatest effect on kick control capability. The maximum rate of closure
to prevent most of the hammer effect depends on how fast the closure pressure wave travels,
through the mud and the well depth. If the speed of sound in mud is taken to be 1000 fu/sec
then the round trip time for the closure pressure wave is:
2.x Measured Depth
= 20 sec in the example below
1000
Time (sec) =
If the well is closed in (less than 20 seconds) then the chance for a severe hammer is high. For
shallow kicks this time is greatly reduced.
Rule: Calculate the hammer pressure utilizing the annular velocity and mud weight and
multiply this times the cross-sectional area of pressure exposure.
Formulas:
|
1
Fp | tanulrVelocin G/M)
Phase = (APhanine)(BOP Size?-DPOD*)(0.7854)
je
je
le
AP honner & AF pinner = Pressure and force created from rapid closure in a
water base mud. (Note: oil muds are more compres-
sible and therefore have less hammer effect.)
Ann. Vel = Annular velocity in feet per minute
MW = Mud weight (ppg)
BOP Size = ID of BOP’s (inches)
DPOD == Drillpipe outside diameter (inches)‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XV: WATER HAMMER EFFECT (cont.)
Given:
ge
stmeereg,
Bring Kick to a “Halt” Gradually
to Prevent Shocking Formation and BOPE
BOPE Diameter = 13-5/8
Hole Size 8-1/2" below 9-5/8 casing 47 Ib/ft
Drillpipe Diameter = 5"
Ann Cap Around dp = .049 bbl/ft
MW 13 ppg
Flow Rate 20 bbl/minute
Well Depth 10,000 feet
Annular Velocity 20 bbl/min = 408.2 fpm
049
1 Ax a
Hammer = ——~ (408.2)V¥13 = 541
pat =
or
Hammer = 541 (.7854)(13.6257-5?) = 68,256 Ibs
This hammer force will be exerted on the wellhead for a few seconds.
15:2Murchison Drilling Schools, Ine
XVL_SHALES
Shales cause hole and drilling problems when they lack or lose stability. Shales lose stability
because of: 1) hydration; 2) surge and swabbing; 3) hydrostatic underbalanced conditions
related to tectonic forces and/or compaction (de-watering) trend interruption; and 4) erosion
related to mud and hydraulic practices.
Rule 1:
Hy4ration of shales can be caused by one or more of the following reasons:
a) Surface hydration is greatly influenced by the bentonitic content (MBT) of the
shale. High MBT shales will have quick hydration and lose stability immediately.
‘An example would be tight hole on first trip through newly made hole in
bentonitic and/or gumbo shale. Surface hydration can be minimized by reducing
hole exposure (getting-in and getting-out) with good optimization techniques.
Surface hydration can be prevented or minimized with oil muds and inhibited
muds such as Potassium Chloride. Surface hydration can be minimized by
encapsulation (coating) with mud materials such as polymers. Generally the best
rule is to get in and get out before hole stability is lost; and in high MBT shales,
this could be within seven days (plus or minus).
b) Osmotic hydration is caused by differences in activity between fluid in pore
spaces of shale and the mud’s filtrate and/or water phase salinity. Osmotic
hydration generally requires more time than surface hydration. Therefore, it can
be minimized by optimizing drilling program to within safe exposure time. Safe
exposure time is arrived at best by area knowledge. This area knowledge is
enhanced if field people will report (document) the first indications of undrilled
shale on shaker. As a general rule, osmotic hydration can best be prevented by
the use of a balanced activity oil-type mud.
c) Hydration can also take place in fractured shales and along permeable bedding
planes (i.e., sand and shale). Capillary action can speed up the hydration process
in hair-line fractures. ‘The hydration in fractured shales and along bedding planes
can be minimized by making sure mud has one or more of the following qualities:
1) good colloidal content-cake building properties; 2) good plugging properties
which comes from asphalt-type materials; 3) good encapsulation properties; and
4) in some cases an oil type mud (some fractured shales do not respond well to
il mud(s) - but area knowledge should play an important part in over all material
or system selection. As a general rule a mud with good colloidal content, that
has an asphalt additive present, will satisfy most fractured shale problems.
Minimizing directional problems, when drilling fractured shales, will minimize
the associated mechanical shale problems of ledges and mechanically knocked-off
shale.
Rule 2:
Shales will lose stability if tripping is not optimized and minimized. Surge and
swabbing, related to poor tripping practices, poor bit selection and poor drill
string inspection and handling practices, will decrease safe working days in a
16:1
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»XVL_SHALES (cont.)
shale. For example, a "ten day shale” can lose its stability in five days if a series
of string washouts take place because too many trips are required. Long running
bits can be justified in many instances because of better hole stability regardless
of economic cost per foot calculations.
In one drilling operation, that required a section of evaporites (anhydrite, salt,
marls, limestone) to be drilled the hydrostatic-sensitive marl could not be
stabilized until long running diamond bit were used. This minimized surge and
ballooning of plastic shale and enhanced its stability. As a general rule optimize
drilling operation to keep pipe tripping to a minimum and this will minimize shale
stability problems.
Rule 3:
Hydrostatic pressure loss or lack of can cause some shales to lose stability.
Examples of these shales would be the squeezing mar] associated with evaporites
and the sloughing shale associated with pressure transition zones, where
compaction (dewatering) trends have been interpreted. The squeezing marls
requires hydrostatically balancing before drilling operations can be resumed.
Surge will balloon these plastic shales, therefore tripping should be minimized
and closely supervised. Sloughing shale, very prevalent in shale transition zones
can be minimized if mud weight is adjusted to what the formation pore pressure
is in the shale.
Formation pressure can be calculated from d’exponents, shale densities or logs.
Sloughing shale usually takes place near bottom (newest hole) and isn’t related
to hydration or over exposure. For example, a driller picks-up to make a
connection and after picking-up a new joint, he cannot engage kelly-drive bushing
because the bottom of the hole is filled with sloughing shale. This shale isn’t
over exposed but simply loses stability because the trapped water is pressured in
the shale and the trapped water keeps the shale matrix from compacting and
gaining rock strength. Consequently, the shale “relieves itself into the hole.
‘The greater part of the overburden pressure (1.0 psi/ft) is supported by the
trapped fluid instead of being more evenly divided between matrix and fluid.
Once a shale sloughs the driller has to exercise patience until the sloughing is
complete. How long a shale sloughs in a particular section is related to the shales
angle of repose (dip and support) and is very unpredictable. Keep reaming hole
until the driller can lower the bit without down drag or a hole bridge. The driller
has to make sure he keeps the problem below him-in other words don’t drill
ahead until hole stability is gained. At this stage it requires viscous pills with
high mud yield values, and sometimes weighted pills to unload the large pieces
(and volume) of sloughing shale, The following general rules apply to squeezing
and sloughing shale. For squeezing marl, balance hydrostatically before drilling
ahead. Many parameters can be used as guidelines to evaluate the hydrostatic
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16:2 ‘
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tMurchison Drilling Schools, Ine
XVI._SHALES (cont.)
balance (j.e., pressure and stroke relationship above and adjacent to the shale,
torque, drag, etc.). The mud to drill squeezing marls should either be salt
saturated with excess encapsulator or an oil mud. In both cases, a hydrostatic
balance has to be maintained. For sloughing shale the mud weight should have
been adjusted while the pressurized shale (transition zone shale) was being drilled.
After it sloughs the main priority switches to unloading the hole and waiting until
the sloughing stops. Mud weight increase and water loss reductions only help at
this point by aiding hole cleaning.
Rule 4:
Erosion of shale can cause loss of hole stability. Bridges form near or adjacent
eroded hole because of unsupported ledges being mechanically knocked-off and
because of hole cleaning (a change in annular velocity at the eroded spot causes
the cuttings to “fall out” and create bridge). To avoid this problem design the
mud and/or hydraulic program to minimize turbulent flow. The yield value can
be adjusted to help suppress turbulence if the pump rate is optimized at correct
level. Off bottom circulating practices should be closely observed when in shale
sections to prevent washed-out hole. The pipe should be reciprocated almost
constantly when in shales. As a general rule, the flowrate should be adjusted
between 30 and 50 gpm/inch of bit diameter. If the turbulent flow calculation
indicates turbulent flow, next to drillpipe, either the yield value should be raised
or the flowrate adjusted to the lower side of the hydraulic range. Polymer muds
enhance or improve hydraulics because they shear thin inside the drill string and
thicken-up in the annulus to help suppress turbulence. The flatter flow profile
aids hole cleaning.
Note: Many drilling people use sloughing and heaving shale designation
(naming) interchangeably. However, in the discussion above
heaving shale is a shale that has been over exposed (which means
that hydration has been given time to take place), It is usually a
problem off bottom because the hydration process(es) do require
time. On the other-hand sloughing shale is a problem on bottom
(it usually takes place immediately after drilling a kelly down)
Sloughing shale has the water present because of an interruption
in compaction trend--not because of hydration--and it sloughs
because of weak rock matrix strength and pressure relief.
Formulas:
The following formulas are useful in evaluating 1) hole restriction;
2) turbulence which causes erosion and mechanical shale problems;
and 3) pressure to place below a closed BOP to equate to an
equivalent mud weight increase down the hole (to solve a
squeezing shale problem)
16:3Where:
ee = The pressure difference between clean hole and a restricted
hole (strokes have to be same to make comparison)
ee = The pressure recorded with the hole clean and unrestricted
SPMocan
The strokes per minute recorded with Pray (strokes/pressure
are recorded together)
SPMyayess = The strokes per minute recorded with the annulus restricted
2) —_83.1 ___ [py « pv? + 722(¥W)(OD-IDy MW,
(OD-1D) MW
Where: VC = Critical velocity ft/min
oD = Hole size
ID = Drillpipe OD
MW = Maud weight (ppg)
PV = Plastic viscosity
YV_ = Yield value (point)
Based on 2100 Reynolds Number
_ (Voy(OD? - 1D’
GPM,
. 2A.
x Flowrate (gpm)
(opy - Dy
Annular velocity ft/min
jg
ie
le
id
=
"
GPM to reach critical velocity
= (MWiq, - MW) 0.052 X TVD ve
AP ae
AMW a5 MM ca aereiea es
aie XO.
(at squeezing or pressured shale)
16:4XVI.
Where:
Example 2:
Example 1:
‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
|. SHALES (cont.)
AP pa = Max pressure that can be applied at top
(under BOP) with shoe limitation
AMWes = Max equivalent MW at shale depth with the
shoe limiting the surface pressure
MW = Leak off test mud weight
MWypie = MW (ppg) in hole
TVD = True vertical depth (ft) of shoe
TVDsae = True vertical depth (ft) of shale
|
A shale squeezed at 9,500 feet; the shoe is at a |
7,500 feet and the leak-off-test MW is 17.5 ppg; a
MWyae = 16.0 ppg. What is the maximum pressure tore
that can be applied under the BOP with the shoe
L.0.T. MW limitations? What is the equivalent
mud weight (AMW,.,) at the squeezing shale depth?
AP nas = (17.5 - 16) )0.052 x 7500 ft sggye
= 585 psi (based on leak off test at shoe)
AMWic => 107 a
9,500 x 0.052
17.2 ppg @ 9,500 ft (depth of shale)
How much shale restriction do you have in the hole?
Given:
Paean = 2,000 psi; SPMien, = 80 SPM;
SPMyauicet = 77; Prsvicea = 2100 psi.
ny
B = 2000 |—
me = 200 (5)
= 1853 psi (clean hole reference at lower strokes)
oP, = 2100 psi - 1853 psi
= 247 psi restriction due to shale
16:5Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVI_SHALES (cont.)
Example 3:
16:6
What are the new critical velocity if changes are made in
flowrate and mud? Given: MW = 9.5; Pv = 10 cps;
Yv = 4; GPM = 350 gpm; Va = 182; Ve = 172; GPM,
32. Changes: 1) GPM = 330 (flowrate change); 2)
Yv = 6 (mud change) Pv = 12
1, Flowrate decreases to 330 gpm
ve = —83:1 [19+ (107+ 722465 -5)°9.5
(8.5-5)9.5
172 fumin
24.51 x 330
(5 - 5%)
= 171 fv min (okay - not in turbulence)
Note: If annular velocity is less than critical velocity
you are not in turbulence.
2. The mud velocities (YV and PV were increase)
ve = —831 fio --iz?-72@ 85-5795]
(85-5)9.5
210 ft/min
24.51 x 350
(8.5? - 5)
= 182 f/min (okay - not in turbulence)
Note: The erosion problem could be approached
hydraulically or with mud theology changes.Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVII:_LOST CIRCULATIO!
Lost circulation is the number one drilling problem. It is the leading cause of blowouts
(uncontrolled well). It is one of the leading causes of stuck pipe and overall hole stability
problems. The approach to solving a lost circulation problem is greatly influenced by hole
interval, with references to casing depth and formation pressure, and by operating practices in
a particular area. It should be influenced to a lesser degree by material availability if losses are
anticipated in the planning stage.
