Eni Drilling Design Manual

ARPO ORGANISING TYPE OF ISSUING DOC. REFER TO PAGE.
1
ENI S.p.A. DEPARTMENT ACTIVITY' DEPT. TYPE SECTION N.
Agip Division
OF 230
STAP P 1 M 6100
TITLE
DRILLING DESIGN MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION LIST
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STAP Archive
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NOTE: The present document is available in Eni Agip Intranet (http://wwwarpo.in.agip.it) and a
CD-Rom version can also be distributed (requests will be addressed to STAP Dept. in
Eni - Agip Division Headquarter)
Date of issue: 28/06/99
€ Issued by P. Magarini C. Lanzetta A. Galletta

E. Monaci
28/06/99 28/06/99 28/06/99
REVISIONS PREP'D CHK'D APPR'D
The present document is CONFIDENTIAL and it is property of AGIP It shall not be shown to third parties nor shall it be used for
reasons different from those owing to which it was given
ARPO IDENTIFICATION CODE PAGE 2 OF 230
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Agip Division REVISION
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INDEX
1. INTRODUCTION 9
1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES 9
1.2. IMPLEMENTATION 9
1.3. UPDATING, AMENDMENT, CONTROL& DEROGATION 9
2. PRESSURE EVALUATION 10
2.1. FORECAST ON PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS 10
2.2. OVERPRESSURE EVALUATION 11
2.2.1. Methods Before Drilling 12
2.2.2. Methods While Drilling 12
2.2.3. Real Time Indicators 13
2.2.4. Indicators Depending on Lag Time 14
2.2.5. Methods After Drilling 16
2.3. TEMPERATURE PREDICTION 19
2.3.1. Temperature Gradients 20
2.3.2. Temperature Logging 20
3. SELECTION OF CASING SEATS 21

3.1. CONDUCTOR CASING 24
3.2. SURFACE CASING 24
3.3. INTERMEDIATE CASING 24
3.4. DRILLING LINER 25
3.5. PRODUCTION CASING 25
4. CASING DESIGN 26
4.1. INTRODUCTION 26
4.2. PROFILES AND DRILLING SCENARIOS 27
4.2.1. Casing Profiles 27
4.3. CASING SPECIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION 28
4.3.1. Casing Specification 28
4.3.2. Classification Of API Casing 29
4.4. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF STEEL 29
4.4.1. General 29
4.4.2. Stress-Strain Diagram 29
4.5. NON-API CASING 31
4.6. CONNECTIONS 32
4.6.1. API Connections 32
4.7. APPROACH TO CASING DESIGN 33
4.7.1. Wellbore Forces 33
4.7.2. Design Factor (DF) 34
4.7.3. Design Factors 35
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4.7.4. Application of Design Factors 35

4.8. DESIGN CRITERIA 36
4.8.1. Burst 36
4.8.2. Collapse 39
4.8.3. Tension 42
4.9. BIAXIAL STRESS 43
4.9.1. Effects On Collapse Resistance 43
4.9.2. Company Design Procedure 45
4.9.3. Example Collapse Calculation 46
4.10. BENDING 47
4.10.1. General 47
4.10.2. Determination Of Bending Effect 47
4.10.4. Example Bending Calculation 50
4.11. CASING WEAR 52
4.11.1. General 52
4.11.2. Volumetric Wear Rate 53
4.11.3. Wear Factors 55
4.11.4. Wear Allowance In Casing Design 56
4.12. SALT SECTIONS 58
4.13. CORROSION 60
4.13.1. Exploration And Appraisal Wells 60
4.13.2. Development Wells 60
4.13.3. Contributing Factors To Corrosion 61
4.13.4. Casing For Sour Service 63
4.13.5. Ordering Specifications 63
4.14. TEMPERATURE EFFECTS 68
4.14.1. Low Temperature Service 68
4.15. LOAD CONDITIONS 69
4.15.1. Safe Allowable Pull 69
4.15.2. Cementing Considerations 69
4.15.3. Pressure Testing 70
4.15.4. Company Guidelines 70
4.15.5. Hang-Off Load (LH) 71
5. MUD CONSIDERATIONS 72
5.1. GENERAL 72
5.2. DRILLING FLUID PROPERTIES 72
5.2.1. Cuttings Lifting 72
5.2.2. Subsurface Well Control 73
5.2.3. Lubrication 74
5.2.4. Bottom-Hole Cleaning 74
5.2.5. Formation Evaluation 74
5.2.6. Formation Protection 74
5.3. MUD COMPOSITION 75
5.3.1. Salt Muds 75
5.3.2. Water Based Systems 78
5.3.3. Gel Systems 79
5.3.4. Polymer Systems 79
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5.3.5. Oil Based Mud 80

5.4. SOLIDS 80
5.5. DENSITY CONTROL MATERIALS 81
5.6. FLUID CALCULATIONS 81
5.7. MUD TESTING PROCEDURES 84
5.8. MINIMUM STOCK REQUIREMENTS 85
6. FLUID HYDRAULICS 87
6.1. HYDRAULICS PROGRAMME PREPARATION 87
6.2. DESIGN OF THE HYDRAULICS PROGRAMME 88
6.3. FLOW RATE 88
6.4. PRESSURE LOSSES 90
6.4.1. Surface Equipment 93
6.4.2. Drill Pipe 93
6.4.3. Drill Collars 93
6.4.4. Bit Hydraulics 93
6.4.5. Mud Motors 94
6.4.6. Annulus 94
6.5. USEFUL TABLES AND CHARTS 95
7. CEMENTING CONSIDERATIONS 97
7.1. CEMENT 97
7.1.1. API Specification 97
7.1.2. Slurry Density and Weight 100
7.2. CEMENT ADDITIVES 102
7.2.1. Accelerators 102
7.2.2. Retarders 103
7.2.3. Extenders 103
7.2.4. Weighting Agents 104
7.3. SALT CEMENT 105
7.4. SPACERS AND WASHES 106
7.5. SLURRY SELECTION 107
7.6. CEMENT PLACEMENT 108
7.7. WELL CONTROL 108
7.8. JOB DESIGN 110
7.8.1. Depth/Configuration 110
7.8.2. Environment 111
7.8.3. Temperature 111
7.8.4. Slurry Preparation 111
8. WELLHEADS 112
8.1. DEFINITIONS 112
8.2. DESIGN CRITERIA 112
8.2.1. Material Specification 112
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8.3. SURFACE WELLHEADS 113

8.3.1. Standard Wellhead Components 113
8.3.2. National/Breda Wellhead Systems 113
8.4. COMPACT WELLHEAD 116
8.5. MUDLINE SUSPENSION 119
9. PRESSURE RATING OF BOP EQUIPMENT 122

9.1. BOP SELECTION CRITERIA 122
10. BHA DESIGN AND STABILISATION 125

10.1. STRAIGHT HOLE DRILLING 125
10.2. DOG-LEG AND KEY SEAT PROBLEMS 125
10.2.1. Drill Pipe Fatigue 125
10.2.2. Stuck Pipe 126
10.2.3. Logging 126
10.2.4. Running casing 126
10.2.5. Cementing 126
10.2.6. Casing Wear While Drilling 126
10.2.7. Production Problems 126
10.3. HOLE ANGLE CONTROL 128
10.3.1. Packed Hole Theory 128
10.3.2. Pendulum Theory 129
10.4. DESIGNING A PACKED HOLE ASSEMBLY 129
10.4.1. Length Of Tool Assembly 129
10.4.2. Stiffness 129
10.4.3. Clearance 131
10.4.4. Wall Support and Length of Contact Tool 131
10.5. PACKED BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLIES 131
10.6. PENDULUM BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLIES 133
10.7. REDUCED BIT WEIGHT 134
10.8. DRILL STRING DESIGN 135
10.9. BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY BUCKLING 138
10.10.SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STABILISATION 140
10.11.OPERATING LIMITS OF DRILL PIPE 142
10.12.GENERAL GUIDELINES 142
11. BIT SELECTION 143

11.1. PLANNING 143
11.2. IADC ROLLER BIT CLASSIFICATION 143
11.2.1. Major Group Classification 144
11.2.2. Bit Cones 145
11.3. DIAMOND BIT CLASSIFICATION 146
11.3.1. Natural Diamond Bits 146
11.3.2. PDC Bits 146
11.3.3. IADC Fixed Cutter Classification 146
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11.4. BIT SELECTION 148

11.4.1. Formation Hardness/Abrasiveness 148
11.4.2. Mud Types 149
11.4.3. Directional Control 149
11.4.4. Drilling Method 150
11.4.5. Coring 150
11.4.6. Bit Size 150
11.5. CRITICAL ROTARY SPEEDS 150
11.6. DRILLING OPTIMISATION 152
12. DIRECTIONAL DRILLING 153

12.1. TERMINOLOGY AND CONVENTIONS 153
12.2. CO-ORDINATE SYSTEMS 155
12.2.1. Universal Transverse Of Mercator (UTM) 155
12.2.2. Geographical Co-ordinates 156
12.3. RIG/TARGET LOCATIONS AND HORIZONTAL DISPLACEMENT 158
12.3.1. Horizontal Displacement 158
12.3.2. Target Direction 159
12.3.3. Convergence 159
12.4. HIGH SIDE OF THE HOLE AND TOOL FACE 160
12.4.1. Magnetic Surveys 161
12.4.2. Gyroscopic Surveys 163
12.4.3. Survey Calculation Methods 165
12.4.4. Drilling Directional Wells 167
12.4.5. Dog Leg Severity 172
13. DRILLING PROBLEM PREVENTION MEASURES 173

13.1. STUCK PIPE 173
13.1.1. Differential Sticking 174
13.1.2. Sticking Due To Hole Restrictions 175
13.1.3. Sticking Due To Caving Hole 176
13.1.4. Sticking Due To Hole Irregularities And/Or Change In BHA 178
13.2. OIL PILLS 179
13.2.1. Light Oil Pills 179
13.2.2. Heavy Oil Pills 179
13.2.3. Acid Pills 180
13.3. FREE POINT LOCATION 181
13.3.1. Measuring The Pipe Stretch 181
13.3.2. Location By Free Point Indicating Tool 182
13.3.3. Back-Off Procedure 182
13.4. FISHING 183
13.4.1. Inventory Of Fishing Tools 183
13.4.2. Preparation 183
13.4.3. Fishing Assembly 184
13.5. FISHING PROCEDURES 184
13.5.1. Overshot 184
13.5.2. Releasing Spear 184
13.5.3. Taper Taps 185
13.5.4. Junk basket 185
13.5.5. Fishing Magnet 185
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13.6. MILLING PROCEDURE 186

13.7. JARRING PROCEDURE 187
14. WELL ABANDONMENT 189

14.1. TEMPORARY ABANDONMENT 189
14.1.1. During Drilling Operations 189
14.1.2. During Production Operations 189
14.2. PERMANENT ABANDONMENT 190
14.2.1. Plugging 190
14.2.2. Plugging Programme 190
14.2.3. Plugging Procedure 191
14.3. CASING CUTTING/RETRIEVING 192
14.3.1. Stub Termination (Inside a Casing String) 192
14.3.2. Stub Termination (Below a Casing String) 192
15. WELL NAME/DESIGNATION 193

15.1. WELLS WITH THE ORIGINAL WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND TARGET 193
15.1.1. Vertical Well 193
15.1.2. Side Track In A Vertical Well. 193
15.1.3. Directional Well 194
15.1.4. Side Track In Directional Well 194
15.1.5. Horizontal Well 194
15.1.6. Side Track In A Horizontal Well 194
15.2. WELLS WITH THE ORIGINAL WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND DIFFERENT TARGETS 195
15.3. WELLS WITH DIFFERENT WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND SAME ORIGINAL TARGETS197
15.4. FURTHER CODING 198
16. GEOLOGICAL DRILLING WELL PROGRAMME 200

16.1. PROGRAMME FORMAT 200
16.2. IDENTIFICATION 200
16.3. GRAPHIC REPRESENTATIONS 200
16.4. CONTENTS OF THE GEOLOGICAL AND DRILLING WELL PROGRAMME 201
16.4.1. General Information (Section 1) 201
16.4.2. Geological Programme (Section 2) 207
16.4.3. Operation Geology Programme (Section 3) 208
16.4.4. Drilling Programme (Section 4) 209
17. FINAL WELL REPORT 210

17.1. GENERAL 210
17.2. FINAL WELL REPORT PREPARATION 210
17.3. FINAL WELL OPERATION REPORT STRUCTURE 211
17.3.1. General Report Structure 211
17.3.2. Cluster/Platform Final Well Report Structure 212
17.4. AUTHORISATION 213
17.5. ATTACHMENTS 213
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APPENDIX A - REPORT FORMS 214

A.1. INITIAL ACTIVITY REPORT (ARPO 01) 215
A.2. DAILY REPORT (ARPO 02) 216
A.3. CASING RUNNING REPORT (ARPO 03) 217
A.4. CASING RUNNING REPORT (ARPO 03B) 218
A.5. CEMENTING JOB REPORT (ARPO 04A) 219
A.6. CEMENTING JOB REPORT (ARPO 04B) 220
A.7. BIT RECORD (ARPO 05) 221
A.8. WASTE DISPOSAL MANAGEMENT REPORT (ARPO 06) 222
A.9. WELL PROBLEM REPORT (ARPO 13) 223
APPENDIX B - ABBREVIATIONS 224
APPENDIX C - WELL DEFINITIONS 228
APPENDIX D - BIBLIOGRAPHY 230

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the Drilling design Manual is to guide experienced technicians and
engineers involved in Eni-Agip’s in the production of well design/studies and in the planning
of well operations world-wide, using the Manuals & Procedures and the Technical
Specifications which are part of the Corporate Standards. This encompasses the
forecasting of pressure and temperature gradients through casing design to the compilation
of the Geological Drilling Programme and Final Well Report.
Such Corporate Standards define the requirements, methodologies and rules that enable to
operate uniformly and in compliance with the Corporate Company Principles. This, however,
still enables each individual Affiliated Company the capability to operate according to local
laws or particular environmental situations.
The final aim is to improve performance and efficiency in terms of safety, quality and costs,
while providing all personnel involved in Drilling & Completion activities with common
guidelines in all areas worldwide where Eni-Agip operates.
The objectives are to provide the drilling engineers with a tool to guide them through the
decision making process and also arm them with sufficient information to be able to plan
and prepare well drilling operations and activities in compliance with the Corporate
Company principles. Planning and preparation will include the drafting of well specific
programmes for approval and authorisation.
1.2. IMPLEMENTATION
The guidelines and policies specified herein will be applicable to all of Eni-Agip Division and
Affiliates drilling engineering activities.
All engineers engaged in Eni-Agip Division and Affiliates drilling design activities are
expected to make themselves familiar with the contents of this manual and be responsible
for compliance to its policies and procedures.
1.3. UPDATING, AMENDMENT, CONTROL& DEROGATION

This manual is a ‘live’ controlled document and, as such, it will only be amended and
improved by the Corporate Company, in accordance with the development of Eni-Agip
Division and Affiliates operational experience. Accordingly, it will be the responsibility of
everyone concerned in the use and application of this manual to review the policies and
related procedures on an ongoing basis.
Locally dictated derogations from the manual shall be approved solely in writing by the
Manager of the local Drilling and Completion Department (D&C Dept.) after the
District/Affiliate Manager and the Corporate Drilling & Completion Standards Department in
Eni-Agip Division Head Office have been advised in writing.
The Corporate Drilling & Completion Standards Department will consider such approved
derogations for future amendments and improvements of the manual, when the updating of
the document will be advisable.
Feedback for manual amendment is also gained from the return of completed ‘Feedback
and Reporting Forms’ from drilling, well testing and workover operations, refer to Appendix
A.
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2. PRESSURE EVALUATION
2.1. FORECAST ON PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS

A well programme must contain a technical analysis including graphs of pressure gradients
(overburden, pore, fracture) and temperature gradient.
The following information must be included in the analysis:
a) Method for calculating the Overburden Gradient, if obtained from electric logs
of reference wells or from seismic analysis.
b) Method for defining the Pore Pressure Gradient, if obtained from data (RFT,
DST, BHP gauges, production tests, electric logs, Sigma logs, D exponent) of
reference wells or from seismic analysis.
c) Formula used to derive the Fracture Gradient.
d) Source used to obtain the Temperature Gradient.
The formulas normally used to calculate the Overburden Gradient are:

PiP × 1000
∆t =
3.28 × ∆H
∆t − 47
D = 1.228
∆t + 200
10 D × ∆h
Gov = ∑
Hi 10
where:
PiP = Numbers of ηsecond (calculated from sonic log for regularly depth
interval, i.e. every 50/100/200m)
∆t = Transit time (second 10-3)

D = Density of the formation
Gov = Overburden gradient
∆H = Formation interval with the same density D
Hi = Total depth (Σ ∆H)
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Equations used by ENI Agip division for fracture gradient calculation, (when overburden
gradients and pore pressure gradients have been defined), are listed below:
Terzaghi equation (commonly used):
2ν
Gf = Gp + (Gov − Gp)
1− ν
When the formation is deeply invaded with water:
Gf = Gp + 2ν (Gov − Gp )
When the formation is plastic:
Gf = Gov
where:
Gf = Fracture pressure
Gov = Overburden gradient
Gp = Formation pressure
v = Poissions modulus
when Poisson’s modulus may have the following values:
ν = 0.25 for clean sands, sandstone and carbonate rocks down to medium
depth
ν = 0.28 for sands with shale, sandstone and carbonate rocks at great
depth.
2.2. OVERPRESSURE EVALUATION

There are three methods of qualitative and quantitative assessment of overpressure:
a) Methods before drilling
b) Methods while drilling
c) Methods after drilling.
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2.2.1. Methods Before Drilling

Gradients prediction is based, on the most part, analysis and processing of seismic data
and data obtained from potential reference wells. This includes:
Drilling Records These can be used in determining hole problems, abnormal
pressures, lost circulation zones, required mud weights and
properties, etc.
Wireline Logs These can provide useful geological information such as

lithology, formations tops, bed thicknesses, dips, faults, wash
out, lost circulation zones, formation fluid content and
formation fluid pressure (pore pressure).
Seismic Surveys Provides two of the most important applications of seismic

data in; the detection of formations characterised by abnormal
pressures and; in the forecasting of probable pressure
gradient. The data from seismic surveys are analysed and
interpreted to evaluate transit times and propagation velocity
for each interval in the formation. Since overpressurised
zones have a porosity higher than normal, it is reflected in a
travel time increase.
It is obvious that if the drilling is explorative and is the first well
in a specific area, the seismic data analysis may be the sole
source of information available.
The prediction of the gradients is essential for planning the
well and must be included in the drilling programme.
This initial drilling phase may be able to detect zones of
potential risk but cannot guarantee against the potential
presence and magnitude of abnormal pressures and, hence
caution must be exercised.
2.2.2. Methods While Drilling

Given all the predictive methods available, successful drilling still depends on the
effectiveness of the methods adopted and on the way they are used in combination.
Although most of these methods do not provide the actual overpressure picture, they do
signal the presence of an abnormal conditions due to the existence of an abnormally
behaving zone. Such methods, therefore, provide a warning that a more careful and diligent
observation must be maintained on the well.
The most critical situation occurs when a well with normal gradient penetrates a high
pressure zone without any indications caused by faulting or outcropping at a higher
elevation. However, when abnormal pressure occurs as a result of compaction only, many
of the following real time indicators appears before a serious problem develops.
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2.2.3. Real Time Indicators

Penetration Rate While drilling in normal pressured shales of a well, there will
be a uniform decrease in the drilling rate due to the increase
in shale density. When abnormal pressure is encountered, the
density of the shale is decreased with a resultant increase in
porosity. Therefore, the drilling rate will gradually increase as
the bit enters an abnormal pressured shale. The corrected ‘d’
exponent and Eni-Agip Sigmalog eliminate the effects of
drilling parameter variations and give a representative
measure of formation drillability.
The TDC Engineer is responsible for continuous monitoring
and shall immediately report to the Company Drilling and
Completion Supervisor, if any change occurs.
A copy of corrected the ‘d’ exponent or Agip Sigmalog shall
be sent on daily basis to the Company’s Shore Base Drilling
Office by telefax for further checking.
Drilling Break A drilling break is defined as a rapid increase in penetration

rate after a relatively long interval of slow drilling.
Any time a drilling break is noticed, drilling shall be suspended
and a flow check carried out. If there is any lingering doubt,
the hole will be circulated out until bottoms up.
Torque Torque sometimes increases when an abnormally pressured

shale section is penetrated due to the swelling of plastic clay
causing a decrease in hole diameter and/or accumulation of
large cuttings around the bit and the stabilisers.
Also torque is not easy to interpret in view of many
phenomena which can affect it (hole geometry, deviation,
bottom hole assembly, etc.), it must be thought as the
second-order parameter for diagnosing abnormal pressure.
Tight Hole During Tight hole when making connections can indicate that an
Connections abnormal pressured shale is being penetrated with low mud
weight. When this occurs it is confirmed when the hole must
be reamed several times before a connection can be made.
Hole Fill When making up connections, cavings may settle preventing
the bit returning to bottom.
Wall instability, in an area of abnormal pressure, may cause
sloughing. It should be noted that fill may be due to other
causes, such as wall instability through geomechanical
reasons (fracture zones), inefficient well cleaning by the
drilling mud, rheological properties of mud insufficient to keep
cuttings in suspension, etc.
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MWD In addition to directional drilling data, MWD can provide a wide

range of bottom hole drilling parameters and formation
evaluation, e.g.: bottomhole weight on bit, torque at bit,
gamma ray, mud and formation resistivity, mud pressure and
mud temperature.
If the true weight and torque at the bit are known, the drilling
rate can be normalised with more accuracy by producing a
more accurate ‘d’ exponent and Agip Sigmalog.
Formation resistivity is plotted and interpreted for pressure
development. It should also be noted that differential resistivity
between the mud in the drill pipe and in the annular space
may be considered as a kick indicator.
Bottomhole mud temperature can also be an indicator of overpressure as discussed below.
2.2.4. Indicators Depending on Lag Time

Mud Gas The monitoring and interpretation of gas data are fundamental
to detecting abnormally pressured zones.
• Background gas is the gas released by the formation while
drilling. It usually is a low but steady level of gas in the mud
which may be interrupted by higher levels resulting from
the drilling of a hydrocarbon bearing zone or from trips and
connections.
• An increase in the level of background gas, from that
previously found in overlying normally compacted shales,
often occurs when drilling undercompacted formations.
• Gas shows can occur when porous, permeable formations
containing gas are penetrated. Monitoring the form and the
volume of gas shows will make it easier to detect a state of
negative differential pressure.
• Trip gas may be an indication of well underbalance. The
equivalent density applied to the formation with pumps off
(static) is lower than the equivalent circulating density
(dynamic) and when the well is close to balance point, the
drop in pressure while static may allow gas to flow from the
formation into the well. The quantity of gas observed at the
surface when circulation is resumed, however will depend
on several factors, e.g., differential pressure, formation
permeability, drill pipe pulling speed, swabbing. Failure to
fill the hole on trips may also cause an increase in trip gas.
• Connection gas may be an indication of well imbalance
(see above).
• The progressive changes, or trend, in connection gases is
an important aid to evaluate differential pressure. When an
undercompacted zone of uniform shale is drilled without
increasing the mud weight, the amount of connection gas
will almost always increase.
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Mud Temperature Measurement of mud temperature can also be used to detect

undercompacted zones and, under ideal conditions, or to
anticipate their approach. This is because temperature
gradients observed in undercompacted series are, in general,
abnormally high compared with overlying normally pressured
sequences.
Accurate interpretation of these data is very difficult, due to a
number of variables which frequently mask changes in
geothermal gradient:
• Inflow temperature, which is dependent on the amount of
cooling at surface.
• Flow rate, which affects the speed at which the mud, and
the calories it contains, returns up the annulus.
• Thermophysical properties of the mud.
• Heating effects at the bit face.
• Heat exchange in the marine riser between the mud and
the sea.
• Halts in drilling and/or circulation.
• Surface operations such as transfer of mud between pits,
etc.
Cutting Analysis • Lithology: the lithological sequence may provide an overall
indication of the possible existence of abnormal pressure.
The presence of seals, drains or thick clay sequences is a
determining factor in this analysis.
• Shale density: is based on the principle that bulk density in
an undercompacted zone does not follow the trend of the
normally compacted overlying clays and shales. The
validity of the density obtained depends on the clay
composition (the presence of accessory heavy minerals
can greatly change the density), the depth lagging (which
can make cutting selection difficult), the mud type (reactive
muds have an adverse effect on measurement quality) and
clay consolidation (difficult to measure on wellsite the
density of clays not sufficiently consolidated).
• Shale factor: undercompacted clays which have been
unable to dehydrate often have an unusually high
proportion of smectite and an abnormally high shale factor.
However, the initial proportions of the clay minerals in the
deposit can mask changes in shale factor and give a false
alarm.
• Shape, size and volume of cuttings: the amount of shale
cuttings will usually increase, along with a change in shape,
when an abnormal pressure zone is penetrated.
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• Cuttings from normal pressured shales are small with

rounded edges and are generally flat, while cuttings from
an abnormal pressure are often long and splintered with
angular edges. As the differential between the pore
pressure and the drilling fluid hydrostatic head is reduced,
the pressured shales will burst into the wellbore rather than
having being drilled. This change in shape, along with an
increase in the amount of cuttings at the surface, could be
an indication that abnormal pressure has been
encountered.
2.2.5. Methods After Drilling

These are methods founded on the elaboration of the data from electrical logs such as:
induction log (IES), sonic log (SL), formation density log (FDC), neutron log (NL).
The most used methods for abnormal pressure detection are:
Induction Log (IES) Is used in sand and shale formations and consists in the
Method: plotting of the shale resistivity values at relative depths on a
semilog graphic (depth in decimal scale and resistivity in
logarithmical scale).
In formations, if they are normal compacted, the resistivity of
the shales increases with depth but, in overpressure zones, it
lowers with depth increase (Refer to figure .2.a).
Also it is possible to plot the values of the shale conductibility;
in this case the plot will be symmetric to that described above.
The method is acceptable only in shale salt water bearing
formations which have sufficient and a constant level of
salinity.
For the calculation of gradient, refer to the ‘Overpressure
Evaluation Manual’.
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Fig.1,2-1
INDUCTION LOG
Resistivity (OHMM)
1 10 100
1500
2000
2500
3000
Top
Overpresure
3500
4000
4500
5000
Figure .2.A - Induction Log
Shale Formation Factor This is more sophisticated than the IES method described
(Fsh) Method: above. It eliminates the inconveniences due to water salinity
variation. It consists in the plotting of the shale factors on a
semilog graph (depth in decimal scale and resistivity in
logarithmical scale)at relative depths. The ‘Fsh’ is calculated
by the following formula:
Rsh
Fsh =
Rw
Where:
Rsht =The shale resistivity read on the log in the points
where they are most cleaned
Rw = The formation water resistivity reported in
‘Schlumberger’s tables on the ‘log interpretation
chart’.
The value of Fsh, increases with depth in normal compaction
zones and lowers in overpressure zones (Refer to figure 2.b).
For the gradients calculation, the ‘Overpressure Evaluation
Manual’.
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F shale
1 10 100
1500
2000
2500
3000
Depth (m)
Top Overpresure
3500
4000
4500
5000
Figure 2.B - ‘F’ Shale
Sonic Log (SL) Method: Also termed ‘∆t shale’, is the most widely used as, from
experience, it gives the most reliability. It consists in the
plotting, on a semilog graph (depth in decimal scale and
transit time in logarithmical scale) of the ∆t values (transit time)
at relative depths.
The ∆t value (transit time) is read on sonic log in the shale
points where they are cleanest; ∆t value lowers with the depth
increase in normal compaction zones and increases with the
depth in overpressure zones (Refer to figure 2.c)
For the calculation of gradient, refer to the ‘Overpressure
Evaluation Manual’.
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10 100 1000
0
500
1000
1500
2000 Top
Depth (m)
Overpresure
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
Figure 2.C Sonic log
2.3. TEMPERATURE PREDICTION

The temperature at various depths to which a well is drilled must be evaluated as it has a
great influence on the properties of both the reservoir fluids and materials used in drilling
operations.
The higher temperatures encountered at increasing depth usually have adverse effects
upon materials used in drilling wells but may be beneficial in production as it lowers the
viscosity of reservoir fluids allowing freer movement of the fluids through the reservoir rock.
In drilling operations the treating chemicals materials and clays used in drilling mud become
ineffective or unstable at higher temperatures and cement slurry thickening and setting
times accelerate (also due to increasing pressure).
Another effect of temperature is the lowering of the strength and toughness of materials
used in drilling and casing operations such as drillpipe and casing.
As technology improves and wells can be drilled even deeper, these problems become
more prevalent.
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2.3.1. Temperature Gradients

The temperature of the rocks at a given point, formation temperature, and relationship
between temperature and depth is termed the thermal gradient. Temperature gradients
around the world can vary from between 1oC in 110ft (35m) to 180ft (56m).
The heat source is radiated through the rock therefore it is obvious that temperature
gradients will differ throughout the various regions where there are different rocks. Seasonal
variations in surface temperatures have little effect on gradients deeper than 100ft (30m)
except in permafrost regions.
It is important therefore that the local temperature gradient is determined from previous
drilling reports, offset well data or any other source. In most regions, the temperature
gradient is well known and is only affected when in the vicinity of salt domes. If the
temperature gradient is not known in a new area, it is recommended that a gradient of
3oC/100m be assumed.
The calculation of temperature at depth if the thermal gradient is known, is simply:
T = Surface Ambient Temp + Depth/Gradient (Depth per Degree Temp)
2.3.2. Temperature Logging

During the actual drilling of a well, temperature surveys will be taken at intervals which may
help to confirm the accuracy of the temperature prediction.
Temperature measurement during drilling may be by simple thermometer or possibly by
running thermal logs, however, the circulation of mud or other liquids tends to smooth out
the temperature profile around the well bore and mask the distinction of the individual
strata. Consequently the use of temperature logs during drilling is uncommon.
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3. SELECTION OF CASING SEATS
The selection of casing setting depths is one of the most critical factors affecting well
design. These are covered in detail in the ‘Casing Design Manual’. The following sections
are to provide engineers with an outline of the criteria necessary to enable casing seat
selection.
The following parameters must be carefully considered in this selection:
• Total depth of well
• Pore pressures
• Fracture gradients
• The probability of shallow gas pockets
• Problem zones
• Depth of potential prospects
• Time limits on open hole drilling
• Casing program compatibility with existing wellhead systems
• Casing program compatibility with planned completion programme on production
wells
• Casing availability - size, grade and weight
• Economics - time consumed to drill the hole, run casing and the cost of
equipment.
When planning, all available information should be carefully documented and considered to
obtain knowledge of the various uncertainties.
Information is sourced from:
• Evaluation of the seismic and geological background documentation used as
the decision for drilling the well.
• Drilling data from offset wells in the area. (Company wells or scouting
information).
The key factor to satisfactory picking of casing seats is the assessment of pore pressure
(formation fluid pressures) and fracture pressures throughout the length of the well.
As the pore pressures in a formation being drilled approach the fracture pressure at the last
casing seat then installation of a further string of casing is necessary.
figure 3.b show typical examples of casing seat selections.
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• Casing is set at depth 1, where pore pressure is P1 and the fracture pressure is
F1.
• Drilling continues to depth 2, where the pore pressure P2 has risen to almost
equal the fracture pressure (F1) at the first casing seat.
• Another casing string is therefore set at this depth, with fracture pressure (F2).
• Drilling can thus continue to depth 3, where pore pressure P3 is almost equal to
the fracture pressure F2 at the previous casing seat.
This example does not include any safety or trip margins, which would, in practice, be taken
into account.
Figure 3.A - Example of idealised Casing Seat Selection

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Figure 3.B - Example Casing Seat Selection

(for a typical geopressurised well using a pressure profile).
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3.1. CONDUCTOR CASING

The setting depth for conductor casing is usually shallow and selected so that drilling fluid
may be circulated to the mud pits while drilling the surface hole. The casing seat must be in
an impermeable formation with sufficient fracturing resistance to allow fluid circulation to the
surface. In wells with subsea wellheads, no attempt is made to circulate through the
conductor string to the surface but must be set deep enough to assist in stabilising the
subsea guide base to which guide lines are attached.
The driving depth of the conductor pipe is established with the following formula:
Hi = [df x (E+H) - 103 x H]/[1.03 - df + 0.67 x (GOVhi - 1.03)]
where:
Hi = Minimum driving depth (m) from seabed
E = Elevation (m) distance from bell nipple and sea level
H = Water depth (m)
df = Maximum mud weight (kg/l) to be used
GOVhi = integrated density of sediments (kg/dm3/10m)
3.2. SURFACE CASING
The setting depth of surface casing should be in an impermeable section below fresh water
formations. In some instances, where there is near surface gravel or shallow gas, it may
need to be cased off shallower.
The depth should be enough to provide a fracture gradient sufficient to allow drilling to the
next casing setting point and to provide reasonable assurance that broaching to the surface
will not occur in the event of BOP closure to contain a kick.
3.3. INTERMEDIATE CASING
The most predominant use of intermediate casing is to protect normally pressured
formations from the effects of increased mud weight needed in deeper drilling operations.
An intermediate string may be necessary to case off lost circulation, salt beds, or sloughing
shales.
In cases of pressure reversals with depth, intermediate casing may be set to allow reduction
of mud weight.
When a transition zone is penetrated and mud weight increased, the normal pressure
interval below surface pipe is subjected to two detrimental effects:
• The fracture gradient may be exceeded by the mud gradient, particularly if it
becomes necessary to close-in on a kick The result is loss of circulation and the
possibility of an underground blow-out occurring.
• The differential between mud column pressure and formation pressure is
increased, increasing the risk of stuck pipe.
However, in general practice, drilling is allowed until the mud weight is within 50gr/l of the
fracture gradient measured by conducting a leak-off test at the previous casing shoe.
Attempts to drill with mud weight higher than this limit are sometimes successful, but many
holes have been lost by attempts to extend the intermediate string setting depth beyond
that indicated by the above rule.
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This can cause either, kicks causing loss of circulation and possibly an underground blow-
out or the pipe becomes differentially stuck. Sloughing of high pressure zones can also
cause stuck pipe .
Significantly in soft rock areas, the fracture gradient increases relatively slowly compared to
the depth of the surface casing string, but the pressure gradients in the transition zones
usually change rapidly.
Emphasis is often placed on setting the surface casing to where there is an acceptable
fracture gradient. Greater control over potential conditions at the surfaces casing seat is
affected by the intermediate casing setting depth decision.
It is often tempting to ‘drill a little deeper’ without setting pipe in exploratory wells. When
pressure gradients are not increasing this can be a reasonably acceptable decision, but,
with increasing gradient, the risk is greater and should be carefully evaluated.
To ensure the integrity of the surface casing seat, leak-off tests should be specified in the
Drilling Programme.
3.4. DRILLING LINER

The setting of a drilling liner is often an economically attractive decision in deep wells as
opposed to setting a full string. Such a decision must be carefully considered as the
intermediate string must be designed for burst as if it were set to the depth of the liner.
If drilling is to be continued below the drilling liner then burst requirements for the
intermediate string are further increased. This increases the cost of the intermediate string.
Also, there is the possibility of continuing wear of the intermediate string that must be
evaluated.
If a production liner is planned then either the production liner or the drilling liner should be
tied back to the surface as a production casing.
If the drilling liner is to be tied-back, it is usually better to do so before drilling the hole for
the production liner. By doing so, the intermediate casing can be designed for a lower burst
requirement, resulting in considerable cost savings. Also, any wear to the intermediate
string is spanned prior to drilling the producing interval.
If increased mud weight will be required while drilling hole for the drilling liner, then leak-off
tests should be specified in the Drilling Procedures in the programme for the intermediate
casing shoe.
Insufficient fracture gradient at the shoe may limit the depth of the drilling liner.
3.5. PRODUCTION CASING

Whether production casing or a liner is installed, the depth is determined by the geological
objective. Depths, hence the casing programme, may have to be altered accordingly if
depths run high or low.
The objective and method of identifying the correct depth should also be stated in the
programme.
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4. CASING DESIGN
4.1. INTRODUCTION
For detailed casing design criteria and guidelines, refer to the ‘Casing Design Manual’.
The selection of casing grades and weights is an engineering task affected by many
factors, including local geology, formation pressures, hole depth, formation temperature,
logistics and various mechanical factors.
The engineer must keep in mind during the design process the major logistics problems in
controlling the handling of the various mixtures of grades and weights by rig personnel
without risk of installing the wrong grade and weight of casing in a particular hole section.
Experience has shown that the use of two to three different grades or two to three different
weights is the maximum that can be handled by most rigs and rig crews.
After selecting a casing for a particular hole section, the designer should consider
upgrading the casing in cases where:
• Extreme wear is expected from drilling equipment used to drill the next hole
section or from wear caused by wireline equipment.
• Buckling in deep and hot wells.
Once the factors are considered, casing cost should be considered.

If the number of different grades and weights are necessary, it follows that cost is not
always a major criterion.
Most major operating companies have differing policies and guidelines for the design of
casing for exploration and development wells, e.g.:
• For exploration, the current practice is to upgrade the selected casing,
irrespective of any cost factor.
• For development wells, the practice is also to upgrade the selected casing,
irrespective of any cost factor.
• For development wells, the practice is to use the highest measured bottomhole
flowing pressures and well head shut-in pressures as the limiting factors for
internal pressures expected in the wellbore. These pressures will obviously
place controls only on the design of production casing or the production liner,
and intermediate casing.
The practice in design of surface casing is to base it on the maximum mud weights used to
drill adjacent development wells.
Downgrading of a casing is only carried out after several wells are drilled in a given area
and sufficient pressure data are obtained.
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4.2. PROFILES AND DRILLING SCENARIOS

4.2.1. Casing Profiles
The following are the various casing configurations which can be used on onshore and
offshore wells.
Onshore
• Drive/structural/conductor casing
• Surface casing
• Intermediate casings
• Production casing
• Intermediate casing and drilling liners
• Intermediate casing and production liner
• Drilling liner and tie-back string.
Offshore - Surface Wellhead

As in onshore above.
Offshore - Surface Wellhead & Mudline Suspension

• Surface casing and landing string
• Intermediate casings and landing strings
• Intermediate casings and drilling liners
Offshore - Subsea Wellhead

• Surface casing
• Intermediate casings
• Intermediate casing and drilling liners
• Intermediate casing and production liner
Refer to the following sections for descriptions of the casings listed above.
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4.3. CASING SPECIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION

There is a great range of casings available from suppliers from plain carbon steel for
everyday mild service through exotic duplex steels for extremely sour service conditions.
The casings available can be classified under two specifications, API and non-API.
Casing specifications, including API and its history, are described and discussed in the
‘Casing Design Manual’. Sections 4.3.1 and 4.3.2 below give an overview of some
important casing issues.
Non-API casing manufacturers have produced products to satisfy a demand in the industry
for casing to meet with extreme conditions which the API specifications do not meet. The
area of use for this casing are also discussed in section 4.3.1 below and the products
available described in section 4.3.2.
4.3.1. Casing Specification

It is essential that design engineers are aware of any changes made to the API
specifications. All involved with casing design must have immediate access to the latest
copy of API Bulletin 5C2 which lists the performance properties of casing, tubing and
drillpipe. Although these are also published in many contractors' handbooks and tables,
which are convenient for field use, care must be taken to ensure that they are current.
Operational departments should also have a library of the other relevant API publications,
and design engineers should make themselves familiar with these documents and their
contents.
It should not be interpreted from the above that only API tubulars and connections may be
used in the field as some particular engineering problems are overcome by specialist
solutions which are not yet addressed by API specifications. In fact, it would be impossible
to drill many extremely deep wells without recourse to the use of pipe manufactured outwith
API specifications (non-API).
Similarly, many of the ‘Premium’ couplings that are used in high pressure high GOR
conditions are also non-API.
When using non-API pipe, the designer must check the methods by which the strengths
have been calculated. Usually it will be found that the manufacturer will have used the
published API formulae (Bulletin 5C3), backed up by tests to prove the performance of his
product conforms to, or exceeds, these specifications. However. in some cases, the
manufacturers have claimed their performance is considerably better than that calculated by
the using API formulae. When this occurs the manufacturers claims must be critically
examined by the designer or his technical advisors, and the performance corrected if
necessary.
It is also important to understand that to increase competition. the API tolerances have been
set fairly wide. However, the API does provide for the purchaser to specify more rigorous
chemical, physical and testing requirements on orders, and may also request place
independent inspectors to quality control the product in the plant.
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4.3.2. Classification Of API Casing

Casing is usually classified by:
• Outside diameter
• Nominal unit weight
• Grade of the steel
• Type of connection
• Length by range
• Manufacturing process.
Reference should always be made to current API specification 5C2 for casing lists and
performances.
4.4. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF STEEL

4.4.1. General
Failure of a material or of a structural part may occur by fracture (e.g. the shattering of
glass), yield, wear, corrosion, and other causes. These failures are failures of the material.
Buckling may cause failure of the part without any failure of the material.
As load is applied, deformation takes place before any final fracture occurs. With all solid
materials, some deformation may be sustained without permanent deformation, i.e. the
material behaves elastically.
Beyond the elastic limit, the elastic deformation is accompanied by varying amounts of
plastic, or permanent, deformation, If a material sustains large amounts of plastic
deformation before final fracture. It is classed as ductile material, and if fracture occurs with
little or no plastic deformation. The material is classed as brittle.
4.4.2. Stress-Strain Diagram

Tests of material performance may be conducted in many different ways, such as by
torsion, compression and shear, but the tension test is the most common and is qualitatively
characteristics of all the other types of tests.
The action of a material under the gradually increasing extension of the tension test is
usually represented by plotting apparent stress (the total load divided by the original cross-
sectional area of the test piece) as ordinates against the apparent strain (elongation
between two gauge points marked on the test piece divided by the original gauge length) as
abscissae.
A typical curve for steel is shown in figure 4.a.
From this, it is seen that the elastic deformation is approximately a straight line as called for
by Hooke's law, and the slope of this line, or the ratio of stress to strain within the elastic
range, is the modulus of elasticity E, sometimes called Young's modulus.
Beyond the elastic limit, permanent, or plastic strain occurs.
If the stress is released in the region between the elastic limit and the yield strength (see
above) the material will contract along a line generally nearly straight and parallel to the
original elastic line, leaving a permanent set.
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Figure 4.A- Stress - Strain Diagram
In steels, a curious phenomenon occurs after the end of the elastic limit, known as yielding.
This gives rise to a dip in the general curve followed by a period of deformation at
approximately constant load. The maximum stress reached in this region is called the upper
yield point and the lower part of the yielding region the lower yield point. In the harder and
stronger steels, and under certain conditions of temperature, the yielding phenomenon is
less prominent and is correspondingly harder to measure. In materials that do not exhibit a
marked yield point, it is customary to define a yield strength. This is arbitrarily defined as the
stress at which the material has a specified permanent set (the value of 0.2% is widely
accepted in the industry).
For steels used in the manufacturing of tubular goods the API specifies the yield strength as
the tensile strength required to produce a total elongation of 0.5% and 0.6% of the gauge
length.
Similar arbitrary rules are followed with regard to the elastic limit in commercial practice.
Instead of determining the stress up to which there is no permanent set, as required by
definition, it is customary to designate the end of the straight portion of the curve (by
definition the proportional limit) as the elastic limit. Careful practice qualifies this by
designating it the ‘proportional elastic limit’.
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As extension continues beyond yielding, the material becomes stronger causing a rise of
the curve, but at the same time the cross-sectional area of the specimen becomes less as it
is drawn out. This loss of area weakens the specimen so that the curve reaches a maximum
and then falls off until final fracture occurs.
The stress at the maximum point is called the tensile strength (TS) or the ultimate strength
of the material and is its most often quoted property.
The mechanical and chemical properties of casing, tubing and drill pipe are laid down in API
specifications 5CT and 5C2.
Depending on the type or grade, minimum requirements are laid down for the mechanical
properties, and in the case of the yield point even maximum requirements (except for H 40).
The denominations of the different grades are based on the minimum yield strength, e.g.:
Grade Min. Yield Strength
H 40 40,000psi
J 55 55,000psi
C 75 75,000psi
N 80 80,000psi
etc.
In the design of casing and tubing strings the minimum yield strength of the steel is taken as
the basis of all strength calculations
As far as chemical properties are concerned, in API 5CT only the maximum phosphorus
and sulphur contents are specified, the quality and the quantities of other alloying elements
are left to the manufacturer.
API specification 5CT ‘Restricted yield strength casing and tubing’ however specifies, the
complete chemical requirements for grades C 75, C 95 and L 80.
4.5. NON-API CASING

Eni-Agip Division and Affiliates policy is to use API casings whenever possible. Some
manufacturers produce non-API casings for H2S and deep well service where API casings
do not meet requirements. The most common non-API grades are shown in the Casing
Design Manual (STAP-P-1-M-6110-4.3).
Reference to API and non-API materials should be made to suit the environment in which
they are recommended to be employed.
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4.6. CONNECTIONS
The selection of a casing connection is dependant upon whether the casing is exposed to
wellbore fluids and pressures. API connections are normally used on all surface and
intermediate casing and drilling liners. Non-API or premium connections are generally used
on production casing and production liners in producing wells.
API connections rely on thread compound to form the seal and are not recommended for
sealing over long periods of time when exposed to well high pressures and corrosive fluids
as the compound can be extruded exposing the threads to corrosive fluids which in turn
reduces the strength of the connection. Sealing on premium connections are provided by at
least one metal-to-metal seal which prevents this exposure of the threads to corrosive
elements, hence, retains full strength.
The properties of both API and non-API connections are described below.
4.6.1. API Connections

The types of API connections available are:
• Round thread short which is coupled.
• Round thread long which is coupled.
• Buttress thread which is coupled, with both normal and special clearance.
• Extreme line thread which is integral with either normal or special clearance.
Round thread couplings, short or long, have less strength than the corresponding pipe
body. This in turn requires heavier pipe to meet design requirements, than if the pipe and
coupling had the same strength. Problems like ‘pullouts’ or ‘jump-outs’ can happen with
round thread type coupling on 103/4" casing or when also subjected to bending stresses, i.e.
doglegs, directional drilled holes. etc.
Buttress threads have, according to API calculations, higher joint strength than the pipe
body yield strength with a few exceptions. Buttress threads also stab and enter easier than
round threads, therefore, should be used whenever possible, except for 20" and larger pipe
where special connections could be beneficial due to having superior make-up
characteristics.
API round threads and buttress threads have no metal to metal seals. As stated earlier, the
seal in API thread is created by the thread compound which contains metal which fill the
void space between the threads. When subjected to high pressure gas, temperature
variations, and/or corrosive environment this sealing method may fail. Therefore, in such
conditions, connections with metal-to-metal seals, should be utilised.
According to API standards the coupling shall be of the same grade as the pipe except
grade H 40 and J 55 which may be furnished with grade J 55 or K 55 couplings.
For connection dimensions refer to the current API specification.
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4.7. APPROACH TO CASING DESIGN

Casing design is basically a stress analysis procedure which is fully described in the ‘Casing
Design Manual’.
As there is little point in designing for loads that are not encountered in the field, or in
having a casing that is disproportionally strong in relating to the underlying formations, there
are clearly four major elements to casing design:
• Definition of the loading conditions likely to be encountered throughout the life of
the well.
• Specification of the mechanical strength of the pipe.
• Estimation of the formation strength using rock and soil mechanics.
• Estimation of the extent to which the pipe will deteriorate through time and
quantification of the impact that this will have on its strength.
4.7.1. Wellbore Forces

Various wellbore forces affect casing design. Besides the three basic conditions (burst,
collapse and axial loads or tension), these include:
• Buckling.
• Wellbore confining stress.
• Thermal and dynamic stress.
• Changing internal pressure caused by production or stimulation.
• Changing external pressure caused by plastic formation creep.
• Subsidence effects and the effect of bending in crooked hole.
• Various types of wear caused by mechanical friction.
• H2S or squeeze/acid operations.
• Improper handling and make-up.
This list is by no means comprehensive because new research is still in progress.

The steps in the design process are:
1) Consider the loading for burst first, since burst will dictate the design for most of the
string.
2) Next, the collapse load should be evaluated and the string sections upgraded if
necessary.
3) Once the weights, grades and section lengths have been determined to satisfy the
burst and collapse loading, the tension load can then be evaluated.
4) The pipe can be upgraded as necessary as the loads are found and the coupling type
determined.
5) The final step is a check on biaxial reductions in burst strength and collapse
resistance caused by compression and tension loads, respectively. If these reductions
show the strength of any part of the section to be less than the potential load, the
section should again be upgraded.
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4.7.2. Design Factor (DF)

The design process can only be completed if knowledge of all anticipated forces is
available. This however, is idealistic and never actually occurs. Some determinations are
usually necessary and some degree of risk has to be accepted.
The risk is usually due to the assumed values and therefore the accuracy of the design
factors used.
Design factors are necessary to cater for:
• Uncertainties in the determination of actual loads that the casing needs to
withstand and the existence of any stress concentrations, due to dynamic loads
or particular well conditions.
• Reliability of listed properties of the various steels used and the uncertainty in
the determination of the spread between ultimate strength and yield strength.
• Probability of the casing needing to bear the maximum load provided in the
calculations.
• Uncertainties regarding collapse pressure formulas.
• Possible damage to casing during transport and storage.
• Damage to the steel from slips, wrenches or inner defects due to cracks, pitting,
etc.
• Rotational wear by the drill string while drilling.
The DF will vary with the capability of the steel to resist damage from the handling and
running equipment.
The value selected as the DF is a compromise between margin and cost.
The use of excessively high design factors guarantees against failure, but provide
excessive strength and, hence, cost.
The use of low design factors requires accurate knowledge about the loads to be imposed
on the casing.
Casing is generally designed to withstand stress which, in practice, it seldom encounters
due to the assumptions used in calculations, whereas, production tubing has to bear
pressures and tensions which are known with considerable accuracy.
Also casing is installed and cemented in place whereas tubing is often pulled and re-used.
As a consequence a of this and due to the fact that tubing has to combat corrosion effects
from formation fluid, a higher DF is used for tubing than casing.
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4.7.3. Design Factors

The following DF’s must be used in casing design calculations:
Casing Grade Design Factor
H 40 1.05
J 55 1.05
K 55 1.05
C 75 1.10
Burst L 80 1.10
N 80 1.10
C 90 1.10
C 95 1.10
P 110 1.10
Q 125 1.20
Collapse All Grades 1.10
< C-95 1.70
Tension > C-95 1.80
Note The tensile DF must be considerably higher than the previous factors to avoid
exceeding the elastic limit and, therefore invalidating the criteria on which burst
and collapse resistance are calculated.
4.7.4. Application of Design Factors

