Section 6

Liner Cementing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................6-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................6-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................6-3
Unit A: Types of Liners .............................................................................................................................6-3
Drilling Liners ........................................................................................................................................6-3
Production Liners ...................................................................................................................................6-4
Stub Liners .............................................................................................................................................6-4
Scab Liners.............................................................................................................................................6-4
Quiz A: Types of Liners.........................................................................................................................6-5
Unit B: Setting Liners ................................................................................................................................6-6
Preparing Liners .....................................................................................................................................6-6
Making Up Liners ..................................................................................................................................6-6
Running Liners.......................................................................................................................................6-7
Quiz B: Setting Liners............................................................................................................................6-7
Unit C: Cementing Liners ..........................................................................................................................6-8
Single Stage Method ..............................................................................................................................6-8
Delayed-Set Method...............................................................................................................................6-9
Quiz C: Cementing Liners......................................................................................................................6-9
Unit D: Liner Calculations.......................................................................................................................6-10
The Required Calculated Results .........................................................................................................6-10
Well Parameters ...................................................................................................................................6-10
Liner Cementing Job One.....................................................................................................................6-12
1 Cement Volume ...............................................................................................................................6-13
2 Sacks of Cement ..............................................................................................................................6-15
3 Mixing Water Required ...................................................................................................................6-15
4 Displacement Fluids Required .........................................................................................................6-15
5 Top of Cement with Drillpipe In and Drillpipe Out ........................................................................6-16
6 Pressure to Land the Plug ................................................................................................................6-17
Quiz D: Liner Calculations...................................................................................................................6-17
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................6-18

6•1 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Use for Section notes…

6•2 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Introduction
In the past, it was common to have several C. Cementing Liners
strings of casing in a deep well. All these strings
D. Liner Calculations
extended from the wellhead to different depths.
However, another method is now used for
varying well conditions. This time, and money, Learning Objectives
saving method involves the hanging of a casing
string from the bottom of a cemented casing
string. These hanging casing strings are called Upon completion of this section, you should be
liners and they are used in almost every deep familiar with
well completion. • The different types of liners
• How liners are set
Topic Areas • The different techniques of cementing liners

The section units are • How to perform liner cementing calculations

A. Types of Liners
B. Setting Liners

Unit A: Types of Liners

Four types of liners will be described briefly to • isolates lost-circulation zones
begin this section:
• isolates high-pressure zones
• Drilling (or intermediate) liners
• Production liners
• Stub liners
• Scab liners

Drilling Liners

A drilling liner (sometimes called an

intermediate liner) is a string of casing that is
hung from another casing of a larger diameter,
which has already been cemented downhole
(Fig. 6.1). It is used above a producing zone to
case off open holes so that deeper drilling may
be performed. A drilling liner
• helps control water or gas production Figure 6.1 – Drilling and Production Liners.

6•3 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Production Liners ends and is used under the same conditions as a

stub liner.
A production liner is a string of casing that is Both stub and scab liners can be set with part of
hung from a drilling liner or casing in the their weight on the liner below or they may be
producing formation (Fig. 6.1). This type of hung uphole on existing casing (Fig. 6.2).
liner is then cemented and perforated like any
other completion string. It provides isolation and
support when casing has been set above the
production zone.

Stub Liners

A stub liner (or tie back liner) is usually a short

string of casing which provides an upward
extension for a drilling liner. It is run when:
• casing above the drilling liner has been
damaged in some way (by corrosion, etc.)
• a liner is leaking Figure 6.2 – A. Scab Liner and B. Stub
Liner.
• greater resistance is needed for other reasons
(abnormal pressure, etc.).

Scab Liners

A scab liner is unusual in that it is often not

cemented once it has been run downhole and is
therefore retrievable. It has a packoff on both

6•4 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Quiz A: Types of Liners

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in this section.
1. A drilling liner is used above a __________________________________________ zone to case off
open holes so that _________________________________ may be performed.

2. A drilling liner helps to control __________________ production and to isolate

___________________ and ______________________ zones.

3. A production liner is hung in the producing formation. It is cemented and ___________________ like
any completion string.

4. The main difference between stub and scab liners is that a scab liner is ________________________.

5. Stub and scab liners are short liners that are used when casing above a drilling liner has been
________________. They can also be used when a liner is _______________________ or when
greater ________________________ is needed because of high pressure or other reasons.

6. Stub and scab liners can be hung uphole on existing casing or they can be set with part of their weight
on the __________________________.

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of the section.

6•5 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Unit B: Setting Liners

When setting liners, it is important to be familiar relatively small. If the liner is not centralized,
with these three areas: the result may be bridging or channeling. A
uniform cement sheath has not been formed
• Preparing liners around the liner, therefore no zonal isolation.
• Making up liners Slim-hole centralizers are usually used when
running liners because of the small annular
• Running liners space. Downhole equipment considerations are
the same as if the joints would be run to the
surface.
Preparing Liners
Drill pipe and a setting tool are used to run a
liner (Fig. 6.3). The setting tool connects the
Before setting a liner, the entire length of hole to
drill pipe to the liner, forms a pressure-tight seal
be lined must be drilled. It is very important to
with the liner, and holds the liner-wiper plug.
prepare the liner before lowering it into the
wellbore; the mill finish must be removed so
that cement can form a better bond with the
liner. This usually is done by sandblasting or
weathering the liner.
The hole must be well-conditioned to set a liner
because of the small annular space. To condition
the mud system, circulate at least enough
drilling fluid to displace the annular volume
twice.
Decisions must be made about how much
overlap there should be between the casing and
the liner. The amount of overlap varies between
50 and 500 feet. For example, if higher pressure
zones are penetrated, there should be more
overlap than in lower pressure zones.

Making Up Liners

The liner is made up like any casing string.

While suspended in the rotary table, it is made
up joint by joint. A float shoe is made up on the
first joint and a float collar is attached on the
second or third joint to provide a seat for the
liner-wiper plug. Sometimes a landing collar is
also made up one joint above the float collar
(Fig. 6.3). In this case, the landing collar
provides a seat for the plug.
Figure 6.3 – Typical deep well liner
Centralizers are important in liner jobs because assembly.
the clearance between the liner and casing is

6•6 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Running Liners • Hydraulic- hydraulic pressure applied to the

Running speeds should be slow to reduce the
ram effect. The liner can cause added pressure
on the formation, resulting in breakdown or lost
circulation. Speeds of 2 to 3 minutes per stand
(90 ft drill pipe) are usually allowed for cased
holes.
After a liner has been lowered into the well, the
slips are activated so that the liner hangers are
wedged against the casing. Liner hangers are set
in one of two ways:
• Mechanical- slips are activated by rotating
and reciprocating the drill pipe
setting string activates the slips.
Hydraulic equipment is used less often.
However, it is less likely to set accidentally and
is preferred in crooked holes.
Once the liner is set, the drill pipe should be
temporarily raised a few feet. The weight
indicator should be checked to be sure that the
liner has actually been released.
Spacer fluid is then pumped down-hole so that a
good cement bond can be obtained. The seal
formed by a good cement job is especially
important at the shoe and at the top of the liner.

Quiz B: Setting Liners

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in this section.
1. One step in the preparation of a liner is to ______________ the mill finish. This is usually
accomplished by ____________________________________________.

2. The amount of overlap between the casing and the liner is usually between _________ and
_________ feet.

3. Because of the small clearance between a casing and a liner, it is very important to make sure the
liner is __________________________.

4. The ________________ collar provides a seat for the liner-wiper plug.

5. The setting tool connects the ___________________ to the liner and forms a
____________________________________________ with the liner.

6. After the liner has been set, _________________________________ is pumped down hole.

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of the section.

6•7 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Unit C: Cementing Liners

Two techniques for cementing liners will be
discussed next:
• Single stage method
• Delayed-set method
Regardless of the method chosen, batch mixing
is generally preferred because of the
complexities in obtaining the best slurry
composition for a particular job.
In designing the composition of cement slurry,
the following factors must be considered:
• Temperature of the well
• Pressure caused by small annular clearance
(possibility of lost circulation)
• Formation fluids
• Pump or thickening time
• Strength or stability of the cement

Figure 6.4 – Single Stage Method.

Single Stage Method

10 to 30% more than the caliper-calculated
volume of cement is pumped when using the
single stage method of cementing liners. This
amount of cement is circulated down the drill
pipe (behind the spacer fluid). It travels out the
shoe and up the outside of the liner (Fig. 6.4).
The pump-down plug is released and pumped
down with displacement fluid. It mates with the
liner-wiper plug and its pins are sheared off.
Both continue downward until they seat and seal
on the float or landing collar.
Bottom plugs are generally not run in liner
cementing; therefore, as the two plugs descend,
they wipe mud off the liner. This mud, trapped
between the shoe and the collar, should not go
into the annulus to contaminate the cement.
The drill pipe and setting tool are then pulled out
of the hole. It is risky to reverse out excess
cement at this point because this process would
exert extra pressure on the annulus. The extra
pressure could break down the formation and
cause lost circulation. This would leave the
overlap area unprotected. Instead, the cement is
drilled out after it has set, which should result in
a good bond in the liner-casing overlap.

6•8 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Delayed-Set Method

The delayed-set method is used in certain

geographical locations when a relatively short
liner is called for in wells with low fluid levels.
It is carried out by pumping delayed-set cement
down the drill pipe. The drill pipe is then pulled
out and the liner and attachments are lowered
into the hole (Fig. 6.5). The closed float collar
valve in the liner forces the cement up the
annulus. This increases the chances for obtaining
a more uniform cement sheath around the liner.
However, since delayed-set cement is used,
WOC time is greater-sometimes two days or
more.
After any of these procedures have been
completed, the liner's seal is tested. The casing is
then cleaned and, if necessary, the cement is Figure 6.5 – Delayed-set Method of
drilled out so that the remainder of necessary cementing liner.
completion operations can take place.

Quiz C: Cementing Liners

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in this section.
1. ________________ % more cement than the caliper calculated volume is used with the single-stage
method of cementing liners.

2. The path that the cement takes is down the ________________ and then up the ______________ in
the single-stage method.

3. It is risky to reverse out cement when the workstring is pulled in the single-stage method because this
would ______________________________________.

4. The delayed-set method differs from the single-stage method because the liner is lowered into the
hole ____________ the cement is pumped down.

5. When delayed-set cement is used, the WOC may be increased by ___________________________.

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of the section.

6•9 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Unit D: Liner Calculations

Before a liner job is started, calculations must be
performed. These calculations are based on
known information and on figures obtained from
your Halliburton Cementing Tables (the Red
Book).
In this unit, you will go through the calculations
necessary for a liner cementing job. You will
learn how to calculate answers to the following
questions:
6. Required pressure to land the plug, being the
differential pressure required to pump the
plug to the top of the shoe track.
Well Parameters
Following are the well parameters that you must
have to perform the above calculations:

• Where is the top of the cement when the A. Liner Size

drill pipe is out? B. Liner Top
• What pressure is needed to land the plug? C. Well Fluid
• How much displacement fluid is needed to D. Hole Size
land the plug? E. Liner Total Depth
• What is the force on the plug when it has a F. Shoe Track Length
given psi above the pressure to land the plug
on it? G. Required Cement (on top of liner)
• What is the hydrostatic pressure at a given H. Excess Volume Required (percent)
depth after the plug lands? I. Size of Previous Casing
J. Depth of Previous Casing
The Required Calculated K. Drill pipe size, weight, thread
Results

The following must be calculated for liner

cementing:
1. Volume of cement required to fill the
required footage of the shoe rack, annulus,
lap, and cap.
2. Amount of cement, converting the required
volume of cement into sacks.
3. Amount of mixing water for the slurry.
4. Amount of displacement fluid for (a) drill
pipe volume to top of liner and (b) liner
casing volume to top of shoe track.
5. Top of cement, both with drill pipe in and
top of cement with drill pipe out.

6 • 10 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Liner Cementing Calculations

K 6 critical calculations that need to be made with
every liner casing job
4A Cement Volume—The volume of cement required
to fill the required footage of the shoe rack,
I annulus, lap and cap.
1A Shoe Track Volume
1
C 1B Open Hole Volume
1C Liner Lap Volume
1D Liner Cap Volume
G 5
Sacks of Cement—Converting the required volume
2 of cement into sacks.
1D
B 3 Mixing water for required slurries.
Displacement fluid required:
H 1C
4 4A Drill pipe volume to top of liner.
4B Liner casing volume to top of shoe track.
Top of Cement with drill pipe in and top of cement
J 5 with drill pipe out.
Pressure to Land the Plug—Differential pressure
D 6 required to pump the plug to the top of the shoe
track

4B Well Parameters
A A Liner Size
B Liner Top
C Well Fluid
D Hole Size
E Liner Total Depth
F Shoe Track Length
1B G Required Cement (on top of liner)
H Excess Volume Required (percent)
I Size of Previous Casing
J Depth of Previous Casing
K Drill pipe size, weight, thread

The next part of this section presents an example

liner job and shows the calculations.
F 1A

6 • 11 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Liner Cementing Job One

In previous exercises, we calculated volumes of 4 1/2 in., 16.6 lb/ft

cement based on perfect hole volumes and
excess volume factors typical for each job. Iin
the following liner job, we will be supplied a
specific spacer and slurry volume, just as you
would with a call-sheet before mobilizing for a
job. From the known volume of cement and
spacer we will then perform the six major liner 11,600 ft
calculations.
For this example, the liner job consists of a 9 5/8 in, 47 lb/ft
weighted spacer and slurry with known volumes
of each. 11,930 ft

Well Parameters
Item Description Data
A Liner Size 7 in, 29 lb/ft,
N-80
B Liner Top 11, 600 ft
C Well Fluid 12.4 lb/gal
D Hole Size 8 ½ in.
E Liner Total Depth 12,925 ft 8 1/2 in. hole
F Shoe Track Length 81 ft
G Required Cement (on top of 300 ft cap
liner)
H Excess Volume Required 10%
(percent)
I Size of Previous Casing 9 5/8 in, 47 lb/ft,
N-80
J Depth of Previous Casing 11,930 ft
K Drill pipe size, weight, thread 4.5 in, 16.6 lb/ft 81 ft

Given (from Call-Sheet) 12,925 ft Total Depth

Figure 6.6 – Schematic of example well for
Pump 40 bbl of 13.5 lb/gal Dual Spacer, exercise.
followed by 225 sacks of Premium Class G
Cement containing 35% SSA-1, 0.5% CFR-3, +
0.1% HR-5. Displace with 12.4 lb/gal WB On the following page is the worksheet used for
drilling mud. determining slurry volumes.

6 • 12 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

start from the shoe track and work your way up

Worksheet for Slurry Volumes the annulus to solve for height of cement with
the drill pipe at the liner hanger.
Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations
Liner Job One Volume of Cement Delivered
API Cement Weight = 94 lb/sack 3 3
225 sk × 1.57 ft /sk = 353.25 ft
1 sack = 1 cubic foot
Material Material Factor Absolute Mixing 1A Shoe Track Volume
3 3
Name (lb) (gal/lb) Volume Water 81 ft × 0.2085 ft /ft = 16.89 ft
(gal) Required 1B Open Hole Annular Volume
(gal)
Class G 94 × 0.0382 = 3.59080 5.00 Note: This volume was based on perfect hole + 10% excess
Cement (additional volume). We will calculate perfect hole, knowing
that this will increase the top of cement and give us worst
35% SSA-1 32.9 × 0.0453 = 1.49037 1.61 case for pressure to land the plug.
(silica flour)
0.5% CFR-3 0.47 × 0.0938 = 0.04409 TD Liner: 12,925 ft
(dispersant) Depth Previous Casing: - 11,930 ft
995 ft of open hole
0.1% HR-5 0.094 × 0.075 = 0.00705
(retarder) 3 3
995 ft × 0.1268 ft /ft = 126.17 ft

Water 55.0613 × 8.33 = 6.61000

Totals 182.525 11.74231 6.61
Total mixing water must be entered under absolute gallons
before totaling.
Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:
Total Pounds ÷ Total Absolute gallons = lb/gal
1D 1D
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this
formula:
3 3
Total Absolute gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft (constant) = ft /sk 1C 1C
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far
right column

Cement Density 182.525 ÷ 11.7423 = 15.5 lb/gal

3
Cement Yield 11.7423 ÷ 7.4805 = 1.57 ft /sk
Mixing Water 6.61 gal/sk
Required

From the well parameters and the data from this

worksheet, we can now calculate the six
requirements.
1B 1B
1 Cement Volume

Cement Volume is an extremely critical

calculation in a liner situation (as with all jobs).
In particular with liners, if you underestimate
cement volume, you could leave the previous
casing shoe unprotected. Therefore, it is your
responsibility to know the volume of cement
1A
delivered and to ensure that the volume of
cement is sufficient to execute the job.
Working from the known volume of cement,
225 sk, you must solve for the height of cement Figure 6.7 – Schematic for cement volume.
above the liner. To accomplish this you must

6 • 13 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

1C - Liner Lap Volume (Annular
Volume between Casings)
This is the volume between the existing 9 5/8 in.
intermediate casing and the 7 in. liner,
commonly referred to as the “Liner Lap.” This
volume is calculated as “Perfect Hole” with no
washout or excess (because we are working with
pipe inside pipe).
Lap Footage (Section 221, Page 113):
Looking in Section 221, Table 221-D, we find
that the volume factor is not printed for 9 5/8 in.
casing.
There is an easy way to calculate this factor. All
you need to know is
1. Drillpipe O.D. Î 4.5 in
2. Casing I.D. Î we look up the I.D. in section
210, Table 214, page 23 and find the I.D. for
9 5/8 in., 47 lb/ft, casing is 8.681 in.

9 5/8 in. pipe depth: 11,930 ft The formula for calculating the volume factor is
7 in. top of liner: -11,600 ft found in section 240, page 10.
330 ft of Lap Linear feet per Cubic Feet = 183.35
330 ft × 0.1438 ft3/ft = 47.45 ft3 D2 - nd2
where:
1D - Liner Cap Volume (Annular D = Diameter of hole, inches (or I.D. casing)
Volume Between Drill Pipe and
d = Outside Diameter of tubing, inches
Casing)
n = number of tubing strings
This is the volume above the liner hanger inside (in our case, we are calculating the annulus
the intermediate casing commonly referred to as between 9 5/8 in. casing and 4.5 in. drill pipe)
Liner Cap Cement. This volume will reach its
maximum height when the plug lands. This will Applying the Formula:
give you the maximum differential pressure 183.35 183.35 183.55
(pressure to land plug). As you pull drill pipe, = =
the height will decrease until the drill pipe is 8.681 − 4.5 75.36 − 20.25 55.11
2 2

pulled above the slurry. =3.33 ft/ft3

Therefore, we will make two calculations: Therefore, for every cubic foot of slurry in the
(a) Height of Cement with drillpipe in Liner annulus, we fill up 3.33 feet of annular length.
Hanger And
(b) Height of Cement with drillpipe pulled 162.74 ft3 of slurry × 3.33 ft/ft3
above the Cement Column. = 541.92 ft annular fill (drillpipe in)
Total Cement Volume: 353.25 ft3 Likewise, this is a good time to calculate the
Shoe Track Volume: - 16.89 ft3 height of spacer. We are pumping 40 bbl of
spacer. We calculated the annular volume factor
Annular Hole Volume: in ft/ft3. Therefore, all we need to do is convert
(perfect hole): - 126.17 ft3 bbl to cubic feet and multiply by the annular fill
Liner Lap Volume: - 47.45 ft3 factor. (Section 240, Page 85)
Resulting Cap Volume: 162.74 ft3 40 bbl × 5.6146 ft3/bbl = 224.58 ft3 spacer
224.58 ft3 × 3.33 ft/ft3 = 747.85 ft spacer (DP in)
Height of Cement (with drillpipe in)
Now, knowing the top of the liner is at 11,600 ft,
We have calculated that 162.74 ft3 of cement the length of the cement on top of the liner is
will remain above the Liner Top. We should be 541.92 ft (DP in); the length of spacer on top of
able to multiply by the ft/ft3 volume factor of the the cement is 747.85 ft (DP in), therefore it is
4.5 in drill pipe × 9 5/8 in. intermediate casing. easy to calculate the top of each fluid.

6 • 14 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Height of Cement (with drillpipe out)

This calculation is a lot simpler in that we are
only concerned with the 9 5/8 in, 47 lb/ft
capacity. Looking up the capacity value we 4A
calculate the following…
162.74 ft3 × 2.433 ft/ft3 = 395.95 ft
This means that after pulling drill pipe above the
cement on top of the liner, the height of the
cement column will be 395.95 ft above the liner
top so yes, we have enough cement to complete
this job.

2 Sacks of Cement

In this job, we were given 225 sacks of cement.

But, it is fairly easy to see that in future job 4B
calculations (to predict how much cement to
order) you must calculate 4 different volumes of
cement in a liner job (Figure 6.7),
1A - Shoe Track Volume
1B - Open Hole Annular Volume
(Plus Excess Cement)
1C - Liner Lap Volume
1D - Liner Cap Volume

3 Mixing Water Required

We know the number of sacks of cement is 225.

We also know the water requirement (from call-
sheet or calculations) is 6.61 gal/sk.
225 sk × 6.61 gal/sk = 1487.25 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl
= 35.41 bbl
(Have 50 bbl of clean, fresh water on hand)
4 Displacement Fluids
Required
For this calculation, we need to recognize we are
dealing with at least two different pipe
diameters, which are explained further below.
Figure 6.8 – Schematic of data needed for
determining amount of displacement fluid
required.
Calculating the amount of displacement fluid is
critical for a number of reasons. Naturally, we
want to land the plug on the top of the shoe
track. But other considerations also need to be
understood:
1. We need to know any diameter changes in
either string and their lengths.
2. We need to pay close attention to the
transition point between drill pipe and liner
casing. Many times a 2-stage plug is run
which wipes the drill pipe of cement and

6 • 15 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

then latches into a larger plug in the liner

hanger. If we slow our pump rate down and
watch closely for a pressure increase, we
will then have an accurate volume up to that TOC 10,310.23 ft
point in the job. Then we can focus on
displacing the liner casing capacity to the
TOC 11,058.08 ft
top of the shoe track.

4A - Drillpipe Volume

4 ½ in. 16.6 lb/ft

Top of Liner at 11,600 ft (Section 210, Table
212B, Page 9):
11,600 ft × 0.01422 bbl/ft = 164.95 bbl

4B - Liner Casing Volume

Total Depth 12,925 ft

Shoe Length 81 ft
12,844 ft Top of Shoe
12,844 ft - 11,600 ft (top of liner) =
1244 ft of 7 in., 29 lb/ft liner
(Section 210, Table 214, Page 21)
1244 ft × 0.0371 bbl/ft = 46.15 bbl
Therefore, we will pump:
164.95 bbl Drillpipe Capacity
+ 46.15 bbl Liner Capacity
= 211.1 bbl total displacement
12,925 ft

Figure 6.9 – Schematic showing top of

5 Top of Cement with Drillpipe cement (drillpipe in).
In and Drillpipe Out

From 1D we found the length of cement above

the liner hanger was 541.92 ft (drillpipe in).
11,600 Top of Liner
-541.92 ft Length of Cement above liner
= 11,058.08 top of cement with drillpipe in
Also from 1D:
We found that the length of cement above the
liner hanger was 363.1 ft. (drillpipe out).
11,600 ft Liner Top
–395.95 ft Length of cement above liner
= 11,204.05 ft T.O.C. drillpipe out
Liner Displacement Fluids Note
Liners are usually displaced with drilling mud
(instead of water). This is done to prevent a
large pressure differential at the liner hanger tool
and at surface.
Operationally speaking, we need to pay close
attention to mud delivery rate, mud volume on
location as well as air entrainment (which can
cause error in displacement volumes). This will
be discussed at length in Cementing II.

6 • 16 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

6 Pressure to Land the Plug Hydrostatic Pressure (Inside)

0.8052
Refer to Section 240, Page 18 to arrive at psi/ft 15.5 lb/gal 81 ft x
psi/ft
= 65 psi
for lb/gal figures. Cement

Hydraulic Pressure (Outside) 12.4 lb/gal 12,844 ft x

0.6442
= 8274 psi
psi/ft
Mud
12,925 ft – Total 12,925 ft 8339 psi
15.5 lb/gal 11,058.08 0.8052
x = 1503 psi
Cement ft = psi/ft 8669 psi – 8339 psi = 330 psi to land the plug
1866.92 ft

13.5 lb/gal 0.7013

747.85 ft x = 524 psi
Spacer psi/ft

12.4 lb/gal 10,310.23 0.6442

x = 6642 psi
Mud ft psi/ft

Total 12,925 ft 8669 psi

Quiz D: Liner Calculations

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in this section.
1. What are the six critical calculation required for each liner cementing job?

• __________________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________________

2. With liners, if you underestimate _______________________, you could leave the previous casing
shoe unprotected.

3. Liners are usually displaced with _______________________________ to prevent a large pressure

differential at the liner hanger tool and at the surface.

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of the section.

6 • 17 Cementing 1
 Liner Cementing

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to
Page Page
1. producing, deeper drilling 6-3 1. 10 to 30 6-9
2. water or gas, lost-circulation, 6-3 2. drill pipe, outside of the liner 6-9
high-pressure
3. exert extra pressure on the 6-9
3. perforated 6-4 annulus
4. retrievable 6-4 4. after 6-10
5. damaged, leaking, resistance 6-4 5. two days or more 6-10
6. liner below 6-4
Items from Unit D Quiz Refer to
Page
Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to
Page 1. Volume of cement 6-10
Amount of cement in sacks
1. remove, sandblasting or 6-6
Amount of mixing water
weathering
Amount of displacement fluid
2. 50, 500 6-6 Top of cement
Required pressure to land plug
3. centralized 6-6
2. cement volume 6-13
4. float 6-6
3. drilling mud 6-16
5. drill pipe, pressure-tight seal 6-6
6. spacer fluid 6-7

6 • 18 Cementing 1
Section 7

Plug-Back Cementing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................7-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................7-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................7-3
Unit A: Purposes of Plug-Back Cementing ...............................................................................................7-3
Plugging to Isolate Zones .......................................................................................................................7-3
Plugging to Stop Lost Circulation ..........................................................................................................7-4
Plugging for Directional Drilling ...........................................................................................................7-4
Plugging for Well Abandonment ...........................................................................................................7-5
Unit A Quiz ............................................................................................................................................7-6
Unit B: Plug-Back Cementing Calculations ..............................................................................................7-7
Balanced Plug Cementing ......................................................................................................................7-7
Example Using Equalization Point Formula ..........................................................................................7-8
Balanced Plug Job One (One Wellbore Geometry) ..............................................................................7-9
Balanced Plug Job Two (Two Wellbore Geometries)..........................................................................7-11
Unit B Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................7-13
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................7-14

7•1 Cementing 1
 Plug-Back Cementing

Use for Section Notes…

7•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
During its life, every well will require a plug-
back cementing job. Slurry is pumped down
drillpipe or tubing and into the annulus; unlike
primary cementing jobs, the cement levels in the
annulus and inside the tubular goods are the
same. This creates a blocked area which is
referred to as a cement plug. Typical length of a
cement plug is 100 to 500 ft. Halliburton
recommends a 500 ft minimum.
Setting high quality cement plugs may be
difficult for several reasons: state regulations,
formations, and the conditions in the hole.
However, plug-back cementing serves many
purposes, as you will see in this section.
Unit A: Purposes of Plug-Back Cementing
Cement plugs are used for the following reasons:
• Zonal isolation
• Lost circulation stoppage
• Directional drilling
• Well abandonment
These reasons and the types of jobs associated
with them are discussed in this unit.
Plugging to Isolate Zones
When you use a cement plug to isolate zones
(Fig. 7.1), it can serve several purposes.
• It prevents fluid migration up the pipe or
annulus by isolating a high-pressure zone
from a lower pressure zone. Fluid migration
can cause loss of production or an increase
in lifting costs.
7•3
Plug-Back Cementing
Topic Areas
The units included in this section are:
A. Purposes of Plug-Back Cementing
B. Plug-Back Cementing Calculations
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with:
• the conditions under which cement plugs are
used
• how to calculate basic plug-back cementing
jobs
• It prevents damaging fluids from entering a
producing formation. High-pressure from a
squeeze job performed above the pay zone
may force cement or wellbore fluids into a
pay zone, causing damage and loss of
production.
• It isolates an upper zone by forming a new
bottom for the well from which drill stem
tests can be run. The plug eliminates the
chances of sticking your pipe below the
testing assembly.
• It can be used to block off a problem area.
For example, a permanent cement plug can
be placed above a depleted zone without
affecting the producing zones above the
plug.
Cementing 1

Figure 7.1 – Cement plug used for zone
isolation.
Plugging to Stop Lost
Circulation
A cement plug is sometimes set during drilling
or cementing operations to stop lost circulation.
Circulation loss generally occurs in porous or
fractured formations, because drilling fluids or
cement slurries flow into the fractures. A cement
plug helps combat this problem since before the
plug’s cement sets, it drifts into the cavities to
block them off (Figure 7.2). A plug may be run
with spacers containing special chemicals which
block water flow. In severe cases, a thixotropic
or gilsonite cement may be used to block off the
lost circulation zone.
7•4
Plug-Back Cementing
Figure 7.2 – Cement plug used to stop lost
circulation.
Plugging for Directional Drilling
At times, you do not or cannot perform vertical
drilling. Perhaps an object is blocking the path
downwards (for example, a broken string of
pipe), the hole is deviated, or you want to drill
toward a target which is off to the side of the
hole. Before directional drilling can be
performed, you need a seat or a bridge on which
to set the tool. A cement plug can be used for
this purpose (Figure 7.3).
Directional drilling or whipstocking is done by
setting the plug, and then rotating the bit off the
plug in another direction. The cement plug is
called a whipstock when used in this way. A
whipstock plug provides a way to:
• get around non-retrievable objects
• correct excessive vertical deviations of the
hole
• drill a relief well
• reduce unwanted water production
Cementing 1
 Plug-Back Cementing

zones or prevent fluid migration. Today, the

federal and state governments set forth rules for
plugging wells for abandonment. Although these
rules vary, cement plugs are usually set:
• across and above potential oil and gas
producing zones
• above and below freshwater zones
• above and below the bottom of any casing
left in the hole
• at ground level (Figure 7.4).

Figure 7.3 – Cement plug used in directional

drilling.

Plugging for Well Abandonment

When a dry or depleted well is abandoned, a

portion of the casing that was left uncemented
may be pulled from the hole. This leaves
freshwater zones unprotected. In addition, high-
pressure zones may be uncovered. This allows
fluid to migrate to the surface, and causes Figure 7.4 – Cement plugs used for well
unfavorable surface conditions. abandonment.
In the past, wells were plugged for abandonment
with anything from cotton seed hulls to ground
wood. However, these materials did not isolate

7•5 Cementing 1
 Plug-Back Cementing

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to test your progress on Unit A.

1. Plug-back cementing differs from primary cementing because the level of cement in the ___________
is the same as in the __________.

2. A cement plug can prevent ____________ migration by _________ a high-pressure zone from a
lower pressure zone.

3. A plug can help protect a producing formation against __________.

4. A plug may be used to form a new _______________ for a well from which drillstem tests may be
conducted.

5. A cement plug stops lost circulation because its cement _________ into a formation’s pores or
fractures.

6. The purpose of a cement plug in directional drilling is to provide a ______________ for the tool. A
plug used for this purpose is called a _____________. The bit is ____________ off the plug to drill in
another direction.

7. When plugging to abandon, plugs are set across and above _________ formations, and above and
below ___________ zones. In addition, they are set above and below the bottom of ________ and at
__________ level.

Now, check your answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

7•6 Cementing 1
 Plug-Back Cementing

Unit B: Plug-Back Cementing Calculations

Before a plug-back cementing job begins, Following are the basic plug-back problem
several calculations must be performed. In this calculations:
unit, you will learn how to calculate
With drillpipe out:
• The amount of cement needed for a
1 Volume of cement (bbl).
balanced plug
2 Sacks of cement
• The amount of cement with the workstring
in the plug. 3 Minimum water requirements.
• The height of cement with the workstring With drillpipe in:
out of the plug.
4 Height of cement
• The volume of the spacer needed behind the
5 Height of spacer ahead of cement (with
cement
volume given)
• The volume of cement mixing water
6 Volume of spacer behind cement
7 Height of mud
8 Volume of mud (to balance)
8 7
Following are the well parameters needed for the
calculations (Figure 7.5):
A Drillpipe size
6
5 B Bottom of plug

C Top of plug
C
1
D Hole size
A 4
D 2

3
B Balanced Plug Cementing
Mud
Spacer One of the most unique calculations in the
Wellbore after job
completion
Wellbore during
job execution
Cement oilfield is the balanced plug. More often than
(drillpipe out) (drillpipe in) not, this job is performed with open-ended
drillpipe. When performed correctly, the
Figure 7.5 – Well parameters.
calculations are simple. Problems with this job
occur when one of the known parameters, such
as drillpipe ID or hole size is incorrectly
reported.
Plug calculations are easier to reason out when
you draw two wellbores:
• The wellbore during job execution
• The wellbore after job completion

7•7 Cementing 1
 Plug-Back Cementing

• Volume of mud to pump behind spacer

Working from the “known” we have the basic
hole geometry and the cement volume to pump.
Usually we have a predetermined amount of
spacer to pump ahead of the cement.
We know the cement occupies a known space in
an open wellbore. That same cement also
occupies a larger space with the drillpipe in. The
length of this space can be determined by taking
the known volume of cement and dividing by
100 ft 107.93 ft the combined volume factors of both the annulus
and the drillpipe.

Mud Example Using Equalization

Spacer
Wellbore after job Wellbore during Cement
Point Formula
completion job execution
(drillpipe out) (drillpipe in)
For this example we are given the following
Figure 7.6 – Fluid heights during and after information:
job.
• 8 ¾ in. hole, 4 ½ in., 16.6 lb/ft drillpipe
• 100 ft of cement plug in open hole, which is:
To get the wellbore to this state we must run 100 ft × 0.4176 ft3/ft = 41.76 ft3 of cement.
drillpipe into wellbore and “balance” the fluid
column hydrostatically. Use the equalization point formula, Section 240,
page 12:
Notice that the heights of all fluids are taller
when the drillpipe is in the wellbore. This is due N
h=
to the fact that the wall thickness of the drillpipe C+ T
displaces some of the volume of cement, spacers
and mud that you have placed downhole where h = height of cement (drillpipe in)

The trick to calculating balanced plugs, as it is N = ft3 of slurry used

with most other jobs, is to work from the known C = ft3/ft factor for annulus
values to solve for the unknown values.
T = ft3/ft factor for tubing or drillpipe
Known Values:
In our example we calculate as follows:
• Hole Size
h= 41.76 ft3 = 41.76 ft3 =
• Drillpipe Size 0.307 ft /ft + 0.0798 ft /ft 0.3869 ft3/ft
3 3

• Volume of Cement 107.93 ft

• Volume of spacer Therefore, with the drillpipe in, our height of
cement increases from 100 ft to 107.93 ft
Unknown Values:
(Figure 7.6).
• Height of Cement (Drillpipe In) This is the basic formula and method for
• Height of Spacer (Drillpipe In) calculating the height of any fluid of a known
volume with the pipe suspended in the fluid.
• Volume of spacer to pump behind cement
• Height of mud (drillpipe in)

7•8 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

Balanced Plug Job One (One The following table presents the well parameters
Wellbore Geometry) for our example job:
Well Parameters
In a single wellbore geometry, you have the Hole Size 8 ¾ in. (Average)
same size hole (on average) throughout the area
Drillpipe Size 4 ½ in., 16.6 lb/ft EUE
involved in the calculations, as shown in Fig.
Plug Depth 6,800 ft
7.7.
Length of Plug 500 ft
Cement Type Class H
Mixed at 16.4 lb/gal 1.06 ft3/sk yield
Spacer Ahead 20 bbl water
8 7

Calculations (Drillpipe Out)

Cement Required
6
5
1 Section 210, Table 213, Page 13
3 3
500 ft × 0.4176 ft /ft = 208.8 ft

2 Sacks Of Cement
C 208.8 ft3 ÷ 1.06 ft3/sk = 197 sks
1
A 4 3 Mixing Water
D 2
197 sks × 4.3 gal/sk = 847.1 gal
3
B
Calculations (Drillpipe In)
Mud
Spacer
Wellbore after job Wellbore during Cement
4 Height of Cement (HOC)
completion
(drillpipe out)
job execution
(drillpipe in)
We use the equalization point formula, Red
Book, Section 240, page 12:
Figure 7.7 – Single geometry wellbore.
N
h=
C+ T
where h = height of cement (drillpipe in)
N = ft3 of slurry used
C = ft3/ft factor for annulus
T = ft3/ft factor for tubing or drillpipe
Therefore:
h= 208.8 ft3 = 208.8 ft3
0.3071 ft /ft + 0.0798 ft /ft 0.3869 ft3/ft
3 3

= 539.67 ft

5 Height of Spacer Ahead (HOS)

Known: 20 bbl water ahead
Sometimes we are given the volume of spacer to
pump ahead. In this case we know we have to
pump 20 bbl of water ahead. We can multiply
this known volume by the fill factor of the

7•9 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

annulus and thereby solve the spacer height in

the annulus:
20 bbl × 18.2804 ft/bbl = 365.61 ft

6 Volume of Spacer Behind

Knowing the height of spacer in the annulus, it
is easy to calculate the volume of spacer to
pump behind the cement. (Section 210, page 9) 6 5
365.61 ft × 0.01422 bbl/ft = 5.20 bbl

7 Height of Mud
Drillpipe Depth 6800 ft
HOC (Drillpipe in) - 539.67 ft
HOS (Drillpipe in) - 365.61 ft
5,894.72 ft
Mud
8 Volume Of Mud Behind (To Balance) Spacer
5894.72 ft × 0.01422 bbl/ft = 83.82 bbl Wellbore after job Wellbore during Cement
completion job execution
(drillpipe out) (drillpipe in)
Working with a Fixed Amount of
Spacer Figure 7.8 – Working with a fixed amount of
spacer.
What happens when a customer tells you that
there is 20 barrels of spacer available on location
and you are to decide how much to pump ahead
and behind? The following shows the
calculations:

5 Height of Spacer
Known: 20 bbl total spacer
The trick is to use the same equalization point
formula we used in Calculation 4 (substitute
barrels instead of cubic feet).
h= 20 bbl
0.0547 bbl/ft + 0.01422 bbl/ft
= 20 bbl = 290.198 ft
0.06892 bbl/ft
Therefore the spacer height is 290.198 ft and the
volume of spacer ahead (of cement) is
290.19 ft × 0.0547 bbl/ft = 15.87 bbl

6 Volume of Spacer (Behind Cement)

20.00 bbl (Total)
–15.87 bbl (Ahead)
4.13 bbl behind

7 • 10 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

Balanced Plug Job Two (Two Well Parameters

Wellbore Geometries) 8 in. from 1000 ft - 6140 ft
Hole Sizes
9 ½ in. from 6140 ft – 6340 ft
In a wellbore with two geometries, you have two Drillpipe size 4 ½ in., 16.6 lb/ft EUE
hole widths within the area involved in the
Plug Depth 6340 ft
calculations, as shown in Fig. 7.9. This wellbore
is 8 inches down to 6140 ft. with a washout to 9 Length of Plug 300 ft
½ inches below that point. If we don’t take the Cement Type Class G
increased hole size into consideration, all of our
Mixed at 15.8 lb/gal 1.15 ft3/sk, 5.0 gal/sk
calculations will be incorrect.
Spacer Ahead 15 bbl

Calculations (Drill Pipe Out)

Mud Cement Required
Spacer
Cement Section 210, Table 213, Page 13
3 3
1 200 ft × 0.4922 ft /ft = 98.44 ft
100 ft × 0.3491 ft /ft = 34.91 ft3
3
3
8 Total = 133.35 ft

1,000 ft 1,000 ft 2 Sacks Of Cement

133.35 ft3 ÷ 1.15 ft3/sk = 116 sks
7
Mixing Water
3 116 sks × 5.0 gal/sk = 580 gal
580 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl = 13.81 bbl

Calculations (Drillpipe In)

5 6
4 Height of Cement (HOC)
Work from the know values to solve for the
6,040 ft 4B unknown. We are trying to determine the cement
6,140 ft 6,1 40 ft height with the drillpipe in. We have two
1 4A different hole sizes to work with. To solve this
2 6,3 40 ft problem, first calculate what you know (the
volume in the 9 ½ in. hole, because you know
3 the volume factor and length). Then subtract this
volume from the total cubic feet of slurry. Then
use the equalization point formula
N
Job Completed Job Execution
h=
(Drillpipe Out) (Drillpipe In) C +T
Figure 7.9 – Two wellbore geometries. to solve for the actual height. (If you have a third
hole size then you continue to work from the
bottom up, solving for the volume until you get
to the top hole size that contains cement and
then use the equalization point formula.)
Now, working from the bottom up:

7 • 11 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

4A – 9 ½ in. hole with 4 ½ in. drillpipe 5 Height of Spacer (HOS)

3
200 ft annulus × 0.3918 ft /ft = 76.36 ft 3 Given: Pump 15 bbl of spacer ahead of cement.
200 ft drillpipe × 0.0798 ft3/ft = 15.96 ft3 (Section 122, page 137)
92.32 ft3 15 bbl × 23.5295 ft/bbl = 352.94 ft
Subtract this volume from the known total 6 Volume of Spacer Behind Cement
cement volume: Volume of spacer behind cement. (Section 210,
133.35 ft3 – 93.23 ft3 = 41.03 ft3 page 69)
4B – Therefore, 41.03 cubic feet of slurry is 352.94 ft × 0.04122 bbl/ft = 5.02 bbl
remaining to fill into the 8 in. annulus.
7 Height of Mud
From this point you can use the equalization
HOC (Drillpipe In)
point formula:
6140 ft – 128.86 ft = 6011.14 ft
N
h= HOS (Drillpipe In) - 352.94 ft
C +T
= 5658.2 ft
h= 41.03 ft3 = 41.03 ft3
8 Volume of Mud (To Balance)
0.2386 ft /ft + 0.0798 ft /ft 0.3184 ft3/ft
3 3

(Section 210, page 169)

= 128.86 ft
5658.2 ft × 0.01422 bbl/ft = 80.46 bbl

7 • 12 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to test your progress on Unit B.