‘The approaches to lost circulation are usually broken up into the following hole intervals:
Top hole - a normally pressured zone (0.465 psi/ft) with only surface or drive pipe set. The
mud weights range from 8.33 ppg (water weight) up to approximately 10 ppg (no barite). The
approaches to solving the lost problem in this hole section range from blind drilling to setting
some type of plug. Area knowledge would, hopefully, dictate the best approach. x
Abnormal pressure - an abnormally pressured zone that isn’t classified as the completion zone.
‘A deeper intermediate casing or a drilling liner would have been run and a leak off test would
have most likely been run below casing shoe and "all" pronounced okay before drilling ahead.
The overburden pressure is approximately 1.0 psi/ft and therefore compaction should be greater
as you drill deeper. If this line of reasoning is continued the cause of lost circulation in this
zone would almost always be surge related to operating practices. The approaches to solving
lost circulation in this section range from simply waiting (giving time for induced fracture to
close up) to spotting LCM pills and plugs. Waiting (giving time) and spotting LCM pills, has
generally been the best approach to solving induced loss problems.
Losses in completion zones (both normal and abnormal pressures) make up the last category of,
hole intervals. In this case the approach is hampered by the choices that are available to solve
the problem without doing permanent damage to the production zone. Contingencies outlining
the materials (or approached) that can be used should be in place. The approaches may vary
from blind drilling to non-damaging pills and plugs.
The following rules are applicable to all hole sections.
Rule 1:
‘The number one rule in lost circulation, common to all hole intervals, is to start
fluid in the annulus immediately when losses are detected. The fluid that’s added
to the annulus may be water or the mud in the active system. The decision
between mud and water should be made ahead of time. In most cases there is a
"grace period” of partial losses before total losses. It is prudent to take advantage
of this period. Measure the loss rate while circulating across the wellhead (not
the bit) and this rate will be the base number to use when attempting various
approaches to solve the loss problem.
4 u If this rule is followed the associated
problems of kicks, blowouts and stuck
pipes are greatly minimized.
Fwd ong
vy Ke SEER be Wl‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVII:_LOST CIRCULATION (cont.)
Rule 2:
‘The base mud, to suspend lost circulation material, should be very viscous. The viscosity
and overall suspension properties will minimize (reduce) drill collar and bit plugging and
make the overall LCM pill more effective. The minimum apparent viscosity should be
25 centipoises (cps). The apparent viscosity is 1/2 of the 600 RPM dial reading on the
fann viscometer. A funnel viscosity of 51 sec/qt is approximately a 25 cps apparent
viscosity. If the base mud "looks as if it could be walked on without any halo's over
your head” it’s probably about right. One of the leading causes of plugged bits and
plugged bottom hole assemblies is a base mud that is too thin. Cement that has gilsonite
in it also requires extra gel-admix to increase the cement base viscosity. This makes the
cement plug more effective and minimizes plugging of casing float equipment.
Formula:
600RPM
App. Vis. =
PP. 2
Fumn. Vis. = 26 sec/ft + 25
Where:
App. Vis = Apparent viscosity, cps
600 RPM = The 600 RPM reading on the viscometer
26 sec/ft = Funnel viscosity of water, sec/ft at 68°F
25 = App. vis., minimum viscosity
Example: The base mud has a 600 RPM reading of 60 and the Fann. Vis
is 59 sec/qt. Is this sufficient for LCM base?
600 = 60
av = ©
2
= 30 cps
FV 59 > 51
Therefore: The base mud is okay.
Rule 3:
‘An LCM pill is more effective if it accomplishes sealing, matting and bridging. A good
particle size distribution is required to meet these three goals. A blend of walnut hulls,
17:2‘XVII:_LOST CIRCULATION
Rule 3: (cont.)
cellophane flakes, and fibers will give good results. Some substitutions can be
made; however, these three products have been proven in the field and also on the
API LCM tester. Mica breaks down into sub micron solids and can be detrimental to
permeability, and therefore should not be used around production zones. Mix LCM
into a viscous base just prior to pumping it. The pill should be fresh (new) for the best
results. When an LCM pill is circulating out (to the surface) it should be routed across
the shale shaker (or in a special holding tank). Do not by-pass shaker because solids and
paleo control will be lost. When solids control is lost the mud weight will increase and
this will in turn aggravate the loss and stuck pipe problem.
Locate the Joss zone. The most effective use of LCM pills and plugs is when depth of
loss zone is known. A wire line temperature survey or a "poor boy" wireline-rag
technique can be used. A large increase in temperature will take place at the loss zone
because the mud below the loss zone has been setting in the hole and has reached a
higher static temperature. When a rag is tied on to a slick line and run in the hole the
rag will be sucked into the loss zone and the wireline will get slack in it. A depth
counter needs to be engaged during the operation. For best results in sealing a known
loss zone, a mixing sub on the end of the drill string is positioned about 100 feet above
loss zone when spotting a pill or a plug.
**Mixing sub is a culled joint of drill pipe
Mang Sut
mee that has been slotted and "orange peeled”
= fn its bottom. It is used for all LCM pills
1Be and plugs (cement, gunk, etc.)
ows Zone
Use a minimum circulating rate when drilling with losses. A minimum circulating rate
will lower the equivalent circulating density (ECD) throughout the well bore and
consequently will lower the loss rate. The ECD can also be lowered by reducing the
mud yield value, A combination of reducing flowrate and lowering yield value is more
effective. The minimum circulating rate is equal to the square root of the hole diameter
times the product of ten times the hole diameter.
Formula:
Min circ rate = 10 d/d
Where:
d = Hole diameter in inches
min circ rate = Minimum circulating rate in gallons per minute
‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVI:_LOST CIRCULATION (cont.)
Rule 5: (cont.)
Rule 6;
14
xample: The well is losing 15 barrels per hour. What is the minimum
circulating rate the driller can go to and still continue to drill
ahead? Given: hole size 8-1/2 inches.
Min. circ. rate = 10 x 8.5/8.5
= 248 gpm
The minimum circulating rate that drilling could be continued with
(to prevent bit balling, etc.)
Estimate balancing mud weight if possible. There are many cases where a
hydrostatic equilibrium can be established by adding water to the annulus. The
volume of water should be measured into the annulus. When the hole stops
taking fluid (no loss or no gain) a hydrostatic equilibrium has been reached. At
this point the length of water column is calculated. Equivalent mud weight
calculations can now be made at a few points in the hole, starting at the shoe
depth. After making these calculations a decision can be made on whether to
lower mud weight and how this task is to be accomplished. If the decision to
lower mud weight is made, the supervisor should make a decision concerning the
surface pits, where to place the bit and how many mud weight points to cut the
mud weight each circulation.
