Larger drillstrings could improve contractor profits

Journal Article · Thu Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1990 · World Oil; (USA)

OSTI ID:6891732

Dudman, R L; Dudman, R A ^[1]

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1. Pintec Services, Inc., Houston, TX (US)

The profitability of contract drilling is virtually nonexistent. Operating conditions have changed with the operator and turnkey contractor pushing equipment to its limit to obtain maximum rate of penetration (ROP). The desire to increase ROP without regard for the endurance limit of the drillstring causes premature downhole failures. Drillstrings have changed only slightly with the increase in required bit weight and rotary speed. Some bits require less weight with higher rotary speeds, which can destroy the drillstring. These changes in operating conditions require a change in drillstring design in order to provide a long service life and reduce excessive OD wear and premature fatigue failures. The selection of drillstrings for the 90s requires a new approach. A new string of drill pipe can be severely abused on the first well if precautions are not taken to protect it. The authors propose that low stress level drillstring design can minimize wear and fatigue, drill straight, useful, trouble-free holes and reduce operating expenses.

• OSTI ID: 6891732
• Journal Information: World Oil; (USA), Journal Name: World Oil; (USA) Vol. 210:3; ISSN 0043-8790; ISSN WOOIA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020200* -- Petroleum-- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration
DESIGN
DRILL BITS
DRILLING EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
FATIGUE
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES