cHAPTEr two

RIG CALCULATIONS

2.1 Accumulator Capacity

2.1.1 Useable Volume per Bottle

Note: The following will be used as guidelines:

Volume per bottle = 10 gal
Precharge pressure =l000 psi
Minimum pressure (remaining after activation) = 1200 psi
Pressure gradient of hydraulic fluid = 0.445
psi/ft.
Maximum pressure = 3000 psi
Boyle’s Law for ideal gases will be adjusted and used as follows:

(P1)(V1) = (P2)(V2) (2.1)

Where: P =Pressure in psi

V =Volume in gal

2.1.2 Surface Application

Step 1: Calculate the hydraulic fluid necessary to increase pressure

from the precharge to the minimum:

(1000)(10) = (1200)(V2)
(1000)(10)
V 2 = 1200 8.33 gal
The nitrogen has been compressed from 10.0 to 8.33 gal.
Next, calculate the volume of the hydraulic fluid in the bottle.
10.0 — 8.33 = 1.67 gal of hydraulic fluid per bottle
Note: This is dead hydraulic fluid. The pressure must not drop below
the minimum 1200 psi value.
Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and Workover 43
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4 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Step 2: Calculate the amount of hydraulic fluid necessary to increase

pressure from precharge to the maximum:

(1000)(10) = (3000)(V2)
(1000)(10)
V= 3000 3.33 gal

The nitrogen has been compressed from 10 to 3.33 gal.

10.0 — 3.33 = 6.67 gal of hydraulic fluid per bottle

Step 3: Calculate the useable volume per bottle in gal:

Vu = (Vtb — Vd) (2.2)

Where: Vu =Useable volume per bottle in gal

Vtb =Total hydraulic volume per bottle in gal
Vd =Dead hydraulic volume per bottle in gal
Vu = (6.67 — 1.67) = 5.0
gal

2.1.3 English Units

Pp P
Vu = (Vb) Pf — Ppm (2.3)

Where: Vb =Volume capacity of bottle in gal

Pp =Precharge pressure in psi
Pf =Minimum pressure after activation in psi
Pm =Maximum system pressure in psi

Example: Calculate the amount of usable hydraulic fluid delivered

from a 20-gal bottle:
Precharge pressure = 1000 psi (PP)
Maximum system pressure= 3000 psi (Pm)
Final pressure = 1200 psi
(Pf)
 Rig Calculations

1000 1000
Vu = (20) 1200 — 3000 = 10 gal

2.1.4 Deepwater Applications

In deepwater applications, the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the

hydraulic fluid must be compensated for in the calculations due to
the hydrostatic head of the seawater.
Example: Same guidelines as in surface applications:
Water depth = 1500 ft.
Hydrostatic pressure on the hydraulic fluid = 889 psi or [(8.55)
(0.052)(2000)]
Step 1: Adjust all hydraulic fluid pressures for the hydrostatic pressure
of the seawater:

Pp = (1000 + 889) = 1889psi

Pm = (3000 + 889) = 3889psi
Pf = (1200 + 889) =
2089psi

Step 2: Calculate the volume of hydraulic fluid necessary to increase

the pressure from the precharge to the minimum:

(1889)(10) = (2089)(V2)
(1889)(10)
V2 = (2089) = 9.04gal
V u = (10 — 9.04) = 0.96 gal

Note: This is dead hydraulic fluid. The pressure must not drop below
the minimum value of 2089 psi.
Step 3: Calculate the amount of hydraulic fluid necessary to increase
the pressure from the precharge to the maximum:

(1889)(10) = (3889)(V2)
(1889)(10)
V 2 = (3889) 4.86 gal
4 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

The nitrogen has been compressed from 10 to 4.86 gal.

10 — 4.86 = 5.14 gal of hydraulic fluid per bottle

Step 4: Calculate the useable hydraulic fluids per bottle:

Vu = (4.86 — 0.96) = 3.9 gal

2.1.5 Accumulator Precharge Pressure

The following is a method of calculating the average accumulator

precharge pressure by operating the unit with the charge pumps
switched off:

Vr ((Pe)(Ps))
Pp = V (Ps — Pt) (2.4)
t

Where: Pp =Precharge pressure in psi

Vr =Volume of hydraulic fluid removed in gal
Vt =Total accumulator volume in gal
Pf =Final accumulator pressure in psi
Ps =Starting accumulator pressure in psi

Example: Calculate the average accumulator precharge pressure

using the following data:
Starting accumulator pressure= 3000 psi
Final accumulator pressure = 2200
psi Volume of fluid removed = 20 gal
Total accumulator volume = 180
gal

20 ((2200)(3000)) (6, 600, 000)

Pp = 180 (3000 — 2200) = (0.1111) 800
= 917
psi
 Rig Calculations

2.2 Slug Calculations

2.2.1 Barrels of Slug Required for a Desired Length of Dry Pipe

Step l: Calculate the hydrostatic pressure required to give desired

mud
drop inside the drill pipe:

SHP = (Wm)(0.052) Lpd (2.5)

Where: SHP =Slug hydrostatic pressure in psi

Wm =Mud weight in ppg
Lpd =Length of dry pipe in ft.

Step 2: Calculate the difference in pressure gradient between the slug

weight and mud weight:

SPG = (Sw — Wm)(0.052) (2.6)

Where: SPG =Slug pressure gradient in psi/ft.

Sw =Slug weight in ppg
Wm =Mud weight in use in ppg

Step 3: Calculate the length of the slug in the drill pipe:

SHP
Sl = SPG (2.7)

Where: Sl =Slug length in ft.

Step 4: Calculate the volume of the slug in bbl:

Sv = (Sl) Vdp (2.8)
Where: Sv =Volume of slug in bbl
Vdp =Capacity of drill pipe in bbl/ft.
 4 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Example: Calculate the barrels of slug required for the following:

Desired length of dry pipe (2 stands) = 184 ft.
Mud weight = 12.2 ppg
Slug weight = 13.2 ppg
Drill pipe capacity (6⅝ in.) = 0.03457 bbl/ft.
Step 1: Hydrostatic pressure required:

SHP = (12.2)(0.052)(184) = 117psi

Step 2: Difference in pressure gradient:

SPG = (13.2 — 12.2)(0.052) = 0.052psi/ft.

Step 3: Length of slug in drill pipe:

117
S 2250ft.
l = 0.052 =

Step 4: Volume of slug:

Sv = (2250)(0.03457) = 77.8 ≈ 80.0 bbl
2.2.2 Weight of Slug Required for a Desired Length of
Dry Pipe with a Set Volume of Slug

Step 1: Calculate the length of the slug in the drill pipe in ft.:

Sv
Sl = Vdp (2.9)

Where: Sl =Slug length in ft.

Step 2: Calculate the hydrostatic pressure required to give the

desired drop of mud inside the drill pipe in psi (from
Equation (2.5)):

SHP = (Wm)(0.052) Lpd

 Rig Calculations

Where: SHP =Slug hydrostatic pressure in psi

Wm =Mud weight in ppg
Lpd =Length of dry pipe in ft.

Step 3: Calculate the weight of the desired slug:

0 1

SHP
0.052

Sw = @ A + Wm (2.10)
Sl
Where: Sw =Slug weight in ppg

Example: Calculate the weight of slug required for the following:

Desired length of dry pipe (2 stands) = 184 ft.
Mud weight = 12.2 ppg
Volume of slug = 75 bbl
Drill pipe capacity (6⅝ in.) = 0.03457 bbl/ft.
Step 1: Length of slug in drill pipe:
75
S 2170ft.
0.03457
=
Step 2: Hydrostatic pressure required:

SHP = (12.2)(0.052)(184) = 117psi

Step 3: Weight of slug:
0 117 1
0.052
Sw = A + 12.2 = 13.3ppg
@ 2170

2.2.3 Volume, Height, and Pressure Gained Because of

Placement of Slug in Drill Pipe

Step 1: Calculate the volume gained in mud pits after slug is pumped,
due to U-tubing:

Spit = (Sl) Vdp (2.11)

 5 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Where: Spit =Volume increase in mud pit in bbl

Vdp =Capacity of drill pipe in bbl/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the height of slug in the annulus in ft.:

Sh = (Vac)(Sv) (2.12)

Where: Sh =Height of the slug in the annulus in ft.

Vac =Volume of the open hole and drill pipe in ft./bbl

Step 3: Calculate the hydrostatic pressure gained in the annulus

because of the slug in psi:

SHP = (Sh)(Sw — Wm)(0.052) (2.13)

Where: SHP = Increase in hydrostatic pressure in the annulus due to

the slug in psi

Example: Calculate the increase in hydrostatic pressure gained with

the following:
Feet of dry pipe (2 stands) = 184
ft. Slug volume = 75
bbl
Slug weight = 13.2 ppg
Mud weight = 12.2 ppg
Drill pipe capacity (6⅝ in.) = 0.03457
bbl/ft. Annulus volume (9⅞× 8½ in.) = 40.74
ft./bbl Annulus volume (9⅞× 6⅝ in.) = 19.20
ft./bbl
Step 1: Volume gained in mud pits after slug is pumped, due to
U-tubing:

Spit = (184)(0.03457) = 6.4bbl

Step 2: Calculate the height of slug in the annulus in ft.:

Note that the slug volume will cover the drill collars and part of the
drill pipe section.
 Rig Calculations

600
Sh = (19.2) 75 — 40.74 + (600) = 1757.2ft.

Step 3: Calculate the hydrostatic pressure gained in the annulus

because of the slug:

SHP = (1757.2)(13.2 — 12.2)(0.052) = 91.4psi

2.2.4 English Units Calculation

Step 1: Volume gained pumping slug in bbl:

Sw
Svg = (Sv) Wm — (Sv) (2.14)

Where: Svg =Volume gained due to pumping slug in bbl

Step 2: Calculate the length of dry pipe after pumping the slug in ft.:

Svg
Sldp = Vdp (2.15)

Where: Sldp =Length of dry pipe after pumping the slug in ft.

Example: Calculate the number of barrels of mud gained due to

pumping the slug and calculate the feet of dry pipe:
Mud weight = 12.6 ppg
Slug weight = 14.2 ppg
Barrels of slug pumped = 50 barrels
Drill pipe capacity (6⅝ in.) = 0.03457
bbl/ft.
Step 1: Volume gained due to pumping slug:

14.2
Svg = (50) 12. — (50) = 6.35 bbl
6
5 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Step 2: Calculate the number of feet of dry pipe after pumping

the slug:

6.3
Sldp = 0.03457
5
= 184 ft.

2.2.5 SI Calculation

Convert English Units to SI Units with:

Barrels (bbl) × 0.159 =cubic meters (m3)
Mud weight (ppg) × 120 =kilograms/cubic meter (kg/m3)

2.3 Bulk Density of Cutting Using the Mud Balance

Procedure:
1. Cuttings must be washed free of mud. In an oil mud, the base
oil can be used instead of water.
2. Set mud balance at 8.33 ppg.
3. Fill the mud balance with the clean cuttings until a balance is
obtained with the lid in place.
4. Remove lid, fill cup with fresh water (cuttings included),
replace lid, and dry outside of mud balance.
5. Move counterweight to obtain new weight reading on the
ppg scale.
1
SG (2.16)
c = 2 — ((0.12)(Wr))

Where: SGc = Specific gravity (average bulk density) of cuttings in

gm/cm3
Wr =Resulting mud weight with cuttings plus water in ppg

Example: Calculate the average bulk density of cuttings with a final

weight of 13.0 ppg:
 Rig Calculations

1
SG 2.27 gm/cm3
2 — ((0.12)(13.0))
=
A graph may also be prepared to provide a quick direct reading of the
average bulk density.

2.4 Drill String Design

2.4.1 Estimated Weight of Drill Collars in Air

Formula 1: REGULAR drill collar weight in lb/ft.:

WRdc = 2.674 OD2 — ID2 (2.17)

Where: WRdc =Weight of REGULAR drill collar in lb/ft.

OD =Outside diameter of drill collar in inches
ID =Inside diameter of drill collar in inches

Example: Determine the weight of an 8 ,×213 16 in. regular drill collar

in lb/ft.:
Drill collar OD= 8.0
in. 13
,
Drill collar ID = 213 16 in. = 0.8125
16

WRdc = 2.674 82 — 2.81252

WRdc = 2.674(56.089844) = 149.98 ffi 150lb/ft.

Formula 2 (SPIRAL drill collar weight in lb/ft.):

WSdc = 2.56 OD2 — ID2 (2.18)

Where: WSdc =Weight of SPIRAL drill collar in lb/ft.