If the loss problem was caused by loss of solids control the decision is often made
to dump the surface system and clean the tank (this would be only in unweighted
mud situations), In weighted-mud zones, the decision to cut mud weight is
tougher to make, and when done a close surveillance has to be maintained. "Tru-
wate” mud balances need to be used when working with heavy muds and partic-
ularly when mud weight adjusting is done. Air as entrained gas can be the cause
of the loss problem in weighted muds and if this is the case the hydrostatic
balance needs to be made with the assistance of the pressurized mud balance
(Tru-wate).
Formulas:
ww, « L2Gw) + Derth - L IG,
Depth x 0.052 .
- MW,
Vy, = vga 2)
(MW, - MW,)
Where: MW, = Mud weight equivalent (ppg) at depth of interestMurchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
Where: (cont.
lL.
Mw,
‘XVII._LOST CIRCULATION (cont.)
= Length of water added to annulus
[
Gradient (psi/ft) of water (fresh water = 0.433 psi/ft;
sea HO = 0.455 psi/ft)
Volume of Water (bbl)
‘Annular Volume (bbI/ft)
= Depth of interest (ft)
= Gradient (psi/ft) of mud (MW x .052)
= Volume of mud to dump and volume of dilution fluid
to add to reduce mud weight (barrels)
= Final volume (total active system) desired after dilution
= Initial mud weight (ppg) before dilution
= Desired mud weight (ppg) after dilution
= Dilution fluid weight (ppg)
What is the maximum dilution necessary to reduce the mud weight
to the lowest calculated mud weight equivalent? Given: depth =
7,000 ft; 9-5/8" shoe - 3,000 ft; DP - 5", 19.5; MW - 9.5 ppg;
volume water added to reach hydrostatic equilibrium - 25 barrels;
final volume desired = 1500 bbl.
25 bbl
— 23 17 = 500 feet
0.05 bbi/ft
= (500)(0.433) + (3000-500)(9.5x0.052)
MW,
Foam 3000 x 0.052
= 9.3 ppg
MW, ~ (500)(0.433) + (7000-500)(9.5 x0.052)
peng OO.$25) + (7000-50019 50.052)
* 7000 x 0.052
= 9.4 ppg
175Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVIL._LOST CIRCULATION (cont.)
Example: (cont.)
9.3)
= 1500
(95 = 833)
= 257 bbl of mud should be dumped and then 257 bbl of
water added over one or more circulations to
reduce mud weight from 9.5 to 9.3 ppg.
Note: The hydrostatic equilibrium that was reached, after adding
25 bbl of water in the annulus, is a static equilibrium (no
ECD included). Usually the mud weight has to be lowered a
point or two lower than the equivalent mud weights calculated
from static pressures.
Rule 7:
Tf. total_losses occur estimate the fluid level. When a natural fracture is
penetrated total losses often occur. When the fluid level drops in the hole the drill
string will lose buoyancy and a gain in string weight is noted on the weight-indicator.
This change in weight-indicator weight can be used to calculate the fluid level. The
fluid level can be used to calculate the static hydrostatic equilibrium at the fracture
depth and the balancing gradient (psi/ft). If this balancing gradient (G,) is below a
fresh water gradient (0.433 psi/ft) a blind drilling or air drilling technique should be
considered. LCM pills and plugs are generally ineffective when the balancing gradient
is less than a fresh water gradient (0.433 psi/ft).
Formulas:
AW
@P,,)(1-BF)
@, - Da )MW,, x 0.052)
Dp
Where: Da = Depth of fluid level (ft)
The increase in string weight on the weight
indicator caused by loss of buoyancy.
DP,. = The adjusted weight of DP that includes tool
joints (Ib/ft). (Can be found in RP7G or
Murchison Drilling School's Well Control
Manual).
BF = Buoyancy factor‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
‘XVIL_LOST CIRCULATION (cont.)
‘Where: (cont.)
Gs = Balancing gradient (psi/ft) at fracture depth
Ds = Depth of fracture (ft)
MWa = Mud weight in hole (Ib/gal)
Example: A fracture was encountered at 6000 feet and total losses occurred. The
string weight increased 5000 Ibs (AW). What is the depth of the fluid
level (Dj_) and what is the balancing gradient (G,)? Given: DP = 5,
19.5, XH, "E” with adjusted weight of 20.9 Ib/ft; mud weight 9.1 ppg;
BF = 0.86.
Dee
Sel eee HL (209 Ibjft)(1-0.86)
= 1709 feet
re (6000-1709)9.1 x 0.052
we 6,000 ft
0.338 psi/ft (This is less than a fresh water
gradient which usually means that
conventional lost circulation pills
& plugs are ineffective.)
‘When circulating out a kick observe drillpipe pres th time a change is made
‘on annulus choke. If the drill pipe pressure does not react to an annulus choke
adjustment it indicates some zone is taking fluid (partial losses). Lost circulation is the
number one associated problem to well control. Once a zone breaks down (lost
circulation), pressures (dp and ann.) do not represent an accurate hydrostatic balance and
consequently either losses or gains can be further induced. It is generally better to stop
circulating and wait a short time to give the zone time to heal. Observe the well closely
during this shut down period. Pressure changes (increase) usually indicate percolation
and if percolation is taking place circulation should be resumed at a lower rate (hold
casing pressure constant while arriving at new circulating rate and pressure and then
‘maintain drillpipe pressure and stroke relationship constant). Small amounts of fine lost
circulation material (walnut hulls) may help seal partial losses. Be very careful not to
plug bit.
=
Kt Being Ckeles Ot
4 ah
ra Ny 177Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVII:_DIAMOND BITS
‘Natural diamond bits have tremendous pump-off forces created because of pressure drop beneath
the bits. This pump-off force has to be overcome with applied weight to keep the bit on the
rock. The pump-off force, with some styles of diamond bits, can exceed 50% of the total
applied load while drilling. ‘This causes the true bottom hole load between the diamonds and
the rock to be less than half of the indicated weight-on-bit. Pump off forces are three or four
times greater with the radial flow bit versus the cross-flow bit but when this force is accounted
for the performance is similar.*
Rule 1
Account for pump-off force on a diamond bit to arrive at true weight on bit. The
procedure described and illustrated below should be done three or four times during the
life of the bit. ‘The pump-off area (and force) gets higher as the diamond standoff
reduces (as diamonds wear). The procedure below should start after "building the nest.”