1. What are the well parameters needed for the plug-back calculations?

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

2. The heights of all fluids are _____________ when the drillpipe is in the wellbore.

3. Balanced plug jobs are usually performed with _____________________ drillpipe.

Now, check your answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

7 • 13 Cementing I
 Plug-Back Cementing

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. annulus, tubular goods 7-3
2. fluid, isolating 7-3
3. lost circulation 7-3
4. bottom 7-3
5. penetrates 7-4
6. seat or bridge, whipstock, 7-4
rotated
7. producing, freshwater, casing, 7-4
ground

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. Drillpipe size 7-7
Bottom of plug
Top of plug
Hole size
2. taller 7-8
3. open-ended 7-7

7 • 14 Cementing I
Section 8

Squeeze Cementing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................8-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................8-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................8-3
Unit A: Squeeze Cementing Background ..................................................................................................8-3
Purposes of Squeeze Cementing ............................................................................................................8-3
Squeeze Cementing Terminology ..........................................................................................................8-4
Hesitation ...............................................................................................................................................8-5
Planning Squeeze Cementing Jobs.........................................................................................................8-5
Unit A Quiz ............................................................................................................................................8-6
Unit B: Squeeze Cementing Calculations..................................................................................................8-7
Squeeze Problem One ............................................................................................................................8-9
Squeeze Problem Two..........................................................................................................................8-17
Unit B Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................8-22
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................8-23

8•1 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Use for Section Notes…

8•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
If all primary cementing jobs were completely
successful, there would rarely be a need for
squeeze cementing. However, if drilling mud
has been bypassed (channeling) during the
primary job, squeeze cementing may be required
to correct or remediate the problem.
Squeeze cementing is the process by which
cement is forced into the casing-hole annulus.
Fluid returns are not normally expected at the
surface. Perforations in the pipe are often
required to obtain a flow path to the annulus.
The channel or area of poor bond, as well as the
perforations, are filled with cement. Pump
pressure is allowed to rise in order to "squeeze"
cement slurry into the desired area. The cement
is allowed to harden into a plug which blocks
fluid movement. Drill-out of set cement inside
the casing is normally required.
Existing production perforations may be
abandoned by squeeze cementing. Also, casing
leaks due to pipe corrosion may be sealed with
Unit A: Squeeze Cementing Background
To perform a successful squeeze job, it is first
necessary to become familiar with
• the purposes of squeeze cementing
• terminology associated with squeeze
cementing
• planning considerations for squeeze jobs.
Purposes of Squeeze
Cementing
Some of the more common reasons for
performing a squeeze job are
• to correct a defective primary cementing job
caused by channeling or insufficient fill-up
8•3
Squeeze Cementing
this process. The bottom of casing strings (shoe)
and liner tops may also require squeezing to
correct problems. These types of jobs may not
require perforating prior to squeezing.
Topic Areas
In this section, these units will be included:
A. Squeeze Cementing Background
B. Squeeze Cementing Calculations
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with:
• The purposes of squeeze cementing
• How to calculate a basic squeeze cementing
job
• to provide a seal for places purposely not
cemented during primary cementing — for
example, squeezing liner tops
• to reduce the gas/oil ratio by shutting off
some of the gas-producing perforation
(isolating the gas and oil zones)
• to improve the oil/water ratio by shutting off
some of the water-producing formation
(isolating the oil and water zones)
• to close-off an unproductive formation from
the wellbore
• to prevent fluid migration
• to repair casing holes caused by corrosion,
perforation, etc. (Fig. 8.1)
Cementing 1

Figure 8.1 – Squeezing to repair casing.
Squeeze Cementing
Terminology
In order to understand the different methods
used in squeeze cementing, it is necessary to
first be familiar with the following terms:
• Cement dehydration
• Pump-in pressure and injection rate
• Low- and high-pressure squeeze
• Block squeezing
Cement slurry is composed of cement, additives
and water. When slurry reaches a permeable
formation, only the water (filtrate) will pass into
the cracks of the formation (Figure 8.2). Cement
dehydration is the process by which the cement
forms a cake and hardens on the face of the
formation.
8•4
Squeeze Cementing
Figure 8.2 – Whole cement slurry does not
enter the formation
In squeeze jobs, forcing the formation to fracture
is not the objective. If the formation fractures, it
will break down. Then whole cement slurry (not
just the filtrate) will be displaced into the
formation. Therefore, care must be taken so that
the pump pressure and the pressure exerted by
the weight of the fluid are not sufficient to force
a fracture of the formation. The pressure
required to force filtrate into the formation
without fracturing it is called the pump-in
pressure.
The volume per minute at which the fluid will be
pumped during the squeeze job is called the
injection rate. Both the pressure and rate should
be established by performing an injection test in
which well fluid is pumped into the formation to
determine at what rate and pressure the fluid will
be absorbed into the formation.
During a low-pressure squeeze job, enough
pressure is applied to form a filter cake of
dehydrated cement on the formation. In other
words, the pump-in pressure or the pressure
necessary to place cement against the formation
will not cause the formation to fracture.
However, if the formation will not absorb filtrate
at the pump-in pressure, (because of blocked
perforations or low formation permeability),
more pressure may be applied. This will result in
a fractured formation - whole slurry will fill the
fractures. This is considered a high-pressure
squeeze job.
Cementing 1

Block squeezing requires that perforations be
made at the interval to be squeezed. Then,
cement is forced into this interval (Figure 8.3).
Block squeezing is generally used to isolate the
producing zone before completing a well.
Figure 8.3 – Block Squeeze
Hesitation Squeeze
At some point during a squeeze job, you will
have attained the pressure planned for the job.
That pressure is then held. If it drops off (that is,
bleed off is occurring), you know that your
cement is continuing to dehydrate.
In this case, a hesitation squeeze may be
conducted. Time is allowed for the cement to
begin to set. The pressure is applied again. If
bleed off continues, more time is allowed. This
is repeated as many times as is necessary; the
only limitation is the thickening time of the
cement. If too long a period is allowed, the
workstring may be cemented up.
Planning Squeeze Cementing
Jobs
Before any type of squeeze job is undertaken,
information must be obtained and choices must
be made, including
• the types of well fluids to be used, which
will affect the pressure to reverse out, and
8•5
Squeeze Cementing
the necessity of using a spacer (in case of
fluid incompatibility)
• the bottomhole static temperature, which
affects the setting time of the cement
• the difference between the depths of the
perforations and the packer (if used), which
should from 100 to 150 ft to allow enough
volume to continue the squeeze after the
cement has cleared the workstring
• the maximum pressure to be used, which
cannot exceed the pressure limitations of the
workstring, casing, BOPs, and other
equipment to be used
• the type of cement to be used, in that fluid-
loss additives are used to ensure that a small
amount of cement filter cake will form
against the formation, while the slurry in the
casing remains fluid enough to reverse out
• the amount of cement to be used, which
depends on the volume of the workstring
(volume of cement should not exceed the
capacity of the tubular goods) and the length
of the interval to be squeezed (a rule of
thumb is to use 2 sk/ft).
• testing all wellhead equipment and annulus
to the pressure required to reverse out the
maximum height of cementing the
workstring.
Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit A.

1. Common reasons for performing a squeeze job are to ___________ a defective primary cementing
job or to __________ holes in casing caused by corrosion. In addition, the ______________ ratio is
improved.

2. When the filtrate enters the formation, cement ____________ to form a cake on the formation.

3. The pressure required to force filtrate into the formation without ___________ it is called the
___________ pressure. This pressure is established by pumping _________________ into the
formation to be squeezed.

4. If the formation fractures during a squeeze job, then a _________ pressure squeeze job is being
performed.

5. If the pressure drops off during a squeeze job, this is called ______________. To correct this
condition, a _______________ squeeze may be performed.

6. The ____________ pressure to be used during a squeeze job cannot exceed the limitations of the
equipment being used.

7. Cement used for squeeze job usually contains ______________ additives.

8•6 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Unit B: Squeeze Cementing Calculations

Before beginning a squeeze cementing job, 8 Pressure to reverse out at the completion of
several calculations must be performed. The the job.
types of calculations to make depend on the
nature of the job. Following are the basic 9 Amount of cement pumped though the
squeeze problem calculations (Fig. 8.3,4): perforations.

1 Volume of cement (bbl). Following are the well parameters needed for the
calculations (Fig. 8.3):
2 Pressure to reverse one barrel of slurry from
workstring. A Drillpipe/tubing size

3 Minimum water requirements. B Packer depth

4 Displacement volume to spot cement one C Top of perforations

barrel above packer.
D Bottom of perforations
5 Pressure to reverse cement when spotted.
6 Pressure to reverse cement from workstring E Casing size
when cement reaches top perforation.
7 Pressure to reverse cement from workstring
when cement reaches bottom perforation.

A
2
4
Well Fluid

Well Fluid

5
Cement

B
C

Figure 8.3 – Well schematic showing squeeze calculations and parameters.

8•7 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Well Fluid

Well Fluid
Well Fluid

6 7 8
Cement

Figure 8.4 - Well schematic showing squeeze calculations and parameters.

The remainder of this section presents two

sample squeeze problems and shows, step by
step, how to calculate all the needed data. You
will need a copy of the Halliburton Cementing
Tables (the Red Book) to use during the
samples.

8•8 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Squeeze Problem One

Well Parameters
A 2 7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft
EUE Tubing Drillpipe/tubing size 2 7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft
EUE
Packer Depth 5000 ft
Top of perforations 5094 ft
Bottom of perforations 5136 ft
Casing size 7 in., 20 lb/ft
Cement type Class G
Cement volume 75 sk
Displacement/well fluid Fresh water (8.33
lb/gal)

1 Volume of Cement (bbl)

B Packer at 5000 ft
To convert the given volume of cement from
C Perf top at 5094 ft sacks to barrels, you must determine the yield of
the slurry.
D Perf bottom at
5094 ft 1. Using the “Technical Data” section of the
Red Book, determine the yield of a neat
“Class G” slurry, given its weight of 15.8
7 in., 20 lb/ft
E
Casing
lb/gal. The table shown in Fig. 8.6 (extracted
from the Class G section of the Red Book)
Figure 8.5 – Parameters for Sample shows this to be 1.15 cu.ft/sk.
Problem A. 2. Multiply the volume of cement in sacks by
the slurry yield to determine the volume in
cubic feet.
75 sk × 1.15 cu.ft/sk = 86.25 cu.ft
Now, convert cubic feet to barrels using the
conversion constant found in the “Technical
Data” section of the Red Book:
86.25 cu.ft × 0.1781 bbl/cu.ft = 15.36 bbl

Figure 8.6 – Class G data from Red Book.

8•9 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

2 Pressure to Reverse One Barrel of the number of feet that one barrel will fill
Slurry from Workstring inside the tubing, which is 172.76 ft/bbl.
3. Multiply the differential pressure found in
Step 1 by the value found in Step 2 to obtain
the pressure required to reverse out one
barrel of slurry from the workstring:
2
0.3878 psi/ft × 172.76 ft/bbl = 67.00 psi/bbl
Later on, you will be calculating different values
of cement left in the tubing, according to where
you are in your job. You will then use the value
determined in the step above to calculate the
total pressure required to reverse out the cement.
Well Fluid

Figure 8.7 – Determining pressure to

reverse on barrel of slurry from drillpipe.

The following is a quick way to calculate the

pressure required to reverse out the slurry from
the workstring. These calculations will be based
on a column equal in height to one barrel of
fluid in the workstring. (Your answer will be in
psi/bbl.)
Figure 8.8 – Hydrostatic pressure data from
1. Referring to the “Calculations and Red Book.
Formulae” section of the Red Book (shown
in Fig. 8.8), look up the psi/ft (hydrostatic
pressure gradient) of the 15.8 lb/gal cement
and the 8.33 lb/gal water. Then find the
difference between these two values: 0.8208
psi/ft and 0.4330 psi/ft:
0.8208 psi/ft – 0.4330 psi/ft = 0.3878 psi/ft
2. Then, using the “Capacity” section (Table
211) for 2 7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft EUE tubing, find

8 • 10 Cementing 1

3 Minimum Water Requirements
The minimum fluid (water) requirements for a
squeeze job include the volumes needed for the
following:
• Cement mixing water (always fresh water
unless the slurry is otherwise designed)
• Displacement fluid (the capacities of the
tubing and the casing)
• Reversing fluid
Therefore, each of these volumes needs to be
calculated and then added together.
Note: This volume does not include both prime-
up and wash-up volumes, which would also
need to be accounted for.
1. With the help of the “Technical Data”
section of the Red Book, you can calculate
how much mixing water you will need (see
Fig. 8.6). Because you are using Class G
cement with a weight of 15.8 lb/gal, the
water requirement is 5.0 gal/sk. Multiplying
the amount of cement needed, in sacks, by
the water requirement gives you your total
mixing water:
5.0 gal/sk × 75 sk = 375 gal
To convert to barrels:
375 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl = 8.93 bbl
2. As for the fluid needed for displacement,
you will need to calculate the capacities of
the appropriate parts of both the tubing and
casing. Since there is no way of knowing
when a well will squeeze (pressure will not
bleed off), you must have enough fluid to
displace all of the slurry to the lowest
perforation.
8 • 11
Squeeze Cementing
First, determine the capacity of the tubing. It
extends from the surface to the packer, a
total of 5000 ft. Look up the capacity factor
for the 2 7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft EUE tubing in the
“Capacity” section (Fig 8.9). This factor is
0.00579 bbl/ft. Multiply the length of the
tubing by its capacity factor to obtain the
capacity of the tubing:
5000 ft × 0.00579 bbl/ft = 28.95 bbl
3. Then figure the capacity of the 7 in., 20 lb/ft
casing (Table 214) from the packer to the
lowest perforation (5136 ft – 5000 ft = 136
ft).
136 ft × 0.0404 bbl/ft = 5.49 bbl
4. You may have to reverse out the excess
cement remaining in the tubing (after
unsetting the packer). This reverse
circulation occurs around the setting depth
of the packer (5000 ft). So the volume in the
tubing to reverse out is the same as the
displacement volume you have already
calculated for the tubing (Step 2), which is
28.95 bbl.
Keep in mind that you should use the type
and weight of fluid in the annulus for
reversing fluid.
5. Now, the minimum amount of fluid required
for this job can be calculated by adding the
cement mixing water (Step 1), the two
displacement fluid volumes (tubing and
casing- Steps 2 and 3), and the reversing
volume (Step 4):
8.93 bbl + 28.95 bbl + 5.49 bbl + 28.95 bbl
= 72.32 bbl
NOTE: As a good practice, we recommend that
you have double the volumes needed to reverse.
Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Figure 8.9 – Tubing capacity data from Red Book.

Figure 8.10 –Casing capacity data from Red Book.

8 • 12 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

4 Displacement Volume to Spot 5 Pressure to Reverse when Cement

Cement One Barrel Above Packer Spotted

After the cement is spotted one barrel above the

packer, the packer will be set to avoid
circulating any cement behind the packer. When
the packer is set and you attempt to begin
4 pumping fluid into the perforations, you may
experience problems establishing an injection
rate, in which case you would unset the packer
and reverse all the cement out of the tubing.
Therefore, you need to calculate how much
pressure is required to do this.
Well Fluid

5
The pressure needed to reverse out this cement
in the tubing can be calculated by multiplying
Cement

the barrels of cement in the tubing, which in this

case is the total cement volume, by the
differential pressure per barrel of fluid (as
calculated in Calculation 2 , 67.00 psi/bbl):
15.36 bbl × 67.00 psi/bbl = 1029 psi

Figure 8.10 – Displacement Volume.

To avoid damaging the formation that can be

caused by pumping all the well fluid ahead of
the cement into the perforations, the packer is
left unset while the cement is spotted one barrel
above it. This allows well fluid to circulate out
of the well.
To determine the volume of displacement to
pump behind the slurry to spot it one barrel from
the packer, you subtract the total cement volume
plus one barrel from the tubing capacity
(determined during Calculation 3 ):
Tubing Capacity 28.95 bbl
Cement Volume - 15.36 bbl
Volume Above Packer - 1.00 bbl
Displacement Volume 12.59 bbl

8 • 13 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

6 Pressure to Reverse Cement from Use your Red Book to find the capacity
Workstring when Cement Reaches factor (bbl/ft) of the 7 in., 20 lb/ft casing,
the Top Perforation then multiply this value by the length of
casing between the packer and the top
perforation (5094 ft – 5000 ft = 94 ft).
94 ft × 0.0404 bbl/ft = 3.80 bbl
2. Now, subtract this volume from the total
volume of cement to determine how much
slurry remains in the tubing:
15.36 bbl – 3.80 bbl = 11.56 bbl
3. The final step in this calculation is to
multiply the volume of cement remaining in
the tubing by the differential pressure per
Well Fluid

barrel of fluid (as calculated in Calculation

2 , 67.00 psi/bbl):
11.56 bbl × 67.00 psi/bbl = 775 psi

6
Cement

Figure 8.11 – Pressure to reverse when

cement reaches the top perforation.

As with the previous question, problems with

injection rates may occur when cement reaches
the top perforation. In this case, we can only
reverse out the cement that is left inside the
tubing, and not the cement that has exited below
the packer and is now inside the casing.
The first calculation we need to make, therefore,
is the volume of cement remaining in the tubing.
1. To do this, you calculate the volume of
cement in the casing and subtract that
volume from the total volume of cement.
Determining the volume of cement in the
casing requires you to calculate the capacity
of the casing from the packer depth (5000 ft)
to the depth of the top perforation (5049 ft).

8 • 14 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

7 Pressure to Reverse Cement from (Step 2) by the differential pressure per

Workstring when Cement Reaches barrel of fluid (as calculated previously in
Bottom Perforation Step 3 of the calculation for pressure to
reverse out one barrel, 67.00 psi/bbl):
9.87 bbl × 67.00 psi/bbl = 661 psi
Note: The effects of friction have been
Well Fluid disregarded in all these calculations.

Figure 8.12 – Pressure to reverse when

cement reaches bottom perforation.

Related to the calculation just completed, this

calculation will be based on the fact that cement
has made it to the bottom perforation, but no
cement has entered the perforations. Therefore,
we need to once again calculate the volume of
cement that remains in the tubing.
1. First, find the volume of cement that is in
the casing. This calculation has already been
performed in Calculation 3 (5.49 bbl).
2. Now subtract this volume from the total
volume of cement:
15.36 bbl – 5.49 bbl = 9.87 bbl
3. The pressure needed to reverse out this
cement in the tubing can now be calculated
by multiplying the barrels in the tubing

8 • 15 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

8 Pressure to Reverse Out at the 9 Amount of Cement Pumped

Completion of the Job Through the Perforations

Using information obtained from previous

calculations, you can calculate the amount of
cement pumped through the perforation during
this squeeze job.
1. The total volume of slurry (15.36 bbl) minus
the volume of slurry in the casing (5.49 bbl)
minus the volume of slurry now in the
tubing is the volume of cement in the
formation:
Well Fluid

15.36 bbl – 5.49 bbl – 4.95 bbl = 4.92 bbl

2. Divide this by the yield of the cement, 1.15
cu.ft/sk, to obtain the amount of cement in
the formation:
8 27.62 ft3 ÷ 1.15 ft3/sk = 24 sk

9 Results of Calculations

The following table presents the results of the

nine calculations for Squeeze Problem One:
Squeeze Cementing Calculation Results
Description Result
1 Volume of cement (bbl). 15.36 bbl
Figure 8.13 – Pressure to reverse out at the
completion of the job. 2 Pressure to reverse one 67.00 psi/bbl
barrel of slurry from workstring.
3 Minimum water 72.32 bbl
For the following calculations, you have to requirements.
assume that some arbitrary volume of 4 Displacement volume to 12.59 bbl
displacement fluid was pumped behind the spot cement one barrel above
cement at the time squeeze pressure is reached. packer.
The volume chosen here is 24 bbl. 5 Pressure to reverse cement 1029 psi
when spotted.
1. Find out how much cement is in the tubing
now, given that 24 bbl of displacement fluid 6 Pressure to reverse cement 775 psi
were pumped behind it: from workstring when cement
reaches top perforation.
28.95 bbl – 24 bbl = 4.95 bbl
7 Pressure to reverse cement 661 psi
2. Now multiply the amount of cement in the from workstring when cement
tubing by the pressure required to reverse reaches bottom perforation.
one barrel out of the tubing (67.00 psi/bbl) 8 Pressure to reverse out at 332 psi
the completion of the job.
4.95 bbl × 67.00 psi/bbl = 332 psi
9 Amount of cement pumped 24 sk
though the perforations.

8 • 16 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Squeeze Problem Two

A 2 7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft
In this job, you are to squeeze off a channel that EUE Tubing
runs from perforations below a packer to a point
above the packer. Note that the first seven
questions you will answer are based on the same
calculations as in Squeeze Problem One, with
two additional calculations (8 and 11):
1 Volume of cement
Pressure to reverse one barrel of slurry from
2 workstring
3 Minimum water requirements
Displacement volume to spot cement one
4 barrel above packer
5 Pressure to reverse cement when spotted
Pressure to reverse cement from workstring
6 when cement reaches top perforation
Pressure to reverse cement from workstring
7 when cement reaches bottom perforation
Maximum pump pressure when cement slurry
8 has reached the bottom perforation B Packer at 6200 ft
Pressure to reverse out at the completion of
9 the job C Perf top at 6240 ft
Amount of cement pumped through the
10 perforations
D Perf bottom at
Maximum pump pressure if the channel is full 6250 ft
11 of cement

E 7 in., 20 lb/ft J-55

Well Parameters Casing

2 7/8 in., 6.516 lb/ft EUE

Drillpipe Size
Tubing Figure 8.14 – Parameters for Squeeze
Packer Depth 6200 ft Problem B.
Top of Perfs 6240 ft
Bottom of Perfs 6250 ft
Casing Size 7 in., 20 lb/ft, J-55
Cement Type Class H
Cement Additives 0.4% Halad-413
Cement Volume 150 sk
Displacement/ Well
Fresh Water (8.33 lb/gal)
Fluid

8 • 17 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

1 Volume of Cement
2
Absolute Mixing
Material Material Factor Volume Water
Name (lb) (gal/lb) (gal) Required
(gal)
Class H
94 × 0.0382 = 3.5908 4.3
Cement
0.4% Halad-
0.376 × 0.0811 = 0.0305 0 +
413

Well Fluid
× = +
Water 35.819 = 8.33 × 4.3 gal +
Totals 130.20 7.92 4.3 gal

Total mixing water must be entered under absolute gallons

before totaling.
Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:
Total Pounds/Total Absolute gallons = pounds/gallons
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this
formula:
Total Absolute gallons / 7.4805 gal/cu.ft. (constant) = cu.ft./sack
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far
right column

Cement Density
130.20 / 7.92 = 16.4 lb/gal
(lb/gal)
Cement Yield
7.92 / 4.4805 = 1.06 ft3/sk
(ft3/sk)
Mixing Water
4.3 Gal/sk
required

Based on the worksheet, Figure 8.15 – Determining pressure to

reverse one barrel of slurry from workstring.
150 sk × 1.06 cu ft/sk = 159 cu ft
159 cu. ft × 0.1781 bbl/cu. ft = 28.32 bbl

2 Pressure to Reverse One Barrel of 3 Minimum Water Requirements

Slurry From Workstring
1. Cement Mix Water:
Hydrostatic pressure gradients (from 150 sk × 4.3 gal/sk = 645 gal
“Calculations and Formulae” section of Red 645 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl = 15.36 bbl
Book)
2. Displacement Fluid:
16.4 lb/gal cement ⇒ 0.8519 psi/ft
Tubing: 6200 ft × 0.00579 bbl/ft = 35.90 bbl
8.33 lb/gal water ⇒ 0.4330 psi/ft
Casing: 6250 ft – 6200 ft = 50 ft
Differential Hydrostatic Pressure Gradient = 50 ft × 0.0404 bbl/ft = 2.20 bbl
0.8519 psi/ft – 0.4330 psi/ft = 0.4189 psi/ft 3. Reversing Fluid: 35.90 bbl
Feet/Barrel Factor For Workstring = 172.76 lb/ft
Minimum water required:
0.4189 psi/ft × 172.76 ft/bbl = 72.37 psi/bbl
15.36 bbl + 35.90 bbl + 2.02 bbl + 35.90 bbl
= 89.18 bbl
NOTE: Always plan to reverse with 2 times the
tubing capacity. Therefore in this problem plan
for an additional 35.9 bbls.

8 • 18 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

4 Displacement Volume to Spot 6 Pressure to Reverse Cement from

Cement One Barrel Above Packer Workstring when Cement Reaches
Top Perforation
Tubing Capacity 35.90 bbl
Cement Volume - 28.32 bbl Capacity of casing from packer (6200 ft) top
Volume Above Packer - 1.00 bbl perforation (6240 ft):
Displacement Volume 6.58 bbl
6240 ft – 6200 ft = 40 ft
40 ft × 0.0404 bbl/ft = 1.62 bbl
5 Pressure to Reverse Cement
When Spotted 28.32 bbl – 1.62 bbl = 26.70 bbl remaining in
tubing
28.32 bbl × 72.37 psi/bbl = 2050 psi 26.70 bbl × 72.37 psi/bbl = 1932 psi

4
Well Fluid

Well Fluid
Cement

6
Cement

Figure 8.16 – Calculations 4 and 5. Figure 8.17 – Pressure to reverse cement.

8 • 19 Cementing 1

7 Pressure to Reverse Cement from
Workstring when Cement Reaches
Bottom Perforation
Capacity of casing from packer to bottom
perforation = 2.02 bbl (from Calculation 3 )
28.32 bbl – 2.02 bbl = 26.30 bbl
26.30 bbl × 72.32 psi/bbl = 1903 psi
Well Fluid
7 368 psi – 21 psi = 347 psi
Figure 8.18 – Pressure to reverse cement.
8 Maximum Pump Pressure when
Cement Slurry Has Reached the
Bottom Perforation
It is necessary to determine the maximum
pressure that can be applied at the surface for
this squeeze job. The pressure applied at the
surface may be transmitted through the channel
to the outside of the casing above the packer. If
the pressure applied is high enough, it may
collapse the casing.
1. This calculation is done by first subtracting
the pressure to reverse out cement to lowest
perforation and no cement in the formation
8 • 20
Squeeze Cementing
(1903 psi) from the collapse resistance of
the casing being used. This value can be
found in the “Dimensions and Strengths”
section of the Red Book. Refer to the correct
table for the 7 in, 20 lb/ft, J-55 casing being
used (Fig 8.20). The collapse resistance is
2270 psi.
2270 psi – 1903 psi = 367 psi
2. Since there is a differential pressure from
the packer to the perforation (no cement is in
the channel), you must also subtract this. To
calculate the differential, multiply the
distance from the packer to the lowest
perforation (6250 ft – 6200 ft = 50 ft) by the
difference in the psi/ft for the cement and
well fluid (0.8519 psi/ft - 0.4330 psi/ft =
0.4189 psi/ft):
50 ft × 0.4189 psi/ft = 21 psi
3. Now, subtract the differential pressure from
Step 1 to obtain the maximum pump
pressure:
Remember, this is the maximum pressure that
can be applied at the surface if the cement has
reached the perforations.
8
Well Fluid
Figure 8.19 – Maximum pump pressure.
Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Figure 8.20 – Casing data from Red Book.

Subtract the pressure to reverse the remaining

9 Calculation of Pressure to cement slurry from the tubing from the collapse
Reverse Out at the Completion of the resistance of the casing to find the maximum
Job pump pressure at surface:
2270 psi – 789 psi = 14812 psi
Final Displacement Volume = 25 bbl
Cement Volume Remaining in Tubing:
35.90 bbl – 25 bbl = 10.9 bbl
11
Reverse Pressure:
10.9 bbl × 72.37 psi/bbl = 789 psi

10 Amount of Cement Pumped

Through the Perforations
Well Fluid

Volume of Cement in Perforations:

28.32 bbl – 10.9 bbl – 2.02 bbl = 15.4 bbl
15.4 bbl × 5.6146 cu ft/bbl= 86.46 cu ft
86.46 cu ft ÷ 1.06 cu ft/sk = 82 sk 9

11 Maximum Pump Pressure if the 10

Channel is Full of Cement

Assuming that 25 bbl of displacement fluid have

been pumped behind the volume of slurry, and
that the channel is full of cement, you know
there is no differential pressure from the packer
to the perforations in this case. What is the
maximum pump pressure before the casing Figure 8.21 – Calculations for 9, 10, and 11.
collapses?

8 • 21 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Results of Calculations 7 Pressure to reverse cement 1903 psi

from workstring when cement
reaches bottom perforation.
The following table presents the results of the
nine calculations for Squeeze Problem Two: 8 Maximum pump pressure 347 psi
when cement slurry has
Squeeze Cementing Calculation Results reached the bottom perforation

Description Result 9 Pressure to reverse out at 789 psi

the completion of the job
1 Volume of cement (bbl). 28.32 bbl
10 Amount of cement 82 sk
2 Pressure to reverse one 72.37 psi/bbl pumped through the
barrel of slurry from workstring. perforations
3 Minimum water 89.18 bbl 11 Maximum pump pressure 1481 psi
requirements. if the channel is full of cement
4 Displacement volume to 6.58 bbl
spot cement one barrel above
packer.
5 Pressure to reverse cement 2050 psi
when spotted.
6 Pressure to reverse cement 1932 psi
from workstring when cement
reaches top perforation.

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit B.

1. The well parameters needed for squeeze calculations include:

____________________________________

____________________________________

____________________________________

____________________________________

____________________________________

2. To convert a given volume of cement from sacks to barrels, you must determine the
____________________________________________.

Now check your answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

8 • 22 Cementing 1
 Squeeze Cementing

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. correct, fill, oil/water 8-3
2. dehydrates 8-4
3. fracturing, pump-in, fluid 8-4
4. high 8-5
5. bleed-off, hesitation 8-5
6. maximum 8-5
7. fluid-loss 8-5

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. Drillpipe size 8-7
Packer depth
Top of perforations
Bottom of perforations
Casing size
2. yield of the slurry 8-9

8 • 23 Cementing 1
Section 9

Surface Cementing Equipment

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................9-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................9-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................9-3
Unit A: Cementing Heads/Plug Containers ...............................................................................................9-3
Methods of Using Plug Containers ........................................................................................................9-4
Commonly Used Halliburton Plug Containers.......................................................................................9-5
Remote Control Plug Container System ................................................................................................9-6
Quick-Latch Coupler..............................................................................................................................9-7
Casing Swivels .......................................................................................................................................9-7
Plug Container Lifting Devices..............................................................................................................9-8
Maintenance and Use of Plug Containers ..............................................................................................9-8
Unit A Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................9-10
Unit B: Density Measurement..................................................................................................................9-11
Radioactive Density Meters .................................................................................................................9-11
Pressure Balanced Mud Scale ..............................................................................................................9-11
Unit B Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................9-12
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................9-13

9•1 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

Use for Section Notes…

9•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
The main purpose of any cement mixing system
is to blend water and dry cement at a satisfactory
rate so that ideal weights, viscosities, and
densities can be maintained. In addition, recently
developed mixing systems provide the capacity
for additive reactions and batch mixing. The end
result is cement that will set properly downhole.
Topic Areas
In this section, the following units are included:
Unit A: Cementing Heads/Plug Containers
Plug containers (cementing heads) are used in
most cementing jobs to adapt the casing to the
pump as well as release the cementing plugs at
the proper time. Cementing plugs are used to
separate wellbore fluids and cement slurry. The
plug containers are designed to hold one or two
plugs that you can load before mixing the
cement slurry.
Plug containers are installed on top of the casing
before cement jobs to allow operators to drop
the top cementing plug without opening the
casing. Since continuous circulation is not
required in most cementing situations, pumping
can be stopped long enough to insert the bottom
plug.
Continuous circulation may be required when
cementing if the casing could get stuck in the
hole. By stacking plug containers or using a
double plug container, you can maintain
continuous circulation.
9•3
Surface Cementing Equipment
A. Cementing Heads/Plug Containers
B. Density Measurements
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with
• Types of cementing heads
• Use of Densometers
Plug containers have advantages over the other
plug dropping methods:
• A plug may be loaded in a container before
the mixing of the cement slurry
• A plug may be released from the container
at any time without interrupting the pumping
operation
• No air enters the pipe (as would be the case
with a swage), so the movement of the
slurry does not stop
• A container eliminates time spent removing
a swage to drop a plug.
Plug containers are available in two types: free-
fall and manifold. Cementing plugs fit loosely in
the free-fall plug container and rely on gravity to
pull the plug down into the flow stream,
allowing the plug to be pumped downhole.
Manifold plug containers allow fluid to be
diverted above the plug for positive plug release.
Cementing 1

Jet-Hed III Jet-Hed II
Type N
Figure 9.1 – Various types of plug containers.
Methods of Using Plug
Containers
Non-Continuous Circulation
To use a plug container on non-continuous
pumping jobs, follow the guidelines below:
1. Stop circulating the well fluids and remove
the plug container cap.
2. Insert the bottom plug through the plug
container to a point just below the inlet port.
3. Move the plug-release plunger to the
extended position.
4. Place the top plug inside the plug container
so that it rests on top of the extended
plunger.
5. Reinstall the cap on the top of the plug
container and begin the cementing job. The
bottom plug will travel down the casing in
front of the cement to separate the cement
from the well fluid.
Surface Cementing Equipment
SPCH SPL
LP Quick Change
6. Release the top plug at the proper time by
moving the plug release plunger into its
retracted position. The top plug then follows
the cement down the casing to separate the
cement from the displacing fluids.
Continuous Circulation
If well conditions dictate that continuous
circulation be used, you can use two plug
containers or a double plug container as
described below:
1. Load both plugs into the plug container
before circulating the well fluids so that both
plugs can be released without opening the
plug container.
2. Circulate the well fluids and prepare the
cement for pumping.
3. When the cement is introduced into the
casing, retract the bottom plug release
plunger for the bottom plug.
4. Open the middle Lo-Torc valve above the
bottom plug to allow the bottom plug to
enter the casing ahead of the cement.
9•4 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

5. At the proper time, release the top plug by

retracting the top plug release plunger,
which is holding the plug inside the plug
container.
6. Open the top Lo-Torc valve above the top
plug. The top plug then follows the cement
and separates it from the displacement fluid.

Commonly Used Halliburton

Plug Containers

Jet-Hed™ III Plug Container

Halliburton’s Jet-Hed III plug container offers

significant advantages when compared to
conventional plug containers. Offset fluid entry
ports create a vortex inside the plug container to
pull the plugs into the fluid stream at the proper
time. A looser fit also helps ensure more reliable
release of the plug from the plug container. No
line pipe threads on the high-pressure manifold
connections, improved welds, and a one-piece
cap all contribute to the solid design and result
in more reliable operation.
• Single plug or two-plug container available
• High pressure design
• Standard plug release plunger/plungers
• Type-certified models available
• Single and double remote controlled plug
containers available
• Available with Quick-Latch™ couplers in
4 1/2 in. through 20 in. API casing sizes
Figure 9.2 – Jet Hed III plug container.
Jet-Hed Model III-A
The Jet-Hed III-A plug container was designed
to replace the Jet-Hed III. It features the
following improvements:
• no line pipe threads on high-pressure
manifold connections improve welds
• one-piece cap (no pressure-containing parts
are welded on the cap, only hammer lugs
and lifting lugs for the chain.)
Jet-Hed Model III-A plug containers can
withstand high pressure and require no manifold.
Two inlets allow high pumping rates with low
horsepower. A lever-type indicator shows
passage of the plug as it leaves the plug
container and enters the casing.

Jet-Hed Model A Double Plug

Containers

The Jet-Hed Model A is the manifold version of

Jet-Hed III-A. It uses the same cap, nipple, and
plug release plunger as the Jet-Hed III-A and has
the same pressure rating. It was designed to
replace the standard Jet-Hed double plug
container.

9•5 Cementing 1

Compact™ Plug Container
The Compact™ plug container has the following
design features:
• is approximately 33% shorter and lighter
than previous Halliburton plug containers.
• includes an integral quick-latch coupler
(QLC) that allows safe and quick
installation. The QLC also eliminates taper-
threaded connections from the PC assembly,
thereby eliminating the maintenance
associated with tapered threads.
Figure 9.3 – Front and side view of free fall type cementing plug.
Remote Control Plug Container
System
Halliburton’s remote control plug container
system helps promote safer working conditions,
provides cost-effective cementing and
9•6
Surface Cementing Equipment
• uses a single manifold that fits 4 ½ to 13 3/8
in. plug containers. Two additional
manifolds are supplied for the 16, 18 5/8 and
20 in. plug containers.
• includes a plunger assembly that attaches to
the plug container body with a 3 in. 1502
union half, allowing easier removal and
maintenance.
• includes a new lifting swivel and has a
seamless, weldless cap with bar holes for
easy makeup.
circulating, and allows efficient, dependable
operation during the cement job. Using this
system, you can release plugs and actuate Lo-
Torc® valves on plug containers by remote
control. The system includes two pneumatically
operated plug release plungers, three Lo-Torc
valves, and a control console for operating either
single or double plug containers.
Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

The control console releases the plugs and opens
the valves in a controlled sequence, preventing
accidental release of the wrong plug or pumping
on top of a plug before the plug release plunger
is retracted. Because the plug release plungers
and Lo-Torc valves can be operated by remote
control, you can release plugs during pumping,
saving rig time and promoting rig safety.
The console has a sequencing system that can
prevent the operator from accidentally releasing
the top plug first or pumping on top of a plug
before retracting the plunger.
The release pins on the plunger lock
mechanically in the external position to help
prevent plugs from being released prematurely.
After the plugs are released, fluid flow through
the manifold forces them down the casing.
Because they operate by remote control, they
can be stationed a safe working distance from
the wellhead. These systems also have manual
override, so operators can run the release
plungers manually if air pressure is lost.
Figure 9.4 – Lo-Torc valve.
Quick-Latch Coupler
Premium and type-certified couplers are
available for NKK-3SB, Vam, Mannesmann,
API 8RD,and Buttress type threads.
Figure 9.5 – Quick-latch coupler
mechanism.
Casing Swivels
Casing swivels allow the casing to rotate during
cementing or circulating. Install swivels between
the top of the casing and the bottom nipple of
the plug container; latch elevators onto the
casing below the swivel.
IMPORTANT: Casing swivels are not
designed to lift or support casing weight.
When rotation is required, set the slips on the
casing and remove the elevators. A torque arm
or bar inserted into the side of the swivel should
be tied off to the rig to prevent the plug
container from rotating. The casing swivel also
has a safety clamp that mechanically locks the
casing coupling to the swivel to allow the casing
to rotate counter-clockwise. Before clamping
onto the casing coupling, position the safety
clamp in the recess slot provided on the swivel
body.

Halliburton’s Quick-Latch coupler provides

easier and faster attachment of the cementing
plug container to the casing string. It is
preinstalled in the plug container and simply
clamps on the casing coupling. This reduces
installation time and adds increased reliability
for both cementing and circulating operations.

9•7 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

WARNING: Do not use the old style sling for a

larger size plug container. Switching slings
between plug containers could cause the sling to
be overloaded and break, possibly causing
injury.

Inspection Procedure

Visually inspect the slings for cracks before each

job. A magnetic particle inspection should also
Figure 9.6 – Casing swivel with casing be done periodically. Follow the procedure listed
clamp in either Halliburton specification 70.94158 or
ASTM Specification E709. Any sling with
cracked or stretched rings must be replaced.

Safety Concerns
Plug Container Lifting Devices
Older style slings use welded rings as part of the
Chain slings/hoist rings for Halliburton plug construction of the sling (Figure 9.8). In some
containers are used to lift the cap on and off the cases, these welded rings have broken at the
plug container during a job. They are also used weld, causing some safety concerns.
to lift the entire plug container onto the rig floor
and to lift the plug container while it is being
attached to the casing. Chain slings/hoist rings
are designed only to lift the weight of the plug
container and attached equipment. Never use
them for any other purpose.

Figure 9.8 - Old style sling with welded

rings.

Maintenance and Use of Plug

Figure 9.7 – New style chain sling.
Containers

Table 9.1 listed below lists the parts of the plug

containers that should be regularly inspected and
serviced before taking it to location and after the

9•8 Cementing 1

job. Since the free-fall plug container is
currently used in many locations, this table
provides information about these parts, their
functions, and how to properly maintain them.
However, this information also applies to the
manifold-type cementing head.
After all service checks, the plug container is
ready for the job. Although many things are
involved when dropping plugs, the general
Table 9.1 – Plug Container and Attachments
Item Function
Plug Release Plunger Supports and releases plugs
Indictor Flapper Informs operators that the plug has
passed through the cementing head and
into the casing
Top Cap Detaches to load plug and to stack heads
(free fall type only)
Adaptor (Sub) Simplifies ease of connecting cementing
head to casing (changed out to fit
customer’s casing threads)
Quick Latch Coupler Shortens and simplifies the connection
procedures when connecting the
cementing head to the casing collar
(omits need to screw heads on)
Casing Swivel Attaches to the base of the cementing
head and allows the casing to rotate
without rotating the cementing head (Not
to be used with the Quick-Latch Coupler.)
9•9
Surface Cementing Equipment
procedure for operating a cementing head is:
screw in the pin, put the safety latch on to
prevent the handle from turning, remove the cap,
load the plug, and put the cap back on tightly.
To drop the plug, first remove the safety. Screw
the pin to the left and it will back out allowing
the plug to fall. If the head has a manifold, first
drop the plug, then open the top valve and close
the lower valve.
Maintenance
• Remove plunger by rotating to the right
• Apply grease to grease fitting
• Inspect plunger screws
• Inspect O-rings
• Remove plug, install grease zerk and grease
• Remove the 2-inch bull plug and inspect
• Grease the O-rings on the shaft supporting the two
flags
• Clean and lightly oil the seals or O-rings before
replacing
• Upon removal, clean and lightly oil the seals or O-
rings before replacing
• Remove body from the adjusting nut
• Remove the coupling face seal, check O-ring seal for
cuts
• Cleaning should occur immediately after use to
prevent cement setting up in the swivel
• After cleaning, pump a few strokes of grease into the
swivel bearing.
Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit A.
1. Plug containers are used in most cementing jobs to adapt the ____________ to the pumping lines as
well as release the _________________________ at the proper time.

2. Plug containers are available in two types: _________________ and___________________.

3. The Jet-Hed Model A is the ___________________ version of Jet-Hed III-A.

4. The Compact™ plug container is approximately ______% shorter and lighter than previous
Halliburton plug containers

5. The Remote Control Plug Container System includes two ___________________ operated plug
release plungers.

6. Halliburton’s Quick-Latch coupler reduces ________________________________.

7. Casing swivels allow the casing to ____________ during cementing or circulating.

8. Chain slings/hoist rings for Halliburton plug containers are used to lift the ________ on and off the
________________________ during a job. They are also used to lift the entire plug container onto
the ___________________and to lift the plug container while it is being attached to the casing.

9. Switching slings between plug containers could cause the sling to be ________________________,
possibly causing injury.

10. Most of the parts of the plug container and its attachments need to be ________________ and
________________ thoroughly before and after their use.

9 • 10 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

Unit B: Density Measurement

Density meters (or densometers) are used to
measure the weight of a fluid. These devices are
used on blenders where they measure the density
of sand in a fluid, and on pumping units where
the weight or density of the cement is measured.
When used in larger scale cementing or
fracturing operations they are portable units.
For the purpose of this unit, two types of density
meters will be discussed:
• Radioactive Density Meters
• Pressure Balanced Mud Scale
Radioactive Density Meters
Pressure Balanced Mud Scale
The Pressure Balanced Mud Scale is an
instrument for measuring the absolute density of
a fluid sample. The unit is similar in operation to
the conventional mud scales, the difference
being that the slurry sample can be placed in a
fixed volume sample cup under pressure.
A major problem found in the density
measurement of fluids, cement slurries, and mud
is that they often have a considerable amount of
air entrained with them. However, pressurizing
the sample cup can reduce the entrained air
volume to a negligible quantity.

The radioactive densometer described in this

unit (Figure 9.9) is an all-electric system
designed for skids, trailers, trucks, and portable
use. The system consists of a display and density
sensor. It is designed for battery operation.
A radioactive densometer differs from a
pneumatic densometer in that it
• Is calibrated using water
• Senses the magnitude of a radioactive
source’s rays as they pass through the Figure 9.10 – Pressurized mud balance
cement slurry and converts the value to scale.
slurry density.

Figure 9.9 – Radioactive density meter.

9 • 11 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit C.
1. A density meter is used to measure the ___________ of a fluid.

2. Of the two types of densometers discussed in this unit, the ____________ type is more accurate
because it is not affected by ___________ in the fluid being weighed.

3. A radioactive densometer is calibrated with __________, rather than _____________ like the
pneumatic densometer.

4. The ___________________________ is similar in operation to the conventional mud scales with the
difference being that the slurry sample can be placed in a fixed volume sample cup under pressure.

