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I. INTRODUCTION 1
V. CEMENT MIX 37
VII. HYDRAULICS 44
XVI. SHALES 75
Rules-of-thumb have been handed down from one drilling boom to the next and it is difficult to know to whom the credit
should be given. Thanks go out to those that made good observations--took time to simplify the approach--and passed them
on down unselfishly. The rules-of-thumb in this book are mostly the result of those drilling people that laid the foundation
for the drilling industry we have today.
This book includes rules on: Mud; Tripping; Casing and Cementing; Volumes and Capacity; Hydraulics; Pressure; Strength
of Rope and Steel Cable; Centrifugal Pumps; BOP Accumulators: Kick Tolerance; Water Hammer Effect; Shales; Lost
Circulation; Diamond Bits; Directional Drilling; Stuck Pipe; Drill Stem Testing; Drill String Design; Logging; Gas Kicks;
Volume Building; Estimating Producing and Gas Plow Rate; Production Rules on Compressing Gas and Temperature Drop
Across A Pressure Regulator; Pipe Elongation Due to Temperature, Stretch and The Piston Effect; Temperature Conversion;
and Equipment Depreciation.
The book has many examples which simplify the use of the formulas and rules. You should be able to make quick
approximations and in many cases you may find that these ball-park numbers are better than the so-called accurate numbers.
Practically, everyone has a calculator, however, some calculations can be done in your head. These simplified rules are very
useful when a supervisor is on the rig floor or taking a report over the phone or radio.
In summary, you will find many time-tested guidelines that provide historical background experience collected by many
people over several years.
-1 -
II. MUD RELATED RULE-OF-THUMBS
1. Trip Margin (or Operating Mud Weight) sufficient to drill and trip pipe out of hole.
Rule: Divide the hydraulic diameter (diameter of hole minus diameter of pipe) times 11.7 into the
yield value. This number is the trip margin in pounds per gallon (ppg). This trip margin is
added to the mud weight required to balance formation pressure under static (non-
circulating or non-tripping) conditions.
Dh = Diameter of hole, in
Example: A 14.5 ppg MW is required to balance formation pressure. The mud has a yield value of
20. Calculate estimated MW to balance formation pressure while tripping pipe (to offset
swabbing/negative surge). Hole size is 8.5" and DP is 5".
20
= + 14.5 = 15 ppg
11.7 (8.5-5)
The ECD is the effective mud weight on the formation due to the total effect of the mud weight plus the
friction loss in the annular space between the pipe and the hole while circulating.
Rule: For (ppg): Multiply the YV by 0.1 and divide the hydraulic diameter (diameter hole minus
diameter of pipe) into the number. Add this number to the mud weight to arrive at ECD.
For (pcf): Multiply the hydraulic diameter (diameter hole minus diameter of pipe) by 2 and
divide this number into the YV. Add this value to the mud weight to arrive at ECD.
Rule: Multiply depth times YV and divide by the product of 225 times the hydraulic diameter (diameter
hole minus diameter pipe).
Example: Estimate the pressure loss in the annulus and the ECD. The MW is 15 ppg and the YV is 20. The
depth is 12,000 feet and the hole size is 8-1/2 inches with 5 inch DP.
a. YV (high side) = mud weight (ppg). Note: oil muds run higher yield values
b. YV is very temperature sensitive and therefore should be reported at same temperature each test so
that monitoring trends can be effective
-f. YV (lb/100ft2) = 6 300 reading minus plastic viscosity (on a Fann Viscometer)
g. YV in high weight muds gives a good trend on solids (along with PV or solids test)
h. YV units are lbs/100ft2 (same as gel strengths)
i. High yield values and gel strengths may be desired to prevent or minimize bridging, poor hole
cleaning, drag, high torque and to minimize barite settling. Low yield values and gel strengths,
however, provide better drill-ability, lower swab/surge pressures and facilitate better solids
separation with surface solids control equipment.
B. Plastic Viscosity (PV)
- In general the PV depends primarily on the solids content (size, type and concentration).
Formula: PV = MW x 2.5
Example: What would be the high side for the PV in a 15 ppg mud?
2. Plastic Viscosity (PV) in Weighted Oil (or Oil Invert) Base Mud
Formula: PV = MW x 4
PV = 15 x 4 = 60 cps high
Rule: Choose weight range and simply plug in MW (ppg) and complete the arithmetic.
Formula(s):
2) PVlow = (2 x MW) - 14
1) PV = (5 x MW) - 40
high
c. Mud Weights Greater Than 17 ppg but Less than 18.4 ppg
PV low = (2 x 13) - 14 = 12
a. PV should be kept low as possible by maintaining low solids (particularly minimizing fine solids <1
micron).
b. PV is very temperature sensitive and therefore should be reported at a standard temperature each time it is
tested. If temperature isn' t standardized the trend of PV, used to analyze hole problems, can:t be used.
c. PV(cps) = 600 Reading - 300 Reading on a Fann Viscometer.
d. PV is related to solids (type, size. and concentration).
e. PV has a tremendous influence on cut points in hydrocyclones and shaker screen capacity.
c. YV affects overbalance (trip margin) requirements
d. YV affects surge or swabbing
e. YV affects hole cleaning (balance flowrate (Q) and YV)
The funnel viscosity is an easy test and is made by rig personnel. The FV can be an
early indicator of possible mud and hole problems. A change in the FV trend should
alert rig people to make further mud analyses to pinpoint the cause of the FV trend
change (or mud problem). A hole problem corresponding to a FV trend change can be
used the same way.
FV = 4 x 10 = 40 sec/qt.
Rule: Add 25 to the viscosity of water (26 sec/qt) to get minimum viscosity for LCM base.
3. The funnel viscosity will be approximately the apparent viscosity plus the viscosity of water.
(Apparent viscosity is the 600 rpm reading divided by 2 on a Fann Viscometer.)