“Building the nest" is drilling terminology related to breaking the hole in or contouring
the bottom of the hole to fit the bit profile, When drilling people talk about breaking in
the bit slowly they really are talking about "building the nest." Bits come from the
factory ready to drill and require no breaking in--but the hole does require shaping to "fit
the bits personality."
Formula (procedure) and Example:
To Obtain Pump Off Area and Pump Off Force
Procedures:
1) Take off-bottom pressure reading.
2) With bit about 4 inches off bottom, slack off slowly.
3) Measure change in pressure (AP) and corresponding weight.
4) Plot on plain graph paper.
5) At point of deflection (slope change) record AP and weight on bit.
6) Calculate pump off area:
7) Calculate true weight on bit for any given weight indicator weight;
i.e., AP = 635 psi w/38,000 Ibs = 635 psi x 25.1 sq in = 15,950 Ibs.
Therefore: 38,000 - 15,950 = 22,050 Ibs true weight on bit.
8) As bit dulls, repeat this procedure to get new pump off area (and pump
off force).
: Variations in Hydraulic Lift with Diamond Bits, Winters and Warren, SPE 10960.
18:1‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVIII:_DIAMOND BITS (cont.)
OFF BOTTOM PUMPED OFF DRILLING
PRESSURE
ween
wwoAToR
PUMP-OFF ° 15,2008 635 Psi 251M"
FORCE 15,950.18
Bir ° 2525 2555
PRESSURE 1920» -1920
DROP GOSPSI BSE PSI
TAUE ° °
WELGHT-O- BIT -, s
* pump-orF_
PUE-OFF_ 1520008 _ 9g ya
AREA = "G05 P51 =
18:2Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVIII:_DIAMOND BITS (cont.)
Rule 2:
Run a dril]-off test shortly at leasul ump-off area (and force). The drill-
ff test is usually run to find the most effective weight on the bit for a given
rotary speed, a given hydraulic horsepower and a particular formation (rock
hardness). Influencing limitations can be the available bit weight from the drill
collar assembly and torque limitation for the drill string.
1) Adjust the true weight on the bit to some maximum weight (based
on available drill collars generally).
2) Lock the brake.
3) Measure the seconds it takes to drill off each increment of bit
weight (i.e., seconds per 2000 Ibs of weight change on the weight-
indicator)
4) Record these increments in a table (and/or plot on semi-log paper).
5) The best weight on the bit is where the fewest seconds are required
to drill-off an increment of bit weight.
‘Note: A bad kelly and/or kelly-bushing can make constant
bit weight impossible and very misleading. For
example, when weight is slacked off the kelly
bushing takes the weight at first and it gradually
goes to bit. A flick on the weight-indicator will
show this erratic feed-off of weight.
18:3‘Marchison Drilling Schools, Inc, —
XVIII:_DIAMOND BITS (cont.)
Formula (Procedure) and Example:
‘ABNORMAL PRESSURE
Sabine
Brion Tests
Example
ll UK Wo. 1
‘ri Coler Bate
con
Mt [svc [itv
st [eck Brake:
fs
mn
[Base
cn
cu
fae
| Sane throughout the
stan 1 the
Sribsor teks Aju
the throtte nace
sey and ute tom
[383 teas sees
(Length of dp)(Drill-off weight)
(P adj wi)(2217)(Drill-off time in sec)
= (8781-720)(2000)
(18)(2217)(30) .
= 13.5 fybr
18:4
2 Test No. >
vol Bie 7770 ow
ee ne
Soares cat
craw
mo |
ated :
sit
oe =o ooo
2 en met
fa he optima
a:
a
ia
etative Driting RateMurchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XVIN:_DIAMOND BITS (cont.)
Rule 3:
Stabilize a diamond bit. A diamond bit is required to be "firm" in its nest
(intimate with the bottom of the hole) for the hydraulic system to be completed across
the face of the bit and diamonds. The feeder-collector system works better without any
wobble or thrust loading. A side benefit of good stabilization, other than making the
hydraulic system work, is that a more effective hole diameter (better drift diameter) is
drilled, If a medium to hard formation is being drilled a stiff hookup will not follow
a limber hookup without the possibility of getting stuck. ‘Therefore, it is important to
Grill the upper hole with a similar bottom-hole assembly (stiff hookup) prior to going
in the hole with a diamond bit.
Formula and Illustrations:
Path traveled by
‘botom of bit
path traveled by
top of bit
X= Bit diameter
Hole Diameter
Bit OD + Collar OD
2
Drift DIA =
Rule 4:
When_using PDC (polycrystalline dia make_sure_the
hnydraulics are good before going to bottom because the nozzles are easily
plugged. Many times after making a connection or a trip the rate of penetration
will be reduced because part of the nozzles were plugged when the bit was put
on bottom with inadequate hydraulics. PDC bits have a tendency to ball up
when using water base muds and, therefore, need a higher minimum flowrate
than other bits. For most bits 30 gpm/inch of bit diameter is the minimum
circulating rate.
Formula and IIlustrations:
Qmin = 12.72 (D)'”‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
‘XVIII:_DIAMOND BITS (cont.)
‘Where: Qmin = Minimum circulating rate for a PDC bit (gpm)
D = Bit diameter (inch)
|
gece Gomt Noses
fom etree Uietenane
Pao
Example: What is the minimum circulating rate for an 8-1/2 inch PDC bit
and how does this compare with the same size insert bit?
Qmin,,, = 12.72 (8.5)'7
= 296 gpm
Quin, = 30 gpm/inch x 8.5 inch
255 gpm
‘The QMin for PDC bit is 41 gpm higher than the equivalent
size insert bit. Hydraulics on high side are equivalent.
18:6Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING*
"Straight holes" are not necessarily vertical holes and vertical holes are not necessarily straight
holes. Most wells, as viewed from the surface, would have a helical appearance. Computer
plots of some "straight hole" multishot surveys look like a bowl of spaghetti; the direction may
change direction 180 degrees within a short distance. Directional wells are even worse than
vertical wells if proper directional drilling practices are not observed.
The rules, or suggestions listed here, apply to drilling practices whether the objective is to drill
a vertical or deviated hole.
The considerations when planning a directional well are:
Depth of hole and displacement
Hole sizes and collar sizes
Casing points
Maximum build and/or drop rates
Maximum average angle
Formation types, dips, and expected ROP
Mud weight, temperature and mud type
Well histories and tendencies in the area
Operating practices on directional wells need to be directed at: mud; hydraulics; connections;
trips; hole cleaning; and the special trends to monitor to minimize stuck pipe. Mud viscosities
have to be higher. For instance one of the earlier rules-of-thumb for funnel viscosity was four
times the mud weight (ppg). For a directional well this rule-of-thumb would be five times mud
weight (ppg). Hydraulics horsepower should be higher to account for mud motor losses and
flowrate designed with special emphasis given to hole cleaning. Connection practices need to
be optimized with special attention given to preventing stuck pipe, surge and bit damage. Trips
(short and long) need to be optimized and supervised closely. Special reciprocating and rotating
practices should be implemented when trying to remove cuttings that settle out on the low side
of the hole. The key drilling parameters have to be recorded on a trend basis. A driller should
be told to monitor: the pressure-stroke relationship; the drag trend (up drag-down drag and
difference between up and down, sometimes referred to as a AW) and the torque trends. Many
hole cleaning and stuck pipe problems can be caught in the early stages if good discipline is
exercised at the drillers’ console. [See drill string design for “rules” applicable to bottomhole
assembly design (Section XXID).]
Rule 1
When a direction or drift angle is required to be changed (drop or build) the needed angle
from a string (or compass) should be doubled. For instance if the hole angle had to be
built from 20° to 25° (5° change) in 500 feet you would need to plan on 2°/100 ft (10°
change) because the average angle is 1/2 this (previous drift + present drift + 2). This
assumes you will have constant turn or angle change to the target.
Ref. *: Special thanks are given to Bill McDowell, Jerry Haston, Jim Chappel, Preston Moore,
Ellis Austin & Murchison Drilling Schools,
19:1‘Murehison Drilling 2chooks. Ane
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
Rule 1: (cont.)
i ssiar
Rule 2:
To get the measured depth (MD) for the casing point (given in TVD) use
the formula below.
Formula:
mp,,. = (Casing Point TVD = Present TVD) . yp
Sr COS Average Angle r
Where: MDa, = Is the measured depth at casing point (which is usually
plotted on program in TVD)
Casing Point TVD = TVD that casing is programmed to be run at
Present TVD = Calculated TVD at present survey station
Average Angle = The average angle between present survey station and
casing point planned angle
Example: A tool pusher needs to know the measured depth at casing point
so that he can get his casing tallied and spaced out. Given:
present TVD = 3000 ft; casing point TVD = 3500 ft; average
angle between present station and casing point is anticipated to be
25°; and measured depth at current survey station (present depth)
4000 fi.
19:2Rule 3.
STFS SSCS SSCS SSCS SSS SSCS SES SES SESE SESS See eS
1.
Murchison Drilling Schools,
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
Rule 2: (cont.)
Example: (cont.)
Mp, = (3500 = 3000). 4099 f
st "COS 25°
= 4552 ft (measured depth for casing shoe)
The average angle definitions and formulas are given below with an example of four
survey stations calculated.”
Definitions
Surface Location: The position, latitude and longitude, on the surface of the
Earth of the Well Bore. For directional drilling purposes, this will normally be
considered as the "zero" point for all calculations and measurements to the Target
Location
‘Target Location: While it may be given as a position on the face of the Earth in
Latimde and Longitude, for practical purposes in directional drilling it will be
regarded as a predetermined position at a specified distance and direction from
the Surface Location.
Measured Depth (MD): Pipe Talley measurements from Rotary Table to the Bit;
total distance drilled at any given moment.
Course Length (CL): The measured distance drilled between any two survey
points.
Drift Angle (Inclination): The angle of the wellbore at any given survey point in
relation to vertical.
Average Angle: The average between drift angles taken from any two consecutive
survey points.
True Vertical Depth (TVD): The distance straight down - vertical - from the
Surface Location of the Wellbore to any horizontal plane which intersects the
Bottom Hole Location,
Ref. 7; Murchison Drilling School, Workshop Manual, Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
19:3‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Ine.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
Definitions: (cont.)
8,
10.
1.
12.
13.
19:4
Vertical Section (VS): The distance horizontally between the Surface
Location and the Target Location along a straight line in a specified
direction. This may be viewed on the Vertical Plan as the distance
between a point directly vertical under the Surface Location at total TVD
to the Target Location at total TVD, or on the Horizontal Plan as the
distance between the Surface Location and the Target Location on the
Surface. ‘These two lines as shown on the Vertical Plan and the
Horizontal Plan are the SAME identical line. This is also called
DEVIATION. (However, it is NOT to be confused with CLOSURE).
Example description of Deviation or Vertical Section: 2250’ at NSOW.
Deviation: Same as Vertical Section, except as seen from the Horizontal
Plan.
Closure: The horizontal distance and direction between the Surface
Location and any given survey point on the Horizontal Plan. If a well
were drilled perfectly, the Closure would be the same as Deviation and
Vertical Section. However, since the odds against this are astronomical,
for practical purposes, they must never be considered to be the same.
Closure may be calculated at any interval in the drilling program or at
TD (Total Depth). Example description: 2275’ in a direction of
N77°20'15"W.
Course Deviation: For clarity, regard Course Deviation to be the same
as CLOSURE, DISTANCE, but only for that distance between two
consecutive survey stations. Some confusion results from the use of this
term. "Course Deviation” as well as the term "Deviation." Bear in
mind that "Deviation" refers to the Planned, or Proposed Deviation
(which is a predetermined distance and direction) from the Surface
Location to the Target Location. CLOSURE refers to that Deviation
actually drilled (which is the well bore distance and direction from the
Surface Location as actually drilled). Course Deviation is that segment
of Closure DISTANCE (but not direction) which exists between two
specified survey stations.
Average Direction: The average between two direction angle readings
taken from any two consecutive well bore survey points,
Directional Difference: The difference (absolute, that is, always a
positive number) between the Average direction and the Proposed
direction at any given survey point.Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIX:_DIRECTIONAL DRILLING
15
14,
16.
17.
18.
19.
Definitions: (cont.)
Section Difference: The results of the final calculation for the Vertical
Section for any given Course Length. This calculation (given under
"Calculation Formulas") shows the true distance the well bore has moved
from vertical toward the center of the Target Location and is NOT to be
confused with CLOSURE. Itis to be added to any previous Vertical Section total
to show the correct cumulative Vertical Section.
Rectangular Coordinates (North/South): Distance North (+) or South (-) utilizing
AZIMUTH calculations from Surface Location (considered to be "zero")
Imagine the Surface Location to be on the Equator and you are facing NORTH.
If you walk forward (North) for 10 feet, consider it to be PLUS 10 feet. If you
walk backward (South) of the Equator line, consider it to be MINUS 10 feet.