 5 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Example: Determine the weight of an 8 ,×213 16 in. regular drill collar

in lb/ft.:
Drill collar OD= 8.0
in. 13
,
Drill collar ID = 213 16 in. = 0.8125
16

WRdc = 2.56 82 — 2.81252

WRdc = 2.56(56.089844)
WRdc = 143.59 lb/ft.

2.4.2 Tensile Strength of Tubulars in lb (Ref.: API Spec 5D & 7)

Tensile strength for Class 1 (New) drill pipe is listed in Table 2.1.
These values should be reduced based on the class of the pipe as follows:

Class minimum weight %

1 (new) 87.5
Premium (used) 80.0
Class 2 (used) 70.0

Other dimensions may be found in Table C.1 of the API publication

Spec 5D.
Non-API Z-140 and V-150 grades are covered by proprietary specifi-
cations and can be found in T. H. Hill’s Standard DS-1™.

Table 2.1
Pipe Tensile Requirements

Yield Strength (psi)

Drill Pipe Body Grade Minimum Maximum

E 75,000 105,000
X 95,000 125,000
G 105,000 135,000
S 135,000 165,000
Tool joint 120,000 165,000
Ref: API Spec 5D, Table C.5
 Rig Calculations

2.4.3 Calculate the Reduced Tensile Yield Strength in lb

Step 1: Calculate the minimum weight wall thickness in inches:

Pt = Wmin (Wt) (2.19)
Where: Pt =Reduced pipe wall thickness in inches
Wmin =Wall thickness reduction according to pipe Class in %
Wt =Wall thickness of new pipe in inches

Example: Calculate the reduced wall thickness of 6⅝ in., ID—

5.965 in., 25.5 lb/ft., S-135 drill pipe with 0.330 in. wall.

Pt = 0.80(0.330) = 0.264in.

Step 2: Calculate the reduction in the OD of the Premium pipe in

inches:
ODr = ID + [2(Pt)] (2.20)
Where: ODr =Reduced pipe OD in inches

ODr = 5.965 + [2(0.264)] = 6.493in.

Step 3: Calculate the cross-sectional area of the reduced tube in in.2:

Ar = π OD2r — ID2 (2.21)

4

Where: Ar =Reduced cross-sectional area in in.2

Ar 3.14 6.4932 5.9652

= — = 5.166in.
2

4
Step 4: Calculate the reduced tensile yield strength in lb:
TSr = Ar(γm) (2.22)

Where: Tsr =Reduced tensile yield strength in lb

γm =Minimum yield strength in lbs from Table 2.1.

TSr = 5.166(135, 000) = 697, 410lb

 5 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

2.4.4 Calculate the Adjusted Weight of the Drill Pipe and Tool
Joints in lb/ft

Step 1: Calculate the approximate adjusted weight of the tube

in lb/ft.:
ew
Wta = Wpe + 29. (2.23)
4
Where: Wta = Approximate adjusted weight of the tube in lb/ft.
ew = Weight of the upset in API Spec 5D, Table C.13.
Wpe = Plain-end pipe-body unit mass (without upsets) in
lb/ft. (Ref: API Spec 5-DP, Table C.14, p. 97).

Example: 6⅝ in., 25.5 lb/ft., S-135 drill pipe.

24.87
Wta = 22.19 + 29.4 = 23.04lb/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the approximate weight of the tool joint in lb:

tj tj tj te

Wtja = 0.222 Ltj OD — ID + 0.167 OD — D3

2 2 3

— 0.510 IDtj2 ODtj — Dte (2.24)

Where: Wtja =Approximate weight of tool joint in lb

ODtj =Outside diameter of tool joint in inches
IDtj =Inside diameter of tool joint in inches
Dte =Inside diameter of pipe weld neck in inches
Ltj =Length of tool joint in inches

Wtja = 0.222(19) 8.02 — 4.252 + 0.167 8.03 — 6.9383

— 0.510 4.252 (8.0 — 6.938)= 213.7
lb
Step 3: Calculate the adjusted length of the tool joint in ft.:
 Rig Calculations

Ltja Ltj + 2.253 ODtj — Dte (2.25)

=
12
Where: Ltja =Adjusted length of tool joint in ft.

Example: Calculate the adjusted length of the 6⅝ in. tool joint with an
8.5 in. OD, length—19 in., and a 6.938 weld neck.
19 + 2.253(8.5 — 6.938)
Ltja = = 1.877 ft.
12
Step 4: Calculate the adjusted weight of the drill pipe and tool joint
in lb/ft.:
[Wta (29.4)] + Wtja
Wadj = (2.26)

=Adjusted
Where: WadjW + weight of the drill pipe and tool joint in lb/ft.

[23.0359(29.4)] + 260.96
W adj = (1.877 + 29.4) 30.0lb/ft.

2.4.5 Calculate the Length of BHA Necessary for a Desired

Weight on the Bit

The following will be determined: Length of bottom hole assembly

(BHA) necessary for a desired weight on bit (WOB). Feet of
Premium drill pipe that can be used with a specific bottom hole
assembly.
Step 1: Calculate the Buoyancy Factor (from Section 1.16):

65.5 — MW
BF =
65.5
Step 2: Calculate the length of BHA necessary for a desired weight on
the bit:

(Wbit)(1 + fdc)
L BHA = (Wdc)(BF) (2.27)
5 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Where: LBMHA =Length of BHA necessary for a desired WOB in ft.

Wbit =Desired weight on bit (WOB) in lb
fdc =Safety factor to place neutral point in drill collars
Wdc =Weight of drill collar in lb/ft.