9 • 12 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. casing, cementing plugs 9-3
2. free-fall, manifold 9-3
3. manifold 9-4
4. 33 9-4
5. pneumatically 9-6
6. installation time 9-7
7. rotate 9-7
8. cap, plug container, rig floor 9-7
9. overloaded and break 9-8
10. inspected, serviced 9-8

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. weight 9-11
2. radioactive, air 9-11
3. air, water 9-11
4. pressure balanced mud scales 9-11

9 • 13 Cementing 1
 Surface Cementing Equipment

9 • 14 Cementing 1
Section 10

Downhole Cementing
Equipment

Table of Contents
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................10-3
Topics ...................................................................................................................................................10-3
Learning Objectives .............................................................................................................................10-3
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment................................................................................................10-3
Guide Shoes..........................................................................................................................................10-3
Super Seal™ II Float Shoe...................................................................................................................10-4
Super Seal™ II High-Port Up-Jet (HPUJ) Float Shoe .........................................................................10-4
Super Seal™ II Down-Jet Float Shoe ..................................................................................................10-5
Super Seal™ II Float Collar .................................................................................................................10-5
Insert Flapper Float Valve....................................................................................................................10-6
Backpressure Valves ............................................................................................................................10-6
Pressure Differential Fill (PDF) Float Shoes and Collars ....................................................................10-7
Unit A Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................10-8
Unit B: Casing Attachments ....................................................................................................................10-9
Clamps..................................................................................................................................................10-9
Centralizers...........................................................................................................................................10-9
Wall Cleaners .....................................................................................................................................10-10
Cement Baskets ..................................................................................................................................10-11
Unit B Quiz ........................................................................................................................................10-12
Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs .........................................................................................................10-13
Bottom Plugs ......................................................................................................................................10-13
Top Plugs............................................................................................................................................10-13
Latch-down Plugs...............................................................................................................................10-14
Unit C Quiz ........................................................................................................................................10-16
Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools ..............................................................................................10-17
Type-P External Sleeve (ES) Cementer .............................................................................................10-17
Type-H External Sleeve (ES) Cementer.............................................................................................10-18
Stage Tool Plug Sets ..........................................................................................................................10-18
Full-Opening (FO) Multiple-Stage Cementer ....................................................................................10-19
External Sleeve Inflatable Packer Collar (ESIPC) .............................................................................10-20
Unit D Quiz ........................................................................................................................................10-21
Answers to Unit Quizzes....................................................................................................................10-22

10 • 1 Cementing 1
 Introduction

Use for Section Notes…

10 • 2 Cementing 1

Introduction
During the early stages of the drilling process,
the hole will be lined with steel casing to prepare
the well for production or deeper drilling. The
steel casing provides a smooth bore for the tools
necessary to drill and complete the well. The
types of downhole equipment discussed in this
section contribute to a good cement job; they
help ensure a uniform cement sheath behind the
casing.
As you learn more about downhole equipment,
keep in mind that any item that will be used
inside the casing must be made of drillable
material.
Topics
This chapter covers the following topics:
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment
Guiding equipment helps guide casing past
ledges and doglegs to the bottom of the hole.
Floating equipment allows casing to be run in
the hole partially empty, which takes some of
the stress off of the rig structure and draw-
works. Also, backpressure valves in floating
equipment permits the release of pressure in the
casing, after the cement job, to reduce
microannulus problems. A microannulus may be
created when stressed casing (due to internal
pressure) is allowed to relax after cement has
already hardened and bonded. As the casing
contracts, the slight reduction in casing outside
diameter results in a very narrow gap between
the cement and casing that may allow fluid
travel and compromise the isolation of zones.
Some of the more commonly used types of
guiding and floating equipment will be dis-
cussed in this unit. These include:
• Shoes
10 • 3
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment
A. Guiding and Floating Equipment
B. Casing Attachments
C. Primary Cementing Plugs
D. Multiple-Stage Cementing Tools
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with:
• Functions of downhole equipment
• Descriptions of the basic types of equipment
used downhole
• Uses and applications of downhole
equipment
• Collars
• Backpressure valves
Guide Shoes
Guide shoes and down-jet guide shoes have the
following primary purposes:
• They protect the casing string from the
impact associated with landing casing on
bottom
• They direct casing away from ledges,
reducing the chance of sidewall cave-in
• They help casing pass through narrow,
deviated holes and areas with hard shoulders
The standard guide shoe has a large-ID hole
through its center, allowing maximum cement
pumping rates and the passage of self-fill orifice
tubes and balls dropped in the casing string. The
Cementing 1

rounded nose of these guide shoes is made from
high-strength cement that can be drilled out
easily with tri-cone rock bits or PDC bits.
Down-jet guide shoes have additional side ports
in the steel case that allow fluids to discharge
through both the cement nose and the ports. The
jetting action of the fluid pumped through these
ports helps remove wellbore cuttings and filter
cake.
Figure 10.1 - Guide Shoe
Super Seal™ II Float Shoe
The Super Seal™ II standard float shoe attaches
to the lower end of the casing string. This float
shoe includes the Super Seal™ II backpressure
valve assembly, which helps prevent cement in
the cased hole from re-entering the casing ID.
The plastic valve and stem materials are
surrounded by drillable concrete, making the
equipment easy to drill out with PDC or tri-cone
rock bits. The high-strength, durable rounded
nose safely guides the casing to the bottom of
the hole. This equipment is available in all
tubing and casing sizes with API 8-rd and
buttress threads. The standard casing grade is K-
55 material. Customers can request any casing
grade and premium thread by special order.
10 • 4
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment
Figure 10.2 - Super Seal™ Float Shoe
Super Seal™ II High-Port Up-Jet
(HPUJ) Float Shoe
The High-Port Up-Jet (HPUJ) float shoe jets the
formation face to remove detrimental mud cake
and cuttings, increasing the chances of a
successful cement-to-formation bond. The high
circulation rates and cement flow rates that are
possible with the Super Seal™ II float valve
allow turbulent flow at the shoe without
damaging the float valve.
The HPUJ shoe includes six fluid-discharge
ports strategically placed to jet the circulation
fluid or cement upward, enhancing fluid
turbulence far above the floating equipment.
These up-jet ports, along with four (or fewer)
down-jet ports, distribute the fluid in the annular
space above and below the float shoe, helping
prevent channeling near the shoe.
Approximately 40% of the fluid pumped
through the equipment is discharged at a high
velocity through the bottom of the float shoe,
removing material in its path and helping
maneuver the casing past ledges and tight
sections of the wellbore.
If the casing string is reciprocated during
cementing, cement jetted through the exit ports
remove mud cake from the formation face. Field
Cementing 1

reports indicate that the HPUJ float shoe can
substantially reduce the number of casing strings
requiring secondary squeeze cementing
operations. All casing sizes of the Super Seal™
II HPUJ float shoe use the same autofill strap
used for the Super Seal™ II float valve. When
engaged, this strap allows the casing to fill
automatically with wellbore fluid while it is
being run in the hole, saving time and reducing
the “ram effect” of running casing.
Figure 10.3 – Super Seal™ II High-Port Up-
Jet (HPUJ) Float Shoe
Super Seal™ II Down-Jet Float
Shoe
The Super Seal™ II down-jet float shoe includes
the Super Seal™ II float valve, which prevents
cement backflow from re-entering the casing ID.
In addition to the center hole through the float
valve, four to six fluid ports are drilled in the
outer case below the float valve. These ports
direct some of the fluid downward during
circulation. Pressurized fluid jets out of the side
ports and the guide nose, helping remove
cuttings and filter cake, creating turbulence
around the shoe, and improve cement
distribution and casing-to-formation bonding.
Additionally, the external jets on the outer case
provide an alternative cement flowpath if the
bottom center port becomes plugged with well
debris.
10 • 5
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment
Figure 10.4 – Super Seal™ II Down-Jet
Float Shoe
Super Seal™ II Float Collar
The Super Seal™ II float collar includes the
Super Seal™ II backpressure valve, which
prevents cement pumped into the casing/
wellbore annulus from re-entering the casing ID
during cementing operations. The float collar is
normally installed one or two joints above the
float or guide shoe. All casing-size Super Seal™
II float collars include an autofill strap (at no
additional cost). This strap, which is installed
between the valve and pressure seat, is
deactivated by flow rate. The autofill strap
allows wellbore fluids to enter the casing with
the first joint, reducing surge pressure on the
formation and reducing casing fill time from the
surface. When the autofill strap is pumped loose
with a high fluid rate, the float valve is re-turned
to a dependable Super Seal™ II backpressure
valve for floating or cementing. The autofill
strap will deactivate if the flow through the
valve reaches a predetermined rate (4 bbl/min
for the 2 ¾ in. valve and 6 bbl/min for the 4 ¼
in. valve).
Cementing 1
 Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment

unit includes a weighted plastic valve and plastic

orifice tube. The orifice tube holds the flapper
open until a weighted plastic setting ball is
dropped into the casing. Once the ball reaches
the valve seat, pressure is applied to shear out
the plastic orifice tube, which allows the valve to
close. This equipment operates efficiently in
mud systems containing high concentrations of
lost-circulation material.
The insert float valve is more economical than
standard floating equipment but should not be
used under any of the following circumstances:
• in wells over 7000 ft
• where pressures exceed the collapse
pressure of the lightest weight range of
casing being used (for example, 17 in., 20
Figure 10.5 – Super Seal™ Float Collar lb/ft J55)
• when bottomhole temperature is more than
200°F .
Insert Flapper Float Valve

The insert flapper float valve is a backpressure

check-valve assembly installed between the pin
and box ends of API 8-rd or buttress thread
casing joints. The insert flapper float valve is
used for casing flotation and cementing
operations in wells with moderate temperature
and depth. It can be used for differential
pressures up to the collapse pressure of the
lightest weight of J-55 casing in the casing size
in which it is run. The insert flapper float valve
can be installed in long or short API 8-rd or
buttress casing coupling. Because of limited
space between the casing box and pin, insert
flapper float valves are not available for
premium-thread casing. One or more insert
valves can be run in a casing string or in
conjunction with a standard float shoe or guide Figure 10.6 – Insert Flapper Float Valve
shoe. Self-Fill Unit and Insert Flapper Float Valve
Because they are made from aluminum, insert
flapper valve assemblies can be drilled out easily
with a medium-tooth, tri-cone rock bit. PDC bits
should not be used to drill out insert flapper Backpressure Valves
valves.
The insert float valve has a large flow area and Backpressure valves were briefly discussed
can be easily converted to autofill equipment if under float collars. They are one way valves that
an orifice self-fill unit is installed. The self-fill keep the flow of fluid from re-entering the

10 • 6 Cementing 1

casing. Two common types of valves are the
flapper and poppet valves (Fig. 10.6).
The flapper valve uses a spring-loaded flapper
that has a rubber coating around a beveled edge,
which seals on a tapered seat. The spring is a
low force type (it requires only a small amount
of pressure to open the valve).
When pumping stops, the spring pushes the
valve back against the seat, preventing fluid
from entering the casing.
The poppet valve uses a rubber-coated, spring-
loaded valve, which seals on a plastic seat. The
poppet is pushed downward by fluid pressure
allowing the fluids to be pumped through the
valve. Once the pumping has stopped, a shut off
is created when the poppet is pushed up against
the seat by a spring.
Flapper Valve
Valve Poppet Valve
Figure 10.7 – Back Pressure Valves
To decrease differential pressure in deep holes
and minimize the possibility of collapsing the
casing, it is necessary to allow some fluid to
enter the casing as it is lowered in the hole.
Flapper and poppet valve systems can be
modified to allow the casing to be filled
automatically, but you will have no control over
how much fluid will enter; the amount of fluid in
the annulus directly affects the amount of fluid
which enters the casing.
10 • 7
Unit A: Guiding and Floating Equipment
Automatic fill equipment is used to
• reduce rig time
• reduce fluid surge effects of running casing
• prevent the sticking of casing
Flapper type equipment can be converted to
automatic fill by installing a fill tube through the
middle of the tool. This holds the flapper off its
seat.
The diameter of the fill tube can be chosen to
somewhat control the flow rate of fluid into the
casing. To stop the flow rate and convert from
automatic fill to float valve, a ball must be
landed on a seat in the fill tube, pressure applied,
and sheared out of the valve.
To convert the poppet valve to automatic fill,
specially designed stand-off lugs are inserted
between the spring loaded valve and the seat.
This allows fluid flow to occur through the valve
from either direction. To cause the valve to act
as a backpressure valve, a specified pump rate
must be achieved that will open the valve
sufficiently to free the stand-off lugs. The lugs
then flow downward from the poppet, allowing
the valve to seat when pumping is stopped.
Pressure Differential Fill (PDF)
Float Shoes and Collars
The pressure differential fill (PDF) float shoe
and collar include a float valve. This valve
allows casing to be filled while it is run in the
hole, and it allows fluid circulation at any time
without deactivating the fill unit. PDF float
shoes and collars can be run in the same casing
string. They allow fluid to enter the bottom of
the casing while maintaining a constant
differential pressure between the inside and
outside of the casing at the floats. This pressure
maintains a constant fluid height inside the
casing.
PDF floating equipment is supplied in the
differential-fill mode, and it is ready to be run in
the hole. After all casing has been run, a
weighted plastic ball is dropped in the casing
from the surface and pumped through the tool.
This procedure deactivates the differential-fill
Cementing 1
 Unit B: Casing Attachments

option. After the ball passes the float collar

and/or shoe, the PDF flapper closes against its
seat, preventing cement from re-entering the
casing ID.
The PDF floating equipment is supplied in either
a float collar or a float shoe in common casing
sizes. All equipment run with these tools must
have an ID large enough to allow passage of the
weighted ball that releases the backpressure
valve. Tool sizes from 4 1/2 to 6 5/8 in. require a
1 3/8 in. diameter ball, while tools 7 in. and
larger require a 2 3/8 in. diameter ball.
PDF floating equipment should not be used in
wells deviated more than 30° from vertical, and
it should not be drilled out with PDC bits. PDF
equipment cannot be used with Super Seal™ II
floating equipment.
Figure 10.8 – Pressure Differential Fill
(PDF) Float Shoe and Collar.

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress.
1. The purpose of guiding equipment is to help casing travel downhole without causing
____________________________________________.

2. The purpose of floating equipment is to help prevent ____________________ problems.

3. A (an)______________________ is run on the first joint of casing.

4. Side ports in a guide shoe help to remove __________________________ and

____________________ .

5. The main difference between a guide shoe and a float shoe is that a float shoe contains a
_____________________. Fluid can only flow ______________ the casing.

6. A (an)___________________________________ can sometimes be used instead

of standard float equipment in a well less than 7000 ft and at bottomhole
temperatures less than 200°F.

7. The figure to the right is a (an) ___________________ type valve.

8. Some fluid should enter the casing in deep holes to decrease the differential
pressure to minimize the possibility of _______________________.

10 • 8 Cementing 1

Unit B: Casing Attachments
Casing attachments are devices installed on the
outside of the casing string to help successfully
complete a primary cementing job.
Included in this unit are
• Clamps
• Centralizers
• Wall Cleaners
• Cement Baskets
Clamps
All casing attachments must be installed or
fastened to the casing by some method. If they
are not installed over a casing collar, then a
clamp must be used to secure or limit the travel
of the various casing attachments. There are a
number of different types of clamps (Fig. 10.9).
One type is simply a friction clamp that uses a
set screw to keep the clamp from sliding.
Another type uses spiral pins that are driven
between the clamp and the casing to supply the
holding force. Others have dogs (or teeth) on the
inside, which actually bite into the casing.
Where corrosion problems exist, any clamp that
could scar the surface of the casing is unusable.
Clamps should draw—not push—the casing
equipment into the hole.
Figure 10.9 - Clamps
10 • 9
Unit B: Casing Attachments
Centralizers
Bow-Spring Centralizers
Bow-spring centralizers help center the casing in
the wellbore during cementing operations,
allowing the cement to be evenly distributed
around the casing string. The degree to which
the casing is centered (standoff) depends on the
performance of the centralizer and the spacing
between the centralizers installed on the casing
OD. Bow-spring centralizers, both welded and
nonwelded, provide the following advantages:
• They help center the casing in the wellbore,
allowing even distribution of cement around
the casing.
• They help reduce casing drag on the
wellbore during casing running operations.
• They help prevent differential sticking of the
casing.
• They increase fluid turbulence at the tool,
helping remove filter cake from the
wellbore.
• They can be run through hole restrictions in
the wellbore or through smaller casing
strings that are cemented in the well, thereby
centering the casing below the restriction.
Welded Bow-Spring Centralizer
Welded bow-spring centralizers are available in
two styles: slip-on and hinged. Slip-on
centralizers are manufactured with solid end
rings, requiring the centralizer to be slipped on
the casing OD during installation. Hinged
centralizers are manufactured in segments,
allowing the centralizer to be installed easily
around the casing OD. Hinge pins hold the
segments together during installation. All
welded bow-spring centralizers are
manufactured to API Specification 10D.
Cementing 1

The dual-contact (double bow) welded
centralizer is designed for small-clearance
casing-to-hole size applications. The centralizer
will perform as a standard bow centralizer in
holes up to 1/2 in. smaller than the centralizer’s
nominal OD. When run in holes less than 1/2 in.
smaller than the OD, the center of the centralizer
contacts the casing OD, performing as a rigid
centralizer. Because of its high restoring force
with very little spring deflection, the dual-
contact centralizer is excellent for deviated and
horizontal wellbores. The dual-contact
centralizer should only be installed between a
collar and stop ring— never over a casing collar.
Figure 10.10 – Welded Bow-Spring
Centralizer
Nonwelded Bow-Spring Centralizer
Nonwelded bow-spring centralizers are available
in the hinged style only. The bow springs of this
centralizer are attached to the end rings without
welding. The centralizer bow end is connected
to the end rings with a locking tab that bears the
load force on the centralizer. The centralizers are
supplied in hinged segments joined by hinge
pins in each segment. All nonwelded centralizers
meet or exceed the requirements of API
specification 10D, which dictates the minimum
restoring and maximum starting forces for
centralizers for various casing/hole size
combinations.
10 • 10
Unit B: Casing Attachments
Centralizers with turbofins attached to each bow
spring are designed to create localized turbulent
fluid flow at the centralizer. The turbofins divert
the fluid flow, more evenly distributing cement
around the casing.
All welded and nonwelded bow-spring
centralizers are available in most common
hole/casing sizes.
Figure 10.11 – Nonwelded Bow-Spring
Centralizer
Wall Cleaners
Since drilling fluid and cement should not be
mixed together, good cement bonds between
casing and cement and between cement and
formation depend upon removal of the filter
cake from across formations.
Wall cleaners or scratchers (sometimes called
mud stirrers) are installed on the outside of the
casing to mechanically remove mud filter cake
from the wall of the hole with spring steel spikes
or cables.
Mechanical cleaners on the casing agitate the
mud and make it easier to displace. The motion
of the scratchers breaks the gel strength of the
mud in the annulus and helps thin the fluid so
that it can be displaced out of the hole. Mud
removal is also helped by pumping the cement
Cementing 1
 Unit B: Casing Attachments

slurry at a rate high enough to create turbulent
flow.
Two common types of scratchers are rotation
and reciprocation. The rotation-type scratcher
(Fig. 10.12) cleans the formation when the
casing is rotated at about 15 to 20 rev/min. A
continuous length of scratchers is needed across
the zones to be cleaned.
Wire Type
Cable Type Cable-Type Wire-Type
either rotation or reciprocation during the
circulating and displacing operations.
Cement Baskets
Cement baskets are also installed on the outside
of casing. They help support some of the
hydrostatic pressure that the cement slurry
produces until it sets and protect the producing
formation against cement contamination. A
cement basket has a canvas or metal liner
supported by steel staves (Fig. 10.13).
This canvas liner filters out the cement solids,
which may form a bridge between the casing
and hole. The maximum amount of pressure that
any cement basket should ever be expected to
hold is approximately 50 psi. A cement basket
should be able to travel the full length of the
pipe joint.

Figure 10.12 - Scratchers

The reciprocation-type scratcher has either long

steel spikes (Fig. 10.12) or a cable (Fig. 10.12).
These devices scratch or clean the formation as
the casing is picked up 10 to 15 ft off the bottom
of the hole. Be careful—some reciprocation type
scratchers can be installed upside down and
would be useless when they reach the producing
formation.
It is good practice not to have scratchers
working across a lost circulation zone, since the Figure 10.13 – Cement Basket
filter cake and lost circulation material should
not be removed. However, it is possible to run
the reciprocation type (no cable type) scratcher Cement baskets are used
in a lost circulation zone with minimal
disturbance of the filter cake. • above weak zones that may break down
under the hydrostatic pressure of the cement
Movement of the casing, in addition to the use slurry
of mechanical cleaners, greatly increases the
ability of the cement slurry to more completely • for cementing casing through a shoe joint to
displace the mud and prevent mud channels provide extra support for the column of
through the cement. This movement can be cement.

10 • 11 Cementing 1
 Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress.
1. If a casing attachment is not installed over a casing collar, then a (an) _____________ is used to
fasten the equipment to the casing.

2. If you’re working on a well that will likely have corrosion problems, you’ll want to avoid the use of
any clamp that could ____________ the casing, like a clamp which has ________________.

3. A uniform cement sheath around the casing largely determines the effectiveness of the
__________________ between the wellbore and casing.

4. The casing attachments used to center the casing in the hole are called
_______________________________________.

5. Scratchers are used to mechanically remove ________________ from formations.

6. Rotation type scratchers clean the formation when the casing is___________.

7. Reciprocation type scratchers clean the formation when the casing is

______________________________.

8. In addition to using mechanical scratchers, mud displacement is also helped by the

___________________ of cement, and the _______________________ of the casing during a
cement job.

9. Cement baskets support some of the _________________________, which the slurry produces until
it sets. They have a ____________________ liner, which filters out cement solids that can form a
___________________between the casing and the wellbore.

10. Cement baskets are usually used above a ________________________.

10 • 12 Cementing 1
 Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs

Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs

Plugs used in primary cementing minimize
cement contamination in the casing by wiping
the casing clean and serving as a barrier between Top Cementing Plug

wellbore fluid and cement. Included in this unit Accumulation of

mud-contaminated
are cement from wiped
Casing away boundary

• Bottom plugs layer

Cement
• Top plugs Slurry

• Latchdown plugs

Boundary

Bottom Plugs Layer of Mud

Mud

The function of the bottom plug is to enter the

casing ahead of the cement slurry. It wipes mud Figure 10.15 – Top plug run without a
and solids from the casing wall and keeps those bottom plug.
solids ahead of the plug. Bottom plugs are
almost always used in primary cementing,
except when lost circulation materials are being
run with the cement.
When the bottom plug reaches the float collar or
float shoe, the differential pressure between the
inside of the casing and annulus ruptures the
diaphragm on top of the plug to allow the slurry
to flow out of the shoe and up the annulus. The
plug body is strong enough to withstand the
forces of impact and the differential pressure to
rupture. Top Plugs

Top Plugs

A top plug is pumped down by displacement

fluid after all the slurry has been pumped (Fig.
10.15). It prevents the displacement fluid from
channeling through the more viscous cement
slurry. Top plugs have no diaphragm and fluid
can not be pumped through them. When it Bottom Plugs
reaches the top of the bottom plug, pressure will
build up and indicate that the job is complete. Figure 10.16 – Cross-section of cementing
plugs.
Although the top and bottom plugs perform
somewhat the same function (separating two
fluids), they are quite different structurally (Fig.
10.16).

10 • 13 Cementing 1
 Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs

Top plugs have rubber wipers to wipe the casing
and can withstand considerably more pressure.
To help with easy identification, top plugs are
black and bottom plugs are red. Top and bottom
plugs have a solid core of plastic.
Latch-down Plugs
The maximum pressure that the baffle will
withstand is dependent upon the proper make-up
of the casing joints and the weight range of the
casing. A differential of 3,000 psi should not be
exceeded in any light weight casing. Higher
differential pressures are allowable in heavier
weight casing with a maximum of 5,000 psi in
the heaviest weights.

Latch-down plugs are usually used with tubing,

casing and interstring cementing; however, they
may also be used with conventional casing float
equipment. The latch-down plug functions as a
top plug, and its snap ring locks into a groove in
the baffle when it is pumped down after the job
(Fig. 10.17). The latch-down feature helps
ensure that the cement and top plug will not
move back up the casing.
The Latch-down Casing Plug and Baffle may be
used above most conventional floating
equipment to help control fluid and pressure
from below. The Latch-down plug may also be
used when there is no floating equipment run on
the casing string. Prevention of fluid entry into
the casing string also permits immediate release
of surface pressure when the cement column has
been pumped in place. Additionally, the latch-
down feature helps assure that the cement or top
plug will not back up the casing which might Figure 10.17 – Latchdown plug and baffle.
necessitate drilling out if completions are made
close to the float collar.
The baffle is installed either on top of the float The latch-down baffle may be installed either on
or in the desired casing collar above and held in top of the float shoe or float collar, or in any
place by the pin end of the casing. A rubber casing collar above a float collar. It is held in
gasket seals against the upper joint and the place by the thread end of the casing. A rubber
coupling threads. The latch-down plug acts as seal on the plug provides a fluid seal from both
the top cement plug and follows the cement directions.
slurry down the casing to reduce the possibility Instead of a float collar, a latch-down plug may
of contamination or channeling with the drilling be used in conjunction with a guide shoe to save
mud or fluid used to displace the cement. When rig time.
the plug reaches the baffle, normally 500 to
1,000 psi above circulating pressure forces the
latching nose of the plug into the baffle and
locks it in place.

10 • 14 Cementing 1
 Unit C: Primary Cementing Plugs

Summary of Downhole Equipment

Type of Equipment Major Function(s) Location
Guide Shoe To guide casing into well First joint of casing
To help protect casing ends
Float Shoe Same as guide shoe First joint of casing
To prevent fluid or cement
flowback
Baffle Collar To provide a landing seat for 1-3 joints above shoe (depending
plugs on depth of well)
Float Collar Same as baffle collar 1-3 joints above shoe
To prevent fluid or cement
flowback
Insert Float Valve Same as float collar In casing collar
Back Pressure Valve To prevent fluid or cement In floating equipment
flowback
Automatic Fill Valve To automatically allow fluid into In float shoes and collars
the casing to eliminate rig
downtime cause by stopping to
fill the casing
To reduce ram effect
Differential Fill Valve To allow fluid to enter casing to In float shoes and collars
decrease differential hydrostatic
pressure
Clamp To fasten attachments As required
Centralizer To center casing in hole 1 per joint from 200 ft. above
formation to 200 ft below it, 1 per
3 joints in open hole
Wall Cleaner To remove mud filter cake from From 100 ft above producing
wall of hole formation through it
Cement Basket To help protect formations from Above weak formations
hydrostatic pressure of cement
until it sets
Bottom Plug To Act as a mechanical spacer Between well fluids and cement
between mud and cement slurry
Top Plug To act as a mechanical spacer Between well fluids and cement
between cement slurry and
displacement fluid
Latch-down Plug Same as top plug Between well fluids and cement
Multiple Stage Cementing Tools To cement in two (or more) Depends on hole conditions
stages
Formation Packer Equipment To pack off formations Depends on hole conditions
To isolate zones

10 • 15 Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

Unit C Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress.
1. Primary cementing plugs minimize _____________________ by _____________ the casing clean.

2. These plugs serve as a (an) _____________ between fluids and cement.

3. A bottom plug enters the casing _______________ the cement slurry. The _________________
pressure between the inside of the casing and the annulus causes the plug(s) ________________ to
rupture.

4. Bottom plugs are almost always used in primary cementing, except when
______________________________________ is (are) being run.

5. A top plug enters the casing ______________________ the cement slurry. When it seats on/at the
_______________________, pressure will increase. This indicates that cement placement is
____________________.

6. _____________________ are black and have a deep cup on top; ______________________are red
and shallow.

7. A (an)_______________________ plug functions in the same way as a top plug, but it has a
(an)______________________, which locks into a groove in its baffle.

8. To save rig time, you might use a latchdown plug in conjunction with a guide shoe instead of a (an)
_______________________.

10 • 16 Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

During multiple-stage cementing, cement slurry • heavy-duty seals and backup rings that
is placed at predetermined points around the prevent seal damage during operations
casing string in several cementing stages.
• compatibility with three-stage cementing
Multiple-stage cementing can be used for the
applications
following applications:
• cementing wells with low formation
pressures that will not withstand the Type-P External Sleeve (ES)
hydrostatic pressure of a full column of Cementer
cement
• cementing to isolate only certain sections Type-P external sleeve (ES) cementers can be
of the wellbore used in most vertical wells, regardless of depth,
pressure, or temperature. The Type-P cementer
• placing different blends of cement in the
should not be used in wells deviated more than
wellbore
30° from vertical when using a free-fall opening
• cementing deep, hot holes where limited plug. Otherwise, the free-fall opening plug will
cement pump times restrict full-bore not fall by its own weight through well casing.
cementing of the casing string in a single Type-P ES cementers are available in 4 1/2 to 20
stage in. casing sizes. The standard case material
grade is L-80 steel. Other casing grades can be
Halliburton manufactures two types of external
provided at the customer’s request.
sleeve (ES) stage cementers: the Type-P ES
cementer, which is a plug-operated stage
cementer, and the Type-H ES cementer, which is
a hydraulically opened stage cementer. Both the
Type-P and the Type-H cementers have the
following features:
• short, single-piece mandrel design without
threaded or welded segments
• field-adjustable opening and closing
pressures
• clear surface indications of opening and
closing
• smooth bore after drillout with no exposed
sleeves to interfere with the operation of
workover tools on subsequent trips in and
out of the casing strings
• drillability with either PDC or roller-cone
rock bits
• compatibility with second-stage bottom
plug sets Figure 10.18 - Halliburton Type-P External
• external closing sleeve that is locked Sleeve (ES) Cementer
closed by the top cementing plug

10 • 17 Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

During cementing operations, the first-stage

cement is mixed and pumped into the casing in a
conventional manner. The first-stage shutoff
plug, which is launched in the casing after the
first-stage cement, lands on the shutoff baffle
installed on the float collar. This shutoff plug
provides a positive shutoff, which helps prevent
cement over displacement around the shoe joint.
After the first-stage cementing operation is
completed, a free-fall opening plug is dropped
down the casing ID to land and seal in the
cementer. Pressure applied to the casing opens
the cementer, allowing wellbore fluid to be
pumped into the casing/wellbore annulus. Fluid
circulation to the surface is normally maintained
until the first-stage cement has set up in the
annulus. The second-stage cement is then
pumped through the open cementer ports,
followed by a second-stage closing plug. The
closing plug seats in the cementer, and pressure
is applied to the casing to close the tool. After Figure 10.19 – Halliburton Type-H External
both stages are cemented, the cementer seats, Sleeve (ES) Cementer
and plugs are drilled out with a rock bit or a
PDC bit.
plug dropped through the casing ID. The Type-
H cementer can be used in highly deviated wells,
Type-H External Sleeve (ES) in horizontal wells, and above an openhole
Cementer completion or slotted liner. After the second-
stage cementing operation, a second-stage
The Type-H external sleeve (ES) cementer is a closing plug pumped behind the second-stage
hydraulically opened stage cementer that can be cement closes the cementer. Lock rings in the
used in most wells, regardless of depth, pressure, external closing sleeve lock the cementer in the
or temperature. Although the Type-H ES closed position. After both cementing stages, the
cementer operates much like a Type-P cementer, cementer seats, and plugs are drilled out with a
it can be opened with internal casing pressure in roller-cone rock bit or a PDC bit.
addition to the free-fall plug after the first-stage
Type-H ES cementers are available in 4 1/2 to 20
shutoff plug lands. This design feature saves
in. casing sizes. The standard material grade is
time by eliminating the need for dropping a free-
L-80 grade steel. Other grades can be provided
fall plug from the surface. A baffle adapter is
at the customer’s request.
recommended in the casing string above the
float collar to seat the first-stage shutoff plug.
When the first-stage cementing plug has seated, Stage Tool Plug Sets
casing pressure can be applied to hydraulically
open the Type-H ES cementer. Normally, the Plug sets for operating both Type-P and Type-H
cementer should be opened immediately after cementers must be ordered separately from the
the first-stage cement is pumped and the shutoff cementer. The individual components of each
plug has been bumped. If the well is deviated plug set depend on the type of tool to be
less than 30° from vertical, the Type-H ES operated.
cementer can also be opened with a free-fall

10 • 18 Cementing 1

A standard plug set for two-stage cementing
consists of the following equipment:
• a shutoff baffle installed on top of the float
collar (for 8-rd and buttress)
• a shutoff plug (for both Type-P and Type-
H cementers)
• a free-fall opening plug (required for the
Type-P cementer; optional for the Type-H
cementer)
• a closing plug (for both Type-P and Type-
H cementers)
• a baffle adapter installed one or more
joints above the float collar (for the Type-
H cementer)
Figure 10.20 – Halliburton Type-P Stage
Tool Plug Set
Figure 10.21 – Halliburton Type-H Stage
Plug Set
Use of a baffle adapter is the preferred method
when using a Type-H cementer with a first-stage
bottom plug.
Wells can also be cemented in three stages with
two cementers and a three-stage plug set. A
three-stage plug set must be ordered separately
from the cementers.
10 • 19
Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools
Full-Opening (FO) Multiple-
Stage Cementer
The full-opening (FO) multiple-stage cementer
is used to place an indefinite number of cement
stages or other fluids at selected points along the
outside of a casing string. An indefinite number
of FO cementers can be run in the casing string.
Standard material grade is L-80. Other grades
can be supplied at customer’s request.
When one or more FO cementers are run in the
casing string, the first stage of cement can be
pumped in the conventional manner. All
subsequent cementing stages are pumped
through a workstring run inside the casing.
Shifting tools run 8 to 10 ft apart on the
workstring are used to open or close the FO
cementer.
Unlike plug-operated or hydraulically opened
stage cementers, FO cementers provide the
following benefits:
• They do not require operating plugs,
eliminating the need for drilling out after
cementing.
• FO cementers can be used to test, treat,
and evaluate a zone in the well before it is
closed.
• Multiple FO cementers can be run in the
same casing string.
• Operators can open and close these tools
as many times as necessary.
A packoff between the workstring and casing is
required to direct fluid out the open ports of the
FO cementer.
FO cementers are available by special order for
any casing grade or premium thread. For pricing
information, customers must provide
information about casing OD, thread type,
weight, grade, and hole size.
Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

damage during inflation. This inflatable packer

element allows packer differential pressures up
to 4,000 psi.
The ESIPC is commonly used in horizontal well
applications for cementing casing in the bend
radius or vertical portion of the wellbore above
an openhole completion or a slotted liner. The
packer element is inflated to prevent cement
from flowing downhole when it is pumped into
the annulus above the tool. The Type-H ESIPC
is available by special order for any casing grade
or premium thread. For pricing information,
customers must provide information about
casing OD, thread type, weight, grade, and hole
size.

Figure 10.22 – Halliburton Full-Opening

(FO) Multiple-Stage Cementer

External Sleeve Inflatable

Packer Collar (ESIPC)

The external sleeve inflatable packer collar

(ESIPC) is a combination of the ES (Type H or
Type P) cementer and a casing inflation packer.
This tool provides controlled packer element
inflation through the stage-tool opening seat,
eliminating hydraulic valving bodies normally Figure 10.23 – Halliburton External Sleeve
used with inflatable packer elements. The rubber Inflatable Pack Collar (ESIPC) – Type H
inflatable packer element is constructed with
reinforcing metal slats to reduce packer element

10 • 20 Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

Unit D Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress.
1. Multiple stage cementing tools are used when you want to cement behind the same casing string in
___________ stages.

2. The decision to cement in multiple stages would be made when high hydrostatic pressure might cause
the _________________ to break down.

3. If the Type-H ES cementer doesn’t open with _________________ pressure, a

_____________________ can be dropped if the well is not deviated more than _______.

4. During the second stage, cement is displaced through _______________ in the multiple stage tool.

5. A multiple stage tool called a __________________________ has two sleeves which are operated
_____________________. One sleeve moves to uncover the __________ and the other moves to
close the _____________________.

6. The first part of the plug set to enter the hole when the free fall method is used is the
_______________________.

7. Once the opening plug has landed, the Type-P ES cementer is opened by ___________________.

8. Unlike the ES cementers, the FO cementer operates _____________________ and can be opened and
closed _________________________________.

9. Formation packer equipment is used when you want to ________________ cement from flowing
_____________________.

10 • 21 Cementing 1
 Unit D: Multiple Stage Cementing Tools

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to
Page Page
1. damage to hole or casing 10-3 1. contamination, wiping 10-14
2. overweight 10-3 2. barrier 10-14
3. float shoe 10-4 3. ahead, differential, diaphram 10-14
4. wellbore cuttings, filter cake 10-4 4. lost circulation materials 10-14
5. backpressure valve, into 10-4 5. after, bottom plug, complete 10-14
6. insert flapper float valve 10-6 6. Top plugs, bottom plugs 10-15
7. flapper 10-7 7. latch-down, snap ring 10-15
8. collapse 10-7 8. float collar 10-15

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to Items from Unit D Quiz Refer to
Page Page
1. clamp 10-10 1. several 10-17
2. scar, dogs (teeth) 10-10 2. formation 10-17
3. cement 10-10 3. hydraulic, free fall plug, 30° 10-17,
18
4. centralizers 10-10
4. ports 10-18
5. filter cake 10-12
5. Type-H ES Cementer, 10-18
6. rotated 10-12
hydraulically, ports, ports
7. picked up 10-12
6. shut off baffle 10-19
8. pumping rate, movement 10-11,12
7. pressure 10-18
9. hydrostatic pressure, canvas, 10-12
8. mechanically, as many times as 10-19
bridge
necessary
10. weak zone 10-12
9. prevent, downward 10-20

10 • 22 Cementing 1
Section 11

Cement Mixing and Pumping

Equipment

Table of Contents
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................11-3
Topic Areas ..........................................................................................................................................11-3
Learning Objectives .............................................................................................................................11-3
Unit A: Pumping and Mixing Equipment ................................................................................................11-3
RCM II .................................................................................................................................................11-3
Automatic Density Control (ADC®) ....................................................................................................11-4
Pumping Equipment .............................................................................................................................11-4
Quiz: Unit A .........................................................................................................................................11-6
Answers to Unit Quiz...............................................................................................................................11-7

11 • 1 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

Use for Section Notes…

11 • 2 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

Introduction
The main purpose of any cement mixing system A. Pumping and Mixing Equipment
is to blend water and dry cement at a satisfactory
rate so that ideal weights, viscosities, and
densities can be maintained. In addition, recently Learning Objectives
developed mixing systems provide the capacity
for additive reactions and batch mixing. The end Upon completion of this section, you should be
result is cement that will set properly downhole. familiar with
• Cement mixer components
Topic Areas • General pump equipment

In this section, the following units are included:

Unit A: Pumping and Mixing Equipment

• Premix and downhole densometers
RCM II • Two hydraulic agitators
• Cement throttling valve
The Recirculating Cement Mixer (RCM) is an
advanced type of mixing system with several • Automatic Density Control (ADC) optional
advantages over other conventional mixing
• UniPro II for data acquisition/display and
systems:
ADC
• more accurate control over slurry weight,
allowing variance as called for by the
requirements of any particular job
• increased mixing energy
• better control over mixing rate
• more control over other slurry properties
• more controlled batch-mixing capabilities
• equipment may be arranged in a wide
variety of ways.
Fig. 11.1- RCM II mounted on skid
The RCM II (Fig 11.1) is the latest Halliburton
mixing system. The RCM II system features are
• Axial flow mixer
• 5 or 25 bbl, 2 compartment mixing tub
• Recirculating slurry centrifugal pump

11 • 3 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

The RCM II system uses a UniPro II to operate

the ADC.
The electronic subsystem determines the
required position of the water and bulk cement
actuators, senses the position of the actuators,
and if needed, sends new position commands to
the hydraulic control valves.
The hydraulic subsystem supplies the power
required to change the position of the actuators.
The hydraulic power is controlled through
electric, over hydraulic valves, and is supplied
only to the actuators on a signal from the
electronic subsystem.

Figure 11.2 – Schematic of RCM II

The RCM II allows for more mixing energy than

the RCM I. This is done with the use of the axial
flow mixer and other structural modifications
that are listed below.
1. The mixing water is added to the system
above where the recirculating cement
returns into the system. The mixing water
passes through a system consisting of 18
jets. The number of jets that are open
depends on the desired slurry density.
2. The cement being recirculated comes back
Fig. 11.3- Operator at ADC system
into the mixing tub through two separate
lines that are angled at 45 degrees at the
point they enter the mixing head. They enter
the mixing head below the point at which
the mixing water enters. Pumping Equipment
3. The turbine agitators are positioned at an
angle rather than vertical in the mixing tub Cement pumping equipment is an essential part
to allow for increased mixing energy. of any cementing operation. Pumping units may
be mounted on a truck, trailer, skid, or
waterborne vessel. They are operated
Automatic Density Control intermittently at high pressure and at varying
(ADC®) rates.
Pumping units must have high horsepower input
The ADC system has an electronic subsystem and output over wide torque limits. They must
and a hydraulic subsystem that allows the also have the lowest practical weight-to-
equipment operator to automatically mix cement horsepower ratio to meet transportation
by input of a desired density.

11 • 4 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

considerations. Most units are powered by requiring more than 1,000 sk, or where you
internal-combustion engines or electric motors. expect high pressures.
Cementing units may be manifolded with two or Field slurries are usually mixed and pumped into
three pumps. For high-pressure systems, one the casing at the highest possible rate. This
pump mixes while the other displaces. Low- varies from 20 to 50 sk/min, depending on the
pressure systems use a centrifugal pump for capacity of each mixing unit. As a result, the
mixing and two positive displacement pumps for first sack of cement on a primary cement job
displacing. reaches bottom in a relatively short time.
Most cementing work involves a maximum
pressure of less than 5,000 psi, but you may
encounter operations demanding up to 20,000
psi. Since operating conditions vary widely, the
cementing pump and its powertrain were
designed to withstand maximum pressures.
For a given job, the number of trucks you will
need to mix the cement depends on cement
volume, well depth, and anticipated pressures.
For surface and conductor strings, one truck is
usually enough; on intermediate or production
casing, you may need one to three units. You
may also need several mixing trucks on jobs Figure 11.4 – Advantage Skid

Figure 11.5 – HCR Elite Equipment

11 • 5 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

Quiz: Unit A

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Section 11:

1. RCM stands for _________________ ____________________ _________________.

2. In an RCM II system, the mixing water passes through a system consisting of ____ jets.

3. ADC stands for _________________ ____________________ _________________.

4. The RCM II system uses a _______________ to operate the ADC.

5. Most pumping units are powered by either __________________________________ or

_________________________.

6. For a given job, the number of trucks you will need to mix the cement depends on
____________________, ______________________, and ______________________________.

11 • 6 Cementing 1
 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment

Answers to Unit Quiz

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. Recirculating Cement Mixer 11-3
2. 18 11-3
3. Automatic Density Control 11-5
4. UniPro II 11-5
5. internal combustion engines, 11-5
electric motors
6. cement volume, well depth, 11-6
anticipated pressures

11 • 7 Cementing 1
Section 12

Bulk Cement Storage and

Handling

Table of Contents
Introduction..............................................................................................................................................12-3
Topic Areas ..........................................................................................................................................12-3
Learning Objectives .............................................................................................................................12-3
Unit A: Bulk Material Plants ...................................................................................................................12-4
Pneumatic Plants ..................................................................................................................................12-4
Unit A Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................12-6
Unit B: Sampling of Field Blend .............................................................................................................12-7
Manual Blend Sampling.......................................................................................................................12-7
Automatic Blend Sampling ..................................................................................................................12-7
Unit B Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................12-8
Unit C: Bulk Transportation Equipment..................................................................................................12-9
400-ft3 Pneumatic Truck ......................................................................................................................12-9
Model 660 Pneumatic Cementing Trailer ..........................................................................................12-11
1410 ft3 Pneumatic Field Storage Trailer ...........................................................................................12-11
Offshore Operations ...........................................................................................................................12-12
General Safety Guidelines..................................................................................................................12-12
General Operator Maintenance ..........................................................................................................12-13
Unit C Quiz ........................................................................................................................................12-15
Answers to Unit Quizzes .......................................................................................................................12-16

12 • 1 Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Use for Section Notes…

12 • 2 Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Introduction
Bulk cement handling systems are used for most • Large cement jobs are more practical.
modern oilwell cementing. With these systems,
Before beginning any cement job, consider all
you can formulate compositions to suit any well
aspects of the job you are about to do.
condition. At bulk blending stations, cement is
Considerations range from a careful review of
handled by pneumatic systems operated under
the call sheet to ensure the correct equipment
30 to 40 psi air pressure. This cement is then
and bulk materials have been ordered to getting
transported to the job site in weather-tight bins
needed equipment and bulk materials ready for
or tanks.
transport to location.
For a specific cementing job, the dry ingredients
The bulk plant operation, bulk materials
are blended and loaded into bulk transport units
sampling, and bulk truck operation procedures
that can carry about 300 to 600 ft3 of Portland
are the topics presented in this section to provide
cement.
you with a basic understanding of the bulk
For high-volume jobs, you may need several materials operation.
field storage bins. These bins may be located at
the well and filled before the cement job.
Offshore, supplies and pumping equipment must Topic Areas
always be on hand for instant use in case of
emergency. Supply-service vessels using a Included in this section are the following units:
pneumatic system deliver bulk materials to
containers located on the rig. A. Bulk Material Plants

Bulk material handling involves the handling of B. Sampling of Field Blends

large unpackaged quantities of cements or other C. Bulk Transportation Equipment
dry materials. This eliminates the storage of dry
materials in sacks or other containers making the
cements easier and faster to use and transport. Learning Objectives
The handling of material in bulk form offers the
following advantages: Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with
• Cement is protected against weather while
being stored, transported, or unloaded. • The equipment designed to handle bulk
materials
• Additives can be more uniformly blended at
bulk cement plants. • The sampling procedures for evaluating the
blend of bulk materials
• Cement mixing rates are faster and more
uniform.

12 • 3 Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Unit A: Bulk Material Plants

Bulk material plants are found in nearly all
Halliburton locations. Although numerous types
of bulk cement plants exist, the pneumatic type
bulk plant is likely to be the most common bulk
plant in use today.

Pneumatic Plants

The following figures illustrate two types of

pneumatic bulk plants: the permanent type
pneumatic bulk plant (Figure 12.1) and the Figure 12.1 – Permanent Pneumatic Type
portable pneumatic plant (Figure 12.2). The Bulk Cement Storage Plant
portable plant can be dismantled and moved
from one location to another and rebuilt quickly.
Both systems operate in a similar manner.
The handling of bulk cements through a
pneumatic process involves the mixing of dry
materials by moving them from tank to tank.
The mixed dry material is then moved to the
next tank or truck by discharging it into a high
velocity air stream. Advantages of this type of
system are
• uniform feeding of fresh aerated (fluidized),
uncaked, and lump-free cement into the
mixing system
• mixing of cement batches pneumatically by
movement between tanks at 30 to 40 psi air
pressure and into mixing or transfer tanks
for continued aeration and a more complete
mix of materials.
Figure 12.2 – Portable pneumatic Bulk
• minimal contamination from previous Cement Storage Plant
cement batches.

Figure 12.3 illustrates a typical permanent

pneumatic bulk cement plant system consisting
of a series of separate tanks for storage,
weighing, and blending. A description of the
tanks and their functions appear below.

12 • 4 Cementing 1

Figure 12.3 – Pneumatic Bulk Storage Plant
• Storage tanks - cone-shaped or square
vertical bin providing storage and unloading
capability for cements and additives
commonly used in that geographical
location. Most portable or offshore bulk
systems use pressurized storage tanks that
allow them to be placed anywhere, whereas
permanent storage tanks operate on a gravity
feed principle.
• Scale Tank - cone-shaped pressurized tank
into which bulk cement materials are blown
or vacuumed pneumatically and weighed.
• Overhead Receiver/Blending Tank - most
bulk plants are equipped with either a non-
pressurized gravity feed overhead receiver
tank or a pressurized blending tank. These
tanks further mix the dry materials as well as
temporarily hold the cement and additive
materials prior to being discharged to the
bulk truck for transport.
• Waste Tank - a storage-type tank with a
dust collector into which other storage tanks
and trucks being pneumatically filled may
be vented. It may also store field returns and
12 • 5
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
wasted material until proper disposal is
possible.
At least four complete pneumatic transfers are
required to properly blend material. These
transfers are
1. Cement is blown from scale tank to blending
tank (all material in the scale tank must be
transferred)
2. Cement is blown or vacuumed from
blending tank back to scale tank.
3. Cement is blown or vacuumed from scale
tank back to cementing tank.
4. Cement is blown from scale tank to blending
tank (or from the scale tank directly to the
bulk truck).
Additives that are not held in bulk form in the
plant’s storage tanks must be added to the
cement through the admix hopper. These
additives must be carefully weighed prior to
being poured into the admix hopper. Proper
weighing will ensure that the right percentage of
additive will be added to the bulk cement. When
only part of a sack is required, the additive
should be weighed on a set of scales accurate
Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

enough to read to the closest 0.5 lb, yet be
capable of weighing as much as 50 lb.
Although many types of pneumatic bulk plants
are in use today, the basic operation of each
plant is similar. The size and location of the field
service center determines to a large degree the
size and type of bulk plant in operation at that
center.

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit A.
1. The handling of large quantities of cements and other dry materials in ___________________ form
has greatly increased the ease with which cements can be handled.

2. The permanent and the portable ___________________ bulk materials plants are most commonly
used by Halliburton.

3. In the pneumatic bulk process, cements are mixed by transferring ________________ from tank to
tank.

4. The scale tank is a ____________________ tank to which the bulk cement materials are blown or
vacuumed pneumatically and _____________________.

5. Blended dry materials are usually blown to the bulk truck for transport to the location from the
_____________________ or _________________ tank.

6. After the cement is transferred from the storage tank to the scale tank, ___________ pneumatic
transfers are required to ensure proper mixing.

7. The admix hopper is used for adding the chemical additives that are not stored in the plant in
___________________ form.

8. To ensure that the right percentage of additive will be added to the bulk cement, proper
__________________ is required. This involves the use of a scale capable of accuracy to
________________ pound.

12 • 6 Cementing 1

Unit B: Sampling of Field Blend
After the third blending transfer is completed, it
is important that a sample of the blend be taken
to ensure the desired blend was obtained. For
proper analysis, take a sample large enough to
fill a one-gallon container. Two methods of
sampling the blended cement are discussed in
this unit:
• Manual Blend Sampling
• Automatic Blend Sampling
Manual Blend Sampling
Manual sampling usually occurs after the third
blending transfer at any point in the bulk loading
process.
• Truck sample - using a “grain thief”, a
sample is taken from the loaded storage
tanks on the truck.
• Manual sampling valve - after the third
blending transfer, a sample of the mixed
cement and additives is taken during a
pneumatic transfer by placing a plastic or
brown paper sack under the sampling valve.
The ball valve is opened and closed slightly
to allow cement to be discharged into the
sample bag (Figure 12.4). For proper
analysis, collect enough cement to fill a one
gallon container.
12 • 7
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
Storage
T k
Figure 12.4 – Manual Sampling Valve
Automatic Blend Sampling
The automatic sampler is a device installed in
the loading line between the blending plant and
the truck. This device is controlled by an inside
and outside timer and can be set up to take a
sample of the bulk cement blend as frequently as
once every second. During the loading cycle, the
sampler inserts a probe into the stream of
cement materials as they are being blown to the
truck and takes a small sample. Then the probe
withdraws from the line and the cement with
additives discharges from the probe into a bag
that is attached to the bottom of the discharge
opening. As mentioned earlier, allow the bag to
fill until a sample large enough to fill a one-
gallon container is obtained. The automatic
system has proven to be a reliable method for
ensuring both a proper blend and a successful
cementing job.
Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit B.
1. Two methods are available for taking a sample of the blended cement mixture. Both the
__________________ and ___________________ blend sampling methods require at least
________________________ of sample to be taken for proper analysis.

2. Sampling of the blend in a manual fashion can occur __________________ in the bulk loading
process.

3. The automatic sampling method uses a probe for taking blend samples at regular intervals. This
device is installed in the _________________ ______________ between the blending plant and the
truck.

12 • 8 Cementing 1

Unit C: Bulk Transportation Equipment
400-ft3 Pneumatic Truck
The 400 ft3 Pneumatic Truck with Drum blower
(Fig. 12.5) is used for transporting bulk
materials (cement blends and fracturing sand)
from service centers to job locations. This self-
contained truck can either pneumatically
discharge to bulk storage units or discharge
directly to pumping equipment during a job. In
addition to interconnecting piping, fittings, and
Figure 12.5- 400 ft3 Pneumatic Truck with Drum Blower
Pneumatic Storage Tanks
The two 8 ft diameter, 200 ft3 pneumatic storage
tanks are ASME-coded pressure vessels with 36
psig maximum allowable working pressure
(MAWP). This MAWP allows operators to use a
higher-pressure compressor from another unit,
even though the maximum pressure of the truck-
mounted blower is 29 psig.
12 • 9
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
valves for the fill, vent, aeration, discharge, and
control functions, the truck has three major
components:
• two ASME-coded 200 ft3 pneumatic storage
tanks
• one ASME-coded 21 ft3 Steady Flow®
separator assembly with dust collector
• one power-takeoff (PTO) driven air blower
assembly rated at 270 scf/min at 29 psig
Gross Aeration System
Each storage tank is equipped with a gross
aeration system for unloading stored materials.
This system consists of two aeration cartridges
in the bottom of each tank. The air inlet nozzle
of each aeration cartridge extends through the
tank cone. These cartridges can be lifted out
through the 20 in. manway after the hose adapter
and jam nut are removed from the nozzle.
Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

The gross aeration system in each tank

conditions materials with air so that a fluid
mixture or solution of air and dry materials will
result. When the discharge valves of the tank are
opened, the pressure in the tank forces the
aerated materials to flow steadily through the
discharge line until the tank is emptied.

Top Air Connection

Air is also fed into the top of each tank through a

1.5 in. coupling. The top air connection allows a
higher flow rate into the tank. A vertical check-
valve in the top air line automatically provides a Figure 12.6 – 20 in. Manway
calibrated restriction to force air through the
aeration pads in the bottom. A pressure-gauge
line runs from each tank to a 0 to 60 psi pressure
gauge, which allows the operator to monitor the
pressure in each tank continuously.

Tank Openings

The following openings are in the top head of

each tank:
• two 4 in. victaulic nipples for pneumatic
filling and venting
• one 1.5 in. air-inlet coupling
• one 1.5 in. vent coupling Figure 12.7 – Drum Model XHPD450
• one 20 in. manway Blower Assembly
The 20 in. manway (Fig. 12.6) is secured by six
cams, and it can be used for overhead bulk
material loading as well as inspection and Operation Procedures
maintenance.
For specific operation and maintenance
Air Blower instructions, refer to the manual titled 400 ft3
Pneumatic Truck with Blower, SAP 100078427.
The Drum Model XHPD450 blower assembly The manual can also be downloaded from the
(Fig. 12.7) is driven through a power takeoff following HalWorld site:
(PTO) from the truck transmission. This blower
http://halworld.halnet.com/hes/hesPS/hespszi/he
is rated at 275 scf/min at 29 psig and 1,600
spszipm/hespszipm_Manl/hespszipm_Manl_935
rev/min. A relief valve on the blower assembly
49191/hespszipm_Manl_93549191.asp
prevents blower overpressure

12 • 10 Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

to 12 in. (30.48 cm) ahead of the bogie

centerline.
Model 660 Pneumatic
Cementing Trailer

The Model 660 pneumatic cementing trailer has

three versions:
• short-wheelbase trailer
• long-wheelbase trailer Figure 12.8 – Model 660 pneumatic
• desert service trailer cementing trailer.

Features

The Model 660 pneumatic cementing trailer

includes the following features:
• Chassis- 22,000 lb (9977 kg) axles with
44,000 lb (19 960 kg) spring, 11 R 22.5
tires, SAE standard 2.0 in. kingpin; or desert
service 30,000 lb (13 605 kg) axles with Figure 12.9 – Model 660 with long wheel
50,000 lb (22 260 kg) springs base.
• Pneumatic tanks- Two 330 ft3 (9.35 m3), 36
psi (248 kPa) working pressure
Model 660- Approximate Discharge
• Discharge manifolding- A 5 in. (127 mm) Rates
separator-to-RCM, 5 in. tank-to-separator
and tank-to-storage; 5 in. nominal drain and Sand to Mountain Mover 20 sk/min
cleanout Cement to field storage bin 35 sk/min
• Fill manifolding- A 4 in.(102 mm) fill Sand to hopper 25 sk/min
manifold with 4 in.vent for loading tanks
pneumatically (includes bulk-plant dust Cement to hopper 80 sk/min
collector) Cement to RCM 50 sk/min
• Mileage totalizer- Engler Hubodometer
• Optional separator and dust collector-
Constant-pressure 21 ft3 (0.59 m3) separator
1410 ft3 Pneumatic Field
Benefits
Storage Trailer

The Model 660 pneumatic cementing trailer can Features

provide the following benefits:
• The Model 660 desert service trailer can be The 1410 ft3 Pneumatic Field Storage Trailer
used with tractors having sand tires and fifth includes the following features:
wheels located up to 10 in. (35.24 cm) ahead
• Chassis- 22,000 lb (9977 kg) axle with
of the bogie centerline.
20,000 lb (9070 kg) spring, 11 R 22.5 tires,
• The Model 660 short-wheelbase trailer can kingpin SAE standard 2.0 in.
be used with tractors having fifth wheels up

12 • 11 Cementing 1

• Pneumatic tanks- 380, 425 and 435 ft3
(10.76, 12.03 and 12.31 m3) capacity all
ASME-coded to 39.5 psi (272.3 kPa)
working pressure
• Separator and dust collector- Constant-
pressure 170 ft3 (4.81 m3) separator with
Cyclone dust collector
• Discharge manifolding-
• 5 in. (127 mm) nominal to separator
• 5 in. nominal separator bypass
• 4 in. (102 mm) drain and cleanout
• 5 in. nominal blow-through front and
rear discharge extension
• Fill and vent manifolding- 5 in. nominal to
tanks
Optional compressor system and mileage
totalizer.
Figure 12.10 - 1410 ft3 Pneumatic Field
Storage Trailer.
Offshore Operations
Waterborne service vessels using pneumatic
pressure systems are usually equipped with their
own weighing and blending plants. If they are
not, you can obtain weighed and blended
materials from a support vessel or shore station
within the operating area (Fig. 12.11).
Also, offshore, supplies and pumping equipment
must always be on hand for instant use in case of
emergency. Supply-service vessels using a
pneumatic system deliver bulk materials to
containers located on the rig.
12 • 12
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
Figure 12.11 - Water-borne service vessel.
General Safety Guidelines
By following these guidelines, operators can
help ensure that Halliburton bulk trucks work
properly and safely.
Weight Limitations
The maximum allowable tandem axle weight for
trucks in most areas of the United States is
34,000 lb. The maximum front axle weight is
18,000 lb. Therefore, when loading the tanks,
operators should consider the axle weights of the
vehicle as well as the volume of material in the
tanks. When loaded, the overall weight of the
vehicle should never exceed 52,000 lb.
Avoid overloading any vehicle for the following
reasons:
• High tank levels increase the center of
gravity and increase the likelihood of the
truck overturning on slopes, irregular
surfaces, or turns.
• Completely filling the tanks with some
materials, such as cement or sand, will result
in an overweight vehicle. Driving an
overweight vehicle on the road could result
in a personal traffic ticket, preventing the
material from reaching the job.
Pressurized Tank Safety
When you are working with any tank or vessel
that operates under pressure, be sure to follow
these safety procedures:
Cementing 1

• Before removing caps, hose connections, or
opening valves to atmosphere, always
completely vent possible trapped pressure in
the discharge and vent lines. Caps and hoses
removed under pressure could become
dangerous projectiles, resulting in serious
injury or damage.
• Prevent accidental discharge of air or
material in the direction of yourself or
others. Dry, abrasive material could be
forcefully blown into the face or eyes.
• Never pressurize tanks above maximum
allowable working pressure (MAWP).
Pressurizing above the MAWP could result
in violent tank rupture or a pressure
explosion. If the safety relief valves allow
overpressure, replace them before any
additional operation.
• Frequently monitor the tank pressure gauges
to prevent accidental overpressure. If the
MAWP is reached, close the tank air-supply
valve. Vent the tank if an extended delay is
expected.
• Do not operate the blower at maximum
pressure with its relief valve venting for an
extended period. The blower and air piping
will become extremely hot, possibly
resulting in personal injury and possible
damage to the blower and relief valve. In
addition, unnecessary energy is used
because no aeration will occur at maximum
pressure.
• Do not touch the blower case or nearby
piping during or soon after operation. These
items can become hot enough to cause
serious skin burns.
• Always wear ear protection when working
near the blower. Prolonged exposure to
blower noise could result in hearing damage.
• Never lubricate or work on the blower with
the engine running, even if the PTO is
disengaged. Someone might engage the PTO
or the PTO could accidentally engage and
catch fingers, hair, or clothing, resulting in
serious injury.
12 • 13
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
• Never work under the vehicle when the
engine is running. The vehicle could
suddenly move or fingers, hair, or clothing
could become caught in rotating shafts,
pulleys, and belts, resulting in serious injury.
General Operator Maintenance
Pre-Operation Checks
Before leaving the field camp, inspect the
following:
1. Check all belts for fraying and excessive
looseness.
2. Check the blower assembly for loose or
missing parts. Tighten or replace parts as
necessary.
3. Check the following pneumatic equipment:
a) Check the air and discharge manifold to
ensure that the unit is ready for
operation.
b) If they are not closed already, close the
pneumatic tank air-supply valves and
the separator air-supply valve to prevent
air from being supplied to the tanks
prematurely.
c) Check the top of the pneumatic tanks to
be sure that the manway hatches are
closed and latched.
4. If the hatch will be opened, or if cam
adjustments are necessary, open the air-vent
valve to relieve any pressure in the tank,
regardless of the reading on the tank
pressure gauge.
Caution—Loosen but do not swing the hatch
cams off until you verify that pressure is not
trapped in the tank. If internal pressure exists in
the tank, these cams will prevent the cover from
being blown off.
Warning—If air begins to escape from the
hatch while you are loosening the hatch cams,
stop loosening the cams and immediately relieve
all pressure through the vent valves or pressure-
Cementing 1

relief valve on top of the tank. Excess pressure
could result in equipment damage or personal
injury.
Routine Operator Maintenance
The best way to avoid costly breakdowns and
time-consuming troubleshooting is to keep the
truck in good repair. This section discusses
routine maintenance for the following major
components:
• air-supply system
• relief valves
• pneumatic tanks and manifolding
Air-Supply System- Frequently check the
drains on the underside of the air supply
manifold for condensation. If drain valves will
not pass air while the manifold is under pressure,
clean or replace the valves. Routinely pressurize
the air-supply system and operate all valves to
be sure they are working properly. Repair or
replace any valves that are leaking. Look for
signs of cement backing up into the system. If
check valves are not holding, cement may have
been forced into the air lines.
Relief Valves- Examine the relief valves for
clogged or plugged discharge openings and
cement buildup around the valve seat or valve
spring. Verify that no parts are broken or
missing.
Test the safety valves at least once each month.
Pressurize the system to the low-pressure safety
valves set pressure and allow each valve to open
and reset as it would during a normal job. Watch
the system pressure carefully.
Caution—Do not exceed the safe maximum
pressure. If the safety valves are not operating
properly the blower could be damaged or the
tank could rupture, resulting in potentially
severe or fatal injury.
Caution— Do not use safety valves for routine
venting. Use them only often enough to be sure
they are working properly. The more the valves
are opened, the more likely they are to leak.
12 • 14
Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
Pneumatic Tanks and Manifolding- Before
each trip, inspect the structural supports for the
tanks, separator, dust collector, ladder, platform,
manifolding, and fenders.
The tanks should always be cleaned before
different materials are transported.
• If the tanks will be loaded with a similar
material, operators should blow the tanks
out with air and inspect them before loading
them again.
• If the tanks will be loaded with a different
material (for example, tanks previously
carrying cement will be loaded with frac
sand), remove and clean the air pads and
wash out the tanks.
Caution—Do not “blow down” the tanks and
manifold without connecting the discharge
manifold to a plant waste tank. Excessive and
potentially harmful dust emissions would result.
Important—Immediately report pressure vessel
defects to a maintenance or safety supervisor.
Never attempt unauthorized repair or alteration
of ASME-coded pressure vessels. Coded vessels
must adhere to strict qualification, procedural,
and reporting requirements. Repairs may only be
made by an ASME-authorized repair shop. If
repairs or modifications are necessary, contact
the Duncan manufacturing organization for
assistance.
Check all valves and manifolds on the tanks to
make certain they are holding pressure. Cycle
the valves to make sure they are opening
completely. Repair or replace any worn valves,
linkages, or handles.
Inspect manifolds for loose or damaged parts,
and check hoses for wear or leaks.
Caution—Replace worn flexible hose
immediately. A blown hose can ruin a job and
possibly cause personal injury.
On trucks with combination dust collectors
(cyclone-plus- dustbag), remove and empty the
bottom dust pan after each job. To increase bag
life and improve operation, periodically brush
materials from the inside of the bag.
Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Trucks with cyclone dust-collectors should be collection chamber. Cement tends to build up in
serviced after each job. Open the dump valve the throat and close off the flow area.
and empty the dust chamber. If necessary, “rod
out” the throat of the cyclone. The throat is the
small end of the top where dust enters the

Unit C Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit C.
1. The 400 ft3 pneumatic truck can either _________________ discharge to bulk storage units or
discharge ____________ to pumping equipment during a job.

2. MAWP stands for _______________ __________________ ________________ ______________.

3. How fast can the Model 660 pneumatic cementing trailer deliver cement to a field storage bin?
_______________

4. What is the maximum allowable tandem axle weight for trucks in most areas of the United States?
_______________

5. Pressurizing a tank above the MAWP could result in ______________________________________.

6. If you find a pressure vessel defect, what should you do?___________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

12 • 15 Cementing 1
 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. bulk 12-4
2. pneumatic 12-4
3. dry materials 12-4
4. cone-shaped, weighed 12-5
5. overhead receiver, blending 12-5
6. complete 12-5
7. bulk 12-5
8. weighing, 0.5 lb 12-5

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. manual, automatic, one gallon 12-7
2. at any point 12-7
3. loading line 12-7

Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to

Page
1. pneumatically, directly 12-9
2. maximum allowable working 12-9
pressure
3. 35 sacks per minute 12-11
4. 34,000 lb 12-12
5. violent tank rupture or a pressure 12-12
explosion
6. Immediately report it to a 12-14
maintenance or safety supervisor

12 • 16 Cementing 1
Cementing 1
Student Workbook

Developed by
Halliburton Energy Institute
for the
HES Cementing Product Service Line

© 2003 Halliburton Company, All rights reserved

Printed in the United States of America
Notices

Confidentiality
All information contained in this publication is confidential and proprietary property of
Halliburton Energy Services, a division of Halliburton Company. Do not transfer this
document outside of Halliburton without approval from the Intellectual Property Group
of the Law Department.

Document History
First Release: July 2001
Revised: October 2002
Revised: March 2003
Revised: July 2003

Acknowledgements
HEI would like to thank the following for their contributions to this manual (in
alphabetical order):
Greg Ash, David Bedford, Clay Dupree, John (J.J.) Jennings, Kathy Mead,
Von Parkey, Sherry Snyder, and Ralph Voss
 Cementing 1
Table of Contents

Section Subject
1 Introduction to Cementing
2 Casing and Tubing
3 API Cements and Additives
4 Primary Cementing
5 Primary Cementing Calculations
6 Liner Cementing
7 Plug-Back Cementing
8 Squeeze Cementing
9 Surface Cementing Equipment
10 Downhole Cementing Equipment
11 Cement Mixing and Pumping Equipment
12 Bulk Cement Storage and Handling
Section 1

Introduction to Cementing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................1-3
Before You Start This Course ................................................................................................................1-3
How This Course is Organized ..............................................................................................................1-3
Study Suggestions ..................................................................................................................................1-4
The Purpose of Cement in an Oil Well ......................................................................................................1-5
Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well ...............................................................................................1-6
Drilling Operations.................................................................................................................................1-6
Running Drill Pipe .................................................................................................................................1-6
Running Surface Casing.........................................................................................................................1-7
Cementing ..............................................................................................................................................1-8
Tripping In............................................................................................................................................1-10
Running and Cementing Intermediate Casing......................................................................................1-10
Drilling To Final Depth........................................................................................................................1-10
Completing the Well ............................................................................................................................1-10
Setting Production Casing ....................................................................................................................1-11
Perforating............................................................................................................................................1-11
Installing the Completion System ........................................................................................................1-12
Sand Control.........................................................................................................................................1-12
Installing the Christmas Tree ...............................................................................................................1-13
Acidizing ..............................................................................................................................................1-13
Fracturing .............................................................................................................................................1-13
Historical Background of Cementing ......................................................................................................1-16
Halliburton Energy Services Vision and Mission....................................................................................1-17
HES 2003 Vision Statement.................................................................................................................1-17
HES Mission Statement .......................................................................................................................1-18
General Safety and Work Guidelines.......................................................................................................1-19
Cementing Job Descriptions ....................................................................................................................1-20
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms .....................................................................................................1-21
Common Oilfield Terms ......................................................................................................................1-21
Common Oilfield Acronyms ................................................................................................................1-28
Common Halliburton Acronyms ..........................................................................................................1-28

1•1 Cementing 1
 Introduction

Use for Section Notes…

1•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
Welcome to Halliburton’s Cementing Product
Service Line (PSL). Halliburton is the world
leader in oil and gas well cementing, both in
market position and customer perception.
Consistently ranked number one in value by
independent surveys of oil and gas customers,
the Cementing PSL provides excellent value for
oil and gas operators throughout the world.
Cementing is the process upon which
Halliburton Company was built, starting in
1921.
This course is your introduction to the
cementing process: what it is, why is it done,
and how we do it. From this course, you will
learn many new terms, types of equipment, types
of materials, and processes. By completing this
course, you will be able to more effectively
communicate with others in the PSL and at the
job site, be better able to participate in
cementing jobs, and be prepared to take on more
responsibility. You start to become the
invaluable person who can deliver the Customer
Service that has been a Halliburton tradition for
more than 80 years.
Take time to carefully read this introduction. It
will acquaint you with this course and suggest
ways to get the most out of it.
This workbook allows you to learn at your own
speed, without an instructor, and at any time or
place that may be convenient for you. Your
immediate supervisor is normally responsible for
your enrollment and can assist you in
completing the course.
Before You Start This Course
Parts of this course, starting with Section 5,
require you to calculate answers using basic
math and geometry, along with the Halliburton
Cementing Tables (the Red Book). If you believe
that you need additional training in math or
using the Red Book, then you should complete
the Essential Math course or the Essential Red
1•3
Introduction
Book course. You can ask your supervisor or
mentor to enroll you and for the course
workbooks.
How This Course is Organized
Familiarize yourself with the way this workbook
is organized. You will find a table of contents at
the beginning of each section, followed by an
introduction, a list of topic areas, and the
learning objectives for that section.
Each section in this workbook contains several
units. Each unit contains all the information you
need to learn. Other manuals or catalogs are not
necessary, with the possible exception of a
dictionary and the Halliburton Cementing
Tables (Red Book). Each unit is made up of text,
figures to help explain the text (pictures,
drawings charts, etc.), and a unit quiz. When you
complete all the units in a section, you complete
a self-check test. Both the quizzes and tests will
help you check your personal progress. The time
you spend on each unit is not important; it is
important that you learn and retain the content.
At the end of every section are the answers to all
unit quizzes and the self-check tests. After you
complete a quiz or a test, refer to the appropriate
answer key. Let your supervisor know when you
complete a section. Then you will take a written
test that is graded. This section test is based
solely upon the information in your workbook.
However, you cannot use your workbook as a
reference while taking the test.
Successful completion of all the section tests and
a comprehensive final examination makes you
eligible to attend the next level course.
For more information on a subject covered in
your workbook, let your resource personnel
know of your interest — they can direct you to
more information.
Cementing 1

Study Suggestions
This course was planned to make learning as
easy as possible. However, to retain the
knowledge, you must put forth effort.
Remember, the responsibility for learning this
course is yours.
Keep your workbook available at all times; you
never know when you might have the
opportunity to work on a unit. Try and set aside
enough time to complete an entire unit during a
study period.
Some study suggestions include
• Review both the section and unit
introductions. They will very briefly
describe what is in the unit.
• Skim through the unit. Look at the figures
and headings to see what's familiar to you
and what isn't. They will tell you what to
expect.
• Read the content carefully. Go back to the
beginning of the unit and read the content,
paragraph by paragraph. Study the figures. If
you are unfamiliar with the meaning of a
word, look it up in a dictionary.
• Check your understanding. Try to put into
your own words the paragraph you have just
read. Go back and underline or make notes
of important points. This will help you to
review the content of the unit later.
• Review the unit. At the end of each unit, take
a few minutes to look over your notes.
• Take the unit quiz. Try not to refer to the
text when you are filling in the blanks in the
unit quiz. Write your answers in your
workbook.
1•4
The Purpose of Cement in an Oil Well
• Check your answers against the answer key.
Reread the parts of the text that relate to the
items you are unsure about or you have
answered incorrectly. Don't forget, if you
are having trouble, or if you feel your
response is equally correct, consult your
resource personnel.
When you work through all the units in a
section, you will be ready to take the self-check
test for that section. Go back through all the
units to review what you have learned. Your
completed unit quizzes should also be helpful
here.
If you are having trouble choosing or calculating
an answer, go to the next question. At the end of
the test, go back to the questions you didn't
answer and try again. Remember, you are not
competing with anyone but yourself. Take your
time and do your best.
When you finish a self-check test, turn to the
answer key at the end of the section to check
your answers. References are provided as to
where the answers can be found. Make sure that
you understand the correct answers before
proceeding to another section. Check with your
resource personnel if you feel the response you
gave is correct. Don't forget to let your program
coordinator know that you have completed the
section.
Upon completion of a section, ask your
supervisor any questions you might have before
taking the in-class section test. Successful
completion of the test enables you to move on to
the next section. Remember that successful
completion of all in-class section tests and the
comprehensive course final examination enables
you to be enrolled in the appropriate next level
school.
Cementing 1

The Purpose of Cement in an Oil Well
When an oil well is drilled, steel pipe (casing) is
put into the ground to protect the well by
keeping any formation debris from falling into
it, or even collapsing. The casing also provides a
smooth, solid surface for further work in the
well. A guide shoe (a rounded, steel cover) is
place in the end of the casing being placed in the
hole to protect and guide the casing.
The space that remains between the casing and
the formation (the annulus) is then filled with
cement by pumping the cement slurry through
the casing and back up the annulus. A plug is
used behind the cement to push the cement up
the annulus. A displacement fluid (such as
water) is pumped behind the plug to push it.
Oilwell cementing occurs throughout the world
and has become increasingly more complex. The
basic functions of primary cementing, however,
have remained the same:
• Cement supports the casing, so the cement
should completely surround the casing; this
is where centralizers on the casing help. If
the casing is centered in the hole, a cement
sheath should completely envelop the
casing.
Figure 1.1- Diagram of cement being placed
in well.
1•5
The Purpose of Cement in an Oil Well
• Cement seals off formations to prevent
fluids from one formation migrating up or
down the hole and polluting the fluids in
another formation (also know as zonal
isolation). For example, cement can protect
a freshwater formation (that perhaps a
nearby town is using as its drinking water
supply) from saltwater contamination.
• Cement helps prevent blowouts by setting
rapidly
• Cement protects the casing from the
corrosive effects that formation fluids (as
salt water) may have on it.
• Cement protects casing from shock loads
when drilling deep
• Cement seals off formation areas that might
allow fluids to leak off (lost circulation or
thief zones)
• Cement protects the environment by
controlling the flow of fluids
• Cement can be used to plug an old well
(abandonment) or to plug a depleted zone
Cementing can be classified as primary or
secondary. Primary cementing is done
immediately after the casing is run into the well.
Secondary cementing is performed after the
primary job usually as part of a repair or
remedial cementing job.
Cementing 1

Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well
At the beginning, an oil company (called an
operating company or the operator, such as
Shell, Texaco, or BP-Amoco) must locate areas
where there is a good potential for oil to be
found (an oil reserve). To do this, they examine
the geology and conduct other tests (such as
seismic) using Reservoir Engineers, Geologists,
Geophysicists, and Petrophysicists from their
own staff or using a contractor such as
Halliburton’s Reservoir Description PSL. If the
potential exists, the operator must then acquire
the right to drill by buying or leasing the land.
The operator will then hire a drilling contractor
to actually drill the well (such as Parker Drilling
or Santa Fe International). The operator may
manage the whole drilling project or they may
hire a contractor to manage it, such as
Halliburton’s Integrated Solutions PSL. Before
drilling can begin, the operating company must
determine the following:
• How deep is the reservoir (the depth of an
oil or gas well can range from a few hundred
to more than 20,000 feet)?
• What kind of pressures will be encountered?
• What is the cost?
• How will the reservoir be controlled?
• Will this well be profitable?
The operator must also hire a service and supply
company (such as Halliburton) to provide
drilling mud and bits, casing and casing
attachments, cementing, and measuring and
testing services.
Drilling Operations
Simply stated, the drilling rig crew’s normal
drilling operations are
• keeping a sharp bit on bottom, drilling as
efficiently as possible
1•6
Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well
• adding a new joint of pipe as the hole
deepens
• tripping the drill string out of the hole to put
on a new bit and running it back to bottom,
or making a round trip
• helping to run and cement casing, which is
large-diameter steel pipe that is put into the
hole at various, predetermined intervals.
Often, special casing crews are hired to run the
casing, and usually a cementing company is
called on to place cement around the casing to
bond it in place in the hole. Still, the rig crew
usually assists in casing and the cementing
operation.
For drilling to be effective, a special fluid (called
drilling mud) must be used to wash away the
cuttings and lubricate and cool the drill bit. The
industry’s top provider of drilling fluids is
Halliburton’s BAROID PSL. Also, Halliburton’s
Security DBS PSL is one of the top providers of
drilling bits. And if the well is to be drilled at an
angle other than straight down (called a
deviated well), a subcontractor with the
specialized equipment and knowledge may be
brought in, such as Halliburton’s Sperry-Sun
Drilling Services.
Running Drill Pipe
The drill bit is made up (connected) on the end
of the first drill collar (heavy wall pipe).
Enough collars and drill pipe are made up and
lowered in (called tripping in) until the bit is
almost to bottom. Then, the kelly is attached. (a
kelly is a four- or six-sided piece of pipe that fits
into the kelly bushing, which fits into the master
bushing in the rotary table. The rotary table is
the part of the derrick floor that spins the drill
pipe. The system is like a wrench turning a bolt.)
The drillstring then starts to rotate and weight is
applied to drill the hole.
Cementing 1

Figure 1.2- Drill bit.
Figure 1.3- Kelly, kelly bushing, and rotary
table.
When near the end of the pipe, rotation is
stopped and another section of pipe is attached.
This continues until the desired depth is reached
or the drill bit must be replaced. Then the drill
pipe is picked up a disassembled (called
tripping out), the new bit is attached, and the
string is tripped back into the hole.
Running Surface Casing
At predetermine times, the drilling pipe is
removed and the casing crew moves in to do its
work. The first string of casing they run is called
1•7
Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well
surface casing, which is large in diameter and,
like all casing, is nothing more than steel pipe
and comes in 30- or 40-ft lengths. Running
casing into the hole is very similar to running
drill pipe, except that the casing diameter is
much larger and thus requires special elevators,
tongs, and slips to fit it. For example, in a 17 ½-
in. hole, 13 3/8-in. casing might be used.
Figure 1.4- Casing.
Also, devices called centralizers and scratchers
are often installed on the outside of the casing
before it is lowered into the hole. Centralizers
are attached to the casing and, since they have a
bowed-spring arrangement, keep the casing
centered in the hole after it's lowered in.
Centralized casing can make for a better cement
job later. Scratchers also help make better
cement jobs by removing the wall cake formed
by the drilling mud as the casing is moved up
and down or rotated (depending on scratcher
design).
Other casing accessories include a guide shoe, a
heavy steel and concrete piece attached to the
bottom most joint of casing that helps guide the
casing past small ledges or debris in the hole;
and a float collar, a device with a valve installed
in the casing string two or three joints from
bottom. A float collar is designed to serve as a
receptacle for cement plugs and to keep drilling
mud in the hole from entering the casing. Just as
a ship floats in water, casing floats in a hole full
of mud (if mud is kept out of the casing). This
buoyant effect helps relieve some of the weight
carried on the mast or derrick as the long string
of heavy casing hangs suspended in the hole.
Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

Cementing

After the casing string is run, the next task is for

Halliburton to cement the casing in place. As
when casing is run, the rig crew is available to
assist.
Halliburton stocks various types of cement and
has special transport equipment to handle this
material in bulk. Bulk cement storage and
handling equipment is moved out to the rig,
making it possible to mix large quantities of
cement at the site. The cementing crew mixes
the dry cement with water, using a recirculating
mixer. The dry cement is gradually added to the
tub, and a jet of water thoroughly mixes with the
cement to make a slurry (very thin, watery
cement).

Figure 1.6- Recirculating Cement Mixer

(RCM).

Special pumps pick up the cement slurry and

Figure 1.5- Scratcher.and centralizer.
send it up to a valve called a cementing head
(also called a plug container) mounted on the
top most joint of casing that is hanging in the
mast or derrick a little above the rig floor. Just
before the cement slurry arrives, a rubber plug
(called the bottom plug) is released from the
cementing head and precedes the slurry down
the inside of the casing. The bottom plug stops
or “seats” in the float collar, but continued
pressure from the cement pumps opens a
passageway through the bottom plug (by
rupturing a diaphram). Thus, the cement slurry
passes through the bottom plug and continues on
down the casing. The slurry then flows out
through the opening in the guide shoe and starts
up the annular space between the outside of the

1•8 Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

casing and wall of the hole. Pumping continues drilling is resumed with a smaller bit that fits
and the cement slurry fills the annular space. inside the surface casing.
A top plug, which is similar to the bottom plug
except that it is solid, is released as the last of
the cement slurry enters the casing. The top plug
follows the remaining slurry down the casing as
displacement fluid (usually water or drilling
mud) is pumped in behind the top plug.
Meanwhile, most of the cement slurry flows out
of the casing and into the annular space. By the
time the top plug seats on or “bumps” the
bottom plug in the float collar, which signals the
cementing pump operator to shut down the
pumps, the cement is only in the casing below
the float collar and in the annular space. Most of
the casing is full of displacement fluid.

Figure 1.8- Top and bottom plugs for

cementing.

Figure 1.7- Plug container.

After the cement is run, a waiting time is allotted

to allow the slurry to harden. This period of time
is referred to as waiting on cement (WOC).
After the cement hardens, tests may be run to
ensure a good cement job.
After the WOC and tests indicate that the job is
good, the rig crew attaches or nipples up the Figure 1.9- Blowout preventer (BOP).
blowout preventer (BOP) stack to the top of the
casing. The BOP stack is pressure-tested, and

1•9 Cementing 1

Tripping In
To resume drilling, a smaller bit is selected,
because it must pass down inside the surface
casing. To drill the surface hole, the example rig
crew used a 17-1/2 inch bit, whereas a 12-1/4
inch bit will now be used. In this case, the inside
diameter of the surface casing is less than 13-3/8
inches, so in order to get adequate clearance, a
12-1/4 inch bit is used. As before, the bit is
made up on the drill collars followed by drill
pipe.
Running and Cementing
Intermediate Casing
At this point, particularly in deep wells, another
smaller-inch-diameter string of casing may be
set and cemented in the hole, such as using a 12
¼-in. bit and 8 5/8-in. casing. This casing string
is the intermediate string. It runs all the way
from the surface, down through the surface
string, and to the bottom of the intermediate
hole. Sometimes intermediate string is needed in
deeper holes because almost invariably so-called
troublesome formations are encountered in the
hole.
Troublesome formations are those that may
contain formation fluids under high pressure
and, if not sealed off by casing and cement,
could blow out, making it difficult if not
impossible to eventually produce oil or gas from
the well. Or perhaps there is a sloughing shale, a
formation composed of rock called shale that
swells up when contacted by the drilling mud
and falls or sloughs off into the hole. Many
types of troublesome formations can be
overcome while they are being drilled but are
better cased off and cemented when the final
portion of the hole is drilled.
1 • 10
Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well
Drilling To Final Depth
Whether intermediate casing is set or not, the
final part of the hole is what the operating
company hopes will be the production hole. To
drill it, the crew makes up a still smaller bit,
such as 7 7/8-in. for our example. This bit is
tripped in, drills out the intermediate casing
shoe, and heads toward what everyone hopes is
pay dirt, which is a formation capable of
producing enough oil and gas to make it
economically feasible for the operating company
to complete the well.
Once again several bits will be dulled and
several round trips will be made, but before long
the formation of interest (the pay zone, the oil
sand, or the formation that is supposed to
contain hydrocarbons) is penetrated by the hole.
It is now time for a big decision. The question is,
“Does this well contain enough oil or gas to
make it worthwhile to run the final production
string of casing and complete the well?”
Completing the Well
After the operating company carefully considers
all the data obtained from the various tests it has
ordered to be run on the formation or formations
of interest (such as the tests performed by
Halliburton’s Logging & Perforating PSL or
Sperry-Sun Drilling Services), a decision is
made on whether to set production casing and
complete the well or to plug and abandon it. If
the decision is to abandon it, the hole is
considered to be dry, that is, not capable of
producing oil or gas in commercial quantities. In
other words, some oil or gas may be present but
not in amounts great enough to justify the
expense of completing the well.
Therefore, several cement plugs will be set in
the well to seal it off more or less permanently.
However, sometimes wells that were plugged
and abandoned as dry at one time in the past
may be reopened and produced if the price of oil
or gas has become more favorable. The cost of
plugging and abandoning a well may only be a
few thousand dollars. Contrast that cost with the
Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

price of setting a production string of casing

--$50,000 or more. Therefore, the operator’s
decision is not always easy. Conductor
Casing

Cement
Surface
Casing

Intermediate
Casing

Cement
Production
Casing

Reservoir
Casing Shoe
Cement

Figure 1.11- Schematic of casing and

Figure 1.10- Cement used to plug a well. cement in well.

Setting Production Casing Perforating

If the operating company decides to set casing,
casing will be brought to the well and for one
final time, the casing and cement crew run and
cement a string of casing. Typically, the
production casing is set and cemented through
the pay zone; that is, hole is drilled to a depth
beyond the producing formation, and the casing
(5 ½-in. for our example) is set to a point near
the bottom of the hole. As a result, the casing
and cement actually seal off the producing
zone--but only temporarily. After the production
string is cemented, the drilling contractor has
almost finished his job except for a few final
touches.
Because the pay zone is sealed off by the
production string and cement, perforations must
be made in order for the oil or gas to flow into
the wellbore. Perforations are simply holes that
are made through the casing and cement and
extend some distance into the formation. The
most common method of perforating
incorporates shaped-charge explosives (similar
to those used in armor-piercing shells).

Figure 1.12- Perforating gun: (A) gun in

hole, (B) gun firing, and (C) oil flowing
through perforations.

1 • 11 Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

Shaped charges accomplish penetration by Sand Control

creating a jet of high-pressure, high-velocity gas
(the leading supplier is Halliburton’s Jet At times, when the producing zone may produce
Research Center). The charges are arranged in a sand as well as the oil or gas, a screen may be
tool called a gun that is lowered into the well attached to the end of the production tubing to
opposite the producing zone. The gun can be help keep out the sand. Often, when a screen is
lowered on wireline or tubing. When the gun is used, gravel is also placed in the hole around the
in position, the charges are fired by electronic tube, which is known as a gravel pack.
means from the surface. After the perforations
are made, the tool is retrieved. Perforating is Sand can present a major obstacle to well
usually performed by a service company that production. The petroleum industry spends
specializes in this technique, such as millions of dollars each year to prevent and
Halliburton’s Logging & Perforating PSL or repair sand control problems including
Tools, Testing, and Tubing-Conveyed • reduced production rates
Perforating (TT&TCP) PSL.
• sand bridging in tubing and casing
• erosion of downhole and surface equipment
Installing the Completion
System • disposal and removal of sand
• casing damage from compressive loading
Even though the oil or gas can flow into the caused by subsidence
casing after it is perforated, usually, the well is
Halliburton’s Production Enhancement PSL
not produced through the casing. Instead,
provides specialized surface and downhole
smaller diameter pipe called production tubing
equipment including gravel pack packers and
is placed in the well to serve as a way for the oil
screens to inhibit the movement of formation
or gas to flow to the surface. The tubing is run
sand into the wellbore, surface pumping
into the well with a packer. The packer goes on
equipment, and filtration systems.
the outside of the tubing and is placed at a depth
just above the producing zone. When the packer
is expanded, it grips the wall of the production
casing and forms a seal in the annular space
between the outside of the tubing and the inside
of the casing. Thus, as the produced fluids flow
out of the formation through the perforations,
they are forced to enter the tubing to get to the
surface.
Additional devices are placed in the well or in
the production tubing string to control and
monitor the fluid flow, such as subsurface safety
valves and flow control equipment, surface
safety systems, packers and specialty completion
equipment, production automation, and well
screens. All these products can be supplied by
Halliburton’s Completion Products and Services
PSL.

Figure 1.13- Production tubing with screen

and gravel pack in place.

1 • 12 Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

Installing the Christmas Tree usually performed by an acidizing service

company (such as Halliburton’s Production
Enhancement PSL) and may be done before the
When casing is set, cemented, and perforated
rig is moved off the well; or it can also be done
and when the tubing string is run, then a
after the rig is moved away. In any case, the
collection of valves called a Christmas tree is
acidizing operation basically consists of
installed on the surface at the top of the casing.
pumping anywhere from fifty to thousands of
The tubing in the well is suspended from the
gallons of acid down the well. The acid travels
Christmas tree, so as the well's production flows
down the tubing, enters the perforations, and
up the tubing, it enters the Christmas tree. As a
contacts the formation. Continued pumping
result, the production from the well can be
forces the acid into the formation where it etches
controlled by opening or closing valves on the
channels-channels that provide a way for the
Christmas tree.
formation's oil or gas to enter the well through
Usually, after the Christmas tree is installed, the the perforations.
well can truly be said to be complete.

Fracturing

When sandstone rocks contain oil or gas in

commercial quantities but the permeability is too
low to permit good recovery (or the formation
has been damaged), a process called fracturing
may be used to increase permeability to a
practical level. Basically, to fracture a formation,
a fracturing service company (such as
Halliburton’s Production Enhancement PSL)
pumps a specially blended fluid down the well
and into the formation under great pressure.
Pumping continues until the formation literally
cracks open.
Meanwhile, sand or man-made granules, called
proppants, are mixed into the fracturing fluid.
The proppant enters the fractures in the
formation, and, when pumping is stopped and
the pressure allowed to dissipate, the proppant
remains in the fractures. Since the fractures try
Figure 1.14- Christmas tree.
to close back together after the pressure on the
well is released, the proppant is needed to hold
or prop the fractures open. These propped-open
fractures provide passages for oil or gas to flow
Acidizing into the well.

Sometimes, however, petroleum exists in a

formation but is unable to flow readily into the
well because the formation has very low
permeability (space in which fluids can flow).
If the formation is composed of rocks that
dissolve upon being contacted by acid, such as
limestone or dolomite, then a technique known
as acidizing may be required. Acidizing is

1 • 13 Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

Figure 1.15- Sand, which can be used as a

proppant.

1 • 14 Cementing 1
 Halliburton and the Drilling of an Oil Well

Figure 1.16- Schematic of cement job showing various cementing equipment and casing
attachments.

1 • 15 Cementing 1

Historical Background of Cementing
The US petroleum industry traditionally dates its
beginning with the drilling of the Drake well in
1859, yet it was not until 1903 that a cement
slurry was used to shut off downhole water just
above an oil sand in the Lompoc field in
California.
Frank F. Hill from the Union Oil Co. used a
bailer to mix and dump a slurry of 50 sacks of
neat Portland cement. After 28 days, crews
drilled cement from the hole and completed the
well by drilling through the oil sand; they had
effectively isolated the water zone. This became
an accepted practice, and quickly spread to other
California fields.
Early dump bailer and tubing techniques were
soon replaced with a two-plug cementing
method that A.A. Perkins introduced into the
California fields in 1919. The first plugs, or
spacers, were cast iron and contained belting
disks. These disks acted as wipers for mud on
the casing. When steam displaced cement from
the pipe, the plug stopped, causing a pressure
increase that shut off the steam pump.
The patent Perkins received specified the use of
two plugs. The courts later ruled that the patent
included any barrier that prevents cement from
mixing with contaminant, whether the barrier is
used ahead of or behind the cement.
Perkins’ services were not available outside
California, so elsewhere the cementing process
had different beginnings. In Oklahoma, Erle P.
Halliburton introduced cementing in 1920 in the
Hewitt Field, Carter County. (Figs. 1.17 and
1.18) As technology advanced from 1910 to
1920, wells were considered deep at 2,000 to
3,000 ft (610 to 915 m). In the late 1920s, there
were several fields developed below 6,000 ft
(1,829 m).
1 • 16
Historical Background of Cementing
Figure 1.17- Hewitt Field, Carter County,
OK
High temperatures and pressures caused
cementing problems. Cements used at 2,000 ft
(610 m) were not practical at greater depths
because they tended to set prematurely.
Field placement was a matter of trial and error
because laboratory testing equipment was still
undeveloped. To retard the cement from setting
too quickly at higher temperatures, tons of ice
were sometimes put in the drilling mud to cool
the hole.
A more reliable approach was to mix and pump
the cement as quickly as possible. The time
spent waiting on cement to set was considered
unproductive. When cementing failures
occurred, short waiting-on-cement (WOC) time
or bad cement was reported as the cause.
Cement accelerators were sold under a variety of
trade names, but most of them were calcium
chloride solutions. WOC times were reduced as
cement composition, testing procedures, and
chemical acceleration became better understood.
In 1946, Farris published a paper concerning the
influences of time and pressure on cement
bonding properties. As field experience
confirmed the validity of those findings, the
Cementing 1
 Halliburton Energy Services Vision and Mission

regulatory bodies reduced WOC times from 72 250 sk of Portland cement and water into the
to 24 hours. casing. This was the first blowout cementing
job. After a 10-day wait, the cement was drilled
To evaluate the success of early cementing,
out, and the well was produced without
crews conducted water shutoff tests. If no water
excessive water or gas production. Within
was found on the test, the cement job was
months, crews had cemented 61 wells using this
successful. Studies of those early jobs showed
technique.
that cement had to reach a certain strength or
hardness before a job could be successful. Cores
taken from a large number of deep wells showed
that many cement failures were the result of mud
contamination. To improve the quality of
cement, cementers focused their attention on
conditioning the mud, circulating the hole before
cementing, and placing a water spacer between
the mud and the cement.
In 1920, a blowout on Skelly’s No. 1 Dillard
(Figure 1.12) occurred while operators were
running casing into the oil sand. Efforts to
control it had failed until Halliburton, using Figure 1.18- Blowout at Skelly’s No. 1
crude mixing and cementing equipment, pumped Dillard.

Halliburton Energy Services Vision and Mission

HES 2003 Vision Statement

The Halliburton Energy Services 2003 Vision is to be the undisputed leader in Real Time
Reservoir Solutions.
The fundamental principles to achieving our vision involve:
• Providing superior value to shareholders and customers
• Creating a company-wide environment for developing, motivating, and rewarding our people
• Being the undisputed leader in innovative technology, integrated solutions and health, safety
and the environment.
• Being No. 1 or 2 in core discrete businesses
• Leveraging Halliburton Company's total capability

1 • 17 Cementing 1
 General Safety and Work Guidelines

HES Mission Statement

Our Mission Statement defines our purpose and our beliefs in how we want to achieve our vision by
providing "markers or guideposts" to our beliefs as a company.

Halliburton Energy Services (HES), a business unit of Halliburton Company, is a global

provider of products, services, and solutions to the energy industry. To be successful,
HES must focus on the needs of our customers. We are to continually find creative
solutions that maximize the economic recovery of the oil and gas reservoir.
The means by which we will enable our customers to be successful is by aligning with
their goal of reducing the cost of oil and gas produced, through providing reliable, cost-
effective solutions, delivered by expert personnel with the following values and
principles:
• Perform at the highest levels of service quality that exceed our customers’
expectations
• Believe that all accidents are preventable and strive for an incident-free workplace
• Recognize that we are responsible for protecting the environment and consistently
meeting those responsibilities
• Continually apply new technology that benefits our customers and distinguishes
Halliburton Energy Services from our competitors as a leader in fit for purpose
solutions
• Support a culture of real-time decision-making and speed to ensure responsiveness
to our customers’ needs
• Maintain integrity in all of our actions — always honor our commitments
• Be flexible and innovative in our business models and recognized as the leading
company with whom it is easy to do business
By virtue of our mission and values, Halliburton Energy Services expects to be the most
valued provider of solutions to our customers. And because we are successful in
meeting our customers’ needs and good business practices, we expect to deliver
superior financial performance to our shareholders.
We can only accomplish this with the efforts and participation of our employees;
therefore, we must commit to invest in our people to promote a climate of enthusiasm,
teamwork, and challenge which attracts, motivates and retains superior personnel and
rewards performance.

1 • 18 Cementing 1

General Safety and Work Guidelines
Everyone at times is hesitant to admit that he
does not know all there is to know about the job,
operation, or machine to which he or she is
assigned. Consequently, the supervisor in charge
of the job, who is responsible for the safety of
the crew, may assume that the worker fully
understands the safety rules. So he leaves them
alone.
As a result of this assumption, sooner or later
someone is injured, equipment is ruined, or a
well is damaged. Every supervisor prefers that
workers ask questions about the job--it shows
interest and a desire to learn and progress.
Remember, no one knows everything, even
about his or her work. It is no admission of
dumbness or lack of experience to admit “I’m
not sure I know how you want this done.”
Safety begins for the job even before you leave
home. A worker who gets plenty of proper rest
and nourishment is provided the alertness that is
necessary to be a safe worker.
Get up in plenty of time to thoroughly awaken
and clean up before driving to the job. Take
enough clothing to comfortably complete the
pending job. If it is to be a long job, be certain
you have plenty of spare clothes.
On the way to the location is a good time to
become oriented with the coming operation. Ask
questions concerning what is expected of you
and the crew on the job. On the way back home
it is a good idea to talk the job over. It may
reveal mistakes that could have been prevented.
It may recall to your mind an unsafe condition,
which can be avoided under similar conditions
in the future. And it will aid in keeping the
driver from becoming drowsy and sleepy
through the boredom of a long drive. If the
driver does appear to be getting drowsy, it’s time
for another coffee break.
After arriving at the location and changing to
work clothes, clear the way to the equipment
site. This preparation is especially important on
a new location. Transporting heavy equipment
1 • 19
General Safety and Work Guidelines
can be hazardous if the way is littered with loose
boards, scraps of oil field equipment, nails and
scrap iron, or mud-filled holes.
Always use safety hats and safety shoes on the
job. When assembling hammer-up type unions
wear safety shields or goggles for the operation.
Carefully observe the following precautionary
measures:
1. No smoking is allowed on or near the well
site.
2. Never wash tools and equipment in
flammable mixtures in areas without proper
ventilation.
3. Keep all hammers, chisels, punches, etc.
properly dressed to eliminate the possibility
of steel particles becoming dislodged. Cold
chisels and hammers have destroyed the
sight of countless numbers of eyes.
4. Make certain of proper footing when
climbing around the equipment. Do not
grasp anything for support that is not
properly secured.
5. Your supervisor is responsible for the safety
of the crew. Follow his or her instructions
and always seek advice if you do not
understand the procedure at hand.
6. Before every job, you must have a tailgate
safety meeting on location to discuss the job
and potential safety hazards while on
location.
7. Think the project through before proceeding
with any operation around the well site.
8. The most dangerous part of your job is on
the roads to and from the field. Ask your
Supervisor for special instructions
concerning your driving duties.
9. All safety equipment should be carried in its
proper place on the vehicle. This equipment
should be checked periodically. It is the duty
Cementing 1

of the operator to know the location of the
equipment and its proper operation.
In short:
• Be sure you know how to do the job.
• Be sure you know the hazards of the job and
how to protect yourself.
Cementing Job Descriptions
Operator Assistant- Assists in rigging up and
down of Cementing service line equipment.
Assists in assembly and preparation of
equipment for installation and service. Assists in
the running of a job and in the clean up, repair,
and preparation for the next job. Promotes and
takes an active part in the Quality Improvement
Process. Ensures compliance with HSE
regulations and guidelines. Promotes safety
awareness and environmental consciousness,
and complies with all applicable safety and
environmental procedures and regulations.
Works under direct supervision with no
experience required. This is the entry-level
position into the service operator job family.
Service Operator- Rigs Cementing service line
equipment under direct supervision to provide
quality service to the customer. Performs, with
limited supervision from the Service Supervisor,
in the rigging up and rigging down on a location
of service line equipment and in the clean up,
repair, and preparation of equipment for the next
job. Assembles and prepares, as directed,
equipment for installation and service. Promotes
and takes an active part in the Quality
Improvement Process. Ensures compliance with
HSE regulations and guidelines. Promotes safety
awareness and environmental consciousness,
and complies with all applicable safety and
environmental procedures and regulations.
Drives a truck or other assigned equipment as
required. Requires a high school diploma, GED,
or equivalent experience. May require a valid
Commercial Driver's License. Must have
successfully passed company tests or met task
guideline requirements.
1 • 20
Cementing Job Descriptions
• If you are not sure, ask the advice of your
supervisor.
• Study the rules and regulations in the HES
Safety Policy Manual
Service Supervisor- Coordinates and oversees
the Cementing service line work at the well site
handling the more complex, hazardous, and/or
high profile jobs providing quality service to the
customer. Provides the planning necessary for
the job including instructions to the crew and
equipment used, including dispute resolutions to
approved levels. Promotes and takes an active
part in the Quality Improvement Process.
Ensures compliance with HSE regulations and
guidelines. Promotes safety awareness and
environmental consciousness, and complies with
all applicable safety and environmental
procedures and regulations. Ensures customer
satisfaction with work performed. Coordinates
and directs the activities of service operators
during the rigging up and rigging down on a
location of service line equipment and the
assembly and preparation of equipment for
installation, running, and service of a job.
Coordinates the clean up, repair, and preparation
of equipment for the next job. Plans and
performs necessary calculations for the total job
at the well site as needed. Evaluates individual
performance levels of the crew and trains
operators to improve their job performance.
Requires a high school diploma, GED, or
equivalent experience and a valid Commercial
Driver's License as required. Has exceptional
skills within the service line and a general
understanding of other service functions.
Service Leader- In addition to responsibilities
as a Service Supervisor, is also the PSL Mobile
Business Unit Leader. Responsible for
development and leadership of the Cementing
PSL profit center within the NWA. The MBU
Leader's emphasis is on personnel development,
Cementing 1

operational excellence and customer satisfaction
for the long term growth and profitability of the
NWA. Manages processes to ensure job site
execution as designed. Follows up job site
performance with customer. Maintains MBU
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
Sometimes, it may seem that those working in
the oilfield are speaking a whole different
language. The oil industry and Halliburton have
come up with many terms, slang, and acronyms
that you need to know.
Common Oilfield Terms
ABANDON- To cease efforts to produce oil or
gas from a well, and to plug a depleted
formation and salvage all material and
equipment.
ADDITIVE- A material other than cement and
water which is added to a cement subsequent to
its manufacture to modify its properties.
AMBIENT- We use this term to describe
temperature. Strictly speaking, the term is
defined as “completely surrounding.” Ambient
temperature, then would be the temperature of
the air surrounding us. We stretch this definition
a little and refer to pumping fluids at ambient
temperature. We mean we don’t heat or cool the
fluid, but use it just like it is in the tank.
ANNULUS (ANNULAR SPACE) - The space
surrounding pipe suspended in the well bore.
The outer wall of the annulus may be an open
hole or it may be larger pipe.
API- American Petroleum Institute.
Headquarters of the API Division of Production
are at 300 Corrigan Tower Bldg., Dallas, Texas.
API CEMENT CLASSES- A classification
system for oil well cements defined in API Std
10A.
API GRAVITY- The gravity (weight per unit
volume) of crude oil or other related fluids as
1 • 21
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
performance measures and documents results
and best practices. (This classification is
available only for North America MBU
participants).
measured by a system recommended by the
American Petroleum Institute. It is related to
specific gravity by the following formula:
Deg API = 141.5_- 131.5
sp gr 60°F/60°F
ATTAPULGITE CLAY- A colloidal,
viscosity-building clay used principally in salt-
water muds. Attapulgite, a special fullers earth,
is a hydrous magnesium aluminum silicate.
BACK-OFF- To unscrew.
BARITE, BARYTES, OR HEAVY SPAR-
Natural barium sulfate used for increasing the
density of drilling fluids. If required, it is usually
upgraded to a specific gravity of 4.20. The barite
mineral occurs in white, grayish, greenish, and
reddish ores or crystalline masses.
BARREL- A volumetric unit of measure used in
the petroleum industry consisting of 42 gal.
BED- A specific layer of earth or rock material
in contrast to other layers of earth or rock of
different material lying above, below, or
adjacent to the bed in reference.
BENTONITE- A highly plastic, highly
colloidal clay, largely made up of the mineral,
montmorillonite, a hydrated aluminum silicate.
For use in drilling fluids, bentonite has a yield in
excess of 85 bbl/ton. The generic term
“bentonite” is neither an exact mineralogical
name, nor is the clay of definite mineralogical
composition.
BLOCKS, CROWN AND TRAVELING- The
block and tackle on a rig that raises and lowers
the drill string.
BLOWOUT- An uncontrolled escape of drilling
fluid, gas, oil, or water from the well caused by
Cementing 1

the formation pressure being greater than the
hydrostatic head of the fluid in the hole.
BLOWOUT PREVENTER- A device attached
immediately above the casing, which can be
closed and shut off the hole should a blowout
occur.
BOLL WEEVIL- Any inexperienced worker or
“hand.”
BOND- Adhering, binding, or joining of two
materials; e.g., cement to casing.
BONDING- The state of bond between cement
and casing and/or formation.
BOTTOMHOLE PRESSURE- The pressure at
the bottom of a well.
BREAKOUT- Refers to the act of unscrewing
one section of pipe from another section,
especially in the case of drill pipe while it is
being withdrawn from the well bore. During this
operation the breakout tongs are used to start the
unscrewing operation. Also refers to promotion
of a crew member to the position of driller or of
a driller to become a tool pusher. For example,
“He broke out as driller at Conroe.”
BRIDGING MATERIAL- Fibrous, flaky, or
granular material added to a cement slurry or
drilling fluid to aid in sealing formations in
which lost circulation has occurred. See Lost
Circulation Material.
BRINE- Water saturated with or containing a
high concentration of common salt (sodium
chloride); hence, any strong saline solution
containing such other salts as calcium chloride,
zinc chloride, calcium nitrate, etc.
BRINGING IN A WELL- The act of
completing a well and bringing it into actual
production status.
BUCK UP- To tighten a threaded connection.
BY-PASS- Usually refers to a pipe connection
around a valve or other control mechanism. A
by-pass is installed in such cases to permit
passage of fluid through the line while
adjustments or repairs are made on the control,
which is by-passed.
CALCIUM CHLORIDE- CaC12. A very
soluble calcium salt sometimes added to drilling
1 • 22
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
fluids to impart special properties, but primarily
to increase the density of the fluid phase.
CALIPER LOGGING- An operation to
determine the diameter of the well bore or the
internal diameter of casing, drill pipe, or tubing.
In the case of the wellbore, caliper logging
indicates undue enlargement of the bore due to
caving condition or other causes. In the case of
tubular goods, the caliper log reveals the internal
corrosion.
CASING CEMENTING- The practice of
filling the annulus between casing and hole with
cement in order to prevent fluid migration
between permeable zones and to support the
casing.
CEMENT- A mixture of calcium aluminates
and silicates made by combining lime and clay
while heating. Sacked cement contains about
62.5 percent calcium hydroxide, which is the
major source of trouble when cement
contaminates mud. - (a) n.; A plastic material
which hardens and forms a firm connection
medium between two or more solids (b) v.t.;
The- act of placing cement.
CEMENT DENSITY- The specific gravity of
an oil well cement as determined by a method
similar to ASTM C 188: Specific Gravity of
Hydraulic Cement. Most portland cements have
a specific gravity of about 3.15 when tested by
this method. Cement density should not be
confused with slurry density.
CEMENT SYSTEM- The combination of
materials that make up an oil well cement slurry.
CEMENTING- The operation by which cement
slurry is forced down through the casing and out
at the lower end in such a way that it fills the
space between the casing and the side of the well
bore to a predetermined height above the bottom
of the well. This is for the purpose of securing
the casing in place and excluding water and
other fluids from the well bore.
CEMENTING TIME- The total elapsed time
for a cementing operation from the beginning of
mixing until the completion of displacement to
final depth and complete circulation of any
excess slurry to the surface.
Cementing 1

CENTIPOISE (CP)- A unit of viscosity equal
to 0.01 poise. A poise equals 1 g per meter-
second, and a centipoise is 1 g centimeter-
second. The viscosity of water at 20°C is 1.005
cp (1 cp = 0.000672 lb/ft-sec).
CENTRALIZERS- Spring steel guides that are
attached to casing to keep it centered in the hole.
CHRISTMAS TREE- A term applied to the
valves and fittings assembled at the top of a well
to control the flow of the oil.
CIRCULATE- To cycle drilling fluid through
drill pipe and well bore while drilling operations
are temporarily suspended. This is done to
condition the drilling fluid and the well bore
before hoisting the drill pipe and to obtain
cuttings from the bottom of the well before
drilling proceeds. Circulation of the drilling fluid
while drilling is suspended is usually necessary
to prevent drill pipe from becoming stuck.
CLAY- A hydrated aluminum silicate. Clays are
components of soils in varying percentages.
Some types swell with absorption of water.
Various types are: kaolinite, smectite, illite,
chlorite and mixed-layer. A plastic, soft,
variously colored earth, commonly a hydrous
silicate of alumina, formed by the decomposition
of feldspar and other aluminum silicates. See
also Attapulgite, Bentonite, High Yield, Low
Yield, and Natural Clays. Clay minerals are
essentially insoluble in water but disperse under
hydration, shearing forces such as grinding,
velocity effects, etc., into the extremely small
particles varying from submicron to 100-micron
sizes.
COLLAR- A pipe coupling threaded on the
inside.
COMING OUT OF HOLE- Withdrawing of
the drill pipe from the well bore. This
withdrawal is necessary to change the bit, or
change from bit to core barrel, to prepare for a
drill stem test, and for other reasons.
CONDUCTOR PIPE- A short string of casing
of large diameter which is used in marshy
locations and under certain other conditions. Its
principal function is to keep the top of the well
bore open and to provide means of conveying
1 • 23
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
the upflowing drilling fluid from the well bore to
the slush pit.
CONNECTION- The joining of two lengths of
pipe.
CONTAMINANTS- Materials, usually mud
components, which become mixed with the
cement slurry during the displacement process,
and which have a deleterious effect on cement
properties.
CROWN BLOCK- Sheaves and supporting
beams on top of derrick.
CURING- Aging of cement under specified
conditions.
- Atmospheric Pressure Curing - The aging of
cement specimens for test purposes at normal
atmospheric pressure (14.7 psi at sea level), for a
designated period of time under certain given
conditions of temperature and humidity. See API
RP 10B.
- Pressure Curing - The curing of cement
specimens for test purposes, in water at pressure
above atmospheric pressure. See API RP 10B.
DENSITY- When used in relation to materials
such as solids, liquids, or gases, this means the
weight of a unit volume of the material. Many
types of units are used to measure density. The
chemist usually uses grams per cubic centimeter
(gm/cc). In the oil patch we may use pounds per
cubic foot (lb/cu ft) for solids, pounds per gallon
(lb/gal) for liquids and pounds per cubic foot
(lb/cu ft) for gases.
DERRICKMAN- The crew member whose
work station is in the derrick while the drill pipe
is being hoisted or lowered into the hole. He
attaches the elevators to the stands of drill pipe
while the pipe is being lowered into the hole and
detaches the elevators while the pipe is being
hoisted. Other responsibilities frequently include
conditioning the drilling fluid and maintenance
of the slush pumps. He is usually next in line of
authority under the driller.
DIATOMACEOUS EARTH- An infusorial
earth composed of siliceous skeletons of diatoms
and being very porous. Sometimes used for
combating lost circulation and as an additive to
Cementing 1

cement; also has been added to special drilling
fluids for a particular purpose.
DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE- The difference
in pressure between the hydrostatic head of the
drilling-fluid column and the formation pressure
at any given depth in the hole. It can be positive,
zero, or negative with respect to the hydrostatic
head.
DISPLACEMENT RATE- The volumetric
flow rate at which cement slurry is pumped
down the hole.
DOPE- Material used on threads of pipe or
tubing to lubricate and prevent leakage.
DOUBLE- Two lengths or joints of pipe joined
together.
DRILL STRING- The string of pipe that
extends from the bit to the Kelly, carries the
mud down to the bit, and rotates the bit.
DRILLING FLUIDS- Any fluid, such as air or
gas, water- or oil-base muds, circulated in a well
during drilling operations.
DRILLING MUD OR FLUID- A circulating
fluid used in rotary drilling to perform any or all
of various functions required in the drilling
operation.
ELEVATORS- Latches that secure the drill
pipe; attached to the traveling block which raises
and lowers the pipe from the hole.
FEMALE CONNECTION- A pipe or rod
coupling with the threads on the inside.
FILLER MATERIAL- A material added to a
cement or cement slurry for the primary purpose
of increasing the yield of the slurry.
FILTER CAKE- The suspended solids that are
deposited on a porous medium during the
process of filtration. See also Cake Thickness.
FITTINGS- The small pipes and valves that are
used to make up a system of piping.
FLASH SET- Flash set is abnormal early
thickening or setting of cement slurry wherein
the cement slurry becomes unpumpable.
FLOORMAN- A member of the drilling crew
whose work station is about the derrick floor. On
1 • 24
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
rotary drilling rigs normally there are two
floormen on each drilling crew.
FLUID LOSS- The volume of fluid lost to a
permeable material due to the process of
filtration. The API fluid loss is the volume of
fluid in a filtrate as determined according to the
Fluid-Loss Test given in API RP 10B. See
Water Loss.
FLUID-LOSS ADDITIVE- An additive used
to reduce the fluid loss of cement slurries.
Material used to maintain adequate injected fluid
within the created fracture and to minimize
damage by controlling fluid leak-off.
FORMATION DAMAGE- Damage to the
productivity of a well resulting from invasion
into the formation by mud particles or mud
filtrates. Asphalt from crude oil will also
damage some formations. See Mudding Off.
FRACTURING- Application of hydraulic
pressure to the reservoir formation to create
fractures through which oil or gas may move to
the well bore.
GEL CEMENT- Cement having a small to
moderate percentage of bentonite added as a
filler and/or to reduce the slurry weight. See
Gunk Plug.
GRAVITY, SPECIFIC- The weight of a
particular volume of any substance compared to
the weight of an equal volume of water at a
reference temperature. For gases, air is usually
taken as the reference substance, although
hydrogen is sometimes used.
HEADACHE- A warning cry given when
anything is dropped from overhead.
HYDROCARBON- A compound consisting
only of molecules of hydrogen and carbon.
KELLY OR KELLY JOINT- A heavy square
pipe or other configuration that works through a
like hole in the rotary table and rotates the drill
stem.
LATEX- Colloidal suspension or emulsion of
organic materials. Certain latexes are sometimes
used as cement additives.
LINER- Any string of casing whose top is
situated at any point below the surface.
Cementing 1

LOG- A running account listing a series of
events in chronological order. The driller’s log is
a tour-to-tour account of progress made in
drilling. Electric well log is a record of
geological formations which is made by a well
logging device. This device operates on the
principle of differential resistance of various
formations to the transmission of electric
current.
MAKE A HAND- To become a good worker.
MALE CONNECTION- A connection with the
threads on the outside.
NEAT CEMENT- A slurry composed of
portland cement and water.
OIL-COUNTRY TUBULAR GOODS- Oil-
well casing, tubing, or drill pipe.
OIL FIELDS- An area where oil is found. A
loosely-defined term referring to an area in
which one or more separate pools or reservoirs
may be found.
OLD HAND- A man who has been around the
oil field for a long time.
OPEN HOLE- The uncased part of the well.
OPERATOR- The person, whether proprietor
or lessee, actually operating a mine or oil well or
lease.
OPERATING PRESSURE- The pressure at
which a line or system is operating at any given
time.
PACKER FLUID- Any fluid placed in the
annulus between the tubing and casing above a
packer. Along with other functions, the
hydrostatic pressure of the packer fluid is
utilized to reduce the pressure differentials
between the formation and the inside of the
casing and across the packer itself.
PAY ZONE OR PAY FORMATION- The
formation drilled into that contains oil and/or gas
in commercial quantities.
PERMEABILITY- The property of a solid
medium which allows a fluid to flow through its
interconnected pore network. A procedure for
determining the permeability of hardened
cement is given in API RP 10B. Unit of
1 • 25
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
measurement is the darcy or millidarcy (0.001
darcy).
POTASSIUM- One of the alkali metal elements
with a valence of 1 and an atomic weight of
about 39. Potassium compounds, most
commonly potassium hydroxide (KOH) are
sometimes added to drilling fluids to impart
special properties, usually inhibition.
POZZOLAN- A siliceous or siliceous and
aluminous material, which in itself posseses
little or no cementitious value but will in finely-
divided form and in the presence of moisture,
chemically react with calcium hydroxide at
ordinary temperature to form compounds
possessing cementitious properties.
PRECIPITATE- Material that separates out of
solution or slurry as a solid. Precipitation of
solids in a drilling fluid may follow flocculation
or coagulation, such as the dispersed red-bed
clays upon addition of a flocculation agent to the
fluid. An insoluble solid substance produced as a
result of a chemical reaction.
PRIMARY CEMENTING- Primary casing
cementing is the original cementing operation
performed immediately after casing has been run
into the hole. See Casing Cementing.
PUMPING TIME- Synonymous with
cementing time except in those instances where
a volume of cement slurry is premixed prior to
displacement in a well. In this instance, the
pumping time will be total cementing time
minus mixing time.
PULLING CASING- Removing casing from a
well.
RESERVOIR- Each separate, unconnected
body of producing formation.
RETARDER- A chemical which is added to
cements to increase their thickening time. A
chemical or physical modification that slows the
reaction of an acid on the formation so as to
achieve deeper penetration.
RIGGING UP- Before the work of drilling can
be started, but after the derrick has been built,
tools and machinery must be installed and a
supply of fuel and water must be established.
This operation, which in substance is that of
Cementing 1

getting the rig ready, is conveniently described
by the driller’s term “rigging up.”
RISER- A pipe through which liquid travels
upward.
ROUGHNECK- A driller’s helper and general
all-around worker on a drilling rig.
ROUSTABOUT- A laborer who assists the
foreman in the general work about producing oil
wells and around the property of the oil
company. The roustabout is a semi-skilled
laborer in that he requires considerable training
to fit him for his work.
SACK- Sack is a weight measure. Cement,
bentonite, and barite are marketed in sacks
containing amounts as follows:
- Cement- 94 pounds
- Bentonite- 100 pounds
- Barite- 100 pounds
SALT- In mud terminology, the term salt is
applied to sodium chloride, NaCl. Chemically,
the term salt is also applied to any one of a class
of similar compounds formed when the acid
hydrogen of an acid is partly or wholly replaced
by a metal or a metallic radical. Salts are formed
by the action of acids on metals, or oxides and
hydroxides, directly with ammonia, and in other
ways.
SAND- A loose granular material resulting from
the disintegration of rocks, most often silica.
SCRATCHER- A device fastened to casing
which removes the mud cake from the hole to
condition it for cementing. It is fashioned of stiff
wire.
SET CASING- To install steel pipe or casing in
a well bore. An accompanying operation is the
cementing of the casing in place by surrounding
it with a wall of cement extending for all or part
of the depth of the well.
SHALE- Fine-grained clay rock with slate-like
cleavage, sometimes containing an organic oil-
yielding substance.
SHUT IN- To close valves on a well so that it
stops producing; said of a well on which the
valves are closed.
1 • 26
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
SLOUGHING- The partial or complete collapse
of the walls of a hole resulting from
incompetent, unconsolidated formations, high
angle or repose, and wetting along internal
bedding planes.
SLURRY- Suspension of cement in water, oil,
or mixture of both.
SLURRY VOLUME- The sum of the absolute
volumes of solids and liquids that constitute a
slurry.
SLURRY DENSITY- The density of a cement
slurry expressed in either pounds per gallon or
pounds per cubic foot. Light-weight and heavy-
weight slurries are prepared by adding suitable
additives to modify slurry density.
SLURRY WEIGHT- See Slurry Density.
SLURRY YIELD- (a) Volume of slurry when
one sack of cement (94 pounds) is mixed with
desired amount of water containing any other
additive such as accelerators, fluid-loss control
agents, etc. (b) Slurry volume as previously
defined by the total number of sacks of cement
(94 pounds per sack).
SODIUM CHLORIDE- NaCl. Commonly
known as salt. Salt may be present in the mud as
a contaminant or may be added for any of
several reasons. See Salt.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY- The weight of any
volume of a material divided by the weight of
the same volume of a material taken as a
standard. For solids or liquids, the standard is
water. For gases, the standard is air. It may also
be defined as the ratio of the density of a
substance to the density of water or air. We deal
mostly with liquids and solids. The density of
water is 1 gm/cc or 8.33 lb/gal. To go from
density to specific gravity, and vice versa, is a
simple matter. For example, given a 10 lb/gal
brine, calculate its specific gravity:
Specific Gravity = 10 lb/gal ÷ 8.33 lb/gal = 1.2
SQUEEZE- A procedure whereby slurries of
cement, mud, gunk plug, etc. are forced into the
formation by pumping into the hole while
maintaining a back pressure, usually by closing
the rams.
Cementing 1

SQUEEZE CEMENTING- The process of
forcing cementing material under pressure into a
specific portion of a well, such as fractures,
openings, or permeable zones.
- High Pressure Squeeze Cementing - The
forcing of cement slurry into the points to be
squeezed with a final pressure equal to or greater
than the formation breakdown pressure.
-Low Pressure Squeeze Cementing - The forcing
of cement slurry into the points to be squeezed
with a pressure not exceeding the formation
breakdown pressure.
STAND OF PIPE- Two or three or sometimes
four joints of pipe fastened together, called a
double, thribble, or fourble, respectively.
SURFACE PIPE- The first string of casing to
be set in a well. The length will vary in different
areas from a few hundred feet to three or four
thousand feet. Some states require a minimum
length to protect fresh-water sands. On some
wells it is necessary to set a temporary
conductor pipe which should not be confused
with surface pipe as described here.
TEARING DOWN- The act of dismantling a
rig at the completion of a well and preparing it
for moving to the next location.
TENSILE STRENGTH- A measure of force
per unit cross sectional area required to pull a
specimen apart.
THICKENING-TIME- The time required for a
cement slurry of a given composition to reach a
consistency of 70 Bc under given wellbore
conditions. Determined by methods outlined in
API RP 10B.
TOOL JOINT- A drill-pipe coupler consisting
of a pin and box of various designs and sizes.
The internal design of tool joints has an
important effect on mud hydrology.
TOOL PUSHER- A foreman in charge of one
or more drilling rigs. Supervisor of drilling
operations.
TOTAL DEPTH (OR TD)- The greatest depth
reached by the drill bit.
TRIP- To pull or run a string of rods or tubing
from or into a well.
1 • 27
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
TUBING JOB- The pulling and running of
tubing.
VISCOSITY- The internal resistance offered by
a fluid to flow. This phenomenon is attributable
to the attractions between molecules of a liquid,
and is a measure of the combined effects of
adhesion and cohesion to the effects of
suspended particles, and to the liquid
environment. The greater this resistance, the
greater the viscosity. See Apparent and Plastic
Viscosity.
WAITING ON CEMENT- After the casing has
been cemented, it is necessary to suspend
operations and allow time for the cement to set
or harden in the well bore. The time during
which operations are suspended is designated as
waiting on cement.
WALL CAKE- The solid material deposited
along the wall of the hole resulting from
filtration of the fluid part of the mud into the
formation.
WATER-CEMENT RATIO- The ratio by
weight of water to cement in a cement slurry.
WATER LOSS- See Fluid Loss. The volume of
water lost to the permeable material due to the
process of filtration. The API water loss is the
volume of filtrate determined according to the
Fluid-Loss Test given in API RP 10B.
WATER LOSS CONTROL- To regulate the
water loss of a cement slurry by the use of
additives.
WATER OF HYDRATION- The water
chemically combined with the solid to form a
crystalline compound. In cement slurries, the
water necessary to hydrate the cement, forming
cementitious materials.
WATER-SOLIDS RATIO- The ratio by
weight of water to the total solids in a cement
slurry.
WEIGHT- In mud terminology, this refers to
the density of a drilling fluid. This is normally
expressed in either lb/gal, lb/cu ft, psi
hydrostatic pressure per 1,000 ft of depth.
WEIGHTING MATERIAL- Any of the high
specific gravity materials used to increase the
density of drilling fluids. This material is most
Cementing 1

commonly barite but can be galena, etc. In
special applications limestone is also called a
weight material.
WORK-OVER- To perform one or more of a
variety of remedial operations on a producing oil
well with the hope of restoring or increasing
production. Examples of work-over operations
are deepening, plugging back, pulling and
resetting the liner, squeeze cementing, shooting,
and acidizing.
Common Oilfield Acronyms
ADC - Automatic Density Control
API - American Petroleum Institute
ASME - American Society of Mechanical
Engineers
ASTM - American Society for Testing and
Materials
BHA - Bottom Hole Assembly
BOP - Blow Out Preventer
CBL - Cement Bond Log
DHT - Down Hole Tool
DOT - Department of Transportation - US
Federal Agency
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency - US
Federal Agency responsible for
environmental regulatons
EPT - External Pipe Thread
FWCA - Free Water Cement Additive - FWCA
is a powdered, solids-suspending agent. It is
designed to prevent solids from settling and
to control free water
HEC - Hydroxy Ethyl Cellulose
HPHT - High Pressure High Temperature
HSE - Health, Safety, and Environment
HWO - Hydraulic Work Over. Well control and
well maintenance duties.
ID - Inside Diameter
LGC - Liquid Gel Concentrate
1 • 28
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
MMCR - Micro Matrix Cement Retarder -
Micro Matrix cement retarder (MMCR) is
designed for use in Micro Matrix cement
only. MMCR is a liquid. Secondary Effects:
Micro Matrix cement retarder is an
extremely potent retarder for conventional
cements
MSDS - Material Safety Data Sheet
NORM - Naturally Occuring Radioactive
Material - as it relate to the EPA
OD - Outer Diameter
OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health
Administration - Federal US Agency
responsible for worker safety
POOH - Pull Out Of Hole
PPE - Personal Protective Equipment - used for
personal safety in performance of duties -
coveralls, gloves, eye protection, hearing
protection
PTA - Plug to Abandon
RCM - Recirculating Cement Mixer
RIH - Run in Hole
SPE - Society of Petroleum Engineers
TD - Target Depth
TOC - Top Of Cement
TVD - True Vertical Depth
ZI - Zonal Isolation (ZI) is a process used in
petroleum well construction which keeps
fluids in one permeable zone of the well
bore separate from fluids of another zone.
Once the well has been drilled and lined
with pipe, the connection between the
geological formation and the well must be
established and assured. Completion
includes installing suitable tubing or casing,
and cementing this casing, using casing
plugs and packers
Common Halliburton Acronyms
BU - Business Unit
Cementing 1

CAPE - Concurrent Art to Production
Environment
CBT - Computer-Based Training
CEMS - Computerized Equipment Management
System - field system for tracking
equipment and repairs
COE - Common Office Environment – An
architecture of PCs that standardizes
software and hardware throughout the
company.
CPI - Correction, Prevention, and Improvement.
Halliburton’s quality improvement system.
CPS - Completion Products & Services PSL – A
reservoir focused set of Completion
Solutions including Subsurface Products,
Sand Control, Slickline, and Surface
Products
CT - Coiled Tubing and all its components
CVA - Cash Value Added - The CVA for a
period is a good estimate of the cash flow
generated above or below the investor's
requirement for that period. See also
NOVA
EJCS - End of Job Customer Survey
F&A - Finance and Administration
FDP - Field Development Product – Code for
new products before they are named.
FSQC - Field Service Quality Coordinator
FSR - Field Service Representative
HALCO21 - Halliburton’s team and processes
for revolutionizing business processes
globally to provide dramatic improvements
for Halliburton Company, enabling our
success in the 21st Century
HEI - Halliburton Energy Institute – the
development center in Duncan, OK, which
provides training for employees and
customers
HMS - Halliburton Management System - is an
integrated management system designed to
meet operations, quality, health, safety, and
environmental management systems needs.
What that really means is, the HMS is what
we do, how we do it, who is responsible,
1 • 29
Oilfield Terms, Slang, and Acronyms
how do we know we've done it, and how
can we make it better.
HPM - Halliburton Performance Management -
This function includes Market and Business
Analysis, Strategic Planning, PSL
Marketing and the Product Development
and Commercialization Initiative
Champion
HR - Human Resource department
HRD - Human Resource Development -This
department drives performance -focused
change of our people, processes, and
organization, supporting Halliburton`s goal
of becoming a high -performing
organization. Using the developmental
solutions approach, HRD develops and
implements specific processes that change
and improve performance - -processes
collectively known as interventions - -to
support our clients` business needs
IS - Integrated Solutions PSL -was established,
uniting the best people, technology,
products, and equipment to offer oil and
gas companies the most effective and
profitable solutions to their challenges
IT - Information Technology
ITP - Integrated Technology Products -The
purpose of the Integrated Technology
Products Group is to offer solutions with
reservoir performance focus; champion the
rapid development and introduction of new
technologies that cross PSL boundaries;
focus on cross -PSL technology delivery as
a business; and commercialize multi-PSL
solutions based on value creation transfer
technology to countries.
JSA - Job Safety Analysis
KBR - Kellogg Brown and Root – Halliburton’s
business unit that provides a full spectrum
of services: project development,
technology licensing and development,
consulting, project management,
engineering, procurement, construction,
operations and maintenance services.
KPI - Key Performance Indicator; used as a
measure in Service Quality PII
Cementing 1
L&P - Logging and Perforating PSL
MBU - Mobile Business Unit - a team with
equipment, which can deliver products and
services to the customer
NOVA - Net Operating Value Added
NWA - Natural Work Area - A method of
dividing up the United States into regions
which have similar product and service
requirements
PD&C - Product Development &
Commercialization
PE - Production Enhancement PSL
PII - Performance Improvement Initiative -
Three areas of Performance we can focus
on in the delivery of our services, In
addition to our financial performance. -
Doing the Job Right the First Time by
Using Standard Processes and Procedures -
Reducing Injuries by Better Management
of Risk -Protecting the Environment by
Reducing the Amount of Waste Created
and Using Environmentally Friendly
Operating Practices
PPR - People Performance Results - part of the
People Performance Management system
used to establish goals, provide feedback
on performance, assess performance and
deliver pay or other incentive based
rewards
PSL - Product Service Line
PSMT - Product Service Management Team
QA - Quality Assurance
QC - Quality Control
RTO - Real Time Operations - delivery of real
time data from wellsite to
Halliburton/Client office, typically via use
of the Mobile Net satellite system
SC - Service Coordinator - is a customer focused
member of the PSL and Asset Management
Team. The Service Coordinator provides
technical and operational expertise,
champions service excellence, creating
customer satisfaction. The Service
1 • 30
Coordinator deploys equipment, materials,
and personnel with focus on optimizing use
and profit.
SS - Shared Services - the enabler for change by
pulling together the various functions that
were common to all our operations under
one management structure that exists along
side of the other mainstay processes of
acquisition and execution. Through this
model each Business Unit is able to access
the resources necessary to acquire and
execute its work, yet gain the efficiencies
and synergies available by "sharing" key
services between Business Units.
SSDP - Service Supervisor Development
Program is designed to train Supervisors to
meet increasing technical and customer
needs on a global basis. Successful
completion of the program is expected to
lead to promotion of the Participant from
entry level ( or experienced candidates
from within Halliburton) to a revenue
producing Service Supervisor in field
operations.
SSDS - Sperry-Sun Drilling Services
SSIT - Service Supervisor In Training - is
responsible for successful wellsite job
execution in a safe and efficient manner.
The Service Supervisor's emphasis is on
operational excellence and customer
satisfaction for long term growth and
profitability of the NWA.
T&E - Travel & Entertainment - System of
tracking these expenses
TA - Technical Advisor
TC - Team Coordinator -The PSL Team
Coordinator functions as a team leader and
coach for the Service Supervisors. The
Team Coordinator provides personnel
development for the MBU Team and
champions best practices and process
improvements.
TTTCP - Tools & Testing and Tubing Conveyed
Perforating PSL
Cementing 1
Section 2

Casing and Tubing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................2-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................2-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................2-3
Unit A: Casing and Tubing Uses ...............................................................................................................2-3
Unit A Quiz ............................................................................................................................................2-4
Unit B: Typical Casing Strings ..................................................................................................................2-5
Conductor Casing ...................................................................................................................................2-5
Surface Casing........................................................................................................................................2-5
Protective Casing (Intermediate Casing)................................................................................................2-6
Production Casing ..................................................................................................................................2-6
Liners......................................................................................................................................................2-7
Tubing String..........................................................................................................................................2-8
Unit B Quiz ............................................................................................................................................2-9
Unit C: Casing and Tubing Threads ........................................................................................................2-10
Casing Threads.....................................................................................................................................2-10
Tubing Threads ....................................................................................................................................2-11
Thread Selection...................................................................................................................................2-12
Make-Up Torque Selection ..................................................................................................................2-12
Thread Care ..........................................................................................................................................2-13
Unit C Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................2-14
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................2-15

2•1 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Use for Section Notes…

2•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
For well operations to take place, lengths of
tubular goods are joined together and run down-
hole. Then, surface and downhole equipment
can be connected so that drilling and cementing
operations can proceed.
Due to the nature of our work, Halliburton
personnel must be familiar with basic drilling
operations. An understanding of the factors
involved in making up joints of casing, tubing,
and drill pipe will help you work more
effectively with customers as well as better
understand the ways in which Halliburton
equipment is used with these tubular goods.
Unit A: Casing and Tubing Uses
Casing design involves three major steps:
1. Determining the sizes and lengths of casing
strings you will run
2. Calculating the type and size of loading
conditions
3. Choosing the weights and grades of casing
that will not fail when exposed to these
loads
This section will discuss the basics for
developing a casing program. An ideal casing
string design allows you to control common and
uncommon well conditions safely and
economically. Specifically, the casing program
should be appropriate for the geological
environment and allow safe well production.
Although it would be easy to choose a single
casing weight and grade to satisfy most well
conditions, you might be going to unnecessary
expense depending on the complexity of the
well.
2•3
Casing and Tubing
Topic Areas
This section presents the following topics:
A. Casing and Tubing Uses
B. Couplings and Threads
C. Casing and Tubing Threads
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with the
• Purpose and use of tubular goods
• Types of threads and how to select and care
for them
A casing designer’s main job is to select the
weight and grades of casing that will be just
strong enough to withstand the loading
conditions of the well. Since casing is made
from steel pipe, cost generally increases with
weight, but tensile strength and grade change
also affect prices. When selecting casing sizes
and final weights and grades, consider the
availability of tubular goods. You may not be
able to purchase certain types of casing in your
area. In extreme cases, you may have to base the
casing design on what is available; the main goal
is to simply make sure the specific string is
suitable for the well.
To plan a well, you must first choose a
casing/bit system. When choosing this system,
you should consider
• Past experience with the area
• Geological factors
• Abnormal pressure
Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

• Troublesome zones (such as salt) and
sloughing shale
• Lost circulation zones
Remember, the casing size and weight chosen
will determine casing inside diameter (ID). This,
in turn affects maximum bit diameter and limits
the size of the next casing string.
The basic loading conditions on a casing or
tubing string that must be considered are
collapse, burst, and tension. All pipe designs
must carry a safety factor that considers the
uncertainty of the magnitude of these forces.
The Red Book (Halliburton Cementing Tables)
lists collapse and burst (internal yield)
limitations for common pipe sizes and grades. In
addition, the Redbook provides limitations on
the tensile force (parallel to the axis of the
casing string) that is allowed for different pipe
sizes, grades, and coupling types. Tensile force
on the casing also has an effect upon the
collapse and burst values.
You may also encounter compression and
bending forces, which often occur in non-
vertical holes. The degree to which these forces
are exerted will also effect the burst and collapse
resistance of the pipe. Another secondary
condition is load change during cementing due
to the placement of fluids of differing densities.
API bulletins, as well as the Redbook, contain
minimum burst, collapse, and tension casing
values. To use API’s monogram, casing
manufactures must use minimum standards set
by the API. Non-API casing is often
manufactured using the same standards, but for
critical wells, be sure that the material meets all
API standards.