The minimum performance properties of tubing and casing from the ‘API’ bulletin are only
used to determine the chosen casing is within the DF.
Burst For the chosen casing (diameter, grade, weight and thread)
take the lowest value from API casing tables columns 13-19.
This value divided by DF gives the internal pressure
resistance of casing to be used for design calculation
Collapse Use only column 11 of API casing tables and divide by the DF
to obtain the collapse resistance for design calculation.
Tension Use the lowest value from columns 20-27 of the API casing
tables and divide by the DF to obtain the joint strength for
design calculation.
Note: It should be recognised that the Design Factor used in the context of
casing string design is essentially different from the ‘Safety Factor’ used
in many other engineering applications.
The term ‘Safety Factor’ as used in tubing design, implies that the actual physical properties
and loading conditions are exactly known and that a specific margin is being allowed for
safety. The loading conditions are not always precisely known in casing design, and
therefore in the context of casing design the term ‘Safety Factor’ should be avoided.
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4.8. DESIGN CRITERIA

4.8.1. Burst
Burst loading on the casing is induced when internal pressure exceeds external pressure.
To evaluate the burst loading, surface and bottomhole casing burst resistance must first be
established according to the company procedure outlined below.
Surface Casing
Internal Pressure The wellhead burst pressure limit is arbitrary, and is generally set equal to
that of the working pressure rating of the wellhead and BOP equipment
2
but with a minimum of 140kg/cm . See ‘BOP selection criteria’ in section
9.1.
With a subsea wellhead, the wellhead burst pressure limit is taken as 60%
of the value obtained as the difference between the fracture pressure at
the casing shoe and the pressure of a gas column to surface but in any
case not less than 2,000psi (140atm).
Consideration should be given to the pressure rating of the wellhead and
BOP equipment which must always be equal to, or higher than, the
pressure rating of the pipe.
When an oversize BOP having a capacity greater than that necessary is
selected, the wellhead burst pressure limit will be 60% of the calculated
surface pressure obtained as difference between the fracture pressure at
the casing shoe with a gas column to surface. Methane gas (CH4) with
3
density of 0.3kg/dm is normally used for this calculation. In any case it
shall never be considered less than 2,000psi (140atm).
The use of methane for this calculation is the ‘worst case’ when the
specific gravity of gas is unknown, as the specific gravities of any gases
which may be encountered will usually be greater than that of methane.
The bottomhole burst pressure limit is set equal to the predicted fracture
gradient of the formation below the casing shoe.
Connect the wellhead and bottomhole burst pressure limits with a straight
line to obtain the maximum internal burst load verses depth.
When taking a gas kick, the pressure from bottom-hole to surface will
assume different profiles according to the position of influx into the
wellbore. The plotted pressure versus depth will produce a curve.
External Pressure In wells with surface wellheads, the external pressure is assumed to be
equal to the hydrostatic pressure of a column of drilling mud.
In wells with subsea wellheads:
At the wellhead - Water Depth x Seawater Density x 0.1 (if atm)
At the shoe - (Shoe Depth - Air Gap) x Seawater Density x 0.1 (if atm)
Net Pressure The resultant load, or net pressure, will be obtained by subtracting, at
each depth, the external from internal pressure.
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Intermediate Casing
Internal Pressure The wellhead burst pressure limit is taken as 60% of the calculated value
obtained as difference between the fracture pressure at the casing shoe
and the pressure of a gas column to wellhead.
In subsea wellheads, the wellhead burst pressure limit is taken as 60% of

the value obtained as the difference between the fracture pressure at the
casing shoe and the pressure of a gas column to the wellhead minus the
seawater pressure
The bottom-hole burst pressure limit is equal to that of the predicted

fracture gradient of the formation below the casing shoe.
Connect the wellhead and bottom-hole burst pressure limits with a

straight line to obtain the maximum internal burst pressure
External Pressure The external collapse pressure is taken to be equal to that of the
formation pressure.
With a subsea wellhead, at the wellhead, hydrostatic seawater pressure
should be considered.
Net Burst Pressure The resultant burst pressure is obtained by subtracting the external from
internal pressure versus depth.
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Production Casing
The ‘worst case’ burst load condition on production casing occurs when a well is shut-in and there
is a leak in the top of the tubing, or in the tubing hanger, and this pressure is applied to the top of
the packer fluid (i.e. completion fluid) in the tubing-casing annulus.
Internal Pressure The wellhead burst limit is obtained as the difference between the
pore pressure of the reservoir fluid and the hydrostatic pressure
produced by a colum of fluid which is usually gas (density =
0.3kg/dm3).
Actual gas/oil gradients can be used if information on these are
known and available.
The bottom-hole pressure burst limit is obtained by adding the
wellhead pressure burst limit to the annulus hydrostatic pressure
exerted by the completion fluid.
Generally the completion fluid density is, equal to or close to, the
mud weight in which casing is installed.
Note: It is usually assumed that the completion fluid and

mud on the outside of the casing remains
homogeneous and retain their original density
values. However this is not actually the case
particularly with heavy fluids but it is also assumed
that the two fluids will degrade similarly under the
same conditions of pressure and temperature.
Connect the wellhead and bottom-hole burst pressure limits with a

straight line to obtain the maximum internal burst pressure.
Note: If it is foreseen of that stimulation or hydraulic

fracturing operations may be necessary in future,
therefore the fracture pressure at perforation depth
and at the well head pressure minus the hydrostatic
head in the casing plus a safety margin of 70kg/cm2
(1,000psi) will be assumed.
External Pressure The external pressure is taken to be equal to that of the formation
pressure.
With a subsea wellhead, at the wellhead, hydrostatic seawater
pressure should be considered.
Net Burst Pressure The resultant burst pressure is obtained by subtracting the external
from internal pressure at each depth.
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Intermediate Casing and Liner

If a drilling liner is to be used in the drilling of a well, the casing above where the liner is
suspended must withstand the burst pressure that may occur while drilling below the liner. The
design of the intermediate casing string is, therefore, altered slightly.
Since the fracture pressure and mud weight may be greater or lower
below the liner shoe than casing shoe, these values must be used
to design the intermediate casing string as well as the liner.
When well testing or producing through a liner, the casing above the
liner is part of the production string and must be designed according
to this criteria
Tie-Back String
In a high pressure well, the intermediate casing string above a liner may be unable to withstand a
tubing leak at surface pressures according to the production burst criteria. The solution to this
problem is to run and tie-back a string of casing from the liner top to surface, isolating the
intermediate casing.
4.8.2. Collapse
Pipe collapse will occur if the external force on a pipe exceeds the combination of the
internal force plus the collapse resistance.
The reduced collapse resistance under biaxial stress (tension/collapse) should be
considered.
No allowance is given to increased collapse resistance due to cementing.
Surface Casing
Internal Pressure For wells with a surface wellhead, the casing is assumed to be
completely empty.
In offshore wells with subsea wellheads, the internal pressure
assumes that the mud level drops due to a thief zone
External Pressure In wells with a surface wellhead, the external pressure is assumed
to be equal to that of the hydrostatic pressure of a column of drilling
mud.
In offshore wells with a subsea wellhead, it is calculated:
At the wellhead - Water Depth x Seawater Density x 0.1 (if atm).
At the shoe - (Shoe Depth - Air Gap) x Seawater Density x 0.1 (if
atm).
Net Collapse Pressure The resultant collapse pressure is obtained by subtracting the
internal pressure from external pressure at each depth.
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Intermediate Casing
Internal Pressure The ‘worst case’ collapse loading occurs when a loss of circulation
is encountered while drilling the next hole section with the maximum
allowable mud weight. This would result in the mud level inside the
casing dropping to an equilibrium level where the mud hydrostatic
equals the pore pressure of the thief zone (Refer to Errore.
L'origine riferimento non è stata trovata.). Consequently it will be
assumed the casing is empty to the height (H) calculated as follows:
(Hloss-H) x dm = Hloss x Gp
H = Hloss (dm - Gp)/dm
If Gp = 1.03 (kg/cm2/10m)
Then H = Hloss (dm-1.03)/dm
Hloss = Depth at which circulation loss is expected (m)

dm = Mud density expected at Hloss (kg/dm2)
Gp = Pore pressure of thief zone (kg/cm2/10m) - usually
Normally pressured with 1.03 as gradient.
When thief zones cannot be confirmed, or otherwise, during the
collapse design, as is the case in exploration wells, Eni-Agip
division and associates suggests that on wells with surface
wellheads, the casing is assumed to be half empty and the
remaining part of the casing full of the heaviest mud planned to drill
the next section below the shoe.
In wells with subsea wellheads, the mud level inside the casing is
assumed to drop to an equilibrium level where the mud hydrostatic
pressure equals the pore pressure of the thief zone.
External Pressure The pressure acting on the outside of casing is the pressure of mud
in which casing is installed.
The uniform external pressure exerted by salt on the casing or
cement sheath through overburden pressure, should be given a
value equal to the true vertical depth of the relative point.
Net Collapse Pressure The effective collapse line is obtained by subtracting the internal
pressure from external at each depth.
Production Casing
Internal Pressure During the productive life of well, tubing leaks often occur. Also
wells may be on artificial lift, or have plugged perforations or very
low internal pressure values and, under these circumstances, the
production casing string could be partially or completely empty. The
ideal solution is to design for zero pressure inside the casing which
provides full safety, nevertheless in particular well situations, the
Drilling and Completions Manager may consider that the lowest
casing internal pressure is the level of a column of the lightest
density producible formation fluid.
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External Pressure Assume the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the mud in which
casing is installed.
The uniform external pressure exerted by salt on the casing or
cement sheath through overburden pressure, should be given a
value equal to the true vertical depth of the relative point.
Net Collapse Pressure In this case of the casing being empty, the net pressure is equal to
the external pressure at each depth.
In other cases it will be the difference between external and internal
pressures at each depth.
Intermediate Casing and Liner
If a drilling liner is to be used in the drilling of a well, the casing
above where the liner is suspended must withstand the collapse
pressure that may occur while drilling below the liner.
When well testing or producing through a liner, the casing above
the liner is part of the production casing/liner and must be designed
according to this criteria.
Tie-Back String
If the intermediate string above the liner is unable to withstand the
collapse pressure calculated according to production collapse
criteria, it will be necessary run and tie-back a string of casing from
the liner top to surface.
Figure 4.B - Fluid Height Calculation

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4.8.3. Tension
Note: The amount of parameters which can affect tensile loading means the
estimates for the tensile forces are more uncertain than the estimates for
either burst and collapse. The DF imposed is therefore much larger.
To evaluate the tensile loading, the company procedure outlined below applies.
Surface Casing
Tension Calculate the casing string weight in air.
Calculate the casing string weight in mud multiplying the previous
weight by the buoyancy factor (BF) in accordance with the mud
weight in use.
Add the additional load due to bumping the cement plug to the
casing string weight in mud.
Note: This pull load is calculated by multiplying the

expected bump-plug pressure by the inside area of
the casing.
A calculation of this kind is an approximation because the

assumption has been made that:
• No buoyancy changes occur during cementing.
• The pressure is applied only at the bottom and not where there
are changes in section. As seen with the previous case, the
differences in the calculated values are quite small, which
justifies the preference for the simpler approximation method.
Once the magnitude and location of the forces are determined, the
total tensile load line may be constructed graphically. Note: more
than one section of the casing string may be loaded in compression.
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4.9. BIAXIAL STRESS

When the entire casing string has been designed for burst, collapse and tension, and the
weights, grades, section lengths and coupling types are known, reduction in burst
resistance needs to be applied due to biaxial loading.
The total tensile load, which is tensile loading versus depth, is used to evaluate the effect of
biaxial loading and can be shown graphically.
By noting the magnitude of tension (plus) or compression (minus) loads at the top and
bottom of each section length of casing, the strength reductions can be calculated using the
‘Holmquist & Nadai’ ellipse, see figure 4.c.
Note: The effects of axial stress on burst resistance are negligible for the
majority of wells.
4.9.1. Effects On Collapse Resistance

The collapse strength of casing is seriously affected by axial load, but the correction
adopted by the API (API Bulletin 5C3) is only valid for D/t ratios of about 15 or less. In
principle collapse resistance is reduced or increased when subjected to axial tension or
compression loading.
As can be seen from figure 4.c, increasing tension reduces collapse resistance where it
eventually reaches zero under full tensile yield stress.
The adverse effects of tension on collapse resistance usually affects the upper portion of a
casing string which is under tension reducing the collapse resistance of the pipe.
After these calculations, the upper section of casing string may need to be upgraded.
Note: Fortunately most times, the biaxial effects of axial stress on collapse
resistance are insignificant.
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Figure 4.C - Ellipse of Biaxial Yield Stress

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4.9.2. Company Design Procedure

The value for the percentage reduction of rated collapse strength is determined as follows:
1) Determine the total tensile load.
2) Calculate the ratio (X) of the actual applied stress to yield strength of the casing.
3) Refer to figure 4.d and curve ‘effect of tension on collapse resistance’ and find the
corresponding percentage collapse rating (Y).
4) Multiply the collapse resistance by the percentage (Y), without tensile loads to obtain
the reduced collapse resistance value.
This is the collapse pressure which the casing can withstand at the top of the string.
The collapse resistance increases towards the bottom as the tension decreases.
X= Tensile load
Pipe body yield strength
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 1.1
0
0.1
Collapse resistence without tensile load
0.2
Collapsresistence with tensile load
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
Y=
0.9
1.1
Figure 4.D - Effect Of Tension On Collapse Resistance

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4.9.3. Example Collapse Calculation

Determine the collapse resistance of 7", N 80, 32lbs/ft (4kg/m), BTR casing with the shoe at
a depth of 5,750m and a mud weight of 1.1kg/dm3.
Collapse resistance without tensile load = 8,610psi (605 kg/cm2)
Pipe body yield strength = 745,000lbs (338 t)
Buoyancy factor = 0.859
5,750 x 47.62
Weight in air of casing = = 274t
1,000
Weight in mud of casing = 274 x 0.859 = 235 t
Weight in mud of casing 235
x= = = 0.695
Pipe Body Yield Strength 338
From the curve or stress curve factors in figure 4.d if X = 0.695 then Y = 0.445 and the
collapse resistance with tensile load can be determined
Collapse resistance under load = Nominal Collapse Rating x 0.445
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4.10. BENDING
4.10.1. General
When calculating tension loading, the effect of bending should be considered if applicable.
The bending of the pipe causes additional stress in the walls of the pipe. This bending
causes tension on the outside of the pipe and in compression on the inside of the bend,
assuming the pipe is not already under tension (Refer to figure 4.e)
Figure 4.E - Bending Stress
Bending is caused by any deviations in the wellbore resulting from side-tracks, build-ups
and drop-offs.
Since bending load increases the total tensile load, it must be deducted from the usable
rated tensile strength of the pipe.
4.10.2. Determination Of Bending Effect

For determination of the effect of bending, the following formula should be used:
B = 15.52 × α × D × Af
where:
α = Rate (degrees 30m)
D = Outside diameter of casing (ins)
Af = Cross-section area of casing (cm2)
TB = Additional tension (kg)
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The formula is obtained from the two following equations:

MB × D
σ=
2× J
where:
MB = Bending moment (MB = E x J/R) (Kg x cm)
D = Outside diameter of casing (cm)
J = Inertia moment (cm4)
σ = Bending stress (kg/cm2)
ExJ = Bending stiffness (kg x cm2)
R = Radius of curvature (cm)
MB × L
σ=
E×J
where:
MB = Bending moment (kg x cm)
L = Arch length (cm)
E = Modulus of elasticity (kg/cm2)
J = Inertia moment (cm4)
θ = Change in angle of deviation (radians)
θ×E×J
Obtaining MB = thus the equation becomes:
L
θ×E×D
σ=
2×L
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Then, by using the more current units giving the build-up or drop-off angles in degrees/30
m, we obtain the final form of the equation for ‘TB’ as follows:
TB
θ=
Af
θ × E × D × Af
TB =
2×L
180 × 30
R=
π×α
1
L=
R
π × α × E × D × Af
TB =
180 × 2 × 30
E = 21,000kg/mm2 = 2.1 x 106kg/cm2
TB =
(
π × α × 2.1 × 10 6 )
×
(25 × 4 ) × D × Af
2 × 180 30 × 100
TB = 15.52 x α x D x Af
when:
Af = Square inches
α = Degrees/100ft
TB = 218 x α x D x Af (lbs) or 63 x α x D x W(lbs)
W = Casing weight (lbs/ft)
Note: Since most casing has a relatively narrow range of wall thickness (from
0.25” to 0.60”), the weight of casing is approximately proportional to its
diameter. This means the value of the bending load increases with the
square of the pipe diameter for any given value of build-up/drop-off rate.
At the same time, joint tension strength rises a little less than the direct
ratio. The result is that bending is a much more severe problem with large
diameter casing than with smaller sizes.

Since bending load, in effect, increases tensile load at the point applied, it must be
deducted from the usable strength rating of each section of pipe that passes the point of
bending.
The section which is ultimately set through a bend must have the bending load deducted
from its usable strength up to the top of the bend. From that point up to the top of the
section the full usable strength can be used.
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4.10.4. Example Bending Calculation

Data:
Casing: OD. 13 3/8", 72lbs/ft (107.14kg/m), C 75, BTR
Directional well with casing shoe at 2,000m. (MD)
Kick-off point at 300m
Build-up rate: 3°/30m
Maximum angle: 30°
Mud weight : 1.1kg/dm3
Pipe body yield strength: 1,558,000lbs (707t)
Design factor : 1.7
Calculation:
Casing weight in air (Wa) Wa = 107.14 x 2,00 = 214t
Casing weight in mud (Wm) Wm = 214 x 0.859 = 184t
Additional tension due to the bending effect (TB)
TB = 15.52 x 3 x 13.375 x 133.99 = 83,441kg = 83t
This stress will be added to the tensile stress already existing on the
curved section of hole.
Tension in the casing at 300m(TVD)=156t. 5)
Total tension in the casing at 300m = 156 + 83 = 239t
Tension in the casing at 600m (MD) =129t.
Total tension in the casing at 600m (MD) = 129 + 83 = 212t.
See figure 4.f for the graphical representation of the example.

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Figure 4.F - Bending Load Example

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4.11. CASING WEAR

4.11.1. General
Casing wear decreases the performance properties of casing. The burst and collapse
resistance of worn casing is in direct proportion to its remaining wall thickness.
Figure 4.G - Casing Wear

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A major contributing factor to reducing the life of a casing string is poor handling throughout
the supply chain. All personnel in this chain must adopt the proper handling procedures.
The major factors affecting casing wear are:
• Rotary speed
• Tool joint lateral load and diameter
• Drilling rate
• Inclination of the hole
• Severity of dog legs
• Wear factor.
The location and magnitude of volumetric wear in the casing string can be estimated by
calculating the energy imparted from the rotating tool joints to the casing at different casing
points and dividing this by the amount of energy required to wear away a unit volume of the
casing. The percentage casing wear at each point along the casing is then calculated from
the volumetric wear.
Eni-Agip acceptable casing wear limit is </= 7%.
Volumetric wear is proportional to an empirical ‘wear factor’ which is defined as the
coefficient of friction divided by the volume of casing material removed per unit of energy
input.
The wear factor depends upon several variables including :
• Mud properties
• Lubricants
• Drill solids
• Tool-joint roughness.
Note: The chemical action of gases such as H2, CO2 and O2 tends to reduce the
surface hardness of steel and, thus, contributes significantly to the rate of
wear.
4.11.2. Volumetric Wear Rate

The volume of casing worn away by the rotating tool joint equals:
Energy Input Per ft
Wear Volume Per Foot(V) =
Specific Energy
where:
Specific Energy = The amount of energy required to wear away a unit volume
of casing material.
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The frictional energy imparted to the casing by the rotating tool joint equals:
Energy Input Per Foot = Friction Force Per Foot x Sliding Distance
where:
Friction Force Per Foot = Friction Factor x Tool Joint Lateral Load Per Foot
Sliding Distance = n x TJ Diameter x Rotary Speed x Contact Time
and:
S × TJL
Tool Joint Contact Time =
DPJL
where:
S = Drilling Distance
TJL = Tool Joint Length
P = Rate of Penetration
DPJL. = Drill Pipe Joint Length
The lateral load on the drill pipe equals:

TJLLPF x TJL
Drill Pipe Lateral load per Foot (L) =
DPJL
where:
TJLLPF = Tool Joint Lateral Load Per Foot
TJL = Tool Joint Length
DPJL. = Drill Pipe Joint Length
The Wear Factor controlling the wear efficiency is defined as:

Wear Factor = Friction Factor/Specific Energy
Combining the above equations. shows that the Wear Volume, V, equals:
60 x π x F x L x D x N x S
v=
P
where:
V = Wear Volume Per Foot (ins3/ft)
F = Wear factor (ins2/lbs)
L = Lateral Load on Drill Pipe Per Foot (lbs/ft)
D = Tool Joint Diameter (ins)
N = Rotary Speed (RPM)
S = Drilling Distance (ft)
P = Penetration Rate (ft/hr)
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The tool joint and drill pipe lengths do not appear in Equation 6 because they do not effect
the amount of casing wear in the linear model.
Note: Wear volume increases non-linearly with wear depth, because grooves
become wider as the wear depth increases.
4.11.3. Wear Factors
Wear Factor (F)

Drilling Fluid Tool Joint (10-1 psi-l)
Water+Betonite+Barite Smooth 0.5 -
Water+Betonite+Lubricant (2%) Smooth 0.5 - 5
Water+Betonite+Drill Solids Smooth 5 - 10
Water Smooth 10 - 30
Water+Betonite Smooth 10 - 30
Water+Betonite+Barite Slightly Rough 20 - 50
Water+Betonite+Barite Rough 50 - 150
Water+Betonite+Barite Very Rough 200 - 400
Table 4.A - Typical Casing Wear Factors
Wear Factor
Drilling Fluid Tool Joint (10-1 psi-l)
Water+Betonite+Barite Rubber Protector 1-2
Water Rubber Protector 4 - 10
Table 4.B - Typical Casing Wear Factors (Shell-Bradley, 1975)
Mud Weight Tool Weighting Wear Factor

Drilling Fluid (lbs/al) Joint Material (10-l0psi-1)
Oil+Bentonite 10 Smooth Barite 0.9 - 1.2
Water+Bentonite 10 Smooth Barite 0.8 - 1.6
Water+Bentonite 10 Smooth Iron Oxide 3-4
Water+Betontite 10 Smooth Drill Solids 5 - 11
Water+Betontite 10 Smooth Sand 11 - 13
Water+Betontite 8.8 Smooth None 22 - 27
Table 4.C - Effect of Weighting Material on Casing Wear Factor (Bol, 1985)
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4.11.4. Wear Allowance In Casing Design

With the design loads recommended it is highly unlikely that a reduction in collapse
resistance due to wear will be critical at shallow depths or similarly that the reduction in
burst resistance will be critical at the lower end of the casing string.
The most likely wear points in a deviated wells are at the kick-off point and near surface in
the vertical portion where buckling may occur (particularly at the top of cement).
In the vertical wells, wear points may also develop at the top of cement if buckling occurs
but unless there are known sudden changes in formation dip, which could cause a large
‘drilled dogleg’, wear is likely to be small and uniformly spread over the entire length of the
string.
For most purposes, consideration of wear allowances can be restricted to deviated wells,
with the most likely wear point at the kick-off point where burst reduction will be the prime
consideration.
Since wear estimates are order-of-magnitude calculations, it is recommended that wear
allowances be considered only in cases where the burst (or collapse) resistance of the
casing at the wear point will be approached during the anticipated operating time in the
string.
In marginal cases, it may well prove cost effective to run a base caliper survey to re-survey
the casing prior to entering a hydrocarbon bearing zone (or pressure test the casing to the
equivalent of the burst pressures anticipated from the zone) than to run heavy walled casing
through all the anticipated wear sections.
The recommended procedure is therefore:
1) Conduct the casing design.
2) At the wear points, calculate the allowable reduction in wall-thickness so that the burst
(or collapse) resistance of the casing just equals the burst (or collapse) load, including
the appropriate Design Factor applied.
3) Estimate the wear rate in terms of loss of wall thickness per operating day.
4) Calculate, from the allowable loss in wall thickness and the rate of wear, the allowable
operating time in the string.
If the allowable operating time is less than the anticipated operating time, use heavier
casing (or increases the grade) 100m above and to 60m below the wear point until the
allowable operating time exceeds the anticipated operating time.
If the allowable operating time is greater than the anticipated operating time (say estimated
50 days allowable versus estimated 20 days operating) do not include a wear allowance. If
the allowable operating time and the anticipated operating time are about the same, either:
a) include a wear allowance
or
b) monitor casing wear during drilling, and commission an intermediate string if the
worn casing strength approaches the design loads.
In any given situation whether option a) or b) is exercised will be dependent upon a number
of factors, many of which are beyond the scope of routine casing design.
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Option a)
Is the conservative approach, but it may be too high, given the gross uncertainties inherent
in wear estimations. However, in rank wildcats, particularly in remote locations, it may be
justified.
Option b)
Requires a base caliper survey to be run immediately after installing the casing string,
followed by runs at discrete intervals during the drilling phase.
If wear is proven to have occurred, and an intermediate string has to be commissioned
early, the deeper objectives of the well may not be reached. However, conditions as drilling
proceeds may indicate that the design loads assumed are not going to be encountered and
the reduction in casing strength is acceptable.
In any event, valuable data on casing wear in the area will be obtained and field practices
may be improved as result of the attention paid to wear, eventually leading to a reduction in
overall wear rates.
In most cases, option b) is preferred.

There is no reliable method of predicting casing wear and defining the corresponding
reduction in casing performance. Because the reduction in burst and collapse rating is
directly proportional to wall thickness the revised theoretical value may be calculated.
The normal procedure to cater for possible wear when designing casing is to select the next
casing grade or wall thickness, therefore, in a vertical well, casing wear is usually in the first
few joints below the wellhead or intervals with a high dogleg severity.
Consideration should be given to increasing the grade or wall thickness of the first few joints
below the wellhead.
In deviated wells, wear will be over the build-up and drop-off sections. Again the casing over
these depths can be of a higher grade or heavier wall thickness.
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4.12. SALT SECTIONS

Salt formations often exhibit plastic flow properties which can cause exceedingly high loads
on casing. The rate of salt flow is a function of its composition, temperature, depth or
overburden pressure and also probably influenced by how it is bedded or interbedded with
other formations.
The problem of salt formations has to be assessed on an individual well to well and/or area
to area basis.
The objectives for drilling through salt zones should be:
• To achieve trouble free drilling.
• Prevent casing collapse during the drilling and the production life of the well.
With regards to trouble free drilling, sticking due to salt flow, mud problems from salt
contamination, hole enlargement and the well's overall casing programme, are the prime
factors to be considered.
There are other factors that have to not be under evaluated such as:
• Control of gas flows from porous zones interbedded in the salt, differential
sticking in porous zones.
• Abnormal pressure due to entrapment of pressure by salt
• Shale sloughing from interbedded or boundary shales.
To prevent casing collapse, the designer should plan for non-uniform salt loading, obtaining
the best possible cement job, using casing with higher than normal collapse ratings and
possibly two strings of casing through the salt section.
In some cases, two strings may be more advantageous as experience has demonstrated
that it is not practical to design a casing string to resist collapse. This technique is probably
the most reliable and safest approach for preventing casing collapse but is probably not
necessary in the majority of salt sections.
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In designing casing for any application, the accepted design load is the one for which the
casing is subjected to the greatest conceivable loads.
In the particular case of casing design opposite salt formations, certain guidelines can be
considered:
• For production casing exposed to salt formations, assume the casing will be
always evacuated at some point during the well life.
• The uniform external pressure exerted by salt on the casing (or cement sheath)
due to overburden pressure should be given a value equal to the true vertical
depth to the point in question.
• Proper cement placement opposite a salt section is often difficult due to
washout.
• Any beneficial effects of the cement sheath should be ignored during design of
the casing.
• If the wellbore is deviated, additional axial forces due to hole curvature should
be considered when determining the collapse resistance of the casing.
Conclusions:
• Running casing in salt sections is rather a cementing problem than a casing
problem.
• If the pipe is well cemented, it is sufficient to design for collapse load in the
traditional mode (overburden pressure/design factor).
• If the casing is poorly cemented the collapse effect may be very high. In this
case, it may help to run heavier wall casing.
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4.13. CORROSION
A production well design should attempt to contain produced corrosive fluids within tubing.
They should not be produced through the casing/tubing annulus.
However, it is accepted that tubing leaks and pressured annuli are a fact of life and as such,
production casing strings are considered to be subject to corrosive environments when
designing casing for a well where hydrogen sulphide (H2S) or carbon dioxide (CO2) laden
reservoir fluids can be expected.
During the drilling phase, if there is any likelihood of a sour corrosive influx occurring,
consideration should be given to setting a sour service casing string before drilling into the
reservoir.
The BOP stack and wellhead components must also be suitable for sour service.
4.13.1. Exploration And Appraisal Wells

Routine measures to be taken during drilling include:
• Use of casing and wellhead equipment with a metallurgy suitable for sour
service.
• Use of high alkaline mud to neutralise the H2S gas.
• Use of inhibitors and/or scavengers.
These measures will provide a degree of short term protection necessary to control
corrosion of the casing in the hole during the drilling phase.
4.13.2. Development Wells

Casing corrosion considerations for development wells can be confined to the production
casing only.
Internal corrosion
The well should be designed to contain any corrosive fluids (produced or injected) within the
tubing string by using premium connections.
Any part of the production casing that is likely to be exposed to the corrosive environment,
during routine completion/workover operations or in the event of a tubing or wellhead leak,
should be designed to withstand such an environment.
External corrosion
Where the likelihood of external corrosion due to electrochemical activity is high and the
consequences of such corrosion are serious, the production casing should be cathodically
protected( either cathodically or by selecting a casing grade suitable for the expected
corrosion environment).
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4.13.3. Contributing Factors To Corrosion

Most corrosion problems which occur in oilfield production operations are due to the
presence of water. Whether it may be present in large amounts or in extremely small
quantities, it is necessary to the corrosion process. In the presence of water, corrosion is an
electrolytic process where electrical current flows during the corrosion process. To have a
flow of current, there must be a generating or voltage source in a completed electrical
circuit.
The existence, if any, of the following conditions alone, or in any combination may be a
contributing factor to the initiation and perpetuation of corrosion:
Oxygen (O2)
Oxygen dissolved in water drastically increases its corrosivity potential. It can cause severe
corrosion at very low concentrations of less than 1.0 PPM.
The solubility of oxygen in water is a function of pressure, temperature and chloride content.
Oxygen is less soluble in salt water than in fresh water.
Oxygen usually causes pitting in steels.
Carbon dioxide (CO2)

When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid, decreases the pH of the
water and increase its corrosivity. It is not as corrosive as oxygen, but also usually results in
pitting.
The important factors governing the solubility of carbon dioxide are pressure, temperature
and composition of the water. Pressure increases the solubility to lower the pH, temperature
decreases the solubility to raise the pH.
Corrosion primarily caused by dissolved carbon dioxide is commonly called ‘sweet’
corrosion.
The partial pressure of carbon dioxide can be determined by the formula:
Partial Pressure = Total pressure x Mol Fraction of C02 in the gas
Example:
In a well with a bottom hole pressure of 3,500psi and a gas containing 2% carbon dioxide:
Partial pressure = 3,500 x 0.02
= 70psi
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Using the partial pressure of carbon dioxide as a yardstick to predict corrosion, the following
relationships have been found:
• Partial pressure > 30 psi usually indicates high corrosion risk.
• Partial pressure 3-30 psi may indicates high corrosion risk.
• Partial pressure < 3 psi generally is considered non corrosive.
Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S)

Hydrogen sulphide is very soluble in water and when dissolved behaves as a weak acid and
usually causes pitting. Attack due to the presence of dissolved hydrogen sulphide is
referred to as ‘sour’ corrosion.
The combination of H2S and CO2 is more aggressive than H2S alone and is frequently found
in oilfield environments.
Other serious problems which may result from H2S corrosion are hydrogen blistering and
sulphide stress cracking.
It should be pointed out that H2S also can be generated by introduced micro-organisms.
Temperature
Like most chemical reactions, corrosion rates generally increase with increasing
temperature.
Pressure
Pressure affects the rates of chemical reactions and corrosion reactions are no exception.
In oilfield systems, the primary importance of pressure is its effect on dissolved gases. More
gas goes into solution as the pressure is increased this may in turn increase the corrosivity
of the solution.
Velocity of fluids within the environment

Stagnant or low velocity fluids usually give low corrosion rates, but pitting is more likely.
Corrosion rates usually increase with velocity as the corrosion scale is washed off the
casing exposing fresh metal for further corrosion.
High velocities and/or the presence of suspended solids or gas bubbles can lead to erosion-
corrosion, impingement or cavitation.
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4.13.4. Casing For Sour Service
All temperatures (1) 150° F (65°C) (3) or greater 175° F (80°C) or greater
API Specification 5CT Grade API Specification 5CT Grade API Specification 5CT Grade
H40, (2) K55 and J 55 N80 (Q and T) H40, N80
Grade C75 (2) Grade C 95 Grade P110
and L80
Proprietary Grades: Proprietary Grades: Proprietary Grades:
see NACE standard Q and T, with a maximum yield with 110,000psi
MR-01-75 strength of 100,000psi (758,420kPa) minimum to
(689,475kPa) 140,000psi (965,265kPa)
max. yield strength
Q and T = quenched and tempered.

1) Impact resistance may be required by other standards and codes for low operating
temperatures.
2) 80,000 psi (551,580kPa) maximum yield strength permissible. The latest revision of
API Specification 5CT includes this requirement.
3) Continuous minimum temperature; for lower temperatures, select from column 1.
Table 4.D - Operation Temperature
4.13.5. Ordering Specifications

When ordering tubulars for sour service, the following specifications should be included, in
addition to those given in the above table.
a) Downgraded grade N 80, P 105 or P 110 tubulars are not acceptable for orders
for J 55 or K 55 casing.
b) The couplings must have the same heat treatment as the pipe body.
c) The pipe must be tested to the alternative test pressure (see API Bulletins 5A
and 5 AC).
d) Cold die stamping is prohibited, all markings must be paint-stencilled or hot die
stamped.
e) Three copies of the report providing the ladle analysis of each heat used in the
manufacture of the goods shipped, together with all the check analyses
performed, must be submitted.
f) Three copies of a report showing the physical properties of the goods supplied
and the results of hardness tests (Refer to step 3 above) must be submitted.
g) Shell modified API thread compound must be used.
Note: Recommendations for casing to be used for sour service must be

specified according to the API 5CT for restricted yield strength casings.
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The casing should also meet the following criteria:

• The steel used in the manufacture of the casing should have been quenched
and tempered. (This treatment is superior to tubulars heated/treated by other
methods e.g. normalising and tempering).
• All sour service casing should be inspected using non-destructive testing or
impact tests only, as per API Specification 5CT.

CO2 Corrosion
The following guidelines should be used for the appropriate corrosive environment.
• In exploration wells, generally the presence of CO2 in the formation causes little
problems, and will have no influence on material selection for the casing.
• In producing wells, the presence of CO2 may lead to corrosion on those parts
coming in contact with CO2 which normally means the production tubing and
part of the production casing below the packer.
Corrosion may be limited by:

• The selection of high alloy chromium steels, resistant to corrosion.
• Inhibitor injection, if using carbon steel casing. Generally, wells producing CO2
partial pressure higher than 20 psi requires inhibition to limit corrosion.
H2S Corrosion
In exploration wells, if there is high probability of encountering H2S, consideration should be
given to limit casing and wellhead yield strength according to ‘API’ 5CT and ‘NACE’
standard MR-01-75.
In producing wells, casing and tubing material will be selected according to the amount of
H2S and other corrosive media present.
Refer to figure 4.hand figure 4.i for partial pressure limits.
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Figure 4.H - Sour Gas Systems
Figure 4.I - Sour Multiphase Systems

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Figure 4.J - Sumitomo Metals

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Domain Material SM’ Notes

Application
Designation
Mild Environment Domain ‘A’ API J55 SM 95G
N80 SM 125G
P110
(Q125)
Sulphide Stress Corrosion Domain ‘B’ Cr or Cr-Mo Steel
Cracking (medium pressure
and temperature) API L80 SM 80S
C90 SM 90S
T95 SM 95S
Sulphide Stress Corrosion Domain ‘C’ 1Cr 0.5Mo Steel SM 85SS Higher yield strength
Cracking (high pressure and Modified AISI 4130 SM 90SS for sour service
temperature) SM C100
SM C110
Wet CO2 Corrosion Domain ‘D’ 9Cr-1Mo Steel SM 9CR 75 Quenched and
SM 9CR 80 tempered
SM 9CR 95
13Cr Steel SM 13CR 75 Quenched and
Modified AISI 420 SM 13CR 80 tempered
SM 13CR 95
Wet CO2 with a little H2S Domain ‘E’ 22Cr 5Ni 3Mo Steel SM 22CR 65* Duplex phase
Corrosion SM 22CR 110** Stainless steels
SM 22CR 125**
25Cr 6Ni 3Mo Steel SM 25CR 75* * Solution Treated
SM 25CR 110**
SM 25CR 125** ** Cold drawn
SM 25CR 140**
Wet CO2 with H2S Corrosion Domain ‘F’ 25Cr 35Ni 3Mo Steel SM 2535 110 As cold drawn
SM 2535 125
22C 42Ni 3Mo Steel SM 2242 110
SM 2242 125
20Cr 35Ni 5Mo Steel SM 2035 110
SM 2035125
Most Corrosive Environment Domain ‘G’ 25Cr 50Ni 6Mo Steel SM 2550-110 As cold drawn
SM 2550-125
SM 2550-140
20Cr 58Ni 13Mo Steel SM 2060-110***
SM 2060-125***
SM 2060-140*** *** Environment
16Cr 54Ni 16Mo Steel SM 2060-155*** with free
SM C276-110*** Sulphur
SM C276-125***
SM C276-140***
(Refer to figure 4.j)
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4.14. TEMPERATURE EFFECTS

For deep wells, reduction in yield strength must be considered due to the effect on steel by
higher temperatures.
It no information is available on temperature gradients in an area, a gradient of 3°C/100m
should to be assumed (Refer to section 2.3).
Use figure 4.k below for reductions in yield strength against temperature.
Figure 4.K - Temperature Effects
4.14.1. Low Temperature Service

Operations at low temperatures require tubulars made from steel with high ductility at low
temperatures to prevent brittle failures during transport and handling.
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4.15. LOAD CONDITIONS

When running casing, shock loads are exerted on the pipe due to:
• Sudden deceleration forces (e.g.: if the spider accidentally closes or the slips
are kicked-in when the pipe is moving or the pipe hits a bridge).
• Sudden acceleration forces (e.g.: picking the pipe out of the slips or if the casing
momentarily hangs up on a ledge then freed).
Either of the above will cause a stress wave to be created which will travel through the
casing at the speed of sound.
This effect is quantified as follows:
SL = 150 x V x Af
Where:
SL = Shock load (lbs x ins2)
V = Peak velocity when running (ins/sec)
Af = Cross-sectional area (ins2)
150 = Speed of sound in steel (lbs x sec/ins)
4.15.1. Safe Allowable Pull

The safe allowable pull must be calculated and stipulated during the casing string design
process and communicated to the well site prior to running casing, particularly, when
reciprocating pipe during the cementing procedure.
The application of the pulling load should only be considered as an emergency measure to
retrieve the casing string from the wellbore. It is normal to incorporate in the casing string
design an overpull contingency of 100,000lbs (45t), over the weight of the string in mud.
4.15.2. Cementing Considerations

The cement sheath can protect the casing against several types of potential downhole
damage including:
• Deformation through perforating gun detonations.
• Formation movement, salt flows, etc. (Refer to previous section 4.13).
• Loss of bottom joint on surface/intermediate strings during drilling.
However, the following aspects need to be considered:

• Adding resistance to casing collapse for design purposes is questionable.
• In fault slippage zones, doglegs and certain sand control failures, the cement
sheath may contribute to problems.
As a cement slurry is pumped into the casing, the weight indicator increases to a maximum
when mud has been displaced from the casing by the full amount of cement.
The maximum weight of the string occurs when the cement reaches the casing shoe or
when the top cement plug is released.
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This weight increase can approach the remaining allowable pull in the string. If reciprocation
is contemplated, this problem may be severe enough to prevent reciprocation and, hence
stretching the pipe. After considering the above loading, the design engineer may decide
that a higher allowable pull is required.
For design calculation, a worst case situation is assumed as follows:
• The mud weight in the annulus is the lowest planned for the section.
• The inside of the casing is full of cement slurry, with mud above.
• The shoe instantaneously plugs-off just as the cement reaches it and the
pressure rises to a value of circa ‘1,000psi’ before the pumps are able to be
shut-down.
The load is calculated as follows:

CCL = [(Cw - Mw) x D + 1000] x Ai
where:
CCL = Cementing contribution load (lbs)
Cw = Cement weight (psi/ft)
Mw = 0utside mud weight (psi/ft)
D = Length over which Cw & Mw act(ft)
Ai = Internal area of casing (ins2)
1,000 = Pressure increment (psi)
4.15.3. Pressure Testing

Casing pressure tests will be carried out according to the pressure stated in the drilling
programme.
When establishing an internal casing pressure test, the differential pressure due to a
difference in fluid level and/or fluid density, inside and outside the casing, shall be taken
into account.
Each casing shall be pressure tested at the following times:
• When cement plug bumps on bottom with a pressure stated in the drilling
programme.
• When testing blind/shear rams of the BOP stack against the casing.
• After having drilled out a DV collar.
4.15.4. Company Guidelines

The leading criteria for pressure testing will be the maximum anticipated wellhead pressure.
In all cases the test pressure will be no higher than 70% of API minimum internal yield
pressure of the weakest casing in the string or to 70% of the BOP WP.
The test pressure shall remain stable for at least 5 - 10 minutes.
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4.15.5. Hang-Off Load (LH)
The Hang-off load required for a casing is obtained as per algebraic amount of the following
loads:
LH= Pa + L1 + L2 + L3 + Fc
Where:
Pa = weight in air of the not cemented casing
L1 = stress due to variation of internal pressure
L2 = stress due to variation of external pressure
L3 = stress due to variation of average temperature
Fc = critical force (take into account only if it is positive)
l1a = -0.6 ID2 π/4 (γ2 - γ1)/2 H/10 (for inside casing mud weight variation)
L1 = l1b = 0.03 ID2 π/4 (2N – N2/10) γ0 (for inside casing mud level drop)
l1c = -0.6 ID π/4 Pi
2
(for inside casing pressure applied)
l2a = 0.6 OD2 π/4 (γ2 - γ1)/2 H/10 (for outside casing mud density variation)
L2 = l2b = 0.03 OD2 π/4 (2M – M2/H) γ0 (for inside casing mud level drop “m”)
l2c = 0.6 OD2 π/4 OD2 Pe (for outside casing pressure applied)
∆tm = ∆tm2 - ∆tm1

L3 = 26 (OD – ID ) π/4 ∆tm ; with
2 2
∆tm1 = tf1 + (ts1-tf1)/2 H/S
∆tm2 = tf2 + (ts2-tf2)/2 H/S2
Fc = Pi ID2 π/4 – Pe OD2 π/4
H = uncemented casing length

ID = inside diameter
M = outside casing mud level drop
N = inside casing mud level drop
OD = outside diameter
Pi = inside pressure applied at casing head
Pe = outside pressure applied at casing head
S = casing setting depth
S2= end of the next phase
tf1= flow line mud temperature when the well is at “S”
ts1= static bottom hole (S) temperature
tf2= flow line mud temperature when the well is at “S2”
ts2= static bottom hole (S2) temperature
γ 0 = mud density at the time of the inside casing mud level drop
γ 1 = mud density during cementing job
γ 2 = max mud density during the next drilling phase
∆ tm = temperature total variation
∆ tm1 = variation of temperature at shoe depth
∆ tm2 = variation of temperature at the end of the next phase
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5. MUD CONSIDERATIONS
5.1. GENERAL
For full information on drilling fluids preparation, refer to Eni-Agip’s Drilling Fluids Manual.
a) A detailed mud programme shall be included as an integral part of the drilling
programme.
b) A Mud Service Contractor may be contracted for the preparation of the mud
programme, which shall be submitted to the Company Drilling Office for approval
before to integrate into the Drilling Programme.
c) The same Contractor may be contracted for Mud Engineering on rig site under the
control of the Company Drilling and Completion Supervisor.
d) No variation from the mud program is permitted without previous discussion with and
approval of the Company Shore Base Drilling office.
e) The mud characteristics to be used for specific operations, such as tripping, casing
running, etc., shall be based on specifications described the relevant sections of the
Drilling Programme.
5.2. DRILLING FLUID PROPERTIES

Drilling fluids serve many purposes but their primary functions are to
• Lift formation cuttings to surface
• Control subsurface pressures
• Lubricate the drill string
• Clean the hole
• Aid in formation evaluation
• Protect formation productivity
5.2.1. Cuttings Lifting

Clearing the hole of cuttings is an essential primary function of a drilling fluid system and is
often the most misinterpreted and abused. Drill solids are heavier than the mud and will
tend to slip downward against the flow. This slip velocity when the fluid is in viscous of
laminar flow is directly affected by the thickness or shear characteristics of the mud. The
relationship between mud velocity and thickness to enable cutting removal is important and
if velocity is low due to pump rate or enlarged hole sections, then the mud must be
thickened and vice versa.
Water based muds are thickened by adding bentonite, large volumes of solids, flocculation
or by the use of special additives. This provides the operator with a choice of options,
however the use of bentonite is the most popular as it is relatively cheap. When using
bentonite, sometimes a thinner needs to be added to prevent flocculation and water loss
control problems.
The use of large quantities of solids is an undesirable solution if it is not required to increase
mud weight for subsurface pressure control. Usually a mud selection is a compromise of all
the various problem solutions and often the lifting capability is not effective. What may have
begun as a simple mud thickening problem is complicated by the resulting effects on the
other mud objectives.
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5.2.2. Subsurface Well Control

It is always desirable to utilise the lowest possible mud weight to achieve maximum drilling
rate and lost circulation problems are minimised. However, the hydrostatic pressure applied
by the mud must be greater than the highest formation pressures to effect pressure control.
To determine the mud weight required, it is necessary to obtain predicted formation pore
pressures and the fracture gradient. The mud weight selected must exceed the formation
pore pressures in each section but to minimise drilling problems and still not exceed the
fracture pressure. This is sometimes a fine balancing act between satisfying well control
and not exceeding the rock strength in weak zones.
Formation pressure and temperature prediction is usually found be using offset well data
but can also be predicted (refer to section 2). Normal formation pressure gradients are
0.465psi/ft but vary from region to region. It is important that overpressure are predicted and
monitored for during drilling.
Once the formation pressures for a section are known, a safety margin must be added and
then mud weight calculated:
PF +SafetyM arg in
MW =
TVD× 0.052
where:
MW = Mud weight, ppg
PF = Formation pressure, psi
TVD = True vertical depth, ft
Example: A formation pressure has a pressure of 4,020psi at 8,500ft, a safety margin of
600psi is desired, what is the required mud weight ?.
4,020psi+600psi
MW = = 10.42ppg
8,500 ft× 0.052
Safety margins are usually around 0.2ppg but may vary according to conditions.
Example, a mud with a 700psi safety margin at 10,000ft will only provide a 350psi margin at
5,000ft. It may be decided to use an increased mud weight at the shallower depths if the
margin is too small.
To calculate pressure at a given depth and mud weight the calculation is:
PH = 0.052 x MW x TVD
Mud weight is increased by the addition of heavy solids.
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5.2.3. Lubrication
Lubrication and cooling are also important functions of the mud. Working life of expensive
equipment can be prolonged by adequate cooling and lubrication. Problems such as
excessive torque, drag and differential sticking are also reduced.
Lubricants include bentonite, oil, detergents, graphite, asphalts, special surfactants and
walnut shells. Bentonite acts as a lubricant by reducing friction between the wall cake and
the drill string. Oil is less used today due to the environmental impact and disposal problems
and similar to graphite as it also requires oil as a carrier. Asphalt is usually added for its
other properties but also acts as a lubricant. Surfactants have been claimed to lubricate but
this should be analysed as they are more expensive.
5.2.4. Bottom-Hole Cleaning

Thin fluids with high shear rates through the bit are the most effective at hole cleaning and
means that viscous fluids can be used if they have shear-thinning characteristics. In general
fluids with low solids contents are more effective in hole cleaning.
5.2.5. Formation Evaluation

Drilling fluids have been effect greatly by the requirement for quality formation evaluation.
Viscosity may be increase to ensure improved cutting lift, filtration may be reduced to
reduce fluid invasion or special fluids used instead of the mud system for logging and well
testing. The procedures for mud conditioning before logging have become standard today.
The type of mud will also have an effect, e.g. oil based mud make evaluation of potential
producing formations difficult and salt water fluids can mask permeable zones.
Thick filter cake can interfere with side wall coring information and water or oil invasion
affects resistivity logs.
The formation evaluation programme must take all of these considerations into account to
obtain the best results.
5.2.6. Formation Protection

In the past it has been proven that the drilling process and fluids will cause damage to
producing formations and the utmost precautions should be taken to minimise this damage.
The ideal protection policy is to keep all foreign fluids away from the formation, however in
most cases this is impractical, unless air drilling, and hence the drilling fluid should be
selected according to conditions. For instance, oil based mud can be used when it is
desirable to keep water off a zone, however oil based mud may be more damaging to gas
zones than salt water fluid, etc. Salt water fluid with high calcium content have also been
effective.
To help minimise invasion, reduction in the filtration rate may be employed but reliance on
static surface testing as assurance may be misleading on actual downhole filtration rates.
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5.3. MUD COMPOSITION

The composition of drilling mud is a mixture of the base fluid (see the list of liquids below),
solids and chemical additives.
• Fresh Water
• Salt water
• Oil
• Mixture of above
The base fluid for most muds is fresh water as it is usually readily available and is cheap.
Seawater has become more widely used due to the increase in offshore drilling for obvious
reasons. Oil based mud is very popular when it is desired to reduce the amount of water in
the system. Two types of oil based mud are available, an oil mud that has less than 5%
water by volume and invert emulsion which is between 5 and 50%.
5.3.1. Salt Muds

Salt added to water will provide a range of weights according to the type and amount of salt
added. The maximum weight ranges for various types of brines are:
Kcl up to 9.6ppg (1,150kg/m3)
NaCl2 up to 10.0ppg (1,200kg/m3)
CaCl2 10.0 to 11.6ppg (1,200-1,390kg/m3)
The following figures show amount of salt and water required to achieve the range of brine
densities.
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Figure 5.A - Material Required For Preparation Of Potassium Chloride Solutions (20o)
Figure 5.B - Material Required For Preparation Of Sodium Chloride Solutions (20o)
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Brine weight is affected by temperature and it is necessary to obtain the average well
temperature in order to determine the density reduction from that when it was prepared at
surface. figure 5.c below shows brine densities at various temperatures.
Bottom hole temp + Top hole temp
Average well temperature =
2
Figure 5.C - Density Vs Temperature For Brine