Example: Calculate the BHA length necessary for a desired WOB:

Desired WOB while drilling = 50,000 lb
Safety factor = 15%
Mud weight = 12.0 ppg
Drill collar weight (8 × 3 in.) =
1471b/ft.
Step 1: Calculate the Buoyancy Factor (from Section 1.16):
65.5 — 12.0
BF 65.5 0.8168
=
Step 2: Calculate the length of the BHA necessary for this weight
on bit:
(50, 000)(1 + 0.15)
L = 479ft.
(147)(0.8168)

2.4.6 Calculate the Maximum Length of Premium Drill Pipe That

Can Be Run into the Hole with a Specific BHA Assemble Based
on Margin of Overpull

Note: Obtain tensile strength for new pipe from Table 2.2 and adjust
for Premium service.
Step 1: Calculate the Buoyancy Factor (from Section 1.16):

65.5 — MW
BF =
65.5
Step 2: Calculate the maximum length of Premium drill pipe that can
be run into the hole with a specific BHA assemble based on
margin of overpull:

Lmax = — ((WBHA)(BF))
(TSr) fdp — MOP (2.28)
W

(BF)dpa
 Rig Calculations

Table 2.2
Drill Pipe Data

Tensile
Nominal Yield Pipe Body
Size OD Size ID Weight Strength Section
(in.) (in.) (lb/ft.) Grade Connection (lb) Area (in.2)
3½ 2.764 13.30 X 95 NC 38 344,000 3.621
G 105 NC 38 380,000
S 135 NC 38 488,800
Z 140 HT 31 506,900
V 150 HT 31 543,100
4 3.240 15.70 X 95 NC 40 410,000 4.322
G 105 NC 40 453,000
S 135 NC 40 583,400
Z 140 HT 40 605,000
V 150 HT 40 648,200
4½ 3.826 16.60 X 95 NC 50 418,700 4.407
G 105 NC 50 462,800
S 135 NC 50 595,000
Z 140 HT 50 617,000
V 150 HT 50 661,100
5 4.276 19.5 X 95 NC 50 501,100 5.275
G 105 NC 50 553,800
S 135 NC 50 712,100
Z 140 HT 50 738,400
V 150 HT 50 791,200
6⅝ 5.965 25.50 X 95 FH 620,000 6.526
G 105 FH 685,200
S 135 FH 881,000
Z 140 FH 913,700
V 150 FH 978,900

Ref: Grant Prideco, Drill Pipe Data Catalog, 2003.

Where: Lmax = Maximum length of Premium drill pipe that can be

run into the hole with a specific BHA in ft.
TSr = Reduced tensile strength for Premium (used) drill
pipe in lb
fdp = Safety factor
MOP = Margin of overpull in lb
WBHA = Air weight of the BHA in lb
Wdp = Adjusted weight of the Premium drill pipe with
tool joints in lb/ft.
 6 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Step 3: Calculate the total depth that can be reached with a specific
BHA in ft.:

DT = Lmax + LBHA (2.29)

Where: DT = Total depth that can be reached with a specific BHA

in ft.
LBHA =Length of BHA to be run in ft.

Example:
Drill pipe (6⅝ in.) = 25.20 lb/ft. (S-135) (adjusted
weight= 30.0 lb/ft.)
Tensile strength = 881,000 lb (Class 1—New)
Reduced tensile strength = 697,410 lb (Premium—used, calculated
from Equation (2.22))
BHA weight in air = 50,000 lb
BHA length = 500 ft.
Desired overpull = 100,000 lb
Mud weight = 13.5 ppg
Safety factor = 10%
Step 1: Buoyancy Factor:

65.5 — 13.5
BF 65.5 0.7939
= =
Step 2: Calculate the maximum length of Premium drill pipe that can
be run into the hole based on a margin of overpull in ft.:

(((697, 410)(0.9)) — 100, 000 — ((50, 000)(0.7939)))

Lmax
= (30.0)(0.7939)
487, 974
L max = = 20, 488.5 20, 489 ft.
23.817 ffi
Step 3: Calculate the total depth that can be reached with this
BHA and this Premium drill pipe in ft.:

DT = 20, 489 + 500 = 20, 989 ft.

 Rig Calculations

2.4.7 Calculate the Length of Premium Drill Pipe Based on

Overpull and Slip Crushing

Step 1: Calculate the tensile strength of the drill pipe in psi:

WS = γm (Ar) (2.30)

Where: WS =Working strength in psi

γm =Minimum yield strength in psi

Example: Calculate the tensile strength of 6⅝ in. S-135 drill pipe

with a cross-sectional area of 6.526 in.2
WS = 135, 000(6.526) = 881, 010psi

2.4.7.1 Slip Crushing

Definition: The slip crushing relationship describes the possibility that

the drill pipe can be crushed by the axial load due to high
hoop stresses that exist in the cylindrical pipe body while
hung in the rotary slips with a large string load.

σσht
Step 1: Table
Calculate
2.3):the minimum stress ratio . (Also available in
sffiffiffiffi ffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffiffi2ffiffi
Rms 1+ D ( k ) + D ( k ) (2.31)
= 2 (Ls) 2( Ls)
σ
Where: R Minimum stress ratio h . [σ Pipe body hoop stress;
= σt
σt =Pipe body tensile axial stress]
D =OD of pipe in inches
k =Lateral load factor of the slips (refer to Table 2.3)
Ls =Length of the slips in inches

Step 2: Calculate the axial tensile stress of the pipe body at the slips:
Ws
σ=t Ap (2.32)
 6 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Table 2.3
σh
Minimum Ratios to Prevent Slip Crushing
σt

Slip σt
Length Coefficient Lateral
Load σ
(in.) of Friction Factor 2⅜ Minimum
2⅞ 3½Ratio 4 h Pipe
4½Size (in.)
5 5½
12 0.06 4.36 1.27 1.34 1.43 1.50 1.58 1.65 1.73
0.08 4.00 1.25 1.31 1.39 1.45 1.52 1.59 1.66
0.10 3.68 1.22 1.28 1.35 1.41 1.47 1.54 1.60
0.12 3.42 1.21 1.26 1.32 1.38 1.43 1.49 1.55
0.14 3.18 1.19 1.24 1.30 1.34 1.40 1.45 1.50
16 0.06 4.36 1.20 1.24 1.30 1.36 1.41 1.47 1.52
0.08 4.00 1.18 1.22 1.28 1.32 1.37 1.42 1.47
0.10 3.68 1.16 1.20 1.25 1.29 1.34 1.38 1.43
0.12 3.42 1.15 1.18 1.23 1.27 1.31 1.35 1.39
0.14 3.18 1.14 1.17 1.21 1.25 1.28 1.32 1.36

Where: σt =Axial tensile stress of the tube in psi

Ws =Weight of the string in lb
Ap =Cross-sectional area of the pipe in in. 2
Step 3: Calculate the hoop stress of the pipe body in psi:
σh = Rms(σt) (2.33)
Where: σh =Pipe body hoop stress in psi
Rms =Minimum stress ratio from Step 1 or Table 2.3.

Step 4: Calculate the approximate safety factor for pipe body slip
crushing:
γ
SFsc = m (2.34)
σh
Where: SFSC =Safety factor for slip crushing
γm =Minimum Yield Strength in psi (from Table 2.1).

Example: Calculate the safety factor for the following conditions:

DP = 5.0 in. (G-105, 19.5 lb/ft., NC50, Class1—New)
String weight= 220,000 lb
 Rig Calculations

Cross-sectional area = 5.275 in.2

Coefficient of friction= 0.08
Lateral load factor = 4.0
Slip length = 16 in.
h
Step 1: Calculate the minimum stress ratio :
σtσ

sffiffiffiffi ffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffiffi

Rms = ffiffiffi ffiffiffi1+ffi ffiffi5ffiffi ffiffiffi0 ffi ffiffi4ffiffi ffiffiffiffi02ffi+
. ( . ) 2(16)
5 . 0 ( 4 2(16) .0 )
,ffi ffiffiffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffiffiffi ffiffiffi ffi ffiffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ,ffi ffiffi ffi ffiffiffi ffiffi ffiffi ffiffiffi
Rms = 1 + 0 . 6 2 5 + 0 . 3 9 0 6 = 2 . 0 1 5 6 = 1.4197
Step 2: Calculate the axial tensile stress of the pipe body at the slips:
220, 000
σ= 41, 706psi
5.275
Step 3: Calculate the hoop stress of the pipe body in psi:

σh = 1.4197(41, 906) = 59, 210psi

Step 4: Calculate the approximate safety factor for pipe body slip
crushing:

105, 000
SF = 59, 210 1.77

2.4.8 Design of a Drill String for a Specific Set of Well Conditions

This design method will use two conditions to calculate the length of
the various grades of drill pipe: margin of overpull and slip crushing.
The objective of this technique is to select the smallest length of pipe
calculated with the two methods.
2 3
γm fdp
— [WDS(BF)]
7
Lpsc = 5)
6 (BF)
4 5
(
Ks
2
Wdpa
.
3
 6 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Where: Lpsc =Length of drill pipe based on slip crushing.

h
K Constant for the minimum ratio of hoop stress
σ σt
=to
s tensile stress that can be found in Table 2.3.

WDS = Air weight of the drill string, including the BHA,

in lb
Wdpa = Adjusted weight of the drill pipe with tool joints in
lb/ft.

Step 1: Calculate length of drill collars in ft.:

W b + Tj
LDCbj = (2.36)
(BF(WDC))

Where: LDCbj =Length of drill collars below jars in ft.

Wb =Weight on bit in lb
Tj =Jarring tension in lb
WDC =Weight of drill collar in lb/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the total length of drill collars required in ft.:

LDCT = LDCbj + LDCaj (2.37)

Where: LDCT =Total length of drill collars required in ft.
LDCaj =Length of drill collars above jars in ft.

Step 3: Calculate the length of heavy weight drill pipe in ft.:

Wj — LHWj (WDC)(BF)
LHW (2.38)
(WHW)(BF)
Where: =LHW Length of heavy weight drill pipe in ft. (round off
= heavy weight to full joints)
LHWj =Length of heavy weight to provide jarring weight in lb
WHW =Weight of heavy weight drill pipe in lb

Step 4: Calculate the buoyed weight of the BHA:

LBHA = LDCT + LHW (2.39)
 Rig Calculations

Step 5: Calculate the air weight of the BHA in lb:

WBHAa = [WDC (LDCT )] + [WHW(LHW)] (2.40)

Where: WBHAa =Air weight of BHA in lb

Step 6: Calculate the buoyed weight of the BHA in lb:

WBHA = WBHAa(BF) (2.41)

Where: WBHA =Buoyed weight of the BHA in lb

Step 7: Design Section 1 of drill string above the BHA:
Use Equation (2.28) to calculate the Lmax based on the margin of
overpull in ft.
Use Equation (2.35) to calculate the Lpsc based on slip crushing in
ft. Select the shortest length to use in Section 1.
Step 8: Add the BHA and the drill pipe selected for Section 1 to
find the buoyed weight needed to design the next section
(see example).
Step 9: Repeat Steps 7 and 8 until the top section of the drill string has
been selected.
Step 10: Prepare a summary of the BHA and Sections 1, 2 and 3 of
the drill pipe.
Step 11: Prepare a check of the margin of overpull for each grade of
drill pipe selected.
Step 12: Prepare a summary of the String Design.
Example: Design a drill string to drill to 18,000 ft. using:
Weight on bit = 30,000 lb
Jarring tension = 7000 lb
DC for jarring wt. = 62
ft. Average length of DC = 31
ft.
HW to complete jarring wt. = 12,000 lb (less 2 DCs)
Mud weight = 16.0 ppg (BF =
0.7557)
Slip length = 16
6 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and
in. Coefficient of friction = 0.08
 66
Rig Calculations

Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and Workover

Available String

Pipe Size

OD ID Wt Wmin ODr Ar Wta Wtja Ltja Wadj

# Item (in.) (in.) (lb/ft.) Grade (in.) (in.) (in.) TSr (lb) (lb/ft.) (lb) (in.) (lb/ft.)
1 DC 7 2.8125 110 NC50
2 HW 5 3.0 42.72 NC50 49.77
3 DP 5 4.276 19.5 X-95 0.2896 4.855 4.152 394,440 18.22 137.8 1.748 21.62
4 DP 5 4.276 19.5 G-105 0.2896 4.855 4.152 435,960 18.22 145.7 1.748 21.88
5 DP 5 4.276 19.5 S-135 0.2896 4.855 4.152 560,520 18.22 159.7 1.748 22.32
 Rig Calculations

Step 1: Calculate the length of the drill collars for bit weight and jarring
tension:

(30, 000 + 7000)

L= (0.7557)(110) 445ft.
Step 2: Calculate the total length of the drill collars:
LDCT = 445 + 62 = 507 ft.
Step 3: Calculate the length of the heavy weight drill pipe:

12,000 — [(62)(110)( 0.7557)]

L= (49.77)(0.7557) = 182.4 ffi 186ft. ( 2 stands
)HW
Step 4: Summary: BHA.
Length = 507 + 186 = 693 ft.
Air wt. =[507 (110)] +[186 (49.77)] = 65,027 lb
Buoyed wt. = 65,027 (0.7557) = 49,141 lb
Step 5: Calculate the length of the first section (#3) of drill pipe:

(((394, 440)(0.9)) — 100, 000 — (49, 141))

L= (21.62)(0.7557) 12, 600 ft.
2 (394, 3
440 ( 0.9))
— (65, 027(0.7557))
Lpsc =4 1.42 5= 12, 294 ft.
(21.62)(0.7557)