Rule: Add the apparent viscosity to the viscosity of water to obtain the FV within 2 to 3 sec/qt.
Reading t 600
Formula: FV = 26 sec/qt + 2
FV = 26 + 15 = 41 sec/qt.
3. AV = Reacts much like the FV. That is to say that it can show mud changes but won 1t tell why the mud
viscosity has changed. By looking at the PV, YV, Gels, W.L., and the mud chemistry the reason (or cause)
for change can be pinpointed.
E. Solids
A general rule is to keep solids as low as possible. Keep commercial solids (bentonite) and drill solids at a proper
ratio. Solid can be better analyzed if the mud MBT (Methylene Blue Test) is known. The MBT shows the bentonitic
type solids. By knowing the type mud and all the retort analysis a breakdown of fine and coarse solids can be made.
Fine solids (solids less than one micron) are twelve times more detrimental to rate of penetration than coarse solids
and consequently should be kept at the required minimum to give colloidal properties. The drill solids and
bentonite ratio (ds/b) should be kept at approximately 2 to 1 (2:1).
Formula: Vol percent Solids (LDS) = [(7.5 x MW) +(0.1 x vol. % oil) ]- [(0.61 x PPM CL)/1000] - 62.5
Example: What is the estimated percent solids corrected for oil and salt. Given: MW = 9.0; CL =
20,000 ppm; Oil = 5%
% LDS = [(7.5 x 9.0) + (0.1 x 5)] [(0.61 x 20000 )/10000] - 62.5 = 4.3 %
% Sol = 15 x 2 = 30%
Rule: Subtract the MBT from the total low density solids
to get drill solids. Divide the MBT (bentonitic type solids) into drill solids.
Formula: ds = TS - MBT
ds/b = ds
MBT
Example: What is the ds/b ratio. Given: MW = 9.5; MBT = 14; Total low density solids = 80 ppb
ds = 80 - 14 = 66 ppb
5. Analyze the effect of solids on rate of penetration (ROP) comparing a control well with a planned
well.
b. Calculate coarse solids on control well . Subtract fine solids from total solids.
d. Plug in fines and coarses into the ROP formula for the control and proposed well (formula below) to calculate
change in drillability (ROP).
Formula:
Given:
Control Well:
ROP = 20 ft/hr
MBTMi = 15 lb/bbl
Solids = 79 lb/bbl
MW = 9.5 ppg
Mud Type = Dispersed
ROP =?
MBTM2 = 12 lb/bbl
Solids = 45 lb/bbl
Mud Type = Polymer (non-dispersed)
= 24.6 ft/hr
6. Analyze solids control equipment (and system) to ascertain it is doing an efficient job. By keeping
up with water additions and by monitoring mud out and mud in, any break down in the solids
control system can be detected in the early stages.
Formula(s):
(1) Calculate GPM underflow (discharge) rate. This can be done by measuring the seconds for one quart of
discharge from one cyclone and multiply times the number of cyclones in the system.
BPD - (GPM)(34.29)
(4) Calculate the volume of mud that would have to be dumped to equate to solids discharged by
hydrocyclones.
Solids (lbs)
Discharged = Pounds of solids discharged per day through hydrocyclones
Volume (bbl)
Mud Equivalent = The volume of mud that would be required to be
dumped to equal to solids dumped
Rule: Maintain mud weight low enough to permit faster drilling, avoid lost circulation, and minimize
differential pressure sticking.
Rule: Approximately one barrel of volume is gained in the mud tanks when 15 sacks of barite is mixed
(100 lb sack). The specific gravity of barite is approximately 4.25 and this equates to approximately
1500 lbs per barrel.
tight hole caused by thick filter cake, differential pressure sticking and formation productivity
damage. However, high filtrate will minimize chip hold-down and provide better drillability. This
is particularly true if fine solids (<1 micron) are minimized by running lower MBT's.
Ideally, drilling people would like to keep bottom hole hydrostatic pressure constant during the trip out (POH) and the trip
in (RIH). However, this is impossible from the operational standpoint because of swab and surge pressures. Most of the
tripping rules-of-thumb are closely associated with maintaining a safe hydrostatic overbalance that neither causes a kick nor
lost circulation.
Example: The mud weighs 10 ppg; a slug MW of 11 ppg is desired to unbalance the U-tube by two
stands (188 feet of top DP).
Example: The mud weighs 18.0 ppg; a slug MW of 18.5 ppg is desired to unbalance the U-tube by
one stand (94 feet of top DP).
When tripping the pipe out of the hole the mud level falls in the annulus because metal volume is being removed from the
hole. Pressure is lost because the fluid level is down and consequently the hydrostatic pressure is lower. The following rule
assumes the driller is not circulating across the wellhead:
Rule: Pulling wet pipe (no slug) causes approximately four times more pressure loss, per increment of pipe, than
pulling dry pipe (good slug).
Example' Calculate pressure loss if five stands (94 ft/std) are POH. The casing size is 9-5/8 with 0.0732 bbl/ft volume
capacity; the mud is 15 ppg; the DP is 5", 19.5 ppf, XH, Grade "S" with an adjusted weight of 22.5 ppf and
a capacity of 0.0170 bbl/ft.
Difference: Wet pipe AP = 192 psi = 4.2 times more pressure loss
Dry pipe AP 46 psi
3. Metal Displacement
When pipe is pulled out of the hole or run in the hole volume of pipe metal has to be considered in the trip plan.
Rule Divide the adjusted weight of pipe (tool joints, collars, etc. taken into consideration for adjusted wt)
by 2748 (weight of steel in pounds per barrel).
Where: Adjusted weight = approximate weight of tube plus the upsets (tool joints) taken from RP7G (pages
14-18).
Example: Calculate the metal displacement in barrels per foot for 5", 19.5, XH, Grade "S" DP. The adjusted
weight (approx. wt.) from page 18 of RP7G is 22.6 lb/ft.
4. Trip Margin
A trip margin is required when pulling out of the hole (P0H) because of negative surge and swabbing.
Dh = Diameter of hole
Dp = Diameter of pipe
SWABBING IS CHARACTERIZED
On Trips When you cannot put a volume of drilling fluid into the hole equal to the displacement of the pipe
being removed without gaining fluid
After Trips Trip gas or water or oil cut drilling fluids or a combination
SWABBING MUST BE DETECTED EARLY BECAUSE the more formation fluid allowed to enter, the more
sever the kick.
The only way to detect swabbing in its early stages is to accurately measure the amount of drilling fluid pumped in the
hole to replace the drill pipe being removed from the hole.
5. Tripping in Top Hole With Low Pressure Overbalance or Pulling Wet Pipe
Rule: When working with small pressure overbalances or when pulling wet pipe mud should be circulated across
the wellhead (out of trip tank and return to trip tank).
Formula: Length of pipe that can be POH for the overbalance (trip margin) in the mud hydrostatic.
L= overbalance (psi)
pressure loss per foot of pipe (Xpsi/ft)
Where:
= 6 psi overbalance
L= 6 = 110 ft
0.05422
If more than 110 feet (a little more than 1 stand) of pipe is POH before filling hole a loss of hole stability will
result. This could include bridges (hole sloughing), stuck pipe, tight hole which require back reaming and
possibly a flow.
1. Surge Pressure
When induced lost circulation is analyzed closely, it is found to be closely associated with pipe movement
and tripping practices a big percent of the time. By closely monitoring a metal displacement schedule,
formation break down from surge can be caught in the early stages.
When pipe is moved (up or down) surge and swab pressures develop. Velocity rate (fluid flow) is usually
calculated to evaluate laminar or turbulent flow profiles and then pressure loss is calculated. Surge pressure
can be approximated with the following rule-of-thumb formula (results are usually a little low).
IV: CASING, CEMENTING AND PLUG SETTING
Casing and cementing, whether it be a primary or a secondary job, requires special emphasis be placed on planning. The
planning periods are' :
1) items to plan and look at before reaching casing point
2) items to plan and look at after reaching casing point
3) items to plan and look at while running casing
4) items to plan and look at while circulating on bottom prior to cementing
5) items to plan and look at while implementing the cement plan; and
6) items that have to be looked at when secondary cementing (plugs, squeezes and etc.) are required. All check list
items and the list varies from one area of the world to another area. Some of the following rules-of-thumb may be
of use in implementing the various phases.
Rule:
1. Circulate long enough to stabilize hole trends such as drag, torque (if rotating), possible losses and etc.;
3. Circulate long enough to cool hole (this will minimize a lot of flash setting because cement may not be
designed for a long-static buildup temperature);
5. Circulate at rate the cement will be mixed and displaced with to evaluate this rate.
Formulas:
annular velocity (while drilling before running casing) was 150 ft/min; no abnormal temperature is expected; and by
circulating with 1.5 times the casing volume the hole temperature should be cool enough.
Running casing at exactly the correct time requires the wmidas touch" or a lot of "area experience." However, when
casing is run and cemented (properly) at the right place, future drilling operations are greatly simplified. Lost
circulation is the number one drilling problem in the world and much of the L.C. in abnormal pressure zones results
from poor casing seat selection, setting casing off bottom or getting poor cement jobs that do not isolate casing
shoe-annulus from open hole below.
1. Set casing every time mud weight changes 1- 1.5 ppg (this is formation pressure equated to MW).
2. Set casing if kick tolerance is less than 1.0 ppg (this is kick intensity--how much MW increase could it tolerate
without lost circulation). This rule is greatly influenced by kick size (kick tolerance is greater for a 10 bbl kick than
for a 30 bbl kick).
3. Government regulations (i.e., MMS and COGLA). For example, COGLA wants 25% of hole to be cased at all
times. The MMS influences surface casing setting depth.
4. Set casing before hole stability in open hole deteriorates. (For example, it would be impractical to have 25 day
drilling program to reach casing point if a 15 day shale was exposed.)
Formulas:
AMW change = (MW form. Equiv. MW hole (or last csg point)
Where:
AMW change = the change in mud weight caused by increasing or decreasing formation pressure
MW form. equiv. = formation pressure is expresed as an equivalent mud weight, i.e.: FP / (0.052 x TVD)
MW hole = mud weight at last casing shoe or before change in formation pressure, ppg
kick tolerance = the maximum kick MW that can be tolerated based on leak off test at previous casing shoe
Example: Pressure is increasing. Shale densities, d' exponents, and resistivity measurement indicate the mud weight
equivalent of the formation is 16 ppg. The last casing was set in a 14 ppg environment, and the MW is now
15 ppg in the hole. Would you run casing based on the 1-1/2 ppg rule?
Answer Look at L.0.T. at last shoe and evaluate kick tolerance for several kick sizes based on maximum
allowable pressure (calculated from leak-off-test). The old 1-1/2 ppg rule was used mostly before
we started testing shoes as we do today. Kick tolerance will be discussed in Section XIV.
Rule: Base mix water requirements on neat cement plus the water required for the admixes (gel, etc). Use
cement weight as control on correct mix water being added.
D. Contact Time
Spacers are used to move mud out of the casing annulus, in front of cement, to minimize cement contamination and
improve bonding. Much discussion has been given to cement placement technique (turbulent versus plug flow).
The objective of placement technique is to minimize contamination, channeling and lost circulation, and to
maximize bonding and fill (correct cement top). With these objectives in mind I endorse the following approach'
place the spacer in turbulence but keep the cement at same annular velocity used while drilling.
Rule: Contact time is the time that the preflush spacer in turbulent flow is in contact with a critical
formation. Normally seven to ten minutes contact time is required (750-1000 feet). Remember that
the spacer must be compatible at the mud interface, which many times may require what two
separate spacers be used, such as when using an oil mud.
Formulas'
Pump Output (BPM) = Ann Vel (ft/min) x Ann Vol (bbl/ft) (mix and displacement rate)
Spacer Fluid (to give required contact time) (bbl) = Contact Time (min) x Mix Rate (bbl/min)
Example: How much spacer fluid is required to give a 7 minute contact time? The mud in the hole is 9.5 ppg
and the spacer is water. How much overbalance is lost from spacer if cement weight is ignored?
The mix rate to give correct ann. vel. and put spacer in turbulence is 10 bpm. Ann Vol = 0.0679
bbl/ft.
Plan plug dropping!? The correct use of cement plugs can make the difference between
the success or failure of a cement job. The correct implementation of cement plug
program ranks in the top ten of items that affect the overall cement job.
Rule' Make sure you plan' the loading of the plug(s); who will drop the plugs; how the plug will be dropped
(shutting down? on the run?); how you will know if the plug has left the cementing head (radioactive nail
and Geiger counter? Other telltale indicators?); what pressure strokes or volume you will have when the
plug is about to land in float or baffle collar and; how much extra volume or pump strokes you will pump if
the plug doesnt land.
Formulas'
Vol. to Bump Plug = Length of Casing to landing place (ft) x Casing Capacity (bbl/ft)
Strokes to Bump Plug with Rig Pump = Volume to bump plug (bbl)
pump output (bbl/stk)
Where'
AP mud vs cmt Calc. pressure to land plug (u-tube
pressure). If circ. pressure at displacement rate is recorded prior to the cement job
a dynamic pressure can be used (circ press + utube press).
Calc. L cmt = Length of cement that is planned behind casing (minus FS to shoe length if calcu-
lating bottom or one stage).
Examyle: Calculate the volume of mud and the pressure to land the top plug on the first stage: Given:
Casing size 9-5/8", 47 lb/ft; shoe a 12,000 ft; FC a 11,920 ft; DV collar a 6000 feet; mud wt - 9.5
ppg; cement wt - 15.4 ppg; cement calculated to reach DV at 6000 feet; pump out put checked to be
0.095 bbl/stroke.
APmud vs cmt = (12,000 - 6000) - 80) x (15.4 - 9.5) .052) (ft) = 1816 psi (u-tube)
Note: If 800 psi circ press a disp rate had been prerecorded, the dynamic pressure just
prior to landing the plug would have been 2600 psi + (1816 + 800).
Example: If the pressure to land the plug (above example) had been 200 psi low what would the estimated top
of the cement be on the first stage?
= 6652 ft +
F. Compressibility Volume When Testing Casing
The casing pressure test should be plotted (volume vs. pressure) as part of the drill out procedure.This
mpressibility plot can be utilized when measuring the leak off vs.
formation capability test below the casing. Interpretation of the
leak off test is greatly enhanced if compressibility is preplotted.
Rule: In water base muds it requires about 1% of casing volume (or volume being compressed) to reach 3000 psi.
Oil is about twice as compressible as water and therefore the compressible volume can be estimated by
multiplying the water based mud volume times the oil percent factor (i.e., 10 percent oil = 1.10 as factor).
Formulas:
Compressibility Volume For Waterbased Mud (Vcw, bbl ) = (pres applied a surface)(vol. being compressed)
300,000
Compressibility Volume For Mud With Oil (Vco, bbl) = Vcw [1.0 + (percent oil/100)]
Example' How much volume would it take to pressure up to 2000 psi on 9-5/8", 47 lb/ft casing? Assume no drill
string is in the casing (open casing above a FC a 11,920).
Example: If the example above had the same data except that the mud was a invert oil emulsion with 70% oil, what
would the Vco (compressibility volume) be?
Formula:
L = allowable overbalance
water spacer (mud wt - 8.34) 0.052
Volume water ahead = (L water spacer ft) (ann vol next to setting string and hole bbl/ft)
Example: How many feet of water spacer (Lwater ) can be used on this kick off plug. Given: hole size 8-3/4
(caliper); dp (setting string) - 4-1/2; dp cap - 0.0142 bbl/ft; mud - 14 ppg; overbalance - 200 psi;
overbalance that is allowable - 100 psi.
Volume water behind (To balance water ahead) = (340 ft)(0.0142 bbl/ft) = 4.828 bbl
1. Use a mixing sub on bottom of setting string. Do not use open ended pipe. A culled joint
of drill pipe (with a good connection) can be orange-peeled on bottom and slotted. This
sub can also be utilized for lost circulation plugs or pills.
2. Use a bypass off of surface cementing head. This bypass is kept closed until cement starts
out of setting string or until u-tube reverses from having positive pressure to negative
pressure (u-tubing). The bypass is then opened and the plug u-tubed into place by keeping
setting string full of displacement fluid. When the plug balances fluid will then come out
the bypass line. This keeps you from over-displacing and contaminating the plug. This
step is the real key to minimizing contamination of cement plug.
3. Use viscous pills or dirty plugs to support off bottom cement plugs. Off-bottom plugs want
to shift positions or migrate and this shifting causes contamination. Make sure viscous pill
has a high yield value (yield point). A dirty plug is a few sacks of cement (10 to 15 sacks)
that are displaced without any spacer. Cement contaminates and flocculates the mud. Pull
the pipe a few feet above the dirty plug and set a proper balanced plug.
- 32 -
Formula:
-Vol F.P. = Volume of fluid being pumped (i.e., 1120, cement, etc.) in barrels
Cementing Head
7By~Pass
-323 ~MThx
A ~surf
Ms
Example: What would the positive u-tube pressure be on the setting string if the setting string had the lead 1120,
cement and tail-in water. Given: 4-1/2 setting string (0.0142
bbl/ft); mud wt. - 14 ppg; cement wt - 16 ppg; lead 1120 -
18.6 bbl; cement - 22.3 bbl of tail-in water - 4.8 bbl.
=323 psi (AP surface pressure resulting from length of all fluids in setting string (3218 feet))
- 33 -
I. Cement For First Cement Plug In A Lost Circulation Zone
When setting a cement plug for the first time in a zone for lost circulation, it is very easy to underdesign the quantity of
cement needed. This will be a costly error because of rig time and material cost.
Rule' Until more knowledge about a zone is learned, a good rule-of-thumb is the volume of cement the setting
string will hold at the point of setting (bottom of setting string).
Formula'
Example: How many Cu ft of cement is required for the first plug in this zone if the bottom of the setting string is
placed at 6000 feet. Given' setting string is 5", 19.5 lb/ft, XH, Grade "E" (0.0983 cu ft/ft)
6000ft
590 cu ft
219 sacks
- 34 -
If mix 1120 (gal/sk) was 7.0 gal/sk
Note' If mix 1120 is used as guide to mixing so many sacks out of a big cement bin, it is
very important to mix cement at its correct design weight.
It is a difficult task to isolate gas with a liner. Many techniques have been tried (and some work part of the
time) but liner-lap leaks is still one of the most prevalent gas-cap problems. I recommend a high quality
cement (batch-mixed if possible) and a long~r liner lap (t500 feet). Some operators cement the liner with a
combination primary-secondary squeeze approach. With this approach the liner is cemented partially (60-
75%) using conventional techniques and with a modified RTTS (Champ tool) the liner is squeezed after the
primary job is completed.
Rule: When testing a liner top use a reverse test and evaluate whether the liner top will flow into
test string. Simulate a lower mud weight (approximately what the liner top will be exposed
to) by using a RTTS (or similar tool). If squeezing is necessary use a high quality (low
water-loss) cement and use a walking squeeze approach. Hesitation methods can be very
misleading.
W Formula:
RUS
Where:
Note: If top of liner is given as TVD (directional well) the measured depth
can be calculated
Depth of Liner Top = Peet (convert to measured depth to arrive at volume calculated)
- 35 -
APcheck : (~20x0 . 052x8.33) + (Depth Liner-L1120 )MW x .052
Example' The hole contains 18.0 ppg mud and the top of the liner is 15,000 feet. How much water is
required to be circulated into test string to simulate 13.0 ppg (te.t equivalent mud weight)?
(wD and MD same.)
- 7,756 feet
Note' If the 15,000 foot depth was the TV,D (directional well) with an average angle
of 250, the measured depth for volume calculations would have been 16,551
feet or, 15,000/COS 250. If the length of 1120 calculated (7756 feet) had been
at the same avg. angle (250), the length of 1120 would be 8558 ft., or
7,756/COS 250.
10,140 psi
= 13 ppg
- 36 -
V: CEMENT MIX
Ceaent can be lixed with sand and gravel to build a pad with the following rule..
Rule: For a ratio of 1:2:4 ix, one cubic yard of blend can be designed with the following formulas.
44
Cement = = 6.28 bags of cement
1+2+4
- 1200 lb sand
cu
cu ft to cu yd = cu ft x 0.0370
cu ft
Example: How many cu yards of cement blend (cmt, sand and gravel) is needed to build a tool-pad
with dimensions of 20 ft x 10 ft x 4 inches thick?
(L) (W) (D)
4 in 20 ft 10 ft
Method 1 cu yd = ~36 in/yd )x(3 ft/yd )x(3 f~/y~)
= 2.47 cu yd
4 in _____
Method 2 cu yd = ~12 in/ft x 20 ft x 10 ft)0.0370 cuyd
Cu ft
= 2.47 cu yd
Requ ire.ent S
Cement: 6.28 bags x 2.47 = 15.5 sacks
Sand: 0.44 cu yd x 2.47 = 1.09 cu yd (2964 lbs)
Gravel: 0.88 cu yd x 2.47 = 2.17 cu yd (4446 lbs)
- 37 -
VI: VOLUME AND CAPACITY
Volume and capacity calculations make up a high percentage of all rig calculations. The following rules-of-thuab
will siaplify some of the arithmetic and the numbers (results) are generally acceptable.
The rule-of-thumb gives approximately 3% more volume than the more precise method. Most open hole is a little
out-of-gauge which makes the method acceptable.
AND
2
VOLUME (D)xL
1000 BBLS.
Where:
Rule: Square the hole size (inches) and divide by 1000 to convert to barrels per foot. Multiply by
length (feet) to get barrels.
- 38 -
Formula'
1000
= 150 barrels
I 1 ft.
ID
Rule: Square the hole size (inches) and subtract the square of the pipe size (inches). Divide by 1000 and
multiply by length of hole section (feet).
- 39 -
Formula:
- 125 bbl
This formula gives accurate results for a cylindrical tank (vertical). Note: Do not use for horizonal cylindrical tank
(refer to Murchison Oper. Drlg. Manual - Rig Math Chapter for horizontal tank calculation).
Rule: Square the diameter of the tank (feet) and multiply by factor 0.14. The results are in barrels per
foot.
Formula:
Example: How much water is in the tank if the diameter measures 12 feet and the height of fluid is 12 feet?
= 242 bbl
D. Capacity of Pipe
This formula does not take into consideration tool joints and therefore over estimates the volume by
approximately 1 .0%t
- 40 -
RIG CALCULATIONS
CIRCLE:
A=(~D2)/4
A=3.1416(D2)/4
A =0.7854 D2
HOLLOW CYLINDER:
Formula(s):
= 1.77
= 9.96
Grade E = 0.017464 bbl/ft Grade X = 0.017268 bbl/ft Grade G = 0.017176 bbl/ft Grade S =
0.017010 bbl/ft
- 41 -
E. Capacity of Annulus Between Concentric Pine Strings
The foriula does not take into consideration upsets (tool joints) and therefore will be off between 0.5%
and 2%.
Rule: Square the ID (inches) of outer string and subtract the square of the OD (inches) of inner
string. Multiply the IDOf results by either the factor 0.097 for bbl/100 ft or by ~Outer~ the
factor 0.545 for cuft/100 ft. String
Formula' % //
OD Of
Inner
Example: What is the annular capacity per 100 ft if the outside
String
string is 4-1/2, 10.5 IbIft (ID = 4.052 inches) and inner
string is 2-3/8 (OD = 2.375 inches)?
= 1.046
= 5.87
There is no allowance made for couplings and therefore calculations Day be off between 0.5% to 2%.
Rule: Square the ID (inches) of the outer string and subtract the ODTs (inches) of inner strings. Multiply
the results by either 0.097 to get bbl/100 ft or 0.545 to get cuft/100 ft.
IP2~
LD3~
Formula:
- 42 -
Example: What is the annular capacity per 100 feet if the outside casing is 7, 29 lb/ft (ID = 6.184) and inner strings
are - 2.375 inches OD?
= 2.62
= 14.70
- 43 -
VII: HYDRAULICS
Optimization in the drilling business is often defined as "collapsing the learning curvew which leans you post appraise data
from one or two wells and then drill the 3rd and remaining wells much cheaper. Optimization could, therefore, be defined
as cutting cost. The order of optimization with reference to cutting cost is: 1) optimize mud; 2) optimize hydraulics; 3)
optimize bit selection; and 4) optimize weight on bit and RPM's. Mud and hydraulic optimization, however, make the big
money difference.
A. Optimum hydraulics is the proper balance of the hydraulic elements that will adequately clean the hole below the
bit, clean the bit and clean the bore hole above the bit with minimum horsepower. The balance of the hydraulic
elements is influenced by: 1) lost circulation (ECD effect); 2) hole stability (turbulent erosion); 3) bit cleaning
(cross flow); 4) cleaning hole below bit (jet velocity) and cleaning the bore hole above bit (Ann. Velocity-Flowrate-
yield value-and flow profile).
Rule: Balance flowrate between 24 gpm and 75 gpm (for optimum bit weight between 25-50 gpm/inch)
per inch of bit size. Jet velocity is influenced by formation drillability and mud overbalance chip
hold down. The greater the overbalance the higher the jet velocity has to be to help free up the chip
that is being differentially held down below the bit. The jet velocity range is usually between 250
and 450 ft/sec.
Formula(s)
G/B = 4B + 5
G = 4B2 + SB
J = ROP
v 0.01 + 0.002 (ROP)
Ref. 1: World Oil, Review of Low Solids Mud Control Gives New Insights, D. B. Anderson and Jack Estes.
- 44 -
B : Bit diameter, inches
Example: What is the gpm/inch range; the flowrate recommended; and recoinmended jet velocity, to
minimize chip hold down, bit balling and give adequate hole cleaning? Given: 12-1/4"
bit; ROP 40 ft/hr.
G/B = 4(12.25) + 5
= 54 gpm/inch
G = 4(12.25)2 + 5(12.25)
= 662gp.
J - 40
v 0.01 + 0.002(40)
= 444 ft/sec
B. Hydraulic Guidelines
Hydraulics can be optimized by concentrating on four main guidelines. The four are: flowrate; jet horsepower;
percent of horsepower at bit; and jet velocity.
Rules: The following guidelines are based on running optiium bit weight.
Rule 1: Maintain flowrate 30-50 gpm/in of bit diameter. The following ROP ranges are
general guidelines for flowrates required.
ROP Ranges
Rule 2: Maintain jet horsepower 2-1/2 to 5 HHP/in2 (hydraulic horsepower per sqin of
bit area). The rule is based on the square root of the rate of penetration. In big
hole (12-1/4 and greater size) the HHP/in2 could be allowed to go slightly
above 5.0 (up to 6.5) if drillability is good (above 25 ft/hr).
- 45 -
Rule 3: Design hydraulics so that 50 to 65% of available
pump pressure is across the bit jet nozzles.
If optimized at midrange (55 to 60) the driller
has lore flexibility with flowrate as influenced
by formation drillability ECD, and other
drilling operational factors.
Formulas:
(Q)(Pbit)
HHP/in = 1346(Bit OD)2
2
Pbit x 100
bit - Psurf
P surf =Pbit +P
system
P - 1346(Bit 0D)2~ROP
bitp1an Q
(156.482)(Q)2MW
P bit actual (J1 + J2 + J + etc.)2
2 2 2
(418.3)(Q)
Jet V~lO~itYactua1 = (J12 + J22 + J32 + etc.)
P5y5~~1 - (MW)9(209)Q01~06 {~~~~5'6"~ + (Dh~Dp )(Dh12~Dp2)1~0'1
- 46 -
Where:
Q = Flowrate (gpm)
J1, J2, etc. = Numerator only (i.e., 15/32 = 15, 12/32 = 12)
L = Length (ft)
Example: Plan and evaluate the basic four hydraulic elements. Given: bit size = 12-1/4"; ROP = 25 ft/hr; MW = 10
ppg; no. of jets = 3.
Q = 45 gpm/in x 12-1/4"
- 551 gpm
HHP/in2 = ':"25
= 5.0
Pb = 1346(12.25)2~25
it 551
planned
= 1832 psi
- 47 -
Jet Size = 3.536 (5351 (181302)e~S)C~S
Pbit = (156.482)(551)2(10)
132 + 132 + 132)2 actual
= 3000 psi
= 1848 x 100
bit 3000
= 61.6%
HllP/i2 = (551)(1848)
~actual 1346(12.25)2
= 5.04
- 454 ft/sec
- 48 -
C. Horsepower at Surface and Bit
Optimum horsepower requirements are based on hole size and rate of penetration.
Rule: For input horsepower at surface, multiply 10 times the square of hole size (ten "D" rule). For
hydraulic horsepower at bit, take the square root of the rate of penetration.
Formula(s):
HHP/in2 = VR.O.P.
Example: Calculate the required surface horsepower the rig should have available (influencing rig
selection). Calculate hydraulic horsepower needed a bit if ROP is 20 ft/hr:
llllPsurf = 10(12.25)2
= 1500
HllP/in2 = ~2O
= 4.5
The number one drilling parameter trend to monitor and evaluate potential hole stability problems with is the
pressure and pump stroke relationship.
Rule: When pump strokes are doubled the pump pressure will quadruple. This is because pressure
loss inside a drill string increases as an exponential function of the pumping rate.
Formula:
P2 = P1 (sSP~~M;) 2
Where:
- 49 -
SPM1 = Stroke per minute original (P1 assoc. with 5PM1) 5PM2 = New pump strokes (P2
Example 1: The pump pressure (P1) was 2500 psi with 80 strokes
per minute (SPM1). What would the pressure be if
the pump strokes are raised to 85 (SPM 2)?
P2 = 2500 85 2
80
= 2822 psi
P2 = 2500 78 2
80
= 2377 psi
Therefore:
Because pressure loss inside a drilling string increases as an exponential function of the pumping rate, it is
very important to choose drill string equipment with large bores. If this guideline is violated the hydraulic
horsepower will be mostly lost before it reaches the bit nozzles.
Rule: The pressure loss in drillpipe and drill collars changes inversely proportional to the change of
bore diameter raised to the 4.82f power.
Formula:
- 50 -
II.
Where:
Examnle: How much greater pressure loss does 4-1/2, 16.6 (ID-3.826) have compared to 5, 19.5 (ID-4.276)?
Pressure loss with 5" dp = 25 psi/1000 ft.
= 4.276 ~~C2
greater 3.826
= 1.71 (The 4-1/2 drillpipe would lose 1.71 times more pressure loss
than the 5 inch drillpipe.)
P2 = 25 (34;82~766)~~12 = 43 Psi
Pressure losses increase as the mud weight and plastic viscosity go up. Consequently it is important to maintain the
mud weight and plastic viscosity at operationally safe low levels.
Rule: The pressure loss is directly proportional to the mud weight. Divide new mud weight by old mud
weight and multiply this number by the pressure loss measured (or calculated) with old mud weight.
Formula(s):
(Pressure L MW C. 14
Pressure Lossp~ = MW oss~PV
corr corr
Where:
MW = The mud weight that the mud had when the plastic
viscosity was measured.
Exainle: Correct the pressure loss in the system for Mud weight changes and plastic viscosity. Given:
Pressure loss with MW1 = 1000 psi; MW1 = 13 ppg; PV (with MW1) = 25 cps; new MW (MW2)
= 14 ppg.
1077 nsi
corr (2135)D~1~
- 1180 psi
The equivalent circulating density (ECD) is the effective mud weight on the formation due to the total effect of
the mud weight plus the friction loss in the annular space between the pipe and the hole while circulating.
Rule: The simplified version of the Binghei plastic equation gives a quick ECD estimate. Multiply yield
value times 0.1 and divide by the hydraulic diameter (hole size minus pipe size). Add the results
to the mud weight (lb/gal).
Formula(s):
ECD = MW + 0.1 x YV
Dh -D
p
L x YV
PLAnn = 225(Dh -D)
p
Lx YV L x PV V
PLAnn = 225(Dh - D ) + lSOO(Dh - D )2
p p
- 52 -
ECD~q~~~ = MW + PLAnn
(0.052 x Depth)
Where'
Dh = Diameter of hole
PV = Plastic Viscosity
D = Diameter of pipe
p
L = Length (feet)
- 53 -
ECD = 16 + 528 = 16.8 ppg
equiv 12,700 x .052
Rule: Divide the product of mud weight times hole diameter into 11,800 to get annular velocity in feet per
minute.
Formula:
Where:
11,800
Ann Vel (Case 1) = (12.25 x 9.5) = 101 ft/min
11,800
Ann Vel (Case 2) = = 84 ft/min
(12.25 x 11.5)
- 54 -
VIII: ESTIMATING HYDROSTATIC HEAD (PRESSURE)
The basic hydrostatic formula to calculate pressure is used constantly in the drilling business. The
formula is rearranged to also calculate mud weight and even depth. Before introducing the rule a few
concepts will make the formula clear.
Consider a 13 ppg mud. How much does 1 ft3 of this mud weigh?
-=
486,
200
lbs
Now, what is the pressure, in psi, at the bottom of a 5000 ft stack of 1 cu ft cubes?
- 55 -
So:
5000ft
#iiin
Now, what is the pressure in psi at the bottom of this mud column?
Base area = 1 sq in and weighted above = 3376 lbs
So:
From this we see that, although the cross-sectional area of the mud columns are different, the pressure at the
bottom of the columns is the same! The pressure at any point in a mud column depends only on the true
vertical depth (~ID), not on the area or the shape of the column.
- 56 -
___________ - Oft
O psi
It turns out that we have a simple formula that will predict the pressure at any depth. It is'
0.052 gal x lb x ft - lb
The units are = - = psi
ft sqin gal sqin
Example:
Know this formula! You will use it all the time. With the above formula we can find the pressure at any depth
with:
PSI = (0.052) (13 ppg) (ft) valid for 13 ppg mud constant term
- 57 -
it
Oft Opsi
~ P 0.676 psi
~ P 0.676 psi
~ P 0.676 psi
3 ft 2.028 psi
~ P- 0.676 psi
4ft 2.704 psi ~ P 0.676 psi
S ft 3.38 psi
Formula:
Where:
= 0.052 ft~~l
sq in
- 58 -
Example: What is the hydrostatic head (pressure) at 5000 feet if the hole contains 13 ppg mud?
PSI = 13 x 52 x 5
= 3380 psi
- 59 -
IX: ESTIMATING STRENGTh OF STEEL CABLE2
The approximate strength of steel cable can be estimated in tons by the following rule.
2. 62 - 36
8 8
3. 36 + S = 4.5
Ref. 2: Production Rules of Thumb Notebook, World Oil, Gulf Publishing Co. - 1967.
- 60 -
3
X: ESTIMATING STRENGTh OF RQPE
The approximate strength of manila rope can be stimated in pounds by the following rule.
Rule: The working strength of manila rope is approximately equal to 900 times the diameter squared.
If rope diameter is greater than 2 inches, a factor lower than 900 should be used. In working with
heavier rigging, accepted hand~ooks should be used to find safe working strength.
Formula:
Where:
Exaaple: What is the estiaated working strength of 1/2 inch manila rope?
- 61 -
XI: MAKE UP LOSS IN LINE PIPE WITH STANDARD 8 ROUND THREAD4
When line pipe is made up (screwed together), there is a loss in length at each joint. This make-up loss can be
calculated by the following rule.
Rule: For pipe sizes 3-inches in diameter and larger, which have standard 8-threads per inch, the
following formulas may be used to determine pipe make-up loss.
Formula(s):
Note: These rules (estim~.es) are adequate for standard weight pipe. However, there is some
variation in
larger sizes of pipe and for extra heavy and very light weight tubes.
Exuple: How much extra pipe should be ordered to make up for screw loss in a 5 inch rig water
line.
- 62 -
XII: CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS5
The main factors influencing rating of centrifugal pumps are impeller diameter and operating RPM's. These two
variables influence head (in feet), output capacity (in GPM) and horsepower. Some of the rules are listed below.
Rules:
A. Head in feet varies in proportion to the square of the speed (RPM's). The higher the speed, the higher the
head. Head in feet varies in proportion to the square of impeller diameter. The bigger the diameter, the
higher the head in feet.
B. Capacity (GPM) varies in direct proportion to the speed. The higher the speed, the higher the capacity.
Capacity varies in direct proportion to impeller diameter.
C. Horsepower varies in proportion to the cube of impeller diameter. Horsepower varies in proportion to
the cube of the speed.
Formulas:
Ref. 5: Production Rules-of-Thumb Notebook, World Oil, Gulf Publishing Co. - 1967.
- 63 -
RPM, '
HP, = HP1 RPM1
= 75 ft x 0.052 x MW (ppg)
Where:
1450
HP, = 25 (87)3
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
- 65 -
XIII: 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: If the 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 Fluid Factorx
Th
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.
- 66 -
3. Pick up test joint and position in BOP's. Operate one or more of BOP functions (i.e., closed hydril and
opened Type F valve).
4. Read new manifold pressure (now drawdown because of operating BOPE, i.e., 1800 psi.
5. Calculate fluid required to operate BOP functions (i.e., 29.94 gal).
6. Calculate average nitrogen precharge of accumulator system.
Formula(s):
APrcue:usularteor Discharge
VT =Vd x Nitrogen ~~Accum _ Minimum 1
VT =Vd x 2
Where:
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)
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.
- 67 -
ii
BOPE Close Open
50% Reserve 37
Total (Hydraulic Fluid) 111 gal
= (111 gal)(2)x
XNote: 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).
Pa = (~2~9~~9~4~~)o(300oO0~)~(~1~~0~)
Note: This system should have 1000 psi nitrogen p~echarge, 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 nitro-
gen 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.
- 68 -
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 it is 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 S); 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):
2. BHP Max = (TVD - Len InFx)(.052)(MW) + (Max Allo P) + (Length Influx x 0.1)
- 69 -
8. SICP = SIDPP + Len Influx (Mudgrad - Influx Grad)
Note: Hyd. Pressure is made up of Orig. Mud, Influx Fluid, and sometimes kill weight mud. Infux Gradient as-
sumed to be 0.1 psi/ft (gas).
Where:
Max Allo P = Maximum allowable pressure based on leak off test at shoe
Kick Tolerance = The maximum kick intensity (kill wt.) that can be taken for the size (pit gain) kick and the
L.0.T. calculated
- 70 -
SICP = Shut in casing pressure
Equiv. MW Shoe = Equivalent mud weight at shoe based on shut in casing pressure
= 21.60 bbl
Size Kick = 26 bbl; therefore part of the kick is above drill collars
= 813 feet
- 1161 psi
= 16.8 ppg
- 71 -
Max Allo Press = (16.7 - 14) .052 x sooo ft
= 1123 psi
- 9713 psi
- 14.9 ppg
= O.9ppg
Note: A 10 bbl kick could be taken but a 26 bbl would probably break the shoe down.
- 72 -
Max Allo Press = (16.7 - 14) .052 x sooo ft
= 1123 psi
- 9713 psi
- 14.9 ppg
= O.9ppg
Note: A 10 bbl kick could be taken but a 26 bbl would probably break the shoe down.
- 72 -
XV: WAThR ILAMMER 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 ft/sec then the round trip time for the closure pressure wave is:
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:
Where:
I!
Given:
So:
or
This hammer force will be exerted on the wellhead for a few seconds.
- 74 -