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If drilling through salt beds or sections, the drill fluid should be saturated which will preserve
hole geometry avoiding enlargement. When working with salt at saturation point, it is not
uncommon to find salt deposited in the lines and surface tanks with temperature drop.
For brine densities below 1,050kg/m3, it is recommended to include 1-3% by weight of KCl
in the brine formulation to inhibit interaction between the fluid and water sensitive clays in
the formation.
Potassium is rarely used in concentrations above 0.4ppg as sodium chloride may be used
which is considerably cheaper. Sodium chloride is a cheap brine and has good solubility
which varies little with temperature. Calcium chloride is used in the higher weight range but
should be prepared with seawater as precipitates may form and the sodium chloride content
may crystallise if the weight range is above 1,320kg/m3.
5.3.2. Water Based Systems

High weight mud systems usually contain more solids than low weight systems. Extra solids
in high weight mud originate from the gels, chemicals, weight material and drill solids from
the rock. Good solids control systems and the proper addition of water and chemicals will
eliminate solids build up and problems. figure 5.d shows a field developed guidelines for
solids level in water muds.
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Figure 5.D- Guidelines for Clay Based Mud Systems

5.3.3. Gel Systems
The commercial clays added to the mud system are bentonite and attapulgite. Bentonite is
added to increase viscosity, gel strengths and suspension. filtration and filter cake
properties are also improved with bentonite. Drilled solids also enter the system during
drilling. If flocculation of bentonite occurs then a dispersant should be added. Attapulgite is
used where bentonite does not react properly.
5.3.4. Polymer Systems

Polymers have been used mainly in completion and workover operations requiring minimum
solids content, hence reducing formation damage.
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5.3.5. Oil Based Mud

As pointed out earlier oil based muds are used to reduce torque and/or drag beneficial in
drilling directional wells and where water based muds may cause hole damage such as in
shales. Oil mud is only less damaging if the water phase is dosed with salt to a higher
concentration of that in the formations to prevent the water being pulled out and, hence
causing sloughing. The salt used for this is usually calcium chloride due to its good solubility
properties.
Lime must be added to oil mud to convert sodium salts into calcium soaps and combat
problems associated with carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide intrusion.
Changing from water based to oil based mud may cause contamination in long sections of
open hole will have absorbed a considerable amount of water, therefore should be
restricted to cased hole only.
Oil based mud was treated as special purpose mud due mainly to its high cost in
comparison to water based mud, however with today’s restocking arrangements available
with the suppliers it has become much more economic. In general terms, the costs of drilling
with oil based mud is considered to be 30% less than for comparable water based weight
mud thought to be due getting more efficient weight on the bit. The hindrance to the use of
oil based mud is the environmental disposal of coated cuttings.
5.4. SOLIDS
Solids are divided into two groups, low and high gravity. The low gravity solids are further
subdivided into reactive and non-reactive groups. Reactive and non- reactive refers to
whether they react to changing downhole conditions. Low gravity solids include sand chert,
limestone, dolomite, some shales and mixtures of other minerals.
Non-reactive solids are undesirable and if larger than 15 microns in size, they are erosive to
circulating equipment.
The size of solids in microns and inches with the appropriate screen sizes are given in table
5.a below:
Microns Inches Shaker Screen Size

1540 0.0606 12 x 12
1230 0.0483 14 x 14
1020 0.0403 16 x 16
920 0.0362 18 x 18
765 0.0303 20 x 20
Table 5.A - Solids Size Versus Screen Size
Reactive solids are clays which are reactive to water. The most common clays used are
bentonite or gel and attapulgite (salt gel). Bentonite is used to both add thickness and
viscosity to the mud and control fluid loss.
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5.5. DENSITY CONTROL MATERIALS

To drill a well successfully, the formation pressure must be controlled by the hydrostatic
weight of the mud. A mud system will normally gain weight due to the addition of drilled
solids if proper mechanical solids control equipment is not used or is inefficient. These
solids are undesirable in high mud weight systems as they cause problems when weighting
materials are added.
Common weighting materials are shown in table 5.b below:
Material Average SG Max Mud Weight (ppg)

Barite 4.25 20-22
Lead Sulphide 6.6 28-32
Calcium Carbonate 2.7 12
Ilmenite 4.5 21-26
Hematite (Itagrite ore) 5.1 24-26
Table 5.B- Common Weighting Materials
Water based fluids can be weighted up by salts.
5.6. FLUID CALCULATIONS

The following equations are provided for an engineer to be able to calculate material
requirements, stock levels and mud weights. The symbols listed below are used in the
following equations and examples. These or variations in these may be found in any drilling
fluids handbook.
WO = Weight of original mud, lbs
WA = Weight of material added, lbs
WF = Weight of final mud, lbs
VO = Volume of original mud, gal
VA = Volume of material added, gal
VF = Volume of final mud, gal
DO = Weight of original mud, ppg
DA = Weight of material added, ppg
DF = Weight of final mud, ppg
w = Weight of material added to original mud, lbs/bbl
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Calculation of solids material required to increase mud weight.

Equation:
42(D F −D O )
w=
D
1− F
DA
Example: A mud system contains 750bbl of 10.4ppg mud, how many sacks of barite are
required to increase the density to 12.4 ?.
42 (12.4 − 10.4 )
w= = 130lb / bbl
12.4
1−
35.4
Total barite required:
750 bbl x 130 lbs / bbs
= = 975
100lbs / sk
Calculation of density resulting from adding liquid to decrease mud weight.
Equation:
VA
DF = D O − (D O − D A )
VF
Example: A mud system contains 800bbl of 11.3ppg mud, what is the resulting density of
adding 100bbl of 42o API oil ?.
Calculate SG of oil:
141.5
SG= =0.816SG
42+131.5
Calculate density of oil:
D A = 0.816 x 8.33 = 6.80ppg
Calculate VF:
VF = 800 bbl + 100 bbl
= 900 bbl
D F = 11.3 −
100
(11.3 − 6.80)
900
= 10.8 ppg
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Calculation of density by adding solids to a mud.

Equation:
w
DO +
DF = 42
w
1+
42 x D A
Example: 10 tons of barite were added to 800bbl of 9.2ppg mud, what was the final density
of the mud ?.
First calculate w:
10 t x 2,000 lbs
w=
800 bbl
= 25lbs / bbl
Calculate final density:
25
9 .2 +
DF = 42
25
1+
42 x 35.4
= 9.63ppg
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5.7. MUD TESTING PROCEDURES

The following table summarises the common mud field testing procedures. Refer to API RP
13B for Standards Mud Testing Procedures.
Test Water Based Mud Oil Based Mud

Mud weight Mud balance Mud balance
Viscosity Marsh funnel & graduated cup Marsh funnel & graduated cup
Sand content Sand content kit N/A*
Rheology n(PV, YP) Viscometer Viscometer
Shear strength (non- Shearmeter Shearmeter
pressurised
Low pressure filtration (100psi) API filter press Usually not applicable except
with a relaxed filtration mud
High pressure filtration HP/HT Press HP/HT Press
Static pressure filtration High temperature pressurised High temperature pressurised
aging cells aging cells
Hydrogen ion determination Modified calorimetric method N/A*
(pHydrion dispenser) or
electrometric method (pH
meter)
Oil, water, solids determination Retort kit Retort kit for determination of
O/W ratio
Bentonite content Methylene blue kit N/A*
Chloride content Potassium chromate, silver N/A*
nitrate
Water phase salinity and total N/A* Measurement of calcium
soluble salts chloride and sodium chloride
content %BWOW
Alkalinity N-50 sulphuric acid, N/A*
phenolphthalien or methyl
orange
Calcium and magnesium Versentate hardness test N/A*
Electrical stability N/A Voltage breakdown meter
* Not applicable in most cases or is not customarily evaluated.
Table 5.C - Common Mud Testing Equipment and Chemicals

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The following mud properties in the units shown below shall be included in the Drilling
programme. These shall be clearly checked, recorded; and also reported to Company
Drilling Office on a daily basis:
Weight kg/l
Temperature (especially in oil mud) °C
Funnel viscosity secs/gal/4
Plastic viscosity centipoise
Yield point g/100cm2
Gel strengths g/100cm2
3
Water losses cm /30mins
Filter cake millimetres
Sand content % by volume
Solids content % by volume
Oil content % by volume
Calcium content mg/l Ca++
Salinity g/l Cl-
5.8. MINIMUM STOCK REQUIREMENTS

a) Minimum stock requirements for mud weighting materials, chemicals, pipe freeing
agent, dispersant, lost circulation material, cement, kill and reserve mud on the rig,
depends on the well pressure prognosis, severity of potential drilling problems and rig
load capacity.
b) The minimum barite stock shall be 100t. When overpressurised formations are
anticipated, barite stock shall be based on expected formation pressure gradients, on
the actual mud weight and on the volume of the active drilling fluid in the system.
c) The minimum cement stock shall be 100t. or at least enough to prepare 200m of
cement plug.
d) A minimum volume of 70m3 of kill mud at 1.4kg/l shall be stocked while drilling surface
hole without a BOP stack installed.
e) After nippling up a BOP stack, minimum requirements for kill mud cannot be specified.
The volume and density of kill mud shall be adjusted to the well pressure prognosis
and pit volumes available on the rig.
f) Properties of reserve and kill mud should be checked and maintained daily and
recorded the mud report.
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g) In addition, the following material is recommended to be available on board for

contingencies:
• A stock of diesel oil, enough to guarantee five day of operations.
• Pipe freeing agent. The quantity shall be sufficient to prepare two pills, the
volume of each one shall be two times the capacity of the annulus open
hole/BHA.
• Dispersant - 20 drums
• Mica (fine, medium and coarse) -1.5t of each
• Wall Nut - 3t
• Viscosifier for salt water (i.e. Biopolymer): the quantity shall be enough to
prepare 200m3.
The inventory of materials on board should be reviewed daily and replenishment arranged
immediately when stock levels approach the specified minimum requirement. With regard to
barite, cement and diesel oil, should the stocks fall below the minimum requirement, drilling
operations shall be suspended.
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6. FLUID HYDRAULICS
The Eni-Agip IWIS (ADIS) software programme is currently used for all hydraulic
programmes and provides all the necessary information to be input into the ‘Geological
Drilling Programme’. However it is necessary for drilling engineers to be armed with
sufficient information to use the ADIS programme and plan for drilling operations.
There are some company guidelines that are helpful in fulfilling this objective outlined in the
following sub-sections but more detailed information can be found in the company’s ‘Mud
Manual’.
6.1. HYDRAULICS PROGRAMME PREPARATION

Before the design of a hydraulics programme can commence, the following information
about the well and drilling equipment should be ascertained:
a) Drilling contractor
b) Drilling unit
c) Hole sizes
d) Depth intervals
e) Mud weights at the various depths
f) Whether plastic viscosities are expected
g) Pumps:
• Manufacturer, type and model
• Number of pumps
• Horsepower available
• Liner sizes available
• Max pump speed
• Min pump speed
• Max pump pressure.
h) Minimum annular velocity
i) Length and ID of standpipe, swivel, kelly hose and kelly (or top drive)
j) Drill string design
k) Priority for the hydraulics programme, i.e. max bit hydraulics, max jet impact
force, constant pump speed or variable pump speed
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6.2. DESIGN OF THE HYDRAULICS PROGRAMME

The first priority of a hydraulics programme is to maximise bottomhole cleaning. Hydraulic
design methods include:
• Hydraulic Impact
• Bit Hydraulic Horsepower
• Nozzle Velocity
• A combination of these Methods
Regardless of the design method to be used, the first step is to determine the maximum
surface hydraulic horsepower available. This is calculated by using the following equation:
PQ
Hp =
1741
where:
Hp = Surface horsepower available
P = Maximum permitted surface pressure
Q = Maximum flow rate
The following example illustrates a typical calculation:

Maximum permissible surface pressure: 3,000psi
Maximum flow rate: 600gpm
Available horsepower:
3000 × 600
Hp = = 1,034
1741
If the pump size is 1,500HP then it is capable of delivering the required 1,034HP:
6.3. FLOW RATE

The flow rate must be maintained high enough to achieve two functions, to provide enough
velocity to remove cavings and cuttings and the jetting requirements of the bit for each hole
section. Upward flow velocities of 100-200ft/min are usually sufficient in normal conditions.
Obviously this demands much higher circulation volumes when drilling larger hole sizes.
The recommended flow rates for the standard bit size are given in table 6.a:
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Hole Size [ins] Flow Rate [l/min]

1
17 /2” 3,000-4,000
15” 2,800-3,500
121/4” 2,200-2,600
97/8” 1,500-1,900
81/2” 1,200-1,600
77/8” 1,200-1,600
63/4” 800-1,000
6” 600-800
Table 6.A- Rates for the standard casing design
Optimum annular velocity can also be calculated by the following equation:

11.8
Optimum Annular Velocity =
MW + DH
where:
MW = Mud weight, lbs/gal
DH = Diameter of hole, inches
From a given flowrate, annular velocity can be calculated as follows:

24.51(Q)
Annular Velocity =
DH2 − DP 2
where:
Q = Flow, gal/min
DH = Diameter of hole, ins
DP = Diameter of pipe, ins
The flow rate must also maintain good hole condition so that erosion does not occur or
cause invasion of formations that may damage potential producing zones. Rates of
circulating above that necessary simply to maintain good hole conditions can be used to
obtain faster drilling rates. The additional horsepower and pumping equipment required for
this due to increased friction losses must be justified to ensure economy.
Critical annular velocity is expressed by:
Critical Annular Velocity =

[ (
64.8 PV + 3.04 × DH − DP × (YP × MW ))]
(DH − DP) × MW
where:
PV = Plastic velocity
YP = Yield point
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6.4. PRESSURE LOSSES

Pressure losses are calculated using Bernoulli’s Theorem. Considering two points in a
circulating system, the following equation may be used:
U12 p1 U 2 p
h1 + − F + W = h2 2 + 2 − F + W
2g ρ1 2g ρ2
where:
h = Height above a chosen reference elevation, ft
U = Flow velocity, ft/sec
P = Pressure of the fluid, lbs/ft2
ρ = Density of the fluid, lbs/ft3
g = Acceleration of gravity 32ft/sec2
F = Sum of flowing pressure losses
W = Sum of mechanical energy added
In a mud system, as h1 and h2 are at the same height they cancel each other and the
velocity values are negligible, therefore the equation is reduced to:
W=F
‘W’ represents the hydraulic horsepower that must be applied to the mud with ‘F’
representing the fluid pressure losses in the system and the nozzles of the bit. Bernoulli’s
theorem may be used for the whole circulating system or just part of the system such as the
nozzles of the bit.
The total friction losses caused by the surface equipment, drill string and annuli can be
summed up as:
Ps = Ps.e + Pd p. + Pd.c + Pb + Pd.c.a + Pd.pa
where:
Ps = Total pressure drop
Ps.e = Pressure drop in the surface equipment
Pd p. = Pressure drop in the drill pipe
Pd.c = Pressure drop in the drill collars
Pb = Pressure drop in the bit
Pd.c.a = Pressure drop in the hole and drill collar annulus
Pd.pa = Pressure drop in the hole and drill pipe annulus
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Each of the pressure drops for a particular section can be obtained by calculation or from
using industry standard tables if the mud properties of rheology and weight are known. The
pressure drops also depend largely on whether the flow regime is laminar or turbulent. This
aspect and all of the pressure drops in a system are calculated by the ADIS software
programme
Any alteration in the mud properties or drill string design or bit nozzle area will in turn alter
the hydraulic programme. Suitable assumptions must be made for contingency in order that
the available pump horsepower is sufficient to cater for most circumstances which may
arise.
Before pressure drops can be calculated, it is necessary to determine whether flow is
laminar or turbulent and the plastic viscosity correction factor.
To determine if flow is laminar or not, it is necessary to find out the Reynolds number by:
15.47 × MW × AV (DH − DP )
Reynolds number (Rn) =
µ
where:
µ = 300Kη-1
σ300
κκ =
300
σ600
η = 3.322 log
σ300
1.41 × AV
ρ =
DH − DP
σ600 = 2PV + YP
σ300 = PV + YP
If the Reynolds number is less than 2,000 flow is laminar and over 4,000 is turbulent.
Laminar flow annulus pressure loss is calculated by:
L × YP L × AV × PV
Laminar annular pressure loss (psi) = +
225 (DH − DP) 90000 (DH − DP ) 2
(1.4327 × 10 −7 ) MW × L × AV 2
Turbulent annular pressure loss (psi) =
DH − DP
where:
L = Length, ft
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The plastic viscosity correction factor is found from the following figure 6.a
Figure 6.A - Plastic Viscosity Correction Chart

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6.4.1. Surface Equipment

The lengths and IDs of the surface lines, manifolds, standpipe, kelly or top drive will cause a
friction drop. Each of these parameters need to be known for input into the ADIS
programme.
0.00061 × MW × L × Q1.86
Pressure drop in pipe bore (psi) =
ID1.86
6.4.2. Drill Pipe
If a parallel or tapered drilling string is used, the length of each section for varying depths
needs to be determined for each individual size of pipe and then the pressure drops in each
combined to obtain the total pressure drop of the string.
The calculation is the same as that given in the previous subsection.
6.4.3. Drill Collars

Similar to the drill pipe above, the various lengths of drill collar IDs need to be known, the
pressure drop for each length calculated and then added.
6.4.4. Bit Hydraulics

The jetting action across the bit nozzles must be sufficient enough to clean the cuttings
away from the bit and up into the hole/drill collar annulus. Eni-Agip recommends that the
minimum nozzle velocity is 100m/sec.
Further to this, the following is the recommended hydraulic horsepower delivery for roller
cone bits in the most common hole sections:
8 ½” = 8-9 HHP/ins2
12 ¼” = 5-6 HHP/ins2
17 ½”(16”) = 3-4 HHP/ins2
The pressure drop across the nozzles are calculated by:
MW × Q 2
Pressure Drop Across Nozzles =
10858 × TFA
where:
TFA = Total flow area, sq ins
Bit HHP can be calculated by:
∆P × Q
Bit HHP/in =
2
1346.2 × DH
Jet impact force is calculated by:
Jet Impact Force (lbs) = 0.000516 × MW × Q × VJet
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Jet TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of TFA Of
Size 1 Jet 2 Jet 3 Jet 4 Jet 5 Jet 6 Jet 7 Jet 8 Jet 9 Jet
7
/32” .038 .076 .114 .152 .190 .228 .266 .305 .342
8
/32” .049 .098 .147 .196 .245 .295 .344 .393 .442
9
/32” .062 .124 .186 .249 .311 .373 .435 .497 .559
10
/32” .077 .153 .230 .307 .383 .460 .537 .614 .690
11
/32” .093 .186 .278 .371 .464 .557 .650 .742 .835
12
/32” .110 .221 .331 442 .552 .663 .773 .884 .994
13
/32” .130 .259 .389 .518 .648 .778 .907 1.037 1.167
14
/32” .150 .300 .450 .600 .750 .900 1.050 1.200 1.350
15
/32” .172 .344 .516 .688 .860 1.032 1.204 1.376 1.548
16
/32” .196 .392 .588 .784 .980 1.176 1.372 1.568 1.764
18
/32” .249 .498 .747 .996 1.245 1.494 1.743 1.992 2.241
20
/32” .307 .613 .921 1.228 1.535 1.842 2.148 2.455 2.762
22
/32” .371 .742 1.113 1.484 1.855 2.226 2.597 2.468 3.339
24
/32” .441 .883 1.325 1.767 2.209 2.650 3.092 3.534 3.976
Table 6.B- TFA Comparison (Total Flow Area)
6.4.5. Mud Motors

If mud motors are used, the HHP required will be provided by the supplier and must be
added into the total pressure drop of the system.
6.4.6. Annulus
Pressure loss calculations for the annulus between the hole/drill collar annulus and the
hole/drill pipe annulus need to be carried out by inputting the collar ODs, drill pipe ODs and
corresponding lengths as follows:
Turbulent Flow Annulus Pressure Loss (psi) =

(1.4327 × 10 ) × MW × L × AV
−7 2
.
DH − DP
The equivalent circulating density is calculated:
Total Annular Pr essure Drop × 19.25
Equivalent Circulating density = MW +
True Vetical Depth
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6.5. USEFUL TABLES AND CHARTS

Buoyancy
Mud lbs/gal Weight lbs cu ft g/cc or sp gr
Correction factor
8.34 62.3 1.00 .873
9 67.3 1.08 .862
10 74.8 1.20 .847
11 82.3 1.32 .832
12 89.8 1.44 .817
13 97.2 1.56 .801
14 104.7 1.68 .786
15 112.2 1.80 .771
16 119.7 1.92 .755
17 127.2 2.04 .740
18 134.6 2.16 .725
19 142.1 2.28 .710
20 149.6 2.40 .694
21 157.1 2.52 .679
22 164.6 2.64 .664
23 172.1 2.76 .649
24 179.5 2.88 .633
Table 6.C - Buoyancy Factors
lbs per psi per lbs per psi per

lbs/gal SG lbs/gal SG
cu ft 1,000 ft cu ft 1,000 ft
7.5 56.0 0.90 389.6 14.0 150.0 1.68 727.3
8.0 59.8 0.96 415.6 14.5 108.5 1.75 753.2
8.3 62.4 1.00 431.2 15.0 112.3 1.80 779.2
8.5 63.4 1.02 441.6 15.5 115.9 1.86 805.2
9.0 67.5 1.08 467.5 16.0 120.0 1.92 831.2
9.5 71.1 1.14 493.5 16.5 123.4 1.98 857.1
10.0 75.0 1.20 519.5 17.0 127.5 2.04 883.1
10.5 78.5 1.26 545.5 17.5 130.9 2.10 909.1
11.0 82.5 1.32 571.4 18.0 135.0 2.16 935.1
11.5 86.0 1.38 597.4 18.5 138.3 2.22 961.0
12.0 90.0 1.44 623.4 19.0 142.1 2.28 987.0
12.5 93.6 1.50 649.3 19.5 145.8 2.34 1013.0
13.0 97.5 1.56 675.3 20.0 149.6 2.39 1039.0
13.5 101.0 1.62 701.3
Table 6.D - Conversion Units for Various Mud Weights
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Pipe Tool Joint Equivalent

Nominal Weight
OD (ins) Connector ID (ins) ID(ins)
7 1
2 /8 6.5 IF 2 /8 2.225
7 7
2 /8 10.4 XH 12 /8 2.14
7 1
2 /8 10.4 IF 2 /8 2.15
1 7
3 /2 13.3 FH & XH 2 /16 2.74
1 11
3 /2 13.3 IF 2 /16 2.76
1 9
3 /2 15.5 IF 2 /16 2.60
13
4 14.0 FH 2 /16 3.29
1
4 14.0 IF 3 /4 3.34
11
4 15.7 FH 2 /16 3.18
1
4 15.7 IF 3 /2 3.24
1
4 /2 16.6 FH 3 3.76
1 5
4 /2 16.6 FH 3 /32 3.79
1 1
4 /2 16.6 XH 3 /2 3.78
1 3
4 /2 16.6 IF 3 /4 3.82
1
4 /2 20.0 FH & XH 3 3.56
1 5
4 /2 20.0 IF 3 /8 3.64
3
5 19.5 XH 3 /4 4.23
1
5 25.6 XH 3 /2 3.97
1 3
5 /2 21.9 REG 2 /4 4.40
1 13
5 /2 21.9 FH 3 /16 4.6-
1
5 /2 21.9 FH 4 4.75
1 13
5 /2 21.9 IF 4 /16 4.80
1
5 /2 24.7 FH 4 4.60
5 1
6 /8 25.2 REG 3 /2 5.52
5
6 /8 25.2 FH 5 5.88
5 29
6 /8 25.2 IF 5 /32 5.96
For Drill Collar Bores Same as ID
Table 6.E - Drill Pipe Sizes Metric and Imperial
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7. CEMENTING CONSIDERATIONS
The objective of the primary cementing process, to place cement in the annulus between
the casing and the formations exposed to the wellbore, is to provide zonal isolation. To
achieve this, a hydraulic seal must be obtained between the cement and the casing and
between the cement and the formations at the same time preventing fluid channels in the
cement sheath.
This requirement makes the primary cementing operation the most important performed on
the well. To this end, it is vital, that engineers are provided with sufficient information and
guidelines so that they can plan and conduct successful cementing operations preventing
the need to conduct remedial operations which may be damaging to the well and costly in
terms of lost rig time.
This section provides information, guidelines and the basic calculations necessary to
achieve this.
7.1. CEMENT
7.1.1. API Specification
Portland cement is the most widely used in cementing operations in the oil industry and an
API specification (10) was established. API 10 consists of eight classes of cement, A
through H, to provide standard to suit a range of well conditions. The API classification
system is shown in table 7.a below:
API Static BHP

Mixing Water Slurry Weight Well Depth
Class Temperature
o o
gal/sk ltrs/sk lbs/gal kg/ltrs ft m F C
A 5.2 19.7 15.6 1.87 0-6,000 0-1,830 80-130 27-77
B 5.2 19.7 15.6 1.87 0-6,000 0-1,830 80-130 27-77
C 6.3 23.8 14.8 1.77 0-6,000 0-1,830 80-170 27-77
D 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 6,000-12,000 1,8303,660 170-260 77-127
E 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 6,000-14,000 1,8304,270 170-290 77-143
F 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 10,000-16,000 3,050-4,880 230-320 110-
160
G 5.0 18.9 15.8 1.89 0-8,000 0-2,440 80-200 27-93
H 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 0-8,000 0-2,440 80-200 27-93
Table 7.A - API Cement Specification
Class A Is intended for use when no special properties are requires.

Class B Has the same properties as class A except has a moderate to high sulphate
resistance (MSR and HSR).
Class C Is intended for use when conditions require high early strength.
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Classes D, E and F are referred to as retarded cements developed for higher temperature
and pressures conditions.
Class D Intended for use in moderately high temperatures and pressures and is
available in both MSR and HSR.
Class E Intended for use in high temperature and pressure conditions and is available
in both MSR and HSR.
Class F Intended for use in extreme high temperature and pressure conditions and is
available in both MSR and HSR.
Classes G and H were developed in response to the improved technology in slurry
acceleration and retardation by chemical means. These are the most widely used cements
today.
Class G, H Intended for use as a basic well cement to cover a wide range of well depths
and temperatures and is available in both MSR and HSR. Types G and H are
essentially identical except that H is significantly coarser than G, evident from
their different water requirements.
The following table 7.b shows the various properties of neat slurries and API cement.
API Class Water Slurry Weight Slurry Volume

gal/sk ltrs/sk lbs/gal kg/ ltrs Ft3/sk m3/sk ltrs 3/sk
A&B 5.2 19.7 15.6 1.87 1.18 0.033 0.33
C 6.3 23.9 14.8 1.77 1.32 0.037 0.37
G 5.0 18.8 15.8 1.89 1.15 0.033 0.33
h 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 1.06 0.030 0.30
D, E & F 4.3 16.3 16.4 1.97 1.06 0.030 0.30
Table 7.B - Properties of Neat Slurries and API cement.
table 7.d below shows the typical compressive strengths and thickening times of API
cements.
table 7.d Definitions
* Determined by Wagner turbidmeter apparatus
** Based on 250ml volume percentage equivalent 3.5ml is 1.4%
+ Bearden unit of slurry consistency (Bc)
Bc Bearden units of consistency on a preserved consistometer
ABc Beaden units of consistency on an atmosphere pressure consistometer
The relationship between Bc and ABc is approximately Bc x 0.69 = ABc This
relationship is valid for units of consistency less than 30Bc
*** Thickening time required are based on 75% values of total cement times observed
in the casing survey, plus 25% safety factor
++ Maximum thickening time required for Schedule 5 is 120 mins
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Well Cement Class A B C D E F G H

Water % by weight of well cement 46 46 56 38 38 38 44 38
Soundness (autoclave expansion), 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
Maximum %
Fineness *(Specific surface) Minimum m 2/kg 150 160 220 - - - - -
Free-Water content, Maximum ml - - - - - - 3.5** 3.5**
Compressive Strength Test 8-hours Curing time
Curing Curing
Schedule Minimum Compressive Strength, psi (MPa)
Temp Pressure
Number o o
f ( C) psi(kPa)
- 100 Atmos 250 200 300 - - - 300 300
(38) Atmos (1.7) (1.4) (2.1) - - - (2.1) (2.1)
- 140 Atmos - - - - - - 1,500 1,500
(60) Atmos - - - - - - (10.3) (10.3)
6S 230 3,000 - - - 500 - - - -
(110) (20,700) - - - (3.5) - - - -
8S 290 3,000 - - - - 500 - - -
(143) (20,700) - - - - (3.5) - - -
9S 320 3,000 - - - - - 500 - -
(160) (20,700) - - - - - (3.5) - -
Curing Curing
Temp Pressure
Number o o
f ( C) psi(kPa)
8S 290 3,000 - - - - - - - -
(143) (20,700) - - - - - - - -
Curing Curing
Temp Pressure
Number o o
f ( C) psi(kPa)
- 100 Atmos 1,800 1,500 2,000 - - - - -
(38) Atmos (12.4) (10.3) (13.8) - - - - -
4S 170 3,000 - - - 1,000 1,000 - - -
(77) (20,700) - - - (6.9) (6.9) - - -
6S 230 3,000 - - - 2,000 - 1,000 - -
(110) (20,700) - - - (13.8) - (6.9) - -
8S 290 3,000 - - - - 2,000 - - -
(143) (20,700) - - - - (13.8) - - -
9S 320 3,000 - - - - - 1,000 - -
(160) (20,700) - - - - - (6.9) - -
10S 350 3,000 - - - - - - - -
(177) (20,700) - - - - - - - -
Pressure Temperature Thickening Time Test
Specification Test Maximum Consistency 15 to Minimum Thickening Time (min***)
Schedule Number 30 min Straining Period B +
1 30 90 90 90 - - - - -
4 30 90 90 90 90 - - - -
5 30 - - - - - - 90 90
5 30 - - - - - - 120 max ++ 120 max ++
6 30 - - - 100 100 100 - -
8 30 - - - - 154 - - -
9 30 - - - - - 190 - -
Table 7.C - Physical Requirements for API Portland Cements
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Concentration of Additives
The concentrations of most solid cement additives are expressed as percentage by weight
of cement (BWOC). This method is also used for water. For example, if 30% silica sand is
used in a blend, the amount for each sack of cement is 94lbs x 0.30 = 28.2lbs of silica
sand. This results in 94 + 28.2 = 122.2lbs total mix. The true percentage silica sand in the
mix is 28.2/122.2 = 23.07%.
Salt is an exception and is added by weight of mix water (BWOW). Weighting materials are
often added on a lbs/sk basis for convenience as it eliminates the need to convert from
percentage BWOC to lbs in the bulk plant.
Liquid additive concentrations are most commonly expressed in gal/sk of cement. For
example, according to table 7.d, liquid sodium silicate has an absolute volume of
0.0859gal/lbs. If a concentration of 0.4lbs/sk is prescribed, the weight of the material is
0.4/0.0859 = 4.66lbs/sk.
Material Absolute Volume SG

3
(gal/lbs) (m /t)
Barite 0.0278 0.231 4.33
Bentonite 0.0454 0.377 2.65
Coal (ground) 0.0925 0.769 1.30
Gilsonite 0.1123 0.935 1.06
Hematite 0.0244 0.202 4.95
Limenite 0.0270 0.225 4.44
Silica Sand 0.0454 0.377 2.65
NaCl saturated 0.0556 0.463 2.15
Fresh Water 0.1202 1.000 1.00
Table 7.D - Absolute Values of Common Cementing Materials
7.1.2. Slurry Density and Weight

The slurry density is calculated by adding the masses of the components and dividing it by
the total of the absolute volumes occupied, i.e. divide the total weight in lbs/volume in gals.
lbcement + lbwater + lbadditives
Pslurry(lbs / gal) =
galcement + galwater + galadditives
The yield of a cement is the volume occupied by a unit plus all the additives and mix water.
Cement is measured is sacks therefore the yield is expressed in cubic feet per sack (ft3/sk).
This is now used to calculate the number of 94lbs sacks required to achieve the required
annulus volume.
As there are 31.51 cubic feet per cubic metre, divide the cubic feet by 31.51 to obtain the
amount of cement in cubic metres.
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Example calculation:
A slurry is composed of G class cement and 50% water, 94 x 0.50 = 47.0lbs water.
Absolute Volume
Component Weight (lbs) Volume (gal)
(gal/lbs)
Cement 94 0.0382 3.59
Water 47.0 0.1202 5.65
Total 141.0 9.24
141.0
9.24
= 15.26lbs / gal
The yield is:
9.24gal / sk
Slurry Yield =
7.48gal / sk
= 1.235ft 3 / sk
The total volume of mix water required is the gals calculated above, 5.65 multiplied by the
number of sacks of cement to be mixed.
Additives are treated in the same manner as above, however if any have a volume less
than 1% then they are generally ignored.
An example calculation with additives is as follows:
A slurry is composed of class G cement + 35% silica flour + 1% solid cellulosic loss additive
+ 0.2gal/sk liquid PNS dispersant + 44% water.
Absolute Volume
Component Weight (lbs) Volume (gal)
(gal/lbs)
Cement 94 0.0382 3.59
Silica flour 32.9 0.0454 1.49
Cellulosic Fluid Loss 0.94 0.0932 0.088
Additive
Liquid PNS Dispersant 1.97 0.1014 0.20
Water 41.36 0.1202 4.97
Total 171.17 10.34
171.17
10.34
= 16.55lbs / gal
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The yield is:

10.34gal / sk
Slurry Yield =
7.48gal / sk
= 1.38ft 3 / sk
7.2. CEMENT ADDITIVES
In well cementing, Portland cement systems are designed for temperatures ranges from
below freezing to 700oF (350oC) in thermal recovery and geothermal wells. They also
encounter pressures ranging from ambient to 30,000psi (200Mpa) in deep wells.
Accommodation of such variations in conditions was only possible through the development
of cement additives. They modify the properties of the cement system allowing successful
placement of the slurry between the casing and the formation, rapid compressive strength
development and adequate zonal isolation for the life of the well.
It is not possible to detail all of the 100 or more additives in use today but the categorisation
of these additives and some of those used by Eni-Agip are described below.
There are eight recognised categories:
• Accelerators
• Retarders
• Extenders
• Weighting Agents
• Dispersants
• Fluid Loss