Select the smallest length, therefore the design is limited by slip

crushing.
Step 6: Summary: BHA and Section 1 (#3) of drill pipe:
BHA wt. = 49,141 lb
Grade X air wt. = 12,294 (21.62) = 265,796 lb
Grade X buoyed wt. = 265,796 (0.7557) = 200,862 lb
Total buoyed wt. = 49,141 + 200,862 lb= 250,003
lb
 6 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Step 7: Calculate the length of the second section (#4) of drill pipe:

(((435, 960)(0.9)) — 100, 000 — (250, 003))

L= (21.88)(0.7557) 2562ft.
2 (435, 960 (0.9)) 3
— (250, 003)
Lpsc =4 1.42 5 = 1591ft.
(21.88)(0.7557)

Select the smallest length, therefore the design is limited by slip

crushing.
Step 8: Summary: BHA and Sections 1 (#3) & 2 (#4) of drill pipe:
BHA wt. = 49,141 lb
Grade X = 200,862 lb
Grade G air wt. = 1591 (21.88) = 34,811 lb
Grade G buoyed wt. = 34,811 (0.7557) = 26,307
lb
Total buoyed wt. = 49,141 + 200,862 + 26,307 = 276,310 lb
Step 9: Calculate the length of the third section (#5) of drill pipe:

(((560, 520)(0.9)) — 100, 000 — (276, 310))

Lmax = = 7598 ft.
(2 2.32)(0.7557)
2 (560, 520( 3
— (276, 310)
Lpsc = 4 0.9)) 1.42 5 = 4681ft.
(22.32)(0.7557)

Select the smallest length, therefore the design is limited by slip

crushing.
Step 10: Summary: BHA and Sections 1 (#3), 2 (#4) and 3 (#5) of drill
pipe.
Drill collars = 507 ft.
Heavy weight DP = 186 ft.
Grade X DP = 12,294
ft.
Grade G DP = 1591 ft.
Sub total = 14,578 ft.
Grade S DP length= 18,000 — 14,578 = 3422
ft. Total drill string = 18,000 ft.
 Rig Calculations

Total buoyed wt. = 276,310 +[(3422)(22.32)(0.7557)]

=334,030 lb
Total depth possible = 14,578 + 4681 = 19,259 ft.
Step 11: Margin of overpull check:
Grade X =[(394,440)(0.90)]— 250,003 = 104,993 lb
Grade G=[(435,960)(0.90)]— 276,310 = 116,054 lb
Grade S =[(560,520)(0.90)]— 334,030 = 170,438 lb
Step 12: Summary of design.

Length Air Buoyed Accumulated

Item Description (ft.) Wt. (lb) Wt. (lb) Wt. (lb) MOP (lb)
,
DC: 7 × 213 16 × 110, 507 55,770 42,145
NC50

Ref: Murchison Drilling School.

2.5 Depth of a Washout

Method 1:
Pump soft line or other plugging material down the drill pipe and
note how many strokes are required before the pump pressure
increases. Use a moderate pump rate to prevent forcing the plugging
material through the washed out pipe.

Dpwol (Cr) Op
= (2.42)
Vpc

Where: Dpwo1 =Depth of pipe washout in ft.

Cr =Strokes required for the pump pressure to increase
Op =Pump output in bbl
Vpc =Capacity of drill pipe in bbl/ft.
7 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Example:
Drill pipe = 3½ in.—13.3
lb/ft. DP capacity = 0.00742
bbl/ft.
Pump output= 0.112 bbl/stk (5½× 14 in. duplex @ 90% efficiency)
Note: A pressure increase was noted after 360 stk.

(360)(0.112)
Dpwol = 0.00742 = 54.34 ft.

Method 2:
Pump some material that will go through the washout, up the
annulus, and over the shale shaker. This material must be of the type
that can be easily observed as it comes across the shaker. Examples:
Carbide, uncooked rice, corn starch, glass or plastic beads, brightly
colored paint, and so on. In nonaqueous fluids, use a red dye
designed for use to identify cement spacers.
!
(Cr) Op
Dpwo2 (2.43)
Vpc + Vacb
=
Where: Dpwo2 = Depth of pipe washout in ft.
Vacb = Capacity of the annulus between the open hole or
casing in bbl/ft.

Example:
Drill pipe = 3½ in.—13.3
=
lb/ft. Drill pipe capacity 0.00742
bbl/ft.
Pump output = 0.112 bbl/stk (5½ 14 in. duplex @ 90%
efficiency)
Annulus hole size = 8½ in.
Annulus capacity = 0.0583 bbl/ft. (8½× 3½ in.)
Note: The material pumped down the drill pipe came over the shaker
after 2680 stk.
 Rig Calculations

(2680)(0.112)
D = 4569 ft.
(0.00742 + 0.0583)

2.6 Stuck Pipe Calculations

2.6.1 Determine the Length of Free Pipe in Feet and the Free
Point Constant

Method 1: The depth at which the pipe is stuck and the number of
feet of free pipe can be estimated by using the data in the
drill pipe stretch Table 2.4 is shown below with the
following formula.

Table 2.4
Drill Pipe Stretch Table

ID Nominal Wall Area Stretch Constant in Free Point

(in.) Weight (lb/ft.) ID (in.) (in.2) 1000 lb/1000 ft. Constant
2⅜ 4.85 1.995 1.304 0.30675 3260.0
6.65 1.815 1.843 0.21704 4607.7
2⅞ 6.85 2.241 1.812 0.22075 4530.0
10.40 2.151 2.858 0.13996 7145.0
3½ 9.50 2.992 2.590 0.15444 6475.0
13.30 2.764 3.621 0.11047 9052.5
15.50 2.602 4.304 0.09294 10760.0
4 11.85 3.476 3.077 0.13000 7692.5
14.00 3.340 3.805 0.10512 9512.5
4½ 13.75 3.958 3.600 0.11111 9000.0
16.60 3.826 4.407 0.09076 11017.5
18.10 3.754 4.836 0.08271 12090.0
20.00 3.640 5.498 0.07275 13745.0
5 16.25 4.408 4.374 0.09145 10935.0
19.50 4.276 5.275 0.07583 13187.5
5½ 21.90 4.778 5.828 0.06863 14570.0
24.70 4.670 6.630 0.06033 16575.0
6⅝ 25.20 5.965 6.526 0.06129 16315.0
 7 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Pf1 Pdps Kfpt (2.44)

=
Fp
Where: Pf1 =Length of free pipe in ft.
Pdps =Drill pipe stretch in inches
Kfpt =Free point constant from Table 2.4
Fp =Pull force in 1000 lb

Example: Calculate the length of free drill pipe with the following
data:
Drill pipe= 6.625 in.— 25.2 lb/ft. (S-
135) Stretch = 20 in.
Pull force= 35,000 lb
Step 1: Determine the drill pipe stretch from Table 2.4:
Kfpt = 16315.0
Step 2: Calculate the length of free pipe:
(34)(16315.0)
Pf1 = = 15, 849 ft.
35
Method 2: Calculate the free point constant (Kfpc). The free point
con- stant can be calculated for any type of steel drill pipe
if the outside diameter (OD, in.) and inside diameter (ID,
in.) are known:
Step 1: Calculate the cross-sectional area of the drill pipe wall in square
inches:

p i
As = D2 — D2 (0.7854) (2.45)
Where: As =Cross-sectional area of the pipe wall in square inches
Dp =Outside diameter of drill pipe in inches
Di =Inside diameter of drill pipe in inches

Step 2: Calculate the free point constant for the drill pipe:

Kfpc = (As)(2500) (2.46)

 Rig Calculations

Where: Kfpc =Calculated free point constant

Example: Calculate the free point constant with the following data:
Drill pipe size and weight= 6.625 × 5.965 in., 25.2 lb/ft.
Step 1: Calculate the cross-sectional area:

As = 6.6252 — 5.9652 (0.7854) = 6.53 in.2

Step 2: Calculate the free point constant:

Kfpc = (6.53)(2500) = 16, 325

Example: Calculate the free point constant and the depth the pipe is
stuck using the following data:
Tubing size and weight= 2.375 × 2.441 in., 6.5 lb/ft.
Stretch = 25 in.
Pull force = 20,000 lb
Step 1: Calculate the cross-sectional area:

As = 2.3752 — 1.8152 (0.7854) = 1.843 in.2

Step 2: Calculate the free point constant:

Kfpc = (1.843)(2500) = 4607.5

Step 3: Calculate the depth of stuck pipe:
(25)(4607.5)
Pf1 = = 5759 ft.
20
Method 3: This method of calculating the length of free pipe does not
use the free point constant listed in Table 2.4.
Step 1: Calculate the weight of the drill pipe tube without the tool joints
in lb/ft.:

p i
Wdpt = 2.674 D2 — D2 (2.47)
 7 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Where: Wdpt =Weight of drill pipe tube in lb/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the length of free pipe in ft.:

Pf2 (735, 294) Pdps Wdpt (2.48)

=
Fpd

Where: Pf2 =Length of free pipe in ft.

Pdps =Pipe stretch from Table 2.2 in inches
Wdpt =Weight of drill pipe tube in lb/ft. (excluding tool joints)
Fpd =Differential pull force in lb

Note: The weight of the drill pipe tube without the tool joints may be
used if known instead of the calculated value.
Example: Calculate the length of free pipe using the following data:
Drill pipe size = 5.0 4.276 in.
(19.5 lb/ft.)
Stretch of pipe = 24 in.
Differential pull force to obtain stretch= 30,000 lb
Step 1: Calculate the weight of the drill pipe tube:

Wdpt = (2.674) 5.02 — 4.2762 = 17.958 lb/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the length of free pipe:

(735, 294)(24)(17.958)
P= 30, 000 10, 564 ft.

2.6.2 Stuck Pipe Overbalance Guidelines

1500
POBG = K — ((sin∢)(1000)) (2.49)
 Rig Calculations

Table 2.5
Angle Sin Values

Angle Sin Angle Sin Angle Sin

5 0.087156 35 0.573576 65 0.906308
10 0.173648 40 0.642788 70 0.939693
15 0.258819 45 0.707107 75 0.965926
20 0.342020 50 0.766044 80 0.984808
25 0.422618 55 0.819152 85 0.996195
30 0.500000 60 0.866025 90 1.000000

Where: POBG = Overbalance pressure guideline in psi (stuck pipe

risk may be over 90% above this value)
K = Mud type factor (0.75 for OBM or SBM; 1.0 for
WBM)
∢ =Angle of hole in degrees (decimal value) (Table 2.5)

Example 1: Determine the overbalance guideline for reducing the risk

of stuck pipe with SBM in psi:

Data: Hole angle= 30°

Mud type =Synthetic base mud (SBM)

1500
POBG = 0.7 — ((0.50)(1000)) = 1500 psi
5
Example 2: Determine the overbalance guideline for reducing the risk
of stuck pipe with WBM in psi:

Data: Hole angle = 30°

Mud type =Water base mud (WBM)

1500
POBG = 1. — ((0.50)(1000)) = 1000 psi
0
 7 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

2.7 Calculations Required for Placing Spotting Pills

in an Open Hole Annulus

2.7.1 Calculate the Amount of Spotting Fluid Pill in Barrels

Required to Cover the Stuck Point of the Drill String or Casing,
Then Calculate the Number of Pump Strokes Required to Spot
the Pill

Step 1: Calculate the hole “washout” size in inches:

Dhwo = ((Dbit)(Hwo)) + Dbit (2.50)
Where: Dhwo =Diameter of hole “washout” in inches
Dbit =Diameter of bit in inches
Hwo =Hole “washout” factor in percent

Step 2: Calculate the annular volume for the drill pipe (or HWDP) and
drill collars in bbl/ft.
2
hwo
D — D2p
Ca = (2.51)
1029.4
Where: Ca = Annular capacity in bbl/ft.
Dp = Outside diameter of drill pipe, HWDP or drill collars
in inches

Step 3: Calculate the volume of the spotting fluid pill required for the
annulus in bbl:
Vsfpa = (Va) Lsfpa (2.52)
Where: Vsfpa =Volume of spotting fluid pill the annulus in bbl
Lsfpa =Length of spotting fluid pill in annulus in ft.

Step 4: Calculate the total volume of the spotting fluid pill required to
cover the fish in bbl:
Vsfpt = Vsfpa + Vsfpds (2.53)
Where: Vsfpt =Total volume of spotting fluid pill required in bbl
 Rig Calculations

Vsfpds = Predetermined volume of spotting fluid pill to be

left inside drill string in bbl

Step 5: Calculate the drill string capacity for each pipe section in bbl:

Di2
Cp (L s) (2.54)
= 1029.4

Where: Cp = Volume of drill pipe, HWDP, or drill collar section

in bbl
Di = Inside diameter (ID) of drill pipe, HWDP, or drill
collars in inches
Ls =Length of drill pipe, HWDP, or drill collar section in ft.

Step 6: Calculate the strokes required to pump the spotting fluid pill:

Vsfpt
Ssfp =
(2.55)
Op
Where: Csfp =Strokes to pump spotting fluid pill
Op =Pump output in bbl/stk

Step 7: Calculate the volume required to chase the spotting fluid pill
in bbl:

Vcsfp = Vds — Vsfpds (2.56)

Where: Vcsfp =Volume required to chase the spotting fluid in bbl

Vds =Volume of drill string in bbl
Vsfpds =Volume of spotting fluid pill left in drill string in bbl

Step 8: Calculate the pump strokes required to chase the spotting

fluid pill:

VO
csfp
Scsfp = p + Sss (2.57)
 7 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Where: Scsfp = Strokes required to chase the spotting fluid

Sss = Strokes required to pump spotting fluid through
surface system

Step 9: Calculate the total strokes to spot the pill:

Ssfpt = Ssfp + Scsfp (2.58)

Where: Ssfpt =Total strokes to spot the pill

Example: The drill collars are differentially stuck. Use the following
data to spot a base oil pill around the drill collars plus
200 ft. (optional) above the collars and leave 30 barrels in
the drill string:
Well depth (MD) = 10,000
ft. Hole diameter = 8½ in.
Washout factor = 20%
Drill pipe = 5.0 in. (19.51b/ft.)
DP capacity = 0.0178 bbl/ft.
DP length = 9400 ft.
Drill collars = 6½ 2½ in.
DC capacity = 0.0061 bbl/ft.
DC length = 600 ft.
Pump output = 0.117 bbl/stk
Surface system = 80 stk (strokes required to pump the pill to the
drill string).
Step 1: Calculate the hole “washout” size in inches:

Dhwo = ((8.5)(0.20)) + 8.5 = 10.2 in.

Step 2: Calculate the annular volume for the drill pipe and drill collars:
(a) Annular capacity around the drill collars:

Vadc 10.22 — 6.52 = 0.0600 bbl/ft.

= 1029.4
 Rig Calculations

(b) Annular capacity around the drill pipe:

Vadp 10.22 — 5.02 = 0.0768 bbl/ft.

= 1029.4

Step 3: Calculate the total volume of pill required in the annulus:

(a) Volume opposite the drill collars:

V = (0.0600)(600) = 36 bbl

(b) Volume opposite the drill pipe:

V = (0.0768)(200) = 15.4 bbl

(c) Total volume, bbl, required in the annulus:

V = 36 + 15.4 = 51.4 bbl

Step 4: Calculate the total volume required for the spotting fluid pill:

Vt = 51.4+ 30 = 81.4 bbl ≈ 81 bbl

Step 5: Calculate the drill string capacity:

(a) Drill collar capacity in bbl:

Vdc = (0.0061)(600) = 3.7 bbl

(b) Drill pipe capacity in bbl:

Vdp = (0.0178)(9400) = 167.3 bbl

(c) Total drill string capacity in bbl:

Vtds = 3.7 + 167.3 = 171 bbl

 8 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Step 6: Calculate the strokes required to pump the pill:

81
S= + 80 692 stk
0.117
Step 7: Calculate the volume required to chase the spotting fluid pill:

Vcsfp = (171 — 30) = 141 bbl

Step 8: Calculate the strokes required to chase the pill:

141
Scsfp = 0.117 + 80 = 1285 stk

Step 9: Calculate the strokes required to spot the pill:

Ssfpt = 692 + 1285 = 1977 stk

2.7.2 Determine the Length of an Unweighted Spotting Fluid Pill

That Will Balance Formation Pressure in the Annulus in ft

Step 1: Calculate the difference in pressure gradient between the mud

weight and the spotting fluid pill in psi/ft.:

Gsfp = Wm — Wsfp (0.052) (2.59)

Where: Gsfp =Difference in pressure gradient in psi/ft.

Wm =Weight of mud in lb/gal
Wsfp =Weight of spotting fluid pill in lb/gal

Step 2: Calculate the length of an unweighted spotting fluid pill that

will balance formation pressure in the annulus:

OB
L =sf p Gsfp (2.60)
 Rig Calculations

Where: Lsfp =Length of unweighted spotting fluid pill in ft.

OB = Overbalance pressure needed to control pore pressure
in psi

Example: Use the following data to determine the length of an

unweighted spotting fluid pill that will balance formation
pressure in the annulus:
Mud weight = 11.2 ppg
Weight of spotting fluid pill= 6.7 ppg (diesel= 7.0 ppg/synthetic
= 6.7 ppg)
Amount of overbalance = 250.0 psi
Step 1: Calculate the difference in pressure gradient in psi/ft.:

Gsfp = (11.2 — 6.7)(0.052) = 0.234 psi/ft.

Step 2: Calculate the length of an unweighted spotting fluid pill that
will balance formation pressure in the annulus:
250
L= 1068 ft.
0.234
Therefore: Less than 1068 ft. of an unweighted spotting fluid pill
should be used to maintain a safe balance of the
formation pore pressure and prevent an influx that would
cause a kick or blowout.

Reference

Murchison, B., 1982. Murchison Drilling Schools Operations Drilling Tech-

nology and Well Control Manual. Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Bibliography

Adams, R.J., Ellis, S.E., Wadsworth, T.M., Lee Jr., G.W., Deepwater String
Design, AADE 01-NC-HO-05, AADE 2001 National Drilling Confer-
ence, Houston, Texas, March 27–29, 2001.
Bourgoyne, A.T., Millheim, K.K., Chenevert, M.E., Young, F.S., 1991.
Applied Drilling Engineering. SPE, Richardson, Texas.
 8 Formulas and Calculations for Drilling, Production, and

Chenevert, M.E., Hollo, R., 1981. 77–59 Drilling Engineering Manual. Penn-
Well Publishing Company, Tulsa.
Crammer Jr., J.L., 1983. Basic Drilling Engineering Manual. PennWell Pub-
lishing Company, Tulsa.
International Association of Drilling Contractors, 1982. Drilling Manual,
Houston, Texas.