Always think of the Surface Location as sitting at "zero" on the Equator. Any
distance North of this imaginary "Equator line" is a PLUS (+) number and any
distance South of the line is a MINUS (-) number. Utilizing QUADRANT
calculations, however, will NOT result in plus or minus numbers. You will
always know the correct hemisphere because the reading will be, for example,
NORTH 40 West, NORTH 40 East, or SOUTH 40 West, SOUTH 40 East.
Rectangular Coordinates (EAST/WEST): Distance East (+) or West (-) utilizing
AZIMUTH calculations from Surface Location (considered to be "zero"
Imagine the Surface to be sitting on the Zero Meridian (North-South) line as well
as the Equator (East-West) line. Now you are facing EAST. If you walk forward
10 feet, it is PLUS 10 feet. If you walk backward 10 feet (West) of the zero line
it is MINUS 10 feet. Any distance East of the zero line is a PLUS (+) and any
distance West of the zero line is a MINUS (-). Utilizing QUADRANT.
calculations, however, will NOT result in plus or minus numbers. You will
always know the correct hemisphere because the reading will be, for example
North 40 East, North 40 WEST, or South 40 EAST, South 40 WEST.
Proposed Direction: The “theoretical” or planned direction from the Surface
Location to the Target Location.
Azimuth Directions: All the points or compass readings from any given fixed
location starting with 0° clockwise to 360° NORTH = 0°; or 360° EAST = 90°;
SOUTH = 180°; WEST = 270°.
Bearing Direction: Division of the Azimuth 360° points of the compass into four
equal QUADRANTS of 90° each. NORTH is always 0° and SOUTH is always
0°. EAST is always 90° and WEST is always 90°. HENCE: Due NORTH can
be either N 0° E or N 0° W; due SOUTH can be either $ 0° E or $ 0° W; due
EAST can be either N 90° E or $ 90° E; due WEST can be either N 90° W or S
90° W. 45° Azimuth = N 45° E; 135° Azimuth = S 45° E; 225° Azimuth = $
45° W; 315° Azimuth = N 45° W.
19:5Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
Definitions: (cont.)
19. (cont.)
Azimuth to Bearing
NE No change
SE Subtract from 180°
sw Plus 180°
NW Subtract from 360°
20. — Conversion from Bearing to AZIMUTH:
(@) NE QUADRANT:
(bt) SE QUADRANT:
No change N40°E = 40° AZ
180° MINUS Quadrant reading $40°E =
180° - 40° = 140° AZ
180° PLUS Quadrant reading S40°W =
180° + 40° = 220° AZ
360° MINUS Quadrant reading N40°W =
(©) SW QUADRANT:
(@) NW QUADRANT:
360° - 40° = 320° AZ
Example and Formula:
Calculation Formulas:
Given:
(1) Tie-in information: Measured Depth = 4023"
Drift Angle = 18.75°
True Vertical Depth = 3968.71’
Vertical Section = 327.01’
Direction STPW (257° AZ)
South -73.97'
West = -320.40"
(2) Objective: 2350’ @ S83°W (263° AZ)
(3) Survey Station Measured Depth = 4115"
(point) #1 Drift Angle = 19
Direction = S79°W (259° AZ)
o@wls These are the numbers utilized for the calculation examples, following
a Wor the steps shown in the sample calculation sheet.
ews
*% Note: While direction may sometimes be shown in the "Hours, Minutes,
Seconds" form (S79*15'20"W), both direction and drift angle must be
calculated in the decimal form. Most hand held calculators will perform
this function.
19:6LAA AAA ADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADAAAAAAADAADAAD DDD ALAS
Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
Example: $79°15'20"W = 79.26°W. [With the Hewlett Packard 41 calculator,
Key-in: 79.1520, XEQ HR, = 79.2556 (S79.26°W)]
1. Calculate Average Direction:
Average Direction = Pfevious Direction + Present Direction
S77T?W_+ S79°W
2
Example: = $78°W; or BEES = 258° AZ
Note: This example for BEARING calculations is applicable
ONLY if both directions are in the SAME quadrant. If
they are in DIFFERENT quadrants, other rules apply
which are too complex for this short example. It is
simpler to convert to Azimuth for calculations.
2. Calculate Directional Difference:
Directional Difference = Proposed Direction = Average Direction
Note: Directional Difference should always be a positive (+) number.
If the result is negative (-), change the sign to positive (+)
Example: $83°W - $78°W = 5°; or 263° - 258° = 5°
3. Calculate Course Length:
Course Length = MD at present station - MD at previous station
Example: 4115’ - 4023" = 92"
4, Calculate Average Drift Angle:
Example:
‘Average Drift Angle - Previous Drift Angle + Present Drift Angle
5. Calculate 1e Ve th for this Station:
True Vertical Depth = COS Average Drift Angle x Course Length
Example: COS 18.875° x 92’ = 87.05'
19:7Murct
mn_Drillis
‘XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
6.
10.
1.
12,
13,
19:8
‘Add TVD this Station to Cumulative True Vertical Depth:
Example: 87.05’ + 3968.71' = 4055.76’
Calculate Course Deviation:
Course Deviation = Sin Average Drift Angle x Course Length
Example: Sin 18.875° x 92' = 29.76'
Calculate Section Difference:
Section Difference = COS Directional Difference x Course Deviation
Example: COS 5° x 29.76" = 29.65
‘Add Section Difference this Station to Cumulative Vertical Section:
Example: 29.65’ + 327.01’ = 356.66”
Calculate Rectangular Coordinates (North/South) for this Station:
(North/South) Coordinates = COS Average Direction x Course Deviation
Example: COS S78°W x 29.76’ = South 6.19’ or COS 258° x
29.76" = -6.19
Add Rectangular Coordinates (North/South) this Station to the
Cumulative (North/South) Coordinates:
Example: -6.91' + -73.97' = 80.16"
Calculate Rectangular Coordinates (East/West) for this Station:
(East/West) Coordinates = Sin Average Direction x Course Deviation
Example: Sin S78°W x 29.76' = West 29.11' or
Sin 258! x 29.76" = -29.11"
\dd Rectangular Coordinates (East/We tion to the
Cumulative (East/West) Coordinates:
Example: 29.11' + -320.40 = -349.51'Murchison Drilling Schools, Ine.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
14, Calculate CLOSURE:
Closure DISTANCE = yTotal Latitude? + Total Departure”
Example: 80.16? + 349.51? = 358.58/
‘otal Departure
ch DIRECTION = ArcT: >
ose Tan (Tan) (Fr Latitude
349.51!