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit A.
1. The casing program should be appropriate for the __________________________ and allow safe
well production.

2. The casing size and weight chosen will determine casing ________________________.

3. The basic loading conditions on a casing or tubing string that must be considered are
______________, ________________, and _______________.

2•4 Cementing 1

Unit B: Typical Casing Strings
In this unit, we will describe the purpose and use
of tubular goods used in a typical well.
Conductor Casing
Conductor
Casing
Reservoir
Figure 2.1 - Conductor Casing
The conductor casing prevents washouts of
poorly consolidated surface soil and rock while
drilling the surface hole. Should the surface
erode, or become unstable, drilling rig stability
is compromised.
Conductor casing normally has a large diameter
(16 to 30 in.). It is either set with a spud rig or
driven to the point of refusal (150 to 250
blows/ft) with a drive or vibration hammer.
Setting depths is normally 90 to 150 ft and rarely
deeper that 300 ft.
Conductor casing allows you to install a diverter
system, and provides a flow line high enough to
allow mud return to steel mud pits while drilling
the surface hole. A blowout preventer (BOP)
may sit on the conductor casing above a large-
diameter (± 10 in.) vent pipe. If shallow
hydrocarbons are found, and the well flows, you
can close the BOP and divert flow away from
2•5
Casing and Tubing
the rig. If such a shallow flow is encountered,
the well should not be completely shut in. It is
likely, in most cases, that insufficient pipe is set
to prevent fluids or gas from breaking around
the outside of the conductor casing to surface. In
other words, the diverter system protects the rig
and personnel until the problem can be
corrected.
Surface Casing
The surface casing string (Fig. 2.2) is designed
to protect formations near the surface from
deeper drilling conditions. The surface casing
string has several important functions. First, it
protects shallow freshwater sands from
contamination by drilling fluids and produced
fluids. Surface casing is cemented back to the
surface so freshwater zones will have a cement
sheath and a steel casing to protect them. Depth
and cement requirements are mandated by
regulatory agencies.
Surface casing allows you to drill to the next
casing seat. BOPs are nippled up on the surface
casing; the well can be controlled if abnormal
conditions cause an inflow of formation fluid to
the wellbore. The surface casing is designed so
that the casing can be totally shut in using
surface equipment. When drilling into abnormal
pressure, casing seats must be able to withstand
increasing mud weights. Casing should be set
deep enough to prevent broaching to the surface.
Finally, surface casing supports all casing strings
run in the well.
Cementing 1

Conductor
Casing
Cement
Surface
Casing
Reservoir
Figure 2.2 - Surface Casing (Set inside the
conductor casing)
Protective Casing (Intermediate
Casing)
A protective (intermediate) casing string (Fig.
2.3) provides hole integrity during later drilling
operations. This intermediate string protects
formations behind it from high mud weights. It
also prevents drilling fluid contamination during
underbalanced drilling. Specifically, it performs
the functions covered in the following
paragraphs.
A protective casing string allows you to control
the well when encountering subsurface pressure
higher than the mud weight. If this takes place,
and fluid (or gas) enters the wellbore, drilling
fluid will be forced from the wellbore at surface.
The petroleum industry refers to this as a "kick".
In order to stop the formation-to-wellbore fluid
flow, the surface control equipment must be
closed or partially choked off. A positive surface
pressure will result. The protective casing is
designed to withstand this pressure. Since it
covers low fracture gradient formations, it
maintains wellbore integrity during well-
kicking. Protective casing also allows you to
control the well if it is swabbed in, or if gas
purges all drilling fluids form the well.
2•6
Casing and Tubing
Conductor
Casing
Cement
Surface
Casing
Intermediate
Casing
Cement
Reservoir
Figure 2.3 - Protective Casing (Set inside
the surface casing and extending from total
depth to surface)
One major advantage of protective casing is that
it allows underbalanced drilling of deeper
formations and isolates troublesome ones. It
allows you to isolate sloughing shales,
abnormally pressured saltwater flows, and
formations that contaminate the mud to prevent
interference during drilling operations
Production Casing
The production casing string (oil string) (Fig.
2.4) is set and cemented through the producing
zone and acts as a backup for the tubing string
during production. It is the primary string
responsible for isolating the desired production
interval(s). This string must be able to withstand
full wellhead shut-in pressure if the tubing leaks
or fails.
After cementing the production casing, holes
(perforations) are made in the casing (and
cement sheath) which allows fluid to enter the
wellbore. This is most often accomplished using
explosive charges ran on wireline units provided
by the logging service line.
When replacing the tubing or downhole tools
during well maintenance operations, you must
make sure the production casing will allow you
Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

to kill the well (offset bottom hole pressure with
fluid hydrostatic head), circulate workover
fluids, and conduct some pressure testing.
Casing in general and production casing/liners
specifically, allow for a wellbore with consistent
known internal diameter. This is critical when
utilizing special downhole tools that require
these conditions. These tools are commonly
inserted into the casing during completion and
production operations in order to obtain
wellbore isolation at desired points.
In some areas, conditions may allow you to use
small diameter lines; in these instances,
production casing is set for well fluid
production. In other words, these are tubingless
completions – there is no backup string.
Conductor
Casing
cemented casing string. These hanging casing
strings are called liners and they are used in
almost every deep well completion.
Four types of liners will be described briefly to
begin this section:
• Drilling (or protective) liners
• Production liners
• Stub liners
• Scab liners
Drilling Liners
A drilling liner (Fig. 2.5) is a string of casing
that is hung from another casing of a larger
diameter which has already been cemented
downhole. It is used to case off open holes so
that deeper drilling may be performed. A drilling
liner serves to

Cement • help control water or gas production

Surface
Casing • isolate lost-circulation zones

Intermediate
• isolate high-pressure zones.
Casing
A drilling liner is subject to the same design
conditions as protective casing, and it provides
Cement
Production the same protections. Multiple drilling liners
Casing
may be required. As with all liners, the top of
the casing does not extend to the surface, but is
Reservoir
“hung off” at some point in the previous casing
Cement
Casing Shoe string.

Figure 2.4 - Production casing (Last full

string of casing, set from total depth to
surface).

Liners

In the past, it was common to have several

strings of casing in a deep well. All these strings
extended from the wellhead to different depths.
However, another method was devised to Figure 2.5 - Protective or Drilling liner (Set
accommodate varying well conditions. This inside protective casing at current hole total
time- and money-saving method involves the depth, but does not extend to surface)
hanging of a casing string from the bottom of a

2•7 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Production Liners Scab Liners

A production liner is a string of casing that is
hung from a drilling liner or casing in the
producing formation (Fig. 2.6). This type of
liner is then cemented and perforated like any
other completion string. It provides isolation and
support when casing has been set above the
production zone.
An unusual type of liner, a scab liner (Fig. 2.7)
is usually not cemented after it has been run
downhole and, therefore, it is retrievable. It has a
packoff on both ends and is used under the same
conditions as a stub liner.
Stub and scab liners can be set with part of their
weight on the liner below or hung uphole on
existing casing.

Conductor
Casing

Cement
Surface
Casing

Intermediate
Casing

Scab Liner
Cement

Production
Liner
Reservoir
Production
Casing Shoe Liner
Cement
Reservoir

Figure 2.6 – Production liner (cemented in

place but hangs from the bottom of the
Figure 2.7 - Scab Liner
intermediate casing rather than extending to
the surface.

Stub Liners
A stub liner (also called a tie-back liner) is
usually a short string of casing that provides an
upward extension for a drilling liner. It is run
when
• casing above the drilling liner has been
damaged in some way (by corrosion, etc.)
• a liner is leaking
• greater resistance is needed for other reasons
(abnormal pressure, etc.).
Tubing String
The tubing string gives produced fluids a flow
path to the surface and allows you to inject for
secondary recovery, storage, and disposal. By
increasing the size of this string, you can reduce
friction pressure and increase production or
injection rates. However, by increasing this
diameter, you must increase all other casing
sizes in the well. In other words, you must make
sure the increased production/injection ratio
justifies the higher cost.

2•8 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit B.
1. The first string in the well may be ___________ or ___________ casing. If the top soil is erodible,
then ___________ casing will be the first type run.

2. The conductor prevents ______________ under the rig.

3. Sometimes, conductor casing is set by simply _________________________ it into the ground.

However, if the soil is too hard, then the hole will be _____________ for it.

4. ____________ casing supports all casing strings run in the well.

5. Protective casing is also know as _____________________ casing.

6. A hanging casing string is called a ____________.

2•9 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Unit C: Casing and Tubing Threads

Nearly all tubular goods used in completing a • Make-Up Torque selection
well come in joints that vary from 30 to 40 ft in
length. Joints have threads machined into their • Thread Care.
ends which serve to hold the string together.
Different types of tubular goods have threads
which differ in size, shape, and in the way they
Casing Threads
seal and make up to hold pressure.
Casing threads appear on both ends on the
Cut on a taper, the threaded pin end and box end outside of a joint of casing. Lengths of casing
screw together (Fig. 2.8). As the makeup torque are made up by using a collar (Fig. 2.9). A joint
increases, the pin threads(which have less metal screws into one end of the collar, while the next
than the box threads) begin to conform to the joint screws into the other end. Most casing
box. Continued makeup causes additional threads are not upset, that is flared, as are many
yielding until the pin end is wedged tightly into tubing threads.
the box. In this way, joints of tubular goods are
sealed together. Tensile loads and internal
pressures cannot easily force the separation of
the joined segments.

Figure 2.9 – Casing Joints and Collar

The most common threads (Fig. 2.10) in use

today for casing connections are:
• 8 round (8rd) thread has 8 rounded threads
Figure 2.8 – Pin End and Box End per inch
• Extreme line (Xline) thread has square
threads*
Since 1928, threads have been regulated by the
American Petroleum Institute (API). There are • Buttress thread has square threads.
five important areas of thread types, selection,
and care.
• Casing Threads
• Tubing Threads
• Thread Selection

2 • 10 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

* Number of threads per inch varies based

upon the OD of the pipe.
Fig. 2.10 – Comparison of thread types.

Tubing Threads

The tubing or production string provides a flow

path to the surface for produced fluids. Tubing is
not cemented into place as is casing. Therefore,
the threads on tubing joints and collars (Figure
2.11) are designed to withstand great tensile
loads and internal pressures. Like casing joints, Figure 2.11 – Tubing Joints and Collar
tubing has threads on both ends.
Two types of tubing threads (Figure 2.12) are
• External Upset (EU) – used in most wells
for added strength
• Non-Upset – used in shallower wells and on
the surface.

Figure 2.12 – External and non-upset tubing

threads.

2 • 11 Cementing 1

Thread Selection
When working with the customer's casing,
tubing or drill pipe, it’s up to Halliburton
personnel to be sure that service equipment fits
the tubulars. Selection of the proper pin size
(changeover from the casing/tubing to
Halliburton discharge piping) can sometimes be
difficult for the beginner.
In selecting the proper pin for casing, tubing or
drill pipe, the following information is needed:
• What type of thread is on the string?
• What is the outside diameter (OD) of the
pipe on the string? (For drill pipe you would
need to know the OD of the tool joint or
coupling).
The type of thread varies depending upon which
type of pipe the customer has in the hole. The
OD tells you what size pin you need to connect
to the customer’s pipe.
For example, if you know the customer has 5 ½
inch 8rd casing, your equipment should also
have an OD of 5 ½ inches and 8 round threads
per inch.
On location, check the specifications, which are
stenciled on the side of the joints. If the joints
are not marked, you’ll need a caliper tool (Fig.
2.13) and ruler to identify pin dimensions.
2 • 12
Casing and Tubing
Figure 2.13- Caliper and ruler
Make-Up Torque Selection
To avoid stripping threads by applying too much
torque and to avoid loose connections by
applying too little torque, it is necessary to be
aware of optimum torque levels for the type of
tubular goods with which you’re working.
Charts, published by the API, are available to
help you.
As an example, let’s assume that you want to
make up a float collar on the customer’s casing.
The casing has this stamp: 5 ½ in. casing,
15.5lb/ft, J-55, grade, 8rd, long thread.
To use the make-up torque charts, you need to
know all the information provided by this stamp.
The stamp tells you that the casing has:
• An outside diameter (OD) of 5 ½ inches
• 15.5 lb/ft nominal weight, threads and
coupling
• J-55 grade
• 8 round threads per inch
• long thread.
Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Nominal Torque, ft-lb

Size Weight,
Threads Short Thread Long Thread
Outside
Diameter and
in. Coupling
lb per ft Grade Optimum Minimum Maximum Optimum Minimum Maximum

5½ 14.00 H-40 1300 980 1630 __ __ __

14.00 J-55 1720 1290 2150 __ __

15.50 J-55 2020 1520 2530 2170 1630 2710
17.00 J-55 2290 1720 2860 2470 1850 3090

14.00 K-55 1890 1420 2360 __ 1790 __

15.50 K-55 2220 1670 2780 2390 2040 2990
17.00 K-55 2520 1890 3150 2720 __ 3400
6 5/8 20.00 H-40 1840 1380 __ __ __ __

20.00 J-55 2450 1840 3060 2660 2000 3330

24.00 J-55 3140 2360 3930 3400 2550 4250

20.00 K-55 2670 2000 3340 2900 2180 3630

24.00 K-55 3420 2570 4280 3720 2790 4650

Using this information, you can look up the Thread Care

optimum, minimum, and maximum torque to be
applied when making connections with this
casing. To do this,
• find the chart for casing and your thread
size.
• The first column of this chart is labeled
“Size:Outside Diameter.” Find the column
for 5 ½ in. OD casing.
• Columns 2 and 3 are labeled “Nominal
Weight, Threads and Coupling lb per ft” and
“Grade.” Find the row for the casing you’re
working with (15.5 lb/ft and Grade J-55).
• Columns 7, 8 and 9 are labeled “Long
Thread,” and Optimum,” Minimum,” and
“Maximum” torque levels. For the casing
you’re working with, these levels are 2170,
1630, 2710 ft-lb, respectively. Thus, proper
torque for this casing is between 1630 and
2710 ft-lb, and 2170 ft-lb is the best torque
to apply.
When working with both surfaces and down-
hole equipment, you should be careful to protect
the threads. Because of the tremendous pressure
this equipment is designed to withstand, taking
care of thread could mean the prevention of a
serious accident and injury.
Before taking a piece of equipment to location,
you should
• Carefully remove the thread protectors.
• Inspect the threads for damage (sometimes
diesel fuel or a solvent will be needed to
remove grease to inspect for damage). Look
for galling, cracking, or cross-threading. If
you’re not sure, check with your supervisor.
• Put on safety glasses and clean the threads
using a wire brush.
• If the threads will be chemically welded
(with Halliburton Weld-A), bentonite gel
will be needed along with a wire brush to
remove all grease from the threads on the
equipment as well as on the casing. Check to
see that all welds have met established API
codes.

2 • 13 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

After a piece of equipment has been inspected,
equal care should be taken in its use:
• Never allow threads to hit metal or hard
objects.
• Never drop or throw equipment.
• Be aware of proper torque when making up
a piece of equipment.
• Place wrenches close to the threads but not
on them.
After you’ve finished using the equipment,
reinspect it for damage. Be sure to clean the
thread protectors and carefully reattach them to
the equipment.
Remember, if you have a question about the
condition of a thread, ask a supervisor. One
blown out pin could not only cause an accident,
but could also leave you with a workstring full
of cement.

Unit C Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit C.
1. Threads have been regulated by the _______________ for over 50 years.

2. As a connection is screwed together, the pin threads begin to ______________ to the box threads.
Eventually, the pin end is ________ tightly into the box, which produces a __________ against
internal pressure.

3. Both the ____________ and____________ types of casing threads are square-shaped.

4. The two main questions you need to answer when choosing the proper pin size for casing or tubing
are: What is the type of ______________ on the string, and what is the ______________ of the pipe
on the string?

5. When inspecting threads, you should look for _________________, __________________, and
___________________.

2 • 14 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. geological environment 2-3
2. inside diameter (ID) 2-4
3. collapse, burst, tension 2-4

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. conductor, surface, conductor 2-5,6
2. washout (or erosion) 2-5
3. driven, drilled 2-5
4. Surface 2-6
5. intermediate 2-6
6. liner 2-8

Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to

Page
1. API 2-10
2. conform, wedged, seal 2-10
3. buttress, extreme line 2-10
4. thread, outside diameter 2-12
5. galling, cracking, cross-threading 2-13

2 • 15 Cementing 1
 Casing and Tubing

2 • 16 Cementing 1
Section 3

API Cements and Additives

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................3-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................3-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................3-3
Unit A: API Cements .................................................................................................................................3-3
API Classification ..................................................................................................................................3-3
Manufacturing and Composition............................................................................................................3-4
Unit A Quiz ............................................................................................................................................3-5
Unit B: Cement Properties .........................................................................................................................3-6
Factors Influencing Slurry Properties.....................................................................................................3-6
Thickening Times...................................................................................................................................3-7
Compressive Strength ............................................................................................................................3-7
Mix Water ..............................................................................................................................................3-8
Unit B Quiz ............................................................................................................................................3-9
Unit C: Cement Additives........................................................................................................................3-10
Introduction ..........................................................................................................................................3-10
Cement Accelerators ............................................................................................................................3-10
Lightweight Additives..........................................................................................................................3-10
Heavyweight Additives ........................................................................................................................3-10
Cement Retarders .................................................................................................................................3-11
Lost Circulation Additives ...................................................................................................................3-11
Fluid Loss Additives ............................................................................................................................3-11
Cement Dispersants or Friction Reducers ............................................................................................3-12
Gas Control Additives ..........................................................................................................................3-12
Salt as an Additive (Salt Cement) ........................................................................................................3-13
Unit C Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................3-14
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................3-15

3•1 Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Use for Section Notes…

3•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
Cements are used universally in well completion
operations to fill the annular space between the
casing and the open hole. The principal
functions of the primary cementing process are
• to bond and support the casing
• to restrict fluid movement between
formations
• to protect the casing from corrosion
• to protect the casing from shock loads when
drilling deeper
• to seal off lost circulation (or thief) zones.
Topic Areas
In this section, the following units are covered:
A. API Cements
Unit A: API Cements
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has
identified nine types of cement according to
chemical composition and physical properties.
These types range from standard construction
cements to cements designed for use thousands
of feet below the surface.
This unit will cover
• API Classification
• Manufacturing and Composition
API Classification
The nine types of cements classified by the API
are
3•3
API Cements and Additives
B. Cement Properties
C. Cement Additives
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the section, you should be
familiar with:
• the API classification system and the ratings
of the various cements based upon physical
makeup
• the basic physical properties of commonly
used Halliburton cements
• the functions of commonly used additives
• the basic steps in the cement manufacturing
process.
• API Class A and B (Portland cement)
• API Class C (High early strength cement)
• API Class D, E and F (Retarded cement)
• API Class G and H (Basic cement)
• API Class J (Special order only).
API Classes G and H cements are commonly
used across a large geographical area. Classes A,
B, and C are used in specific geographic
locations where downhole conditions require
special cement properties. Classes D, E and F
are rarely used and only in special situations.
Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Table 3.1 - API Classification And Properties Of

Common Oil Well Cements
Range Static Water Slurry
Type of Usage Temp Ratio Weight Volume Remarks
°F gal/sk lb/gal ft3/sk
Class A 6000 ft 60°-170° 5.2 15.6 1.18 May be used when no special properties are desired
(Portland) and well conditions permit. No sulfate resistance.
Class B 6000 ft 60°-170° 5.2 15.6 1.18 Moderate sulfate resistance.
(Portland)
Class C 6000 ft 60°-170° 6.3 14.8 1.32 Available in regular and high sulfate-resistant types.
Class G 8000 ft 200° 5.0 15.8 1.15 Basic cement, compatible with accelerators or
retarders for use over the complete range of Classes
A through E.
Class H 8000 ft 200° 4.3 16.4 1.06 Basic cement, higher density, higher and lower
water volume.
8000 ft 200° 5.2 15.6 1.18

You may also hear the terms Standard, Premium
and Premium Plus when referring to oil field
cements.
• Standard cement has characteristics similar
to API Classes A&B. However; Standard
Cement may not meet API specifications for
Class A or B.
• Premium Cement has characteristics similar
to API Classes G&H. However; Premium
Cement may not meet API specifications for
Class G or H.
• Premium Plus Cement has characteristics
similar to API Class C. However; Premium
Plus Cement may not meet API
specifications for Class C.
Other materials having somewhat different
cement properties are also commonly used in the
primary cementing process. These materials
do not fall in any specific API classification and
are classified as “Special Cements.”
Manufacturing and Composition
In 1824, Joseph Aspdin, a British stone mason,
obtained a patent for a cement he produced in
his kitchen. The inventor heated a mixture of
finely ground limestone and clay in his kitchen
stove and ground the mixture into a powder
creating a hydraulic cement--one that hardens
with the addition of water. Aspdin named the
product portland cement because it resembled a
stone quarried on the Isle of Portland off the
British Coast. With this invention, Aspdin laid
the foundation for today's portland cement
industry.
Cements consist of limestone (or other materials
high in calcium carbonate), clay or shale, and
some iron and aluminum oxides (if not found in
quantity in the clay or shale). These dry
materials are finely ground and mixed
thoroughly in the correct proportions, either dry
(dry process), or with water (wet process). The
mixture is heated to very high temperatures
causing the ingredients to react chemically,
resulting in material called clinker. The clinker
is ground with a controlled amount of gypsum to
form cement.
All cement classes are manufactured in
essentially the same way and made of the same
ingredients, only in different proportions.
The water requirement of each cement varies
with the fineness of grind or amount of surface
area. High early strength cements (Class C) have
a high surface area (fine grind); the retarded
cements (Classes D, E, F) have less surface area,
and the Portland cements (Classes A & B) have
a surface area slightly higher than the retarded
cements. Class G is a premium fine grind and
class H is a premium coarse grind.

3•4 Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Unit A Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check you progress in Unit A.
1. The American Petroleum Institute has identified nine classes of basic cements. Five of those nine
classes are commonly used in the oil field. They are _____________, _____________,
_____________, _____________ and _____________.

2. The API cements most commonly used across a wide geographical area are classes _____ and
_____.

3. Although both Class G and Class H cements have similar properties, Class H has a ___________
density.

4. Special cements are similar to basic cements in that they are commonly used in the
_______________________ process.

5. Cement consists of ______________ that is ground with a controlled amount of _____________.

6. Although all classes of cements are manufactured in basically the same way, they differ in that
different ______________ of ingredients are used.

7. The water requirements for each type of cement vary based upon _________________________.

3•5 Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Unit B: Cement Properties

The properties of cements used in the oil field • Too much water: Free water appears on top
vary based upon the following factors: of the slurry in the sample cup and retards
setting.
• Geographic location
• Too little water: The slurry is thick and
• Conditions down-hole (temperature, depth,
difficult to pump and accelerates setting.
etc.)
Slurry density or cement slurry weight should,
• Type of cement job
except for squeeze jobs, be great enough to
• Type of mixing water. maintain well control. As a result, slurry
densities are always carefully monitored. In the
Cement properties can be changed to meet the
field, this can be done either manually with a
needs of a particular job. This unit addresses the
pressure balanced scale (Fig. 3.1) or
physical properties of oilwell cements and how
automatically with a densometer. To avoid a
these properties affect or are affected by
poor primary cementing job, a slurry must be
conditions downhole. This unit includes
maintained at its proper density.
• Factors influencing slurry properties
• Thickening time
• Compressive strength.
• Flow properties

Factors Influencing Slurry

Properties

The properties of cement slurry are influenced

by factors such as: Figure 3.1 – Pressure Balanced Scale

• water ratio of cement slurries (gal/sk)

• slurry density (lb/gal) While on the job, be alert to slurry property
changes that can be the result of improper slurry
• slurry yield (ft³/sk) density. The slurry properties most affected by
The water ratio or gallons of water required per changes in density are
sack of cement is important in determining the • thickening time
thickening time and compressive strength of the
cement. Most slurries are mixed with an amount • flow characteristics (pumpability)
of water that provides a set volume equal to the • drilling fluid displacement efficiency
slurry volume without freewater separation.
Your Halliburton Cementing Tables (Red Book) • free water
contains a section entitled “Technical Data” in
• settling
which you can find water requirements for
various types of cements. • compressive strength
The following rule of thumb can help: • fluid loss.

3•6 Cementing 1

The careful recording and monitoring of slurry
density ensures a correct water to solids ratio is
maintained.
Slurry yield is the number of ft³/sk an API
standard manufactured cement yields based
upon a given amount of mixing water. In
determining the volume of cement required to do
a particular cement job, a caliper survey, volume
requirements based on Red Book data, and/or
regulatory requirements are used. Too much
cement rather than too little is always advisable,
especially where there is a possibility of mud
contamination, dilution, or channeling.
Thickening Times
The thickening time, based upon laboratory
testing, is the time required for a cement to
become unpumpable. Thickening times are
established in response to
• Laboratory test results
• Actual well conditions
Laboratory thickening time tests (Fig. 3.2) are
conducted using a sample of cement (with
additives, if used) and mixing water. The cement
slurry is tested to determine the amount of time
for thickening to take place. The following well
conditions are controlled during these tests:
• bottomhole circulating temperature (BHT)
• well depth
• well pressure.
Figure 3.2 – Pressure-temperature
thickening time tester.
3•7
API Cements and Additives
The “Technical Data” section of your Red Book
contains temperature/thickening time
information. This data represents average
temperatures at various depths along the Gulf
Coast and may not correspond to temperatures at
the same depths in other areas.
Always remember temperature, rather than
depth, has the greatest effect on cement
thickening times.
Thickening time is also affected by conditions
that cannot always be controlled during
laboratory tests, such as
• water invasion - causes failure to set
• loss of water to the formation - causes
accelerated set
• shutdown during cement slurry
placement - speeds up thickening and slurry
set faster than reported by laboratory
conditions
• contamination - causes setting failure.
These factors affect the thickening time of
cement to various degrees. It is important to
remember that the slurry thickening time
changes if one of these situations is encountered.
Finally, when considering thickening times,
remember that moving cement is less likely to
setup; therefore, once you stop moving the
cement slurry, the cement starts to build gel
strength. A basic rule should always be
followed: never stop moving the cement until it
is in place.
Compressive Strength
Compressive strength is the amount of strength
required to support a string of casing.
Compressive strength provides the basis for
most WOC (waiting-on-cement) regulations. It
is a generally accepted rule that a compressive
strength of 500 psi is the minimally acceptable
standard for most cement operations. However,
consult the regulatory guidelines to determine
the minimum strength requirements for the state
in which you work.
Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Deciding how long to wait for your cement to Mix Water

build up enough compressive strength for
drilling out is a function of cement type,
additives, and wellbore temperature.
Other factors that affect cement curing or WOC
times (field variables, completion procedures,
and curing conditions) do not allow a foolproof
WOC time to be set. Thus, the rule of thumb is
to achieve a minimum compressive strength of
500 psi before drilling out.
Cement slurry contamination is a major concern
during the cementing process. It would be ideal
if the water supply for mixing cement was
completely free from contaminants. This is not
always practical, you must consider the most
readily available source of water. Additives in
the drilling fluid can also contaminate cement
slurry and affect its setting properties. Table 3.2
lists some common sources of contaminants and
the effect each has on cement slurry properties.
Halliburton has definitive guidelines for
allowable levels of contaminants in cement mix
water.

Table 3.2 - Mixing Water or Mud Additive

Contaminants
Source of Effect on
Contaminant Type Cement Slurry

Mixing Water Salt Accelerates set

(1% to 8% per
weight of water)

Organic Material Retards set

(decomposed plant
life, waste
Figure 3.3 – Machine Used to Test effluents)
Compressive Strength
Agricultural Accelerates set
Products (farm
fertilizer

Sea Water Accelerates set

Mud Additives Barium sulfate Increases density,

(BaSo4) reduces strength
(Barite)

Caustics Accelerates set

(NaOH,
Na2COH3,etc)

Calcium Accelerates set

compounds
(CaO, Ca(OH)2,
CaCl2, CaSo, 2H20)

Thinners (tannins, Retards set

lignosulfonates,
Figure 3.4 – Testing Compressive Strength quebracho, lignins,
etc.)
of Sample
Fluid-loss control Retards set
additives
(CMC, starch, guar,
polyachrylamides,
lignosulfonates)

3•8 Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit B.
1. An important factor in determining the thickening time and compressive strength of the cement is
the ______________________ or gallons of water required per sack of cement.

2. In order to determine the water requirements for the cement you are using, refer to your
_____________.

3. Difficulty in pumping cement slurry downhole can be the result of ________________________.

4. The required cement thickening time is usually determined under _________________________

conditions.

5. Contaminants which can affect the cement slurry usually come from two sources: mixing water
and ______________________.

6. An important thing to remember when dealing with thickening times in the field is that the
cement starts to build __________________ once you’ve stopped _____________.

7. Generally, a compressive strength of 500 psi is a _____________________________ standard for

most cement operations.

8. The wellbore temperature and the cement type, density, and additives are factors to consider
when determining ____________________________________time.

3•9 Cementing 1

Unit C: Cement Additives
Introduction
Wells are cemented in a variety of temperature
conditions:
• below freezing (permafrost zones in Alaska
and Canada)
• 450° to 500°F (deep gas wells)
• 500° to 1,500°F (geothermal steam wells)
• 1,500° to 2,000°F (fire flood wells)
By using basic cements (API Classes G or H)
and additives, you can tailor cement slurries to
fit any specific well requirement. Most additives
are available as liquids or free-flowing powders.
Liquid additives are added directly to the mixing
water. Powders are usually dry-blended with
cement before they are transported to the well.
When necessary, they can also be dispersed in
the mixing water at the job site.
There are nine categories of cement additives:
• accelerators
• lightweight additives
• heavyweight additives
• retarders
• lost circulation additives
• fluid loss additives
• dispersants
• gas control additives
• specialty materials
Cement Accelerators
Cement accelerators shorten thickening time and
reduce WOC. They also increase early strength.
Accelerators are widely used on surface pipe,
shallow wells, and cement plugs. Additional
3 • 10
API Cements and Additives
information on cement accelerators can be found
in Halliburton’s Cementing Technology Manual.
The common accelerators are
• Calcium Chloride (most widely used)
• Sodium Chloride
• Seawater
• Cal-Seal
• ECONOLITE
• VersaSet
Lightweight Additives
Sometimes, a slurry weight needs to be reduced
to protect formations that have a low fracture
gradient or for economics. To reduce the weight
of cement slurries, you can add water, low
specific-gravity solids, or foam cement.
Bentonite is one of the most commonly used
lightweight additives. You can use it to
formulate these different lightweight cements:
• Blended gel cement (1 to 16%)
• Premixed bentonite (prehydrated)
• Modified cement (Humble patent)
• High gel salt cement (Gulf patent)
Foam cement using nitrogen (N2) produces 4- to
19-lb/gal slurries, which have excellent strength
to density ratio (low permeability).
Heavyweight Additives
The main purpose of heavy weight additives is
to restrain high formation pressures. Heavy
weight additives are used to obtain slurry
densities up to 20 lb/gal. They have a low water
requirement and have a uniform particle size
range from batch to batch. Heavyweight
Cementing 1

additives are chemically inert and compatible
with other additives.
The most common materials used for weighting
cements are
• Hematite (iron ore)
• Barite (more common in drilling fluids)
• Ottawa sand
• Salt
Of the materials listed, hematite is most widely
used, because it most closely fits physical
requirements and achieves the highest effective
specific gravity.
Cement Retarders
Cement retarders slow cement setting time
(hydration) to allow for safe cement placement.
The high temperatures in deep wells will cause
cement to set prematurely. The higher the
temperature, the faster the cement sets.
Retarders usually have a limited effective
temperature range. For example, a particular
retarder may be only effective from 115 to
225°F. The chemicals widely in use as retarders
include those listed below:
• Lignins (sodium lignosulfonate, calcium
lignosulfonate)
• Carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose
(CMHEC)
• Saturated salt water
• Organic acids
• Synthetic polymers
Lost Circulation Additives
“Lost circulation” or “lost returns” refers to
whole fluid loss or cement slurry loss to
formation voids during drilling or completing a
well. You should not confuse it with volume
decrease because of the filtration or volume
needed to fill a new hole.
Circulation can be lost due to
3 • 11
API Cements and Additives
• Low fracture gradient
• Unconsolidate formations
• Fractured formations
• Cavernous formations
Actually, lost circulation control during
cementing involves adding material that will
prevent losses to the cement slurry while you are
placing it. Some of the more commonly used
lost circulation materials include
• Granular (gilsonite, coal, perlite, walnut
hulls, mica)
• Fibrous (nylon, polypropylene)
• Laminated (cellophane)
• Specialized flash setting or gelling materials
Fluid Loss Additives
The purpose of fluid loss additives is to help
prevent water loss from cement slurry. This
allows displacing the maximum amount of mud,
compressive strength development, and bonding
between the formation and the casing.
Fluid loss additives counteract the tendency of
cement slurries to lose the water that the slurries
need to help achieve a good cement job.
Permeable zones can rob the cement slurry of its
water, thus creating a filter cake of cement. The
filter cake increases frictional pressures and
increases the potential for a number of problems.
Fluid loss additives reduce the permeability of
the cement filter cake. They are especially useful
in squeeze cementing.
Fluid loss additives include
• Organic polymers
• Dispersants
Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Cement Dispersants or Friction Gas Control Additives

Reducers
Dispersing agents are added to cement slurries to
improve their flow properties. Since they can be
pumped in turbulent flow at lower pressures,
you can reduce the horsepower required. As a
result, you can also reduce the chances of lost
circulation and premature dehydration.
Additives classified as dispersants include the
following:
• Polymers
• Salt
• Retarders
• Fluid Loss Additives
• Organic acids
Natural (methane) gas migration through unset
cement is a major concern (Fig. 3.8). Cement
slurries are capable of transmitting hydrostatic
pressure, and maintaining overbalance pressure
control, while in the fluid state. However,
cements naturally want to develop gel strength
(gelation) when left static. The time period of
gelation, before cement sets may be several
hours. In this state the unset slurry will not fully
transmit fluid pressure from wellbore fluids.
While in a gel state, and before hardening, the
cement will also lose a small amount of filtrate
to porous zones resulting in a volume reduction.
Since pressure may not be transferred though the
gelled cement, a pressure reduction occurs at the
point(s) where filtrate has leaked off. Gas from
nearby porous zones is then free to percolate
through the unset cement to other zones or the
surface. The path of gas migration is permanent
and exists even after the cement has fully
hardened.
To combat this problem several additives may
be used in the cement slurry. A powdered
additive may be used to minimize the length of
time the cement is in the gel state. Gas, such as
nitrogen, is often used to foam the cement so
that volume reduction, and thus pressure
reduction, is minimized at the point of filtrate
loss.

Figure 3.7 – Dispersants improve the flow

properties

Figure 3.8 – Channel through cement

caused by gas migration.

3 • 12 Cementing 1

Salt as an Additive (Salt
Cement)
Salt is also used in cement slurries to improve
bonding of set cement to salt sections and shales.
It also causes the set cement to expand.
Cement slurries containing salt have been very
effective in protecting hole washing in salt
zones. They also prevent shale sections from
sloughing or heaving during cementing. When
drilling through salt zones (Fig. 3.9) or
troublesome shales (Fig. 3.10) with fresh water
mud systems, severe hole enlargements may
occur.
Figure 3.9 - Hole washing in a salt zone.
3 • 13
API Cements and Additives
Figure 3.10 - Hole washout due to sloughing
of water sensitive shales.
Cementing with fresh water cement slurries can
cause similar hole enlargements. You can
prevent annular bridging and the resulting lost
circulation by using cement slurries containing
salt.
Shales that are sensitive to cement filtrate can
actually be softened by it before the cement sets.
If softened enough, the shale will flow. This
creates channels behind the cement sheath from
one perforated zone to another.
Blending dry granulated salt with cement at the
bulk plant makes salt-saturated cement much
easier to use. It allows you to eliminate waste,
and save time and labor; it can also reduce the
possibility of foaming.
While sodium chloride is the salt generally used
with cement, potassium chloride is used also. In
some cases, potassium chloride may be effective
at lower concentrations; it does not significantly
affect cement slurries any differently than
sodium chloride, except at higher
concentrations.
Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Unit C Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit C.
1. Most additives are available as _______________ or ________________________________.

2. Cement accelerators shorten __________________________ and reduce WOC.

3. _________________ is one of the most commonly used lightweight additives.

4. The main purpose of heavy weight additives is to restrain _________________________________.

5. The ________________________________ in deep wells will cause cement to set prematurely.

6. “Lost circulation” or “lost returns” refers to ______________________ loss or

_______________________loss to formation voids during drilling or completing a well.

7. __________________________________ counteract the tendency of cement slurries to lose the

water that the slurries need to help achieve a good cement job.

8. Because cements with dispersers added can be pumped in turbulent flow at lower pressures, you can
reduce the __________________ required.

9. The path of gas migration is __________________ and exists even after the cement has fully
hardened.

10. _________________________ can help prevent shale sections from sloughing or heaving during
cementing.

3 • 14 Cementing 1
 API Cements and Additives

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. A, B, C, G, H 3-3
2. G, H 3-3
3. higher 3-4
4. primary cementing 3-4
5. clinker, gypsum 3-4
6. proportions 3-4
7. fineness of grind 3-4

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. water ratio 3-6
2. Red Book 3-6
3. too little water 3-6
4. actual well 3-7
5. drilling fluid (or mud additives) 3-8
6. gel strength, pumping 3-7
7. rule of thumb (or generally 3-7
accepted rule)
8. WOC 3-8

Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to

Page
1. liquids, free-flowing powders. 3-10
2. thickening time 3-10
3. Bentonite 3-10
4. high formation pressures 3-10
5. high temperatures 3-11
6. whole fluid , cement slurry 3-11
7. Fluid loss additives 3-11
8. horsepower 3-12
9. permanent 3-12
10. Salt cements 3-13

3 • 15 Cementing 1
Section 4

Primary Cementing

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................4-3
Topic Areas ............................................................................................................................................4-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................4-3
Unit A: Primary Cementing Background...................................................................................................4-3
Preparations for Primary Cementing ......................................................................................................4-5
Pre-Job Checklist....................................................................................................................................4-5
Unit A Quiz ............................................................................................................................................4-6
Unit B: Types of Casing Cementing Jobs..................................................................................................4-7
Conductor Casing ...................................................................................................................................4-7
Surface Casing........................................................................................................................................4-7
Intermediate Casing................................................................................................................................4-8
Production Casing ..................................................................................................................................4-9
Innerstring Cementing..........................................................................................................................4-10
Unit B Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................4-12
Unit C: Preventing Cementing Failures ...................................................................................................4-13
Causes of Primary Cementing Failures ................................................................................................4-14
Effects of Drilling Fluids and Contaminants on Cements....................................................................4-14
Flow Properties ....................................................................................................................................4-15
Conditioning the Drilling Fluid............................................................................................................4-16
Pipe Movement ....................................................................................................................................4-16
Pipe Centralization ...............................................................................................................................4-17
Eccentric Flow and Density Difference ...............................................................................................4-17
High Displacement Rates .....................................................................................................................4-18
Spacers and/or Flushes .........................................................................................................................4-18
Unit C Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................4-19
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................4-20

4•1 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing

Use for Section Notes…

4•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
Primary cementing is the cementing operation
performed immediately after the casing has been
run downhole. This is accomplished by pumping
cement slurry down the entire length of casing,
out the bottom joint, and up into the annular
space. The cement is then allowed to set before
drilling is resumed or the well is completed.
The materials, tools, equipment, and techniques
to be used vary depending on the hole
conditions, depth of the well, and the people
planning the job. Successful primary cementing
presents a constant challenge and requires up-to-
date knowledge and technology.
As part of a cementing team, you must know
and understand purpose and methods for
primary cementing, and how to ensure that the
job is done correctly.
Unit A: Primary Cementing Background
The primary cementing process bonds the pipe
to the wall of the hole and prevents
communication of fluids in the well bore from
one zone to another. This is critical in the upper
part of the well where freshwater zones may be
encountered. The three main functions of the
cement are isolation, protection, and support.
• Primary cementing isolates zones so that the
migration of fluids cannot occur. For
example, it prevents:
- oil, gas, and salt water from migrating to
and causing contamination of freshwater
zones.
- salt water from migrating into gas and
oil zones and causing production
problems as well as pollution.
4•3
Primary Cementing
Topic Areas
The units in this section are:
A. Primary Cementing Background
B. Types of Casing Cementing Jobs
C. Preventing Cementing Failures
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with:
• The purpose of primary cementing
• The main types of casing which are
cemented
• How to help prevent cementing failures by
using best practices
• Primary cementing provides a sealant and
protects the casing against
- formation fluids or gas, which could
cause casing corrosion
- external pressure, which could collapse
the casing or result in a blowout.
- hole cave-in while deeper drilling is
being done.
• Primary cementing supports the casing and
guards the casing string against:
- the excessive weight of other strings.
- the possibility that the bottom joints
might unscrew.
Primary cementing uses several basic
techniques. The most typical procedure is the
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing

single-stage primary cementing job using the three-, and four-stage cementing procedures
two-plug displacement method (Fig. 4.1). decrease the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid
column in the annulus, help protect weak zones
The single-stage primary cementing procedure
against excessive high pressure, and help
pumps cement down the casing between two
prevent circulation loss. In addition to offering
rubber plugs. The plugs are equipped with
economic advantages, cement may or may not
wiping fins to help prevent contamination of the
be circulated up the entire string to surface.
cement by mud and to help clean the interior of
Multiple-stage primary cementing is also
the pipe.
important for use in wells where two or more
Other commonly used techniques depend upon zones are separated by long intervals.
well depth and completion requirements. Two-,

Figure 4.1 – Single-stage primary cementing job using the two-plug displacement method.

4•4 Cementing 1

Preparations for Primary
Cementing
Before any primary cementing job can proceed,
many steps need to be taken: seismographic
analysis, legal procedures, land surveys, and the
selection and preparation of the specific well
site. One of the last things that needs to be done
to prepare a land location is the digging of the
cellar. This is a hole (about 8 ft square), the
depth of which ranges from 1 to 6 ft. For
offshore locations (platform or jack up), the
cellar deck is below the rig floor. The rig will be
placed over the cellar or cellar deck. It provides
height for blowout preventers (a BOP prevents
the escape of pressure from the annulus or an
open hole) and flow lines below the rotary table.
Pre-Job Checklist
Questions to answer before leaving for
location:
• Does the bulk cement ticket agree with the
order from the well operator?
• What is the approximate time needed to mix
and displace cement? (Does this agree with
pumping time of cement?)
• Has preparation been made to weigh cement
properly while mixing?
• What is the size and type of thread on the
connections?
• What type of floating equipment is being used?
(Is a ball or other dropping device used with
this equipment?)
• Has the Pre-Trip Inspection been performed on
the equipment?
• Has the Lab report been finalized on the
cement and additives?
• What type of recording equipment is to be
used?
4•5
Primary Cementing
The power, hoisting, rotating, and circulating
systems are installed, and drilling begins. Then it
is time for the cementing service company crew
to do its work. In a later section, calculations
will be performed that are necessary for a
primary cement job. However, when you arrive
on location, you need to know several items of
information to be able to effectively complete
the job. The Pre-Job Checklist below was
developed to help you obtain this information.
The Pre-job Checklist should serve as a general
guideline to help you prepare for most primary
cementing jobs. Other questions, specific to the
individual type of job being performed need to
be asked accordingly.
Questions to answer while on location:
• Have pumping equipment and bulk cement
equipment been checked and are they ready to
mix cement?
• Has maximum pressure been agreed upon?
• Has it been determined if the rig pump or the
service unit is to pump the plug down?
• Has preparation been made to flush the lines
after releasing the plug if the customer so
desires?
• Has preparation been made to leave the
service truck tied into casing while rig pump is
displacing cement in order to record pressure
on casing job if the well operator so desires?
• What size and weight casing is being used?
• What is the size of the hole?
• Is there enough water to mix cement? Is the
rate of water supply adequate?
• Has the volume of displacement fluid been
checked to see if there is adequate supply on
location?
• Is everyone on location aware of all the safety
concerns?
• Has preparation been made to drop the plugs
on the fly?
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing

Unit A Quiz
Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit A.
1. Primary cementing _____________ zones so that migration of fluids cannot occur. It prevents
pollution and contamination of ________________________.

2. In addition, primary cementing protects the casing against ____________ and ______________, and
the hole against _____________ while deeper drilling is being done.

3. Before drilling, a hole is dug on site which will house BOPs as well as other items. The rig will be
placed over this hole, which is called a ____________.

4•6 Cementing 1

Unit B: Types of Casing Cementing Jobs
In primary cementing, four basic strings of
casing may be used depending on well depths,
downhole formations, pressures, temperature,
freshwater zones and fluid to be recovered (oil,
gas, or steam). This section explains the
cementing of the four basic types of casing.
• Conductor
• Surface
• Intermediate
• Production
These casings were discussed in Section 2 of
this workbook.
Conductor Casing
If conductor casing is used, it is first string set in
a well (Fig. 4.2). The setting depth of the
conductor casing can vary from 10 ft to more
than 300 ft. The depth of conductor casing
depends on how deep you must go to reach solid
material. The size of conductor pipe ranges from
16 in. to 36 in. OD, depending upon how many
other strings run through it.
Conductor
Casing
Reservoir
Figure 4.2 – Conductor Casing
4•7
Primary Cementing
In soft formations, the conductor casing may
simply be pounded into the ground. Otherwise, a
hole is drilled for it. Only conductor casing that
is run in drilled holes is cemented. The cement
used for conductors is usually accelerated to
reduce WOC (Wait on Cement) time. It also
may include lost circulation additives to prevent
loss of cement to the formation.
This pipe may be cemented in the conventional
manner or it may be cemented in stages. Care
must be taken to ensure that the pipe does not
collapse during cementing. If a hole has been
drilled for the conductor, mud may have been
used. Therefore, a spacer should be run for good
mud removal, and a top plug should be run to
help prevent channeling when the conventional
cementing method is used.
To reduce the amount of cement that is inside
the casing at any point during the job,
innerstring cementing may be used on the
conductor casing. In this technique, tubing or
drill pipe (small enough to fit inside the casing)
is run to a specially-designed innerstring guide
shoe or float collar. The tubular goods are
stabbed into the collar or shoe, and cement is
pumped. If the hole size has been estimated for
the job and cement slurry is designed to be lifted
to surface, some of the excess cement may be
eliminated and returned in dry bulk form due to
having a minimal amount within the
tubing/drillpipe at any one time. Typically, a
latch-down plug is run inside the workstring
after the cement to seal off in the collar or shoe.
Surface Casing
Surface casing is usually the second string set in
the well (Fig. 4.3). However, it may be the first
if conductor casing is not used. Surface casing
depth requirements vary from near ground level
to several thousand feet, depending upon how
deep you must go to cover all fresh water zones.
Cementing 1

Surface pipe size ranges from 7 5/8-in. to 20-in.
OD. Again, the size depends upon how much
additional casing will be run below the surface
casing. As the depth increases, so does the
temperature, pressure, and the amount of
corrosive fluids. Thus, different grades of pipe
are necessary to withstand different well
conditions. The hole is drilled to the depth
desired for the surface casing.
Conductor
Casing
Cement
Surface
Casing
Reservoir
Figure 4.3 – Surface Casing
Before cementing, the well should be circulated
to break up the gel strength of the mud. Also, a
spacer should be run for good mud removal.
Cement for surface casing will usually be an
accelerated type. Other additives are used to
combat lost circulation, if necessary.
Normally, a simple combination of a casing
guide shoe, float collar (or insert float valve),
and centralizers is used. It is important to ensure
that the bottom section of the surface casing is
well centralized. Downhole equipment discussed
in Section 10 may be used when running surface
casing.
On a conventional job, both a top and a bottom
plug should be run, unless you are using a lost
circulation additive in the cement. An important
point to keep in mind is that the pressure to land
the plug, when released, must not be enough to
collapse the casing. When innerstring cementing
techniques are used, the possibility of collapsing
4•8
Primary Cementing
the casing is reduced by adding weighted fluid
between the drill pipe and the casing.
If lost circulation is a problem, the cement may
be pumped down the annulus through a 1 in.
pipe to bring cement to the surface. If casing
collapse or formation breakdown may be a
problem, the cement may be pumped in stages,
using a multiple stage tool.
Usually a filler or lead cement (a less expensive
cement, such as Class H cement with Bentonite)
is run to fill the annulus back to ground level.
Higher strength cement (called the tail cement)
is then pumped to set around the bottom of the
surface casing. Before drilling out, the cement
should have a compressive strength of at least
500 psi.
The bottom joints of surface casing (or any
casing string that will have drilling operations
conducted below it) are subject to being
unscrewed by drill pipe rotation. As drill pipe is
rotated clockwise inside the surface casing, any
drag transferred to the casing results in a
counter-clockwise force being exerted above the
point of drag. Should the force be adequate to
unscrew a casing joint, the problem must be
fixed or the well abandoned. For this reason, the
bottom joints of casing must be well centralized
in the hole, with a competent cement in place to
hold it securely in a fixed position. Often,
special thread compounds are used to chemically
"weld" the box and pin connections together.
Intermediate Casing
Intermediate casing is set after the surface casing
(Fig. 4.4). A string may extend from ground
level to as far as 25,000 ft. The size and type of
intermediate casing is again dependent on the
number of other strings to be run below it, and
the grade required to withstand the conditions in
the well. Sizes range from 6 5/8 in. to 20 in.,
with the most common sizes being: 9 5/8-in., 10
3/4-in. and 13 3/8-in. casing. The hole is drilled
to the depth desired for the intermediate casing.
Cementing 1

Conductor
Casing
Cement
Surface
Casing
Intermediate
Casing
Cement
Reservoir
Figure 4.4 – Intermediate Casing
As in most casing jobs, it is very important to
break up the gel strength of the mud and run a
spacer to clean the mud before cementing is
begun. Since prolonged drilling is done through
the intermediate string, damage to this casing is
fairly common. Centralizers and scratchers are
used on the intermediate casing string to help
ensure uniform cement bonding. In addition,
cement baskets may be used to help protect
weak formations.
The first cement pumped (lead slurry) for
intermediate casing is a filler type. It is followed
by a higher density tail cement. Unlike cement
used in surface or conductor jobs, it usually
contains retarders to allow good pump time in
high temperatures. It may also contain friction-
reducing, lost-circulation, or fluid-loss additives.
If the casing is being run through salt or shale
zones, a salt additive will be needed. In short,
several blends of slurries may be needed because
of the characteristics of the formations
encountered.
The innerstring cementing method is sometimes
used for intermediate casing. However, if the
pipe size is small, the conventional two-plug
method may be used. (Remember to use the
bottom plug unless lost circulation materials are
being run.) If the casing is run to a great depth,
or if formation breakdown is a problem, the
4•9
Primary Cementing
cementing job may be performed in multiple
stages.
Production Casing
The production casing (Figure 4.5) is the last full
string of pipe set in the well. Sometimes liners
are used instead of production casing. The
production string extends from the surface to the
deepest producing formation. It must be small
enough to fit through all the previous casings.
The most common sizes are 4 1/2 in., 5 1/2 in.,
and 7 in. casing. It will be cemented, then
perforated in the producing zone. Therefore, a
good cement job here affects the success of the
well more than in any other part.
Conductor
Casing
Cement
Surface
Casing
Intermediate
Casing
Cement
Production
Casing
Reservoir
Casing Shoe
Cement
Figure 4.5 – Production Casing
As stated before, it is very important to have a
good cement job here. The hole is drilled to the
lowest producing formation. Then it is circulated
and a spacer is run. Depending on the well
conditions, all types of equipment may be used
(centralizers, packer shoes or collars, multiple
stage tools, etc.) to help ensure the job’s success.
The proper blend of cement depends upon the
hole conditions. Testing of the cement is
particularly essential for a production casing
cementing job. When cementing, the slurry
should be at the highest possible rate while
Cementing 1

rotating or reciprocating the pipe. After the job,
but before the cement sets, the pressure should
be released to ensure that the float valve is
holding. Also, holding pressure until the cement
sets could cause a microannulus behind the
casing.
Innerstring Cementing
Halliburton's inner string cementing equipment
allows cementing large diameter strings through
drillpipe or tubing that is inserted and sealed in
floating equipment. This method is some- times
less costly than cementing large casing using the
conventional plug displacement method. Other
advantages include:
• Large diameter cementing plugs are not
required
• By pumping through the smaller inner
string, you can reduce cement contamination
resulting from channeling inside casing
• Cement is discharged outside the casing
much faster after mixing, reducing the risk
of the cement slurry within the casing
having a highly accelerated setting time
• Reduces amount of cement that has to be
drilled out of large diameter casing
• Less circulating time required with inner
string cementing
There are three basic methods available for
performing inner string cementing. Each relies
on Halliburton's proven line of Super Seal™ II
floating equipment. Methods include (1) Super
Seal II float collar with sealing sleeve (Fig. 4.6),
(2) Super Seal II float collar with sealing sleeve
and latch-down seat, and (3) standard Super Seal
II float collar. Super Seal II equipment offers
these benefits:
• Reduces cement waste
• Reduces casing collapse
• Reduces cement drill-out time
• Eliminates large diameter cement plugs
• Drillpipe latch-down plugs available
4 • 10
Primary Cementing
Figure 4.6 – Super Seal™ II Float Collar
with Sealing Sleeve
Innerstring cementing requires that a stab-in
float shoe or float collar be installed in the
casing string. The casing string is run into the
well in the usual manner. The inner string is then
run in, with the sealing adapter made up on the
lower end and stabbed into the floating-
equipment sealing sleeve.
The sealing sleeve is built into the floating
equipment to provide a sealing-surface
receptacle for the innerstring sealing adapter.
Concrete is molded around the sealing sleeve to
secure the sleeve within the floating equipment.
The floating-equipment top is also tapered to
form a surface that helps guide the sealing-
sleeve adapter into its sealing sleeve. Two
centralizers should be run on the inner string:
one centralizer is directly above the sealing
adapter, and another one or two joints above the
first centralizer. This arrangement will help the
inner string enter the stab-in floating equipment.
After the inner string (usually drillpipe) has been
stabbed into the floating equipment, cement is
pumped through the inner string and floating
equipment into the casing/wellbore annulus.
After cementing has been completed, the check
valve in the floating equipment prevents cement
from re-entering the casing, and the sealing
adapter and inner string can be pulled from the
casing.
Floating equipment with a latch-down plug seat
is also available. This floating equipment is built
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing

with a combination sealing sleeve and latch-

down plug seat. The combination sleeve, which
is held in place by concrete, provides (1) a
sealing surface for the inner-string sealing
adapter on the top and (2) a bore configuration
to latch and seal the nose of a latch-down plug
on bottom.
After the last cement is displaced down the inner
string, a top latch-down cement plug is launched
down the inner string. The nose of the latch-
down plug seats and latches into the float
equipment sleeve immediately after passing
through the innerstring sealing sleeve. After
latching in, the plug nose should seal and
withstand pressure from above and below.
After the innerstring is retrieved, the latch-down
plug serves as a backup to any backpressure
valves located in the casing string below.
Pressure can be applied inside the casing
immediately after the latch-down plug has been Figure 4.7 – Innerstring cementing method,
landed and the sealing-sleeve adapter has been used for large-diameter casing.
pulled from the sealing sleeve.

4 • 11 Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

Unit B Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit B.
1. Cement for conductor and surface casing usually contains additives to _______________ the setting
time and to reduce _________ time.

4. A cementing technique known as __________________ is sometimes used for large diameter casing
to reduce the amount of wasted cement. Tubular goods are stabbed into a specially-designed
________________________. Cement is then pumped through this smaller string and a
____________________ plug is run.

5. The depth of surface casing depends on how far you must go to cover all ______________ zones.

6. Following the spacer, _____________ cement is run. This is followed by a _________ cement which
is usually more expensive and more dense.

7. Cement with _______________ is used as the tail cement with intermediate strings.

8. The last full string of pipe run in the hole is ________________ casing.

9. The hole for production casing is drilled to the ___________________________________________.

10. The cementing job performed for the _______________ casing is probably the most important for the
well’s success. The pipe should be_________ during cementing.

4 • 12 Cementing 1

Unit C: Preventing Cementing Failures
Many cementing failures have been caused by
inefficient drilling fluid displacement, resulting
in drilling fluid channels in the cement column.
Since 1971, HES has used a large-scale test
model, equipment, and materials that simulate
actual cementing conditions to study the factors
that affect cementing efficiency. Findings from
these cementing studies, combined with the
knowledge acquired from more than 75 years of
cementing experience, have led to procedures
and theories for effectively cementing wells.
These uncemented drilling fluid channels
provided a permeable conduit for well fluids to
migrate, causing lost production and/or corroded
casing. Since then, the industry has investigated
many variables under various simulated
cementing conditions. The general testing
procedures and the equipment used to perform
these tests have been modified and updated
throughout the years, enabling the simulation of
both typical and specialized cementing
conditions.
Figure 4.8 – Test samples showing cement displacement efficiencies: Sample 2 is 97% efficient
and Sample 4 is only 64% efficient (notice the mud between the cement and the outer casing).
4 • 13
Mud Removal
Displacement research has examined various
formations, irregularities in the wellbore (such
as washouts), and controllable factors (such as
the condition of the drilling fluid, pipe
movement, pipe centralization, flow rate, and the
use of spacers/flushes). Each of these affect
displacement efficiency (the percentage of mud
removed ahead of a cement slurry). This section
summarizes 25 years of study on the factors that
affect displacement efficiency for the majority
of jobs performed:
• Causes of primary cementing failures
• Possible flow patterns that mud, cement, and
spacers may obtain in the annulus during a
primary job.
• Importance of mud conditioning and flow
rates.
• Importance of pipe centralization and
movement.
• Importance of cement-mud spacers.
Cementing 1

Causes of Primary Cementing
Failures
You need to know what can go wrong when you
are involved in a cementing job. Many factors
can contribute to a poor job; some will be
discussed briefly here.
• Incomplete mixing of the slurry. This can be
caused by:
- mechanical failure
- failure of the bulk system
- incorrect water or pressure.
• Cement setting too quickly or too slowly.
This can be caused by:
- contaminated mixing water
- too much or too little mixing water
- incorrect down-hole temperature
estimate
- plugged shoe or collar
- inadequate pumping rate
- mechanical failure.
• Channeling of the slurry (less than total
cement coverage around the outside of the
pipe over the target interval). This can be
caused by:
- failure to centralize pipe
- failure to move pipe
- failure to circulate mud system and run
a mud/cement spacer.
Effects of Drilling Fluids and
Contaminants on Cements
Cement slurries and drilling fluids (drilling mud)
are almost always incompatible. The primary
incompatibility problem is when a mixture of the
two is thicker than either of the separate fluids.
This increased thickness (or viscosity) increases
4 • 14
Mud Removal
the difficulty of displacing drilling mud ahead of
the cement slurry, in the annulus, while
pumping. Most often, uncontaminated cement
slurry fingers through the contaminated mixture
resulting in a channel and limited coverage of
the pipe exterior with competent cement. Severe
incompatibility may result in early job
termination due to being unable to move an
extremely viscous mass of mud/cement mixture.
Mud and cement intermixing also adversely
affect slurry thickening time (designed time
from mixing to becoming unpumpable) and
cement compressive strength. Muds tend to
drastically extent the cement pump time and
prevent the cement mixture from gaining
minimum required compressive strength.
Normally a remedial or “squeeze” job is
required to correct the poor results of the
primary job. Delays in operations, cost of
additional cement jobs, and decreased
probability of isolating critical zones may
drastically drive well costs up or even force well
abandonment.
Halliburton has numerous mud/cement spacers
that are designed to prevent mud from
contaminating cement. When incorporated with
other best practices, these products help ensure a
successful primary cement job.
Intermixing of mud and cement inside the casing
is eliminated by using special wiper plugs at
critical times during the job. These were
discussed earlier in this section.
Contaminants include fertilizers, decomposed
animal life, agricultural products, soil chemicals,
and waste effluents.
The effects of different mud additives on cement
are shown in Table 4.1.
Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

Table 4.1 – Mud Additives and Their Effect on Cement

Additives Purposes Cement Effects
Barium Sulfate (BaSO4) Weighting agent Density increase
strength reduction
Caustics (NaOH, Na2CO3, etc.) pH adjustment Acceleration

Calcium compounds CaO, Ca(OH)2, CaCl2, Conditioning and pH control Acceleration

CaSO4, 2H2O)
Hydrocarbons (diesel oil, lease crude oil) Control fluid loss, lubrication Density decrease

Sealants (scrap, cellulose, rubber, etc.) Seal against leakage to formation Retardation

Thinners (tannins, lignosulfonates, quebracho, Disperse mud solids Retardation

lignins, etc.)
Emulsifiers (lignosulfonates, alkyl ethylene Forming oil-in-water or water-in-oil muds Retardation
oxide adducts, hydrocarbons sulfonates)
Bactericides (substituted phenols, Protect organic additives against Retardation
formaldehyde, etc.) bacterial decomposition
Fluid-loss control additives (C.M.C., starch, guar Reduce fluid loss from mud to formation Retardation
polyacrylamides, lignosulfonate

Flow Properties Laminar Flow - fluid velocity is higher creating

Mud removal in the annulus is a function of the
flow patterns that are achieved. Three types of
flow patterns are:
Plug Flow - mud removal is minimal due to low
frictional or drag forces exerted on the mud
layer. This flowrate can remove only about 60%
of the mud from the pipe.
more friction. This results in more force being
exerted on the mud layer by frictional drag,
resulting in improved mud removal. This
flowrate can remove as much as 90% of the mud
from the pipe.
Turbulent Flow - A maximum mud removal
capability is reached due to high frictional or
drag forces. Eddies and current in the fluid
result in a mud removal percentage as high as
95%.

Plug Flow Laminar Flow Turbulent Flow

Figure 4.9 – Plug flows.

4 • 15 Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

Conditioning the Drilling Fluid influence, the results presented in Figure 4.5
show a significant decrease in displacement
efficiency after only 5 minutes of down time.
A well-conditioned drilling fluid is the most
significant factor affecting drilling fluid
displacement. Studies in test wells that simulate
Affect of Static Time
realistic permeability reveal the importance of
additives to control fluid leak-off, from the mud, 100
in order to prevent excessive filter-cake buildup.
90

Displacement Efficiency (%)

In tests simulating vertical wellbore cementing 80
conditions, immobile drilling fluid filter cake 70
could not be displaced completely by the cement 60
slurry, even under turbulent flow conditions.
50
Low viscosity spacers/flushes placed ahead of
40
the cement slurry and pipe movement coupled
with mechanical scratchers/wall cleaners can 30
help remove gelled drilling fluid or filter cake. 20
However, there is no substitute for maintaining 10
drilling fluid properties that enhance the 0

2 Hours

4 Hours
0 Minutes

5 Minutes
mobility of the drilling fluid, enabling
displacement by the cement slurry.

Figure 4.11 – Static Time

Low
Mobile
Mobility
Mud
Mud

A well engineered cement job design will

include laboratory testing of the mud to measure
its viscosity (rheological properties) under
Filtrate Cement down-hole conditions. Additives or base fluid
(water or synthetic oil) can be added prior to
FILTRATE
Filter cementing to improve the mud's tendency to
Cake
Formation Casing flow ahead of the cement slurry.

Figure 4.10 – Conditioned drilling fluid is

easier to remove. Pipe Movement

Second to drilling fluid conditioning in

Another way to improve drilling fluid mobility
(to enhance its displacement capability) is
through prejob circulation to thoroughly fluidize
the drilling fluid before cementing. To further
improve its mobility, the viscosity of the drilling
fluid should be reduced, if possible, during the
prejob circulation period. Proper hole
conditioning is critical to successful cementing
operations.
It is also important to limit the amount of static
time before and during the cement job. From the
tests conducted to determine static time
importance is the need to employ pipe
movement, either rotation or reciprocation, both
during and before cementing. Pipe movement
helps break up gelled pockets of drilling fluid
and the loose cuttings that may accumulate
within the pockets. Pipe movement also can help
offset the negative effects from poorly
centralized pipe. Mechanical scratchers attached
to the casing further enhance the beneficial
effects of pipe movement.
If casing is properly centralized, pipe movement
can be accomplished even in horizontal wells. In

4 • 16 Cementing 1

addition, if the drilling fluid system is not
carrying solids, pipe movement can help
eliminate a solids-settled channel.
Figure 4.12 – Pipe movement.
Pipe Centralization
According to test results, pipe centralization is
another important factor in obtaining high
displacement efficiency. In test sections where
the pipe was not central in the hole, the cement
displayed a strong tendency to bypass drilling
fluid. Centralizers improve pipe standoff,
thereby equalizing the distribution of forces
exerted by the cement slurry as it flows up the
annulus. Otherwise, cement tends to follow the
path of least resistance—the wide side of the
annulus.
Formation
Mud
C and cements should follow the low to high-
Casing
Cement
Figure 4.13 - Cement tends to follow the
wide side of the annulus.
4 • 17
Mud Removal
Figure 4.14 – Pipe centralization.
Eccentric Flow and Density
Difference
When designing fluids for a specific flow
regime, it is assumed that the flow is in a
perfectly centered annulus. In reality, this is not
true. In an eccentric annulus, the fluid has a
tendency to take the path of least resistance; the
fluid will tend to flow through the wider section
of the annulus more readily.
Under these conditions, the flow regime in the
wider section can be different than the flow
regime in the narrower section. For example, the
flow may be turbulent in the wide section and be
laminar, or even plugged, in the narrow section.
Under these conditions, a large density
difference between cement and drilling fluid can
improve displacement efficiency. Under all
other conditions, it is the velocity of fluids that
will primarily determine the displacement
efficiency.
As a general rule of thumb, the design of spacers
density approach. That is, the spacer should be
heavier than the drilling fluid and the cement
heavier than the spacer.
Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

High Displacement Rates Spacers may be water or oil based. Current oil
based spacers often use synthetic oils to avoid
the environmental concerns of hydrocarbon
The greatest displacement efficiencies observed
based oil, such as diesel. Water based spacers
in tests conducted at a scale-model test facility
tend to leave steel in a water wet condition
consistently occur at the highest displacement
which aids with cement bonding.
rates, regardless of the flow regime of the
cement slurry. The highest displacement Non-weighted spacers are often referred to as
efficiency occurred under turbulent flow flushes. Water is a common flush. These are
conditions; however, if turbulent flow could not most effective and economical on low density
be achieved, displacement was consistently muds that are near the density of the flush. They
better at the highest rates attained under like are the easiest to put into turbulent flow. Often,
conditions for similar slurry compositions. additives are used which thin drilling mud or
chemically attack mud filter cake.
With other factors being equal, thin cement
slurry placed under turbulent flow conditions
exhibited higher drilling fluid displacement
efficiency than a thicker slurry placed at low
rates. Frequently, turbulent flow is not a viable
option, such as when hole and formation
conditions create frictional pressures exceeding
the fracturing gradient of the formation. Test and
field data clearly indicate that even when
turbulence is not possible, pump rates should be
maximized.

Spacers and/or Flushes

One of the key factors in obtaining an effective

primary cementing job is to minimize the
contamination of the cement slurry with the
drilling fluid. The drilling fluid must be
completely displaced from the annulus so that a
competent cement sheath can form and produce
an effective hydraulic seal.
The inadequate removal of annular fluids may
result in poor cement bonds to the pipe and
formation, intrazone communication, pipe
corrosion, and pipe collapse. In High-
Pressure/High-Temperature (HPHT) wells, these
factors become even more critical. The correct
spacer system can help the operator/service
company achieve a quality cement job.
Figure 4.15 – Use of spacers.
For densified muds, spacers must be designed
with weighting materials resulting in the spacer
being equal to, or greater, than the mud in
density. A lighter density spacer will result in
poor mud displacement efficiency. The viscosity
of weighted spacers may be modified to further
enhance mud displacement. Halliburton
maintains design software that aids with
weighted spacer design.

4 • 18 Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

Unit C Quiz

Fill in the blanks with one or more words to check your progress in Unit C.
1. A plugged shoe or collar, contaminated mixing water, or an inadequate pumping rate might cause the
___________ to _________________________.

2. _____________ can be caused by lack of pipe centralization and movement.

3. Drilling fluid and cement are often _______________ and intermixing of the two may cause a
primary cementing job _________________.

4. ___________________________ properties allow for maximum removal of drilling mud due to high
frictional drag forces.

5. A _________________________ drilling fluid is critical for successful mud removal.

6. Pipe movement can offset the ________________ effects of poorly _________________ casing
during a primary cement job.

7. If casing is not perfectly centered, cement will tend to flow up the _________ side of the annulus.

8. Even if turbulent flow cannot be obtained, the highest possible __________________ should be used
for _____________ mud removal.

9. ____________ or _____________ help minimize contamination between a cement slurry and

drilling ___________.

4 • 19 Cementing 1
 Mud Removal

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. isolates, freshwater zones 4-3
2. formation fluids, gas, cave-in 4-3
3. cellar 4-4

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. accelerate, WOC 4-7
2. innerstring cementing, guide 4-7
shoe or float collar, latch-down
3. freshwater 4-7
4. lead, tail 4-8
5. retarder 4-9
6. production 4-9
7. lowest producing formation 4-9
8. production, rotated 4-9
9. float shoe, float collar 4-10
10. latch-down 4-11

Items from Unit C Quiz Refer to

Page
1. set too quickly 4-14
2. cement, channeling 4-14
3. incompatible, failure (or 4-14
termination)
4. Turbulent flow 4-15
5. well conditioned 4-16
6. negative, centralized 4-16
7. wide 4-16
8. flow rate, maximum 4-18
9. Spacers, flushes, fluid (mud) 4-18

4 • 20 Cementing 1
Section 5

Primary Cementing Calculations

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................................5-3
Topic Area..............................................................................................................................................5-3
Learning Objectives ...............................................................................................................................5-3
Unit A: Capacity Calculations ...................................................................................................................5-3
Fill-Up Calculations ...............................................................................................................................5-4
Displacement..........................................................................................................................................5-4
Bull-Plugged Pipe ..................................................................................................................................5-5
Open-Ended Pipe....................................................................................................................................5-5
Unit A Test:............................................................................................................................................5-7
Unit B: Annular Volume Calculations.......................................................................................................5-8
Unit B Test ...........................................................................................................................................5-11
Unit C: Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations ....................................................................................5-12
Density .................................................................................................................................................5-12
Specific Gravity....................................................................................................................................5-13
API Gravity ..........................................................................................................................................5-13
Absolute Density vs. Bulk Density ......................................................................................................5-13
Absolute Volume..................................................................................................................................5-13
Unit C Quiz: .........................................................................................................................................5-17
Unit D: Primary Cementing Calculations Example .................................................................................5-18
Given Information for Primary Cementing Calculations .....................................................................5-20
1 Calculations for Pressure Required to Lift Pipe...............................................................................5-20
2 Calculations for Amount of Cement ................................................................................................5-22
3 Sacks of Cement ..............................................................................................................................5-25
4 Calculations for Amount of Mixing Water ......................................................................................5-25
5 Calculations for Amount of Fluid to Displace Top Plug .................................................................5-26
6 Calculations for Pressure to Land the Plug ......................................................................................5-27
7 Calculations for Resulting Force......................................................................................................5-28
Intermediate Casing Job One ...............................................................................................................5-33
Unit D Quiz ..........................................................................................................................................5-36
Answers to Unit Quizzes .........................................................................................................................5-37

5•1 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Use for Section Notes…

5•2 Cementing 1

Introduction
Primary cementing is the cementing operation
performed immediately after the casing has been
run downhole. The materials, tools, equipment,
and techniques to be used vary depending on the
hole conditions, depth of the well, and the
people planning the job. Successful primary
cementing presents a constant challenge and
requires up-to-date knowledge and technology.
Topic Area
The units in this section are:
A. Capacity Calculations
B. Annular Volume Calculations
Unit A: Capacity Calculations
Capacity is a term frequently used
interchangeably with volume. As used in the
oilfield, it is the volume that a certain length of
pipe will hold. Knowing the shape of the pipe is
round, the volume can be calculated by hand.
In this unit, we will discuss fill-up and
displacement calculations.
Capacity calculations are one of the many types
of mathematical problems that can be greatly
simplified by using the Halliburton Cementing
Tables (Red Book). Section 210 lists capacity
factors for various sizes of drill pipe, tubing and
casing. Currently, these are listed in terms of
gallons per foot, barrels per foot, and cubic feet
per foot. See Figure 5.1 for a sample of a
capacity table for drill pipe.
To use the Capacity tables, locate the correct
table for the type of pipe you’re dealing with:
drill pipe, tubing, or casing. Next, locate the size
and weight of pipe in the two left columns.
(Note: For tubing, there are four columns.) Then
5•3
Primary Cementing Calculations
C. Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations
D. Primary Cementing Calculations Example
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this section, you should be
familiar with:
• How to calculate the amount of cement for a
Primary job.
• How to calculate the mixing water required
for the cement.
• How to calculate the pressure required to
land the top plug
find the volume units you want across the top.
Read the capacity factor where the columns
intersect.
Sample Problem
What is the capacity, in gallons, of 1000 ft of 2-
7/8 in., 10.4 lb/ft internal upset drill pipe? Use
the sample of Section 210 shown in Figure 5.1
to aid your calculations.
Solution
Find the appropriate capacity factor (in gal/ft) in
Figure 5.1. Then multiply by the length of the
drill pipe.
Capacity Factor = 0.1888 gal/ft
Capacity = 0.1888 gal/ft × 1000 ft = 188.8 gal
Cementing 1

Figure 5.1
Fill-Up Calculations
Fill-up of pipe is defined as the length of pipe a
specified volume will fill. Fill-up factors are also
listed in Section 210 of the Red Book.
Sample Problem
How many feet of 3-1/2 in., 15.50 lb/ft internal
upset drill pipe will 25 barrels of oil fill? Use
Figure 5.1 to aid in your calculations.
Solution:
Fill-up Factor = 152.05 ft/bbl
Fill-up = 152.05 ft/bbl × 25 bbl = 3801.25 ft
5•4
Primary Cementing Calculations
Displacement
Displacement is defined as the volume of fluid
displaced by an object when it is placed in that
fluid. In the oilfield, the terms displacement and
displace may be confused. The word displace
often refers to pumping the fluid inside the pipe
out of the pipe, as in displacing cement with
fresh water. To do this, the volume of fluid
pumped is usually equal to the capacity of the
pipe. This is totally different from the definition
of displacement as given in the first sentence of
this paragraph.
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Bull-Plugged Pipe Open-Ended Pipe

Figure 5.2 illustrates the volume of fluid
displaced when bull-plugged pipe is run in the
hole. This volume is equal to the outside
diameter’s flat surface area multiplied by the
length of the pipe:
Displacement = OD Area × Length
or
Displacement = 0.7854 × OD × OD × Length
3 in.
When the pipe is open-ended (that is, some
opening permits the pipe to fill up on the inside
as it is lowered into the well), it will displace
less fluid than the bull-plugged string. As shown
in Figure 5.3, open-ended pipe will displace a
volume equal only to the volume of steel placed
in fluid. This displacement can be calculated by
multiplying the cross-sectional area by the
length:
Displacement = Cross-sectional Area × Length

1.5 in. 3 in.

1.5 in.

Dry
1,000 ft
1,000 ft Dry

Bottom
Bull-
Plugged

Outside View Sectional View

Bottom Open

Figure 5.2 Outside View Sectional View

Figure 5.3

Sample Problem
Sample Problem
What is the displacement, in barrels, for the
string of bull-plugged pipe shown in Figure 5.2?
What is the displacement, in barrels, for the
Solution: open-ended pipe illustrated in Figure 5.3?
3 in. = 0.25 ft Solution:
Displacement = OD = 3 in. = 0.25 ft
0.7854 × 0.25 ft × 0.25 ft × 1000 ft =
ID = 1.5 in. = 0.125 ft
49.09 ft3
OD Area = 0.7854 × 0.25 ft × 0.25 ft =
Conversion factor =
0.0491 ft2
(located in section 240, page 85)
0.1781 bbl/ft3 ID Area = 0.7854 × 0.125 ft × 0.125 ft =
0.0123 ft2
Displacement =
49.09 ft3 × 0.1781 bbl/ft3 = Cross-sectional Area =
8.74 bbl 0.0491 ft2 – 0.0123 ft2 =
0.0368 ft2

5•5 Cementing 1

Displacement =
0.0368 ft2 × 1000 ft = 36.8 ft3
Conversion Factor = 0.1781 bbl/ft3
Displacement =
36.8 ft3 × 0.1781 bbl/ft3 = 6.55 bbl
Figure 5.4 – Red Book data.
5•6
Primary Cementing Calculations
NOTE: In the above examples, it has been
assumed that the tubular goods were flush joint;
that is, no allowance was made for internal
upsets, external upsets, or couplings. Section
130 of the Red Book contains factors that allow
for upsets and couplings, as shown in Figure 5.4.
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit A Test:

For items 1 and 2, fill in the blanks. For items 3 to 5, use your Red Book as a reference and find the
solutions to check your progress in Unit A.

1. The volume that a certain length of pipe will hold is known as the pipe's ______________________.

2. ____________________________is defined as the volume of fluid displaced by an object when it is

placed in that fluid.

3. What is the capacity, in barrels, of 10,000 ft of 7 in., 23.0 lb/ft casing?

4. How many feet of 4-1/2 in., 16.6 lb/ft internal upset drill pipe will 25 barrels of oil fill?

5. What is the displacement, in barrels, for this open-ended pipe?

OD = 4.5 in.
ID = 2.0 in.
Length = 2000 ft

Now, check your answers against the Answer Key at the back of this section.

5•7 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit B: Annular Volume Calculations

Annular volume is the volume contained
between the outside of the pipe and the open
hole (Figure 5.5) or between the outside of the
drill pipe or tubing and the inside of the casing
(Figure 5.6).
Annular volumes can be determined by
calculating the cross-sectional area between the
open hole or casing ID and the drill pipe OD and
multiplying this by the length.

Figure 5.6

Note: Diameters and lengths must be in the

same unit of measurement.
Rather than calculating cross-sectional areas to
determine annular volumes, you can refer to the
Red Book, which provides factors that you can
multiply by the length of the annulus to more
simply arrive at volumes. There are two sections
Figure 5.5 in the Red Book that you should become familiar
with regarding annular volumes:
• Section 122 is a set of tables of annular
volume and annular fillup factors with
tubular goods in various size holes. It also
lists the factors for multiple strings of
tubular goods in various hole sizes.
• Section 221 lists factors for pipe strings
inside other pipe. There are tables for
tubing, drill pipe, and casing inside of larger
casing. Like Section 122, there are also
tables for multiple tubing strings inside
casing.

5•8 Cementing 1

Figure 5.7
Sample Problem
Find the annular volume, in barrels, between
6000 ft of 2-3/8 in. (2.375 in.), 4.7 lb/ft tubing
and a 6-1/8 in. hole. Use Section 122-A of the
Red Book (see Figure 5.7).
Solution:
Annular Volume Factor = 0.0310 bbl/ft (from
the Red Book)
Annular Volume = 0.0310 bbl/ft × 6000 ft =
186 bbl
Sample Problem
What is the annular volume, in barrels, for 1000
ft of 5-1/2 in., 17 lb/ft casing inside 9-5/8 in., 36
lb/ft casing? Use Section 221 of the Red Book.
Solution:
Annular Volume Factor = 0.0479 bbl/ft
5•9
Primary Cementing Calculations
Annular Volume = 0.0479 bbl/ft × 1000 ft =
479 bbl
You can also use these tables to determine the
length that a given volume of fluid will fill.
Sample Problem
How many feet of annular space between 4-1/2
in., 10.5 lb/ft casing and a 6 in. hole will 100 bbl
of cement fill? Use Section 122 of the Red Book.
Solution:
Annular Fill-up Factor = 65.3597 ft/bbl
Annular Fill-up = 65.3597 ft/bbl × 100 bbl =
6535.97 ft
Another way of calculating annular volume
between a string of casing and the ID of the hole
is by using Section 210 of the Red Book. This
contains the factors for different size cylinders
or holes with a length of 1 foot. Annular volume
can be calculated by subtracting the annular
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

volume factors for one foot of height and then Solution:

multiplying by the desired annular height.
Sample Problem
Find the annular volume, in barrels, between 2-
3/8 in., 4.7 lb/ft tubing and a 6-1/8 in. hole. Use
Section 210 of the Red Book.
Volume Factor for 6-1/8 in. hole = 0.0364 bbl/ft
Volume Factor for 2-3/8 in. tubing =
0.0055 bbl/ft
Annular Volume Factor =
0.0364 bbl/ft – 0.0055 bbl/ft =
0.0309 bbl/ft
Annular Volume = 6000 ft × 0.0309 bbl/ft =
185.4 bbl
The differences between this way of determining
annular volume and using Section 122 can be
explained by the methods used when rounding
off of decimals in establishing the tables.

5 • 10 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit B Test

Calculate the answers for the following:

1. What is the annular volume, in gallons, between 5000 ft of 9-5/8 in., 53.50 lb/ft casing and 12-1/4 in.
hole? Use the Red Book to find the appropriate factor.

2. What is the annular volume in cubic feet, for 7675 ft of 2-7/8 in., 6.5 lb/ft tubing inside 7 in., 26 lb/ft
casing? Use the Red Book to find the appropriate factor.

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

5 • 11 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit C: Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations

The density of a base fluid is affected by the Density in Density in
addition of additives. This density should be lb/ft3 g/cc
collected for additive concentration when Solids
determining hydrostatic pressure.
Gold 1206.2 19.3
To help you with density calculations, this unit Mercury 846.0 13.5
will introduce you to several terms. After Lead 712.5 11.4
completing this unit, you will be familiar with: Iron 485.0 7.7
• the relationships among density, weight, and Aluminum 165.6 2.6
volume Wood 50.0 0.8
Ice 56.9 0.9
• API gravity
• specific gravity Liquids
• absolute density vs. bulk density Sulfuric Acid 125.0 2.00
Sea Water 64.3 1.03
• absolute volume
Fresh Water 62.5 1.00
• slurry weight and volume calculations Kerosene 50.0 0.80
Gasoline 46.8 0.75

Density Gases
Air 0.075 0.0075 0.0012
Density can be defined as the weight of a Oxygen 0.084 0.00134
substance per unit volume. In the English Nitrogen 0.0737 0.00118
system, one cubic foot is a unit of volume, and Carbon Monoxide 0.0734 0.00117
one pound is a unit of weight. In the metric Hydrogen 0.0053 0.000085
system, a unit of volume is cubic centimeter (cc)
and weight can be measured in grams (g). If you
measured the weight of a specific volume of For practical purposes, the densities of gases are
iron, wood, lead, and water, you would find they compared with air at atmospheric pressure
have widely different weights. Therefore, a term instead of with water. Using air as a comparative
is needed to refer to the weight of a unit-volume reference, the vapor densities of the gases listed
of substance -- that term is density. For example, above are:
a cubic foot of water weighs 62.4 lb, so the Air 1.00
density of water is 62.4 lb/ft3. Oxygen 1.120
If you know the density and the volume of a Nitrogen 0.983
material, you can calculate its weight: Carbon Monoxide 0.979
Hydrogen 2.004
Weight = Density × Volume
Some densities of common materials are listed
here for your reference.

5 • 12 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

API readings are standardized at a temperature

of 60°F. If taken at any other temperature,
Specific Gravity readings must be converted to 60°F to be
accurate. Tables for this conversion and for
Specific gravity (abbreviated Sp Gr) is the conversion of API gravity to specific gravity can
weight of a volume of material divided by the be found in the API Standard 2500 bulletin and
weight of the same volume of material taken as a in various engineering handbooks.
standard. For solids and liquids, the standard is
water; for gases, the standard is air. Another Formulas for conversion are:
definition of specific gravity is the ratio of the 141.5
density of a substance to the density of water or Degrees API Gravity = - 131.5
Sp Gr
air. The density of water is 8.33 lb/gal. It is a
simple matter to convert density to specific 141.5
Specific Gravity =
gravity (or vice versa). API + 131.5

Sample Problem
Absolute Density vs. Bulk
What is the specific gravity of a 10 lb/gal brine? Density
Solution
Absolute density is the mass per unit volume.
density of substance Absolute density considers only the actual
Sp Gr = volume occupied by a material. Bulk density is
density of standard
mass per unit bulk volume -- which includes the
10 lb/gal actual volume of the material plus the volume of
Sp Gr =
8.33 lb/gal trapped “air.”

Sp Gr = 1.2
If you were given the specific gravity of a liquid Absolute Volume
as 1.2, the density can be calculated:
Absolute volume is the volume per unit mass.
1.2 × 8.33 lb/gal = 10 lb/gal Here is an example of absolute volume. Let's
assume we have a container (Figure 5.8) that
measures one cubic foot (1 ft high, 1 ft deep, 1 ft
API Gravity wide). This container is filled with golf balls.
There are void spaces between the golf balls
Baume’s gravity is a scale that uses salt water as filled with trapped air. We want to know the
a reference rather than fresh water. It is used in volume in gallons that is occupied by the golf
refineries to determine the gravity of acids and balls only.
alkalis only.
API gravity is used in most other instances in the
oil field. Water is used as the standard. Water's
API gravity is 10 degrees.
As the specific gravity increases, the API gravity
decreases. Crude oil with a 42° API gravity has
an actual specific gravity of 0.82. American
crude is commonly run from 0.768 to 0.966
specific gravity, which would range from 52.6°
to 10.5° on the API gravity scale.

5 • 13 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

The volume occupied by the golf balls can best

One cubic foot
7.4805 gal. be determined by first calculating the volume
1 ft
occupied by the void spaces. For this, we could
add water to the container and measure it. After
obtaining the number of gallons of water needed
to fill the void spaces, we can subtract from
1 ft
7.4805 gal/ft3 to determine the volume occupied
by the golf balls alone.
1 ft
The volume of golf balls determined in this way
This container below is filled with golf balls. is called the absolute volume. While this
example is exaggerated, it does help explain the
concept. We work with sand, cement, etc. rather
1 ft than golf balls, but the balls can be seen as a
magnification of sand or cement particles. Void
spaces exist in sand; the volume we add to
1 ft
fracturing fluids is actually the absolute volume
of the sand.
1 ft Calculating absolute volume for sand or cement
can be simplified by using the tables for
Figure 5.8 – The volume of golf balls is less
"Physical Properties of Cementing Materials and
than the total volume because of the spaces
Admixtures" provided in the Technical Data
between them.
section of the Halliburton Cementing Tables
(Figure 5.9).

Figure 5.9 – Red Book data.

5 • 14 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

The left-hand column lists the material, the Total lb ÷ Total abs gal = lb/gal
second column gives the bulk weight in lb per 12.33 lb ÷ 1.1824 gal = 10.427943 lb/gal
ft3. The third column gives the specific gravity,
and the fourth column provides absolute volume Sample Problem
in gal/lb.
Note: When using fluids in absolute volume What is the absolute volume (gallons) and
calculations, you will not find a gal/lb factor in weight (lb per gallon) of this slurry?
the Red Book. However, you can calculate this • Base Fluid is water @ 8.33 lb/gal
factor if you know the fluid density in lb/gal.
Simply divide 1 by the fluid density. For • Additive is 3% KC1
example, water is 8.33 lb/gal, so: • 4 lb of sand is added
gal/lb = 1 ÷ 8.33 lb/gal = 0.12 gal/lb Solution
ABSOLUTE
Sample Problem MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME
MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gallons)

What is the absolute volume (gallons) and Water 8.33 × 0.1200 = 1.0
weight (lb per gallon) of this slurry? 3% KC1 0.2499 × 0.0443 = 0.0110705

• Base Fluid is water @ 8.33 lb/gal Sand 4.0 × 0.0456 = 0.1824

TOTALS 12.579 lb 1.1934705 gal
• 4 lb of sand is added.
Solution Total lb ÷ Total abs gal = lb/gal

We will use the chart below to help in our 12.5799 lb ÷ 1.1934705 gal = 10.5 lb/gal
calculation of absolute volume. First, list the Note: Generally, when working with sand and
materials and their weights in the first two water (or base fluid) slurries, the calculations are
columns. Then, using the Red Book table, list the based on 1 gallon of base fluid and the weight of
absolute volume factors (gal/lb) in the third that 1 gallon of fluid.
column.
ABSOLUTE Sample Problem
MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME
MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gallons)
What is the absolute volume (gallons) and
Water 8.33 0.1200 weight (lb per gallon) of this slurry?
Sand 4 0.0456
• Class H Cement
TOTALS
• Water @ 8.33 lb/gal
Multiply the materials (lb) by the factor (gal/lb)
to obtain the absolute volume and add these Solution
values to the table. For the totals, add the For this cementing problem, we will add a
materials (lb) together and add the absolute column to the chart for mixing water
volumes together: requirements. Proceed as in the last two sample
ABSOLUTE problems until you need to fill in the mixing
MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME water requirements for the Class H cement. This
MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gallons) quantity you can find in the Technical Data
Water 8.33 × 0.1200 = 1.0 section of the Red Book in the table for “Water
Requirements.” For Class H cement, the
Sand 4.0 × 0.0456 = 0.1824
requirements are 4.3 gal/sk. Enter this under the
TOTALS 12.33 lb 1.1824 gal
appropriate column:
Find the weight of the mixed slurry using this
formula:

5 • 15 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

ABSOLUTE MIXING ABSOLUTE MIXING

MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME WATER MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME WATER
MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gallons) (gallons) MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gallons) (gallons)
Cement 94 × 0.0382 = 3.6 4.3 Cement 94 × 0.0382 = 3.6 4.3
Water 8.33 Water 35.82 = 8.33 × 4.3
TOTALS TOTALS 129.82 lb 7.9 gal

Enter 5.2 gal for the absolute volume for water.
Divide the water factor by the absolute volume
to determine the materials (lb) for water. Then
calculate the totals:
Total lb ÷ Total abs gal = lb/gal
129.82 lb ÷ 7.9 gal = 16.4 lb/gal
Find the yield of cement (ft3 per sack) by using
this formula:
Total abs gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft3 = ft3/sk
7.9 gal/sk* ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft3 = 1.06 ft3/sk
*NOTE: When working with cement slurries,
the calculations are usually based on one sack of
cement and the weight of that sack.

5 • 16 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit C Quiz:

For items 1 3, fill in the blanks. For items 4 and 5, calculate the answer.

1. In dealing with specific gravity, the weight of a volume of a material is ________________________

by the weight of the same volume of a material taken as a_______.

2. Absolute density considers only the___________ ____________ occupied by the material.

3. Volume per unit mass defines ______________ _______________.

4. Calculate the weight (lb/gal) of the following slurry:

• base fluid is 10 lb/gal brine

• sand at 10 lb/gal (0.0456 gal/lb)

5. Using Class H cement (94 lb/sk) and 4.3 gallons mixing water, what is the cement slurry density (lb/
gal) and yield (ft3/sk)?

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

5 • 17 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit D: Primary Cementing Calculations Example

Before a primary cementing job can begin, Primary Cementing Calculations
several calculations must be done. In this unit, 7 critical calculations that need to be made with every
you will learn these calculations: surface casing job

Also included is a new slurry weight and yield 1

Critical Circulating Pressure – Pressure required to lift
(pump) the casing out of the hole
worksheet.
Cement volume – The volume of cement required to fill
2 the required footage of the annulus plus the shoe track
capacity.
Sacks of Cement – Converting the required volume of
3 cement into sacks.

1 4 Mixing water required for given slurries.

Displacement fluid required to the top plug from surface

5 to the top of the shoe track.
Pressure to land the plug – Differential pressure
6 required to pump the plug to the top of the shoe track.
7 Resulting Force – The calculated hook load at the top
7 of the casing once the plug has landed.

F
A Well Parameters
A Pipe Size
B
B Well Fluid
5
C C Hole Size

D Pipe Depth

E Shoe Track Length

F Required Cement fill-up

2
G Excess volume required (percent)

3
Calculation Guidelines
4 • Do not apply any decimal places for pressure or sacks
6 • Apply one decimal place for lb/gal
• Apply 2 decimal places for
psi/bbl
cubic feet
E pounds
feet
area
gallons
barrels
D • For psi/ft use same number of decimal places as in Red
Book “Hydrostatic Pressure And Fluid Weight Conversion
Tables”
Figure 5.10 – Primary Cementing Setup • Show one decimal place for bbl/min
• Rounding numbers – if the last number is to be dropped,
round up if ≥ 5, down if < 5.

5 • 18 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations

Absolute Mixing Water
MATERIAL Material Factor Volume Requirements
NAME (lb) (gal/lb) (gal) (gal)
X =

. X = +

X = +

X = +

X = +

X = +

Water = lb/gal gal

TOTALS ==> gal

Total mixing water must be entered under absolute gallons before totaling.
Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:
Total Pounds/Total Absolute gallons = lb/gal
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this formula:
Total Absolute gallons / 7.4805 gal/ft3 (constant) = ft3/sack
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far right column

Cement Density (lb/gal) ==> lb/gal

Cement Yield (ft3/sk) ===> ft3/sk

Mixing Water required ===> gal/sk

Figure 5.11 – Absolute Volume Worksheet

5 • 19 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Primary Cementing Calculations

7 critical calculations that need to be made with every
surface casing job
Critical Circulating Pressure – Pressure required to lift
1 (pump) the casing out of the hole
Cement volume – The volume of cement required to fill
2 the required footage of the annulus plus the shoe track
capacity.
Sacks of Cement – Converting the required volume of
3 cement into sacks.

4 Mixing water required for given slurries.

Displacement fluid required to the top plug from surface

5 to the top of the shoe track.
Pressure to land the plug – Differential pressure
6 required to pump the plug to the top of the shoe track.
Resulting Force – The calculated hook load at the top
7 of the casing once the plug has landed.

In the Essential Red Book course, you were

introduced to the basic calculations and concepts
needed in preparing for a primary cementing
job. In this unit you will be shown the steps for
calculating a surface casing cement job. Later,
you’ll be asked to actually make the calculations
for a similar job on your own.

Given Information for Primary

Cementing Calculations

Refer to the well parameter information as you

work through the calculations for the surface
casing cementing job.
Figure 5.12 – Surface Casing Cementing
Job
1 Calculations for Pressure
Required to Lift Pipe
Surface Casing Job One
This casing job consists of a single slurry, which is to be When pipe is run into a hole, the result in a ram
circulated from total depth to surface. effect. This ram effect increases as the running
speed and the diameter of the pipe increases. In
Well Parameters some cases, the ram effect will break down low-
pressure zones. Sand may slough off and bridge
Pipe Size 9 5/8 in 36 lb/ft
the annulus. If the casing is stuck in the hole,
Well Fluid 8.7 lb/gal
you cannot pull it out without parting it.
Hole Size 12.25 in
Pipe Depth 300 ft
These calculations are performed as a
Shoe Track Length 40 ft
precaution. They are done before mixing any
cement. Just in case the annulus has bridged,
Required Cement Fill-Up To surface
you need to know how much pressure would be
Excess Volume Required (percent) 100%
required to lift the pipe. This pressure could

5 • 20 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

possibly lift the pipe out of the hole, so you need d) The buoyancy factor (Step 2a)
to chain the pipe down during the operations. multiplied by the weight per foot of
casing (Step 2b) times the length of the
1. First, the area of the casing must be found.
casing (Step 2c) equals the weight of the
a) In the “Calculations and Formulae” pipe hanging in fluid:
section of the Red Book (see also Figure
0.8671 BF × 36 lb/ft × 300 ft = 9364.68 lb Ð
5.13), look up the formula for the area
of a circle. (The arrow indicates the direction of this force.)
2
Area = 0.7854 × D 3. Now you have enough information to
calculate the amount of pressure to apply to
the casing at the surface, pumping
downward through the casing below the
casing shoe, to start the lift (or to balance the
pipe). The larger the diameter of the pipe the
less pressure is required to lift the string.
This is why you need to chain down large
diameter casing during the pumping
operation (chain it to the substructure or a
Figure 5.13 leg of the derrick, but not to the rotary
table).
The downward force of the pipe (step 2d)
b) Plug the diameter (9 5/8 in.) into the divided by the area of the pipe (step 1b) is the
formula for area of a circle (area of the pressure needed to start the lift:
casing):
9364.68 lb Ð ÷ 72.76 in. = 129 psi
9.625 in. × 9.625 in. × 0.7854 = 72.76 in.2
When applying pressure to start circulation,
2. The next step is to calculate the weight of
caution should be taken to prevent the pipe from
the pipe when it is hanging in fluid (the
blowing out of the hole and causing damage.
downward force of the pipe in the wellbore.)
The casing should be chained down and all
a) First, look up the buoyancy factor for personnel except the operator, should be cleared
the wellbore fluid you are working with. off the rig floor.
Keep in mind that this buoyancy factor
relates to the fact that open-ended pipe
weighs less in a fluid than it does in air.
The weight of this fluid is 8.7 lb/gal.
Referring to the “Displacement” section
of the Red Book (see also Figure 5.14),
you will see that the buoyancy factor is
0.8671 for a fluid of that weight.
b) You also need to know how much your
casing weights in air. From the casing
stamp, you can find that this casing
weigh 36 lb/ft.
c) Since it is not known at what depth the
annulus might become bridged, use the
overall length of your casing (300 ft) for
these calculations.

5 • 21 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

You will find Class G slurry properties on page

3 of the Class G Section in the Technical Data
Section of the Red Book. We will work through
the absolute volume calculations as an example.
Refer to the gray pages in the “Technical Data:
section of your Red Book (see also Figure 5.9).
You will see that the table labeled “Physical
Properties of Cementing Materials and
Admixtures” contains much of the information
needed to calculate the slurry’s absolute volume
(as well as its weight that will be calculated
later).
To aid in these calculations, the Worksheet for
Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations has
been developed (Figure 5.11). This worksheet
will be completed as the following calculations
are worked out.
1. First, find the bulk weight of API cements
listed in Figure 5.9 – 94 lb/ft3. The factor for
absolute volume of API cements is 0.0382
gal/lb.
2. Then calculate the correct figures for each of
the additives and the water being used.
a) Calculate how much the calcium
chloride will weigh by multiplying the
weight of cement by 2%:
0.02 × 94 lb = 1.88 lb
b) Look up the factor for absolute volume
of Calcium Chloride, which is 0.0612
lb/gal.
Figure 5.14 c) Look up the absolute volume factor for
Flocele, which is 0.0845 gal/lb.
3. To find the absolute volumes of the cement,
Calcium Chloride and Flocele, multiply the
2 Calculations for Amount of numbers in the materials column by the
Cement numbers in the factor column:
94 lb × 0.0382 gal/lb = 3.6 gal
To find the amount (sacks) of cement needed for 1.88 lb × 0.0612 gal/lb = 0.12 gal.
this surface casing cementing job, you need to 0.25 lb × 0.0845 gal/lb = 0.02 gal
know the type of cement, its weight and its
yield.
Class G cement with 2% calcium chloride and ¼
lb/sk Flocele has been chosen for this surface
casing job. Using this information, you can
perform the calculations necessary to eventually
find out how much cement you will need.

5 • 22 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Worksheet for Slurry Volumes

Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations
Casing Job One
API Cement Weight = 94 lb/sack
1 sack = 1 cubic foot
Material Material Factor Absolute Mixing
Name (lb) (gal/lb) Volume Water
(gal) Required
(gal)
Class G 94 × 0.0382 = 3.5908 5.00
Cement
2% Calcium 1.88 × 0.0612 = 0.11506
Figure 5.15 – Class G data from Red Book Chloride
.25lb Flocele 0.25 × 0.845 = 0.02113
× =

4. To find the mixing water requirements for a Water 41.65 × 8.33 = 5.00
sack of cement with its additives, refer to the Totals 137.78 8.7270 5.00
gray pages in the “Technical Data” section Total mixing water must be entered under absolute gallons
of your handbook (see also Figure 5.15). before totaling.
These requirements are 5.0 gal., 0 gal and 0 Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:
gal for the cement, Calcium Chloride and Total Pounds ÷ Total Absolute gallons = lb/gal
Flocele respectively. Add these figures Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this
together for the water’s absolute volume: formula:
3 3
Total Absolute gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft (constant) = ft /sk
5 gal + 0 + 0 gal = 5 gal The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far
right column
5. To obtain the weight of the water required,
multiply the weight per gallon of water by Cement Density 137.78 ÷ 8.7270 = 15.8 lb/gal
the volume of water (step 4): Cement Yield 8.7270 ÷ 7.4805 = 1.17
3
ft /sk
8.33 gal/lb × 5 gal = 41.65 lb Mixing Water 5.00 gal/sk
Required
6. Total the materials and absolute volume
columns:

5 • 23 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

8. Then find the yield by dividing the total

absolute volume in gallons (Step 6) by the
constant which can be found in the table
“Conversion Constants” (Figure 5.16) –
7.4805 gal/ft3
8.7270 gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft3 = 1.17 ft3/sk
Now assume that you have circulated through
the surface casing down to a depth of 300 ft and
that you have a well-conditioned hole. It is
necessary to calculate the volume of slurry
needed for the job. This is a combination of the
slurry needed to fill annular space and to fill the
shoe joint.
9. To determine how much slurry is needed to
fill the annulus, the ft3/ft for the annulus is
multiplied by the length of the annulus.
a) First, refer to the “Volume and Height
Between Tubing, Casing, Drill Pipe, and
Hole” section in the handbook. (To use
this table, you need to find the table with
the correct number of strings. For
example, see the four different tables for
tubing with an OD of 3 ½ in). Look on
the table for 9 5/8 in (see also Figure
5.17). The ft3/ft for this annulus is
0.3132.
b) You know that the length of the annulus
is 300 ft. Multiplying this by the ft3/ft
value found in Step 9a results in the
volume needed to fill the annular space.
300 ft × 0.3132 ft3/ft = 93.96 ft3.
c) Excess cement – knowing we need
Figure 5.16 100% excess (double the calculation
volume) we calculate the following:

7. To find the weight of the cement slurry in 93.96 ft3 × 2 = 187.92 ft3
pounds per gallon, divide the total pounds
by the total absolute volume in gallons:
137.78 ÷ 8.7270 gal = 15.8 lb/gal

5 • 24 Cementing 1

Figure 5.17
10. Now, the amount of slurry in the shoe joint
(or track) needs to be calculated in the last
step, to determine how much slurry is in the
shoe joint, the capacity factor of the joint is
multiplied by its length.
a) To find this capacity factor, turn to the
“Capacity” section of the Cementing
Table (See also Figure 5.18) You need
to know the OD (9 5/8 in.) and the
weight (36 lb/ft) of your casing. The
capacity factor is 0.4340 ft3/ft.
b) The length of the shoe track was given
as 40 ft.
c) Multiply the capacity factor for the shoe
joint (10a) by the length of the shoe
joint (10b) for the capacity for the shoe
joint:
0.4340 ft3/ft × 40 ft = 17.36 ft3
11. Add the volume of slurry to fill the annulus
(step 9c) to the volume of slurry to fill the
shoe joint (step10c) to determine the total
numbers of barrels of cement that you need:
187.92 ft3 + 17.36 ft3 = 205.28 ft3
5 • 25
Primary Cementing Calculations
3 Sacks of Cement
1. Now that you know the cubic feet needed
(Step 11), you use the yield (Step 8) to
calculate the number of sacks needed:
205.28 ft3 ÷ 1.17 ft3/sk = 175 sk
4 Calculations for Amount of
Mixing Water
After you know the number of sacks of cement
needed, you need to calculate the volume of
water required on location to mix the slurry.
This water should always be fresh water (unless
slurry is designed for salt or seawater).
Your worksheet shows that you will need 5 gal
of water per sack of cement. This is multiplied
by the number of sacks in order to obtain the
total number of gallons of mixing water needed.
This unit of measurement needs to be converted
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Figure 5.18

to barrels since tanks on trucks are marked off in
barrels.
1. First, find out how much mixing water you
need in gallons:
5 gal/sk × 175 sk = 875 gal
2. Since there are 42 gal in a barrel, convert to
barrels:
875 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl = 20.83 bbl
Therefore, it will take this amount of water to
mix your cement. You will need more water on
location, considering the water used for cleanup,
spacer, etc.
bottom plug is not run, the top plug will wipe
down the walls and mud will collect in the shoe
joint between the top plug and the cement slurry.
When all of the cement has been mixed, the top
plug will be pumped down to a depth of 260 ft.
The number of barrels needed to do this is the
same as the capacity of the casing to the float
collar.
0.0773 bbl/ft × 260 ft = 20.1 bbl

5 Calculations for Amount of

Fluid to Displace Top Plug

The first step in the cementing process is to run

a bottom plug to wipe the casing clean of mud
buildup. The cement following the bottom plug
will rupture the plug’s diaphragm. Then it will
move through the center of the plug, out the
bottom of the shoe, and up the annulus. If a

5 • 26 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

6 Calculations for Pressure to

Land the Plug

Calculations for pressure to land the plug should

be made on each job. You need to know the
pressure required to put the cement in place.
Any pressure buildup in excess of this pressure
might indicate channeling or bridging in the
annulus. A loss of pressure could mean a loss of
cement into the formation.
Figure 5.12 shows a balanced section of hole.
The shoe is at 300 feet and the plug landing
point is 260 feet. The shoe joint and the annular
space opposite it are full of the same weight
cement. Therefore that part of the well is
balanced and no calculations are required.
You do need to make a few calculations
concerning the unbalanced portion of the hole
indicated in Figure 5.12. The annular space from
260 ft back to surface is filled with 15.8 lb/gal
cement (this density was determined during the
amount of cement calculations, Step 7 in
Calculations for Amount of Cement). Also, you
have displaced the plug with 8.7 lb/gal fluid in
the casing. Because the fluids have different
densities, a differential pressure results.
You must convert the lb/gal of the cement and
displacement fluid to psi/ft in order to make the
calculation (Figure 5.19). Figure 5.19

1. Refer to the Hydrostatic Pressure and Fluid

Weight Conversion tables in the
“Calculations and Formulae” section of your
Red Book (see also Figure 5.19). To find the
psi/ft for the weight of the cement (15.8
lb/gal),
To minimize errors, here is the most accurate
way to make this calculation: Working form the
bottom of the casing up to the surface, calculate
the hydrostatic pressure outside, then calculate
the hydrostatic pressure inside.
Remember, work from the bottom up, for the
entire casing string.

5 • 27 Cementing 1

Hydrostatic Outside
Cement
300 ft × 0.8208 psi/ft = 246 psi
Total: 300 ft 246 psi
Hydrostatic Inside
Cement
40 ft × 0.8208 psi/ft = 33 psi
Well Fluid
260 ft × 0.4519 psi/ft = 117 psi
Total 300 ft 150 psi
Differential Pressure (At top of shoe) = 246 psi – 150 psi
= 96 psi
Always re-total the depth. If you don’t end up
with the same depth then something is wrong.
NOTE: You must slow the pump rate down to a
half-barrel per minute to read this on a
chart or gauge because high rates create
friction pressure (which can give you a
false pressure reading).
When the plug has been pumped to its landing
position and 96 psi is readable on the gauge, this
job has been done successfully. Remember that
you will not be able to correctly read the
pressure to land a plug on all jobs. Losing
cement into the formation or developing
channels in the cement will alter the pressure
reading. Release the pressure when the plug
lands; this will prevent a microannulus. Keep in
mind that most companies will require more
pressure than what is required to land the plug in
order to test the plug’s seal. Depending on the
situation, some customers will pressure test
casing after the plug lands.
Calculations for Hydrostatic Pressure
at a Given Depth
You need to be able to calculate the hydrostatic
pressure at any depth. For the purpose of this
problem, you will determine the hydrostatic psi
at 260 ft. Will this formation support the amount
of pressure exerted by the column of cement
down the annulus to the given point?
In this example problem, you will have only one
hydrostatic pressure to work with since you have
cement from the top to the bottom of the well.
That pressure is 0.8208 psi/ft, which you
determined earlier (Pressure to Land the Plug
5 • 28
Primary Cementing Calculations
calculations – Step 1) for a fluid weighing 15.8
lbs/gal.
The hydrostatic pressure in a casing job is the
pressure in the annular space. The plug will
close off the pressure in the casing when it lands
on a float collar. If you do not land the plug or
run a float collar or back pressure valve, but
only stop the plug in the casing, then you will
close in the cementing head and the pressure to
land the plug will remain on the casing until the
cement has set.
To calculate the hydrostatic pressure at a given
depth, multiply that depth by the psi/ft of the
fluid in the annulus – in this case, cement slurry:
300 ft × 0.8203 psi/ft = 246 psi
7 Calculations for Resulting
Force
Precautions must be taken before pumping the
plug down when you are working on the surface
casing. You need to find out if the casing will
remain still, or if the plug landing pressure will
pump the casing out of the hole – if so, you will
need to chain the pipe down (in addition to
chaining the head to the elevators).
As you did in Calculation 1, you will calculate
the difference between the upward force on the
pipe and the downward force on the pipe.
1. You have calculated the area of the surface
casing (Step 1b - Pressure to Lift the Pipe
Calculations) to be 72.76 in.2. In addition,
you know the pressure to land the plug is 96
psi (Step 6 – Pressure to Land the Plug
Calculations). Multiplying the two values
will give you the amount of upward force in
pounds.
72.76 in2 × 96 psi = 6984.96 lb
2. In a previous problem, you looked up the
buoyancy factor for the 8.7 lb/gal
displacement fluid (Step 2a – Pressure to
Lift the Pipe Calculations). Referring to the
“Displacement” section again, look up the
buoyancy factor for the cement used (see
also Figure 5.14) The weight of cement is
15.8 lb/gal as determined in Step 7 of the
Cementing 1

amount of cement calculations. To find the
buoyancy factor for this weight, you must
look up 15.8.
Now the length and weight of the piece of pipe
in question are needed. Cement is inside the pipe
in the shoe joint (40 ft) and displacement fluid is
inside the pipe above the float collar (260 ft).
The weight of the pipe is 36 lb/gal.
Using the formula for downward force,
determine the downward force contributed by
the displacement fluid:
Length of pipe × buoyancy factor for the
displacement fluid inside the pipe × pipe weight
per foot = pounds of downward force
260 ft × 0.8671 BF × 36 lb/ft = 8116.06 lbÐ
5 • 29
Primary Cementing Calculations
3. In the same way, calculate the downward
force contributed by the cement:
40 ft × 0.7586 BF × 36 lb/ft = 1092.38 lbÐ
4. Adding these two downward forces together
(Step 2 and 3) will give you the total
downward force:
8116.06 lbÐ + 1092.38 lbÐ = 9208.44 lbÐ
5. Subtract the upward force (Step 1) from the
downward force (Step 4) to obtain the
resulting force:
9208.44 lbÐ - 6984.96 lbÏ = 2223.96 lbÐ
Although this is considered a downward force, it
will be necessary to chain down the casing as a
precautionary measure.
Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Surface Casing Job Two

This casing job consists of LEAD and TAIL slurries in which
cement is to be circulated from total depth to surface.

Well Parameters
Pipe Size 13 3/8 in., 68 lb/ft
Well Fluid 8.5 lb/gal
Hole Size 17.5 in.
Pipe Depth 2400 ft
13 3/8-in. Casing
Shoe Track Length 80 ft
Required Cement Fill-Up (TAIL) 400 ft′
17 1/2-in. Hole
Required Cement Fill-Up (LEAD) 2000 ft′
Excess Volume Required (percent) 120%

1 Critical Circulating Pressure

Area Of Pipe
2
13.375 in × 13.375 in × 0.7854 = 140.50 in.
2,000 ft (Section 240 Page 85)
Hook Load
2,400 ft × 68 lb/ft × 0.8701 = 142,000.32/lbs
(Section 130 Table 132 Buoyancy Factor)
Pressure to lift (pump) pipe out of the hole
2
2,320 ft 142,000.32 lb ÷ 140.50 in. = 1010 psi

2 Cement Volume
Lead Lead Slurry Composition Given
Tail
Halliburton Light Cement Sl. Wt 13.6 lb/gal
Displacement 3
2% Calcium Chloride Sl. Vol. 1.55 ft /sk
1/4 lb/sk Flocele Water 7.62 gal/sk

2,400 ft Tail Slurry Composition Given

Class H Premium Sl Wt 16.4 lb/gal
3
1% Calcium Sl. Vol 1.07 ft /sk
Figure 5.20 1/4 lb/sk Flocele Water 4.3 gal/sk
Tail
3 3
400 ft (openhole) × 0.6946 ft /ft = 277.84 ft
3 3
277.84 ft × 2.2 (excess) = 611.25 ft
3 3
80 ft (shoes) × 0.8406 ft /ft = 67.25 ft
3
678.50 ft (tail)
Lead
3 3
2000 ft (openhole) × 0.6946 ft /ft = 1389.20 ft
3 3
1389.20 ft × 2.2 (excess) = 3056.24 ft (lead)

NOTE: We are required to pump 120% excess

cement on this job; 120% excess is equal to
multiplying the perfect hole volume by 2.2.

5 • 30 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Surface Casing Two Lead Cement Surface Casing Two Tail Cement

Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume
Calculations Calculations

Material Material Factor Absolute Mixing Material Material Factor Absolute Mixing
Name (lb) (gal/lb) Volume Water Name (lb) (gal/lb) Volume Water
(gal) Required (gal) Required
(gal) (gal)
65% Class H 61.1 × 0.0382 = 2.33402 2.75 Class H 94 × 0.0382 = 3.5908 4.30
Cement Cement
35% Poz 25.9 × 0.0488 = 1.26392 1.27 1% Calcium 0.94 × 0.0612 = 0.05753
6% Bentonite 5.22 × 0.0453 = 0.23647 3.60 Chloride
2% Calcium 1.74 × 0.0612 = 0.10649 0.00 .25lb Flocele 0.25 × 0.0845 = 0.02113
Chloride × =
.25lb Flocele 0.25 0.0845 0.02113 0.00
Water 63.47 = 8.33 × 7.62 Water 35.819 = 8.33 × 4.30
Totals 157.68 11.5820 7.62 Totals 131.009 7.9695 4.30
Total mixing water must be entered under absolute Total mixing water must be entered under absolute
gallons before totaling. gallons before totaling.
Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this
formula: formula:
Total Pounds ÷ Total Absolute gallons = lb/gal Total Pounds ÷ Total Absolute gallons = lb/gal
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using
this formula: this formula:
3 3 3 3
Total Absolute gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft (constant) = ft /sk Total Absolute gal ÷ 7.4805 gal/ft (constant) = ft /sk
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in
the far right column the far right column
Cement Density 157.68 ÷ 11.5820 = 13.6 lb/gal Cement Density 131.009 ÷ 7.9695 = 16.4 lb/gal
3 3
Cement Yield 11.5820 ÷ 7.4805 = 1.55 ft /sk Cement Yield 7.9695 ÷ 7.4805 = 1.07 ft /sk
Mixing Water 7.62 gal/sk Mixing Water 4.3 gal/sk
Required Required

5 • 31 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

3 Sacks of Cement 7 Resulting Force

Tail Force Down
3 3
678.50 ft ÷1.07 ft /sk = 634 sk
2320 ft × 68 lb/ft × 0.8701 BF = 137266.98 lb Ð
80 ft × 68 lb/ft × 0.7494 BF = 4,076.74 lb Ð
Lead 2400 ft Total Down 141343.72 lb Ð
3 3
3056.24 ft ÷ 1.55 ft /sk = 1972 sk
Force Up
2
140.50 in × 661 psi = 92870.50 lb Ï

4 Mixing Water Required Hook Load 141343.72 lb Ð

92870.50 lb Ï
Tail 48473.22 lb Ð Downward Force
634 sk × 4.3 gal/sk = 2726.2 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl When Plug Lands
= 64.91 bbl

Lead
1972 sk × 7.62 gal/sk = 15026.64 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl
= 357.78 bbl
Total 422.69 bbl

5 Displacement Fluid Volume

2400 ft (Total Pipe) - 80 ft (Shoe Track) = 2320 ft (Top of
Shoe)
2320 ft × 0.1497 bbl/ft = 347.30 bbl

6 Pressure To Land The Plug

** Working From The Bottom Up**
Hydrostatic Outside
Tail
400 ft × 0.8519 psi/ft = 341 psi
Lead
2000 ft × 0.7065 psi/ft = 1413 psi
Total: 2400 ft 1754 psi
Hydrostatic Inside
Tail
80 ft × 0.8519 psi/ft = 68 psi
Well Fluid
2320 ft × 0.4416 psi/ft = 1025 psi
Total 2400 ft 1093 psi
Differential Pressure (At top of shoe) 1754 psi – 1093 psi
= 661 psi

Hint: Always re-total the lengths to make sure

both outside and inside pipe segments are
calculated. If the lengths are not the same then
the calculations will be incorrect.

5 • 32 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Intermediate Casing Job One

This casing job consists of a single tail slurry

with 500 ft fill.

Well Parameters
Pipe Size 7 in. 32 lb/ft
Well Fluid 10.4 lb WBM

Hole Size 8 ¾ in.

Pipe Depth 9700 ft
Shoe track length 80 ft
Well fluid
Required cement fill-up (TAIL) 500 ft
Spacer
Cement Excess volume required (percent) 25%

GIVEN:
TOS (top Cement through casing as follows
of spacer)
30 bbl spacer @ 11.4 lb/gal
Followed by:
Premium Class G Cement containing 0.5% CFR-3 + 0.1%
HR-5. Displace plug with 10.4 lb/gal WBM.
TOC (top
of cement) Due to drillout and deepening displace with mud instead of
9,200 ft
water.

9,620 ft

9,700 ft

Figure 5.21 – Intermediate Casing Job

5 • 33 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations

Absolute Mixing Water
MATERIAL Material Factor Volume Requirements
NAME (lb) (gal/lb) (gal) (gal)
Class G Cement 94 X 0.0382 = 3.5908 5.00

0.05% CFR-3 (dispersant) 0.47 X 0.0938 = 0.04409 +

0.1% HR-5 (retarder) 0.094 X 0.0750 = 0.00705 +

X = +

X = +

X = +

Water 41.65 = 8.33 X 5.00 gal

TOTALS ==> 136.214 8.6419 5.00 gal

Total mixing water must be entered under absolute gallons before totaling.
Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:
Total Pounds/Total Absolute gallons = pounds/gallons
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this formula:
Total Absolute gallons / 7.4805 gal/ ft3 (constant) = ft3./sack
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far right column

Cement Density (lb/gal) ==> 136.214 / 8.6419 = 15.8 lb/gal

Cement Yield (ft3/sk) ===> 8.6419 / 7.4805 = 1.16 ft3/sk

Mixing Water required ===> 5.00 gal/sk

5 • 34 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

1 Cement Volume
3 3
Open Hole: 500 ft × 0.1503 ft /ft = 75.15 ft
3 3
25% Excess: 75.15 ft × 25% = 18.79 ft
3/ 3
Shoe Track: 80 ft × 0.2025 ft /ft = 16.2 ft
3
Total: 110.14 ft

2 Sacks of Cement
3 3
110.14 ft ÷ 1.16 ft /sk = 95 sks

3 Mixing Water Required

95 sk × 5 gal/sk = 475 gal
475 gal ÷ 42 gal/bbl = 11.31 bbl

4 Displacement Fluid Volume

9660 ft × 0.0360 bbl/ft = 347.76 bbl

5 Pressure to Land The Plug

Unknown – Height of Spacer (for “worst case”)
Height of Cement (for “worst case”)
Discussion: In calculating the pressure to land the plug, we
want to anticipate “worst case” which would be an increased
pressure over plan. We planned our cement volume based
upon hole washout (in this case 25%). We need to calculate
the height of cement & spacer (Which are heavier than the
mud) in a perfect hole situation which will give us a taller
column & higher differential pressure.
Height Of Cement
3
Open Hole Volume = 75.15 ft (From 1)
3
25% Excess Volume = 18.79 ft
3
93.94 ft
3
Perfect Hole Fill-up Factor = 6.652 ft/ft
(7 in OD × 8 3/4 in hole)
3 3
93.94 ft x 6.652 ft/ft = 624.89 ft cement
Height Of Spacer
30 bbl spacer (given)
30 bbl × 37.3484 ft/bbl = 1120.45 ft spacer
** Working from the bottom up**
Height Of Mud
9700 ft - 624.89 ft - 1120.45 ft = 7954.66 ft
Hydrostatic Outside
Cement: 624.89 ft × 0.8208 psi/ft = 513 psi
Spacer: 1120.45 ft × 0.5922 psi/ft = 664 psi
WBM: 7954.66 ft × 0.5403 psi/ft = 4298 psi

Total: 9700 ft 5475 psi

Hydrostatic Inside
Cement (in shoe): 40 ft × 0.8208 psi/ft = 33 psi
WBM: 9660 ft × 0.5403 psi/ft = 5219 psi
Total: 9700 ft 5252 psi
Differential Pressure (at top of shoe)
5475 psi - 5252 psi = 223 psi

5 • 35 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Unit D Quiz

Fill in the blank with one or more words to check your progress in Unit D.

1. When using the Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations, the first thing you need to
know is what ___________ of cement is being used. Then you can look up the ingredient’s
______________ and _____________ volume factors.

2. An absolute volume for each material is calculated by multiplying its _____ by its ___________.

3. To obtain the density of the cement mixture, divide the ________________ of the materials by the
________________________________________ of the materials.

4. To find the yield, the total absolute volume in gallons is divided by the constant, ___________ gal/ft³.

5. To calculate the total volume of slurry needed for this job, add the slurry needed to fill the
_________________ and the slurry needed to fill the ____________________. Your unit of measure
will be ___________ which needs to be converted to __________.

6. To calculate the number of sacks needed for this job, divide the amount of slurry in _____________
by the _______________________________ in cubic feet per sack.

7. To obtain the total amount of mixing water you will need, multiply the number of ______/sk water by
the number of __________.Then convert to the unit of measurement used in tanks, ___________, by
dividing gallons by _______gal/bbl.

8. You need to calculate the pressure needed to land the plug, since a pressure build up might
indicate_________ and a loss of pressure may mean
______________________________________________.

9. For the pressure to land the plug, you will need to use the ____________
___________________________________ conversion tables in the “Calculations and Formulas”
section of you handbook. You will look up the _____/ft of the fluids (extrapolating, if necessary),
then multiply these by the depth of the float collar (or the length of the _____________ part of the
hole).

Now, look up the suggested answers in the Answer Key at the back of this section.

5 • 36 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

Answers to Unit Quizzes

Items from Unit A Quiz Refer to
Page
1. capacity
2. Displacement
3. Turn to Section 210 Pages 21
0.0393 bbl/ft × 10,000 ft = 393 bbl
4. Turn to Section 210, Table 212B, Page 9
25 bbl × 70.32 ft/bbl = 1758 ft
5. OD = 4.5 in. = 0.375 ft
ID = 2.0 in. = 0.167 ft
OD Area = 0.7854 × 0.375 ft × 0.375 ft =
0.1104 ft2
ID Area = 0.7854 × 0.167 ft × 0.167 ft =
0.0219 ft2
Cross-sectional Area =
0.1104 ft2 - 0.0219 ft2 = 0.0885 ft2
Displacement =
0.0885 ft2 × 2000 ft = 117 ft3
Conversion Factor = 0.1781 bbl/ft3
Displacement =
117 ft3 × 0.1781 bbl/ft3 = 31.52 bbl

Items from Unit B Quiz Refer to

Page
1. Turn to Section 122-B
0.3132 ft3/ft × 5000 ft = 1566 ft3
1566 ft3 × 7.4805 gal/ft3 = 11714 gal
2. Turn to Section 221-B, Page 73
0.1697 ft3/ft × 7675 ft = 1302.45 ft3

Refer to
Page
Items from Unit C Quiz
1. Divided, standard
2. Actual volume
3. Absolute volume

5 • 37 Cementing 1
 Primary Cementing Calculations

4.
ABSOLUTE
MATERIAL FACTOR VOLUME
MATERIALS (lb) (gal/lb) (gal)
Brine Water 10 = 1.0
Sand 10 × 0.0456 = 0.456
TOTALS 20 lbs 1.456 gal
Slurry Weight = 20 lbs ÷ 1.456 gal = 13.74 lbs/gal

5. Worksheet for Slurry Weight and Volume Calculations

API Cement weight = 94 lb/sack

1 sack = 1 cubic foot
Absolute Mixing Water
MATERIAL Material Factor Volume Requirements
NAME (lb) (gal/lb) (gal) (gal)
Class H Cement 94 X 0.0382 = 3.5908 4.30

Water 35.819 = 8.33 lb/gal 4.30 gal

TOTALS ==> 129.819 7.8908 4.30 gal

Find the weight of the mixed cement by using this formula:

Total Pounds/ Total Absolute gallons = pounds/gallon.
Find the cement yield in cubic feet per sack by using this formula:
Total Absolute gallons / 7.4805 gal / ft3 (constant) = ft3/sack
The mixing water per sack is the sum of the gallons in the far right column.

Cement Density (lb/gal) ==> 129.819 / 7.8908 = 16.5

3
Cement Yield (ft /sk) ===> 7.8908 / 7.4805 = 1.05
Mixing Water req (gal/sk)===> 4.30

Refer to
Page
Items from Unit D Quiz
1. type, water requirement, absolute
2. gal/lb, weight
3. weight, gallons
4. 7.4805
5. annulus, shoe joint, ft3, sk
6. ft3, yield
7. gal, sk, bbl, 42
8. bridging, lost circulation
9. hydrostatic pressure & fluid weight, psi,
unbalanced

5 • 38 Cementing 1