80.16"
Example: Tan
} = 77.08° or S77.08°W, or $77°04’57W or
257.08", or 257°04'57"
Closure may be stated as:
CLOSURE: 358.58" in a direction of $77°04’57"W or
358.58" in a direction of 257°04'57"
Note: There are other formulas for arriving at Closure distance and
direction. However, to avoid confusion in this limited example,
we will utilize only the above.
15. Calculate Dogleg Severity:
Dogleg Severity = COS# [(COS Prev, Drift Angle x COS Pres.
Drift Angle) + (Sin Prev. Drift Angle x
Sin Pres. Drift Angle x COS Degrees of
100
Direction Cha _
iretion Change) x
:xampl
COS" [(COS 18.75 x COS 19) + (Sin 18.75 x Sin 19 x COS 2)] x zg
COS" [(.946930 x .945519) + (.321439 x .325568 x
.999391)] x 1.086957
= COS" (.89534 + .104587) x 1.086957 =
COS" (.999927) x 1.086957
= 693131 x 1.086957 = .7534 or .75
Note: To avoid error, Sin and COS results should be carried out to
6 decimal places. Hand held calculators perform this function
automatically
19:9‘Murchison Drilling Schools. Inc.
XIX: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING (cont.)
3
g
19:10‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XX. STUCK PIPE
‘The causes of stuck pipe are broadly classified as mechanical or differential. Mechanical
sticking is caused by deterioration of hole stability (shale problems, hole cleaning, etc.) and/or
directional (crooked-hole problems, Differential sticking is caused by mud pressure overbalance
and is influenced by drilling practices, type mud solids, permeability, bottom-hole assembly
clearance, permeability, bottom-hole assembly clearance, coefficient of friction and the
lubricating characteristics of mud, Good monitoring and operating practices will minimize both
types of pipe sticking. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Drillers are told two
things when they are broken out (as drillers): don’t let the problem get on top of you and if you
do get stuck take quick action to free up the pipe (or fish). Part of this recommendation deals
with preventing stuck pipe and part of the recommendation deals with freeing-up the pipe or
getting the fish out successfully. Time is of essence because hole stability deteriorates with
time, What starts out as differential sticking either becomes mechanically stuck or a
mechanically stuck problem worsens. The following priority rules-of-thumb are useful in
solving stuck pipe problems.
FORCE REQUIRED TO PULL FREE
pall
NORMAL FORCE/UNIT LENGTH)
XUENGIMN CONTACT WT
PERMEABLE FORMATION)
XICOEFFICIENT OF FRICTION}.
Differential Stckin
Fe K (AP) Area
K = Sticking coefficient
(0.2 water base mud)
(AP) = Differential pressure
Area = Conact area
in) xd
Ara =O eX4)
* 3
= 113 de suck
Circumference = x Diameter
Example CONCLUSION:
6-1/4" de = 3.1416 x 6.25 FORCE TO PULL FREE INCREASES AS
= 19.635 (rounded off 20) (A) LENGTH OF PIPE IN CONTACT WITH
0 PERMEABLEFORMATIONINCREASES.
13 stuck = 2 65 (®) COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION BETWEEN
3 PIPE AND WALL INCREASES.
ap :200 psi
L 00 ft permeable zone
= o.2) 1200 9200 (12 ny im)
cr
= 3,744,000 Ibs
20:1‘Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
XX. STUCK PIPE (cont.)
Rule 1:
Rule 2:
Rule 3:
Rule 4:
Rule 6:
Rule 7:
Rule 8:
20:2
Measure stretch and estimate stuck point (ESP). This will help evaluate
whether the pipe is stuck in the blowout preventers, keyseated up the hole or
stuck near the bottom hole assembly. (See the formulas at end of this section.)
If the ESP is near bottom and if the driller can circulate, a further assumption
that the pipe is differentially stuck can be made. Differential stuck pipe can
be freed up by spotting oil; lowering bottom hole hydrostatic by one of the
reversing techniques; drill stem test tools or; by other similar methods.
If fishing* is necessary make back-off in unquestionable-free pipe (good torque
response). Backoff in full joints (not crossovers, stabilizers, etc.). Always
consider well control and particularly if kelly is in the surface blowout
preventer. Sometimes a mechanical backoff, followed by spacing out, is
necessary prior to running a wireline tool so that a lubricator can be used.
*A fish is any undesirable item(s) (i.e., tool, equipment, or object) in a cased
or uncased wellbore that stops or retards operational progress. It can be the
result of stuck pipe - back-off operations; drill pipe, drill collar or other
downhole tool failures (i.e., twist-offs); bit cones or bearings left in the hole;
stuck logging tools; or any other undesirable item left in the wellbore.
Make an analysis on how many days (or hours) fishing can be economically
justified before fishing commences. Remember a successful fishing job is one
that is economically and operationally successful. Many so-called operational
successes are economic disasters.
Draw a picture or diagram of fish and fishing string. Be accurate with OD’s,
ID's, lengths, depths, etc. Lithology and other pertinent data will help in
visualizing the problems.
Make an operational plan that addresses items to look at before touching a fish
and items to look at after touching fish (over fish or in fish). Play what-if?
For example, what-if I can’t circulate after attaching to the fish? Is my mud
safe to trip out with? Remember that well control and lost circulation are two
major problems that are closely associated with stuck pipe.
As fishing job progresses, update drawing and fish description. Also indicate
if fishing conditions are the same, better, or "more sticky.”
Itis a good idea to write notes of indications and reasons for carrying out any
operation prior to doing the job, and then, subsequently evaluate whether the
original thought was correct. It may well be that certain reasons for a
particular "line of attack” may be valid at the time of proceeding, but when
more information is available (as fishing proceeds), the original thought may
prove wrong
Write a conclusion report and site interpretation of reason for occurrence, and
suggestions for future prevention or improved fishing techniques.
EEE neeXX._STUCK PIPE (cont.)
Murchison Drilling Schools, Inc.
Formulas:
Estimating Stuck Point (E.S.P.
Method #1:
as 1,000,000 x stretch
Factor x overpull (w/pipe in tension)
Where:
Factor = 2)
(80) x (cross-sectional area of dp)
)x(30,000,000)x(cross sectional area)
12 x overpull (Ib)
Method #2:
p _ 735.294 xe x Wey
-
Where:
€ = Stretch (pipe in tension)
We = Plain-end wt. of dp (without tool joints)
P = Overpull (pipe in tension)
Method #3: (Tapered drill string - below liner)
735,294 xe x
e P
Where:
IfL > L, Stuck point is in (or below) L,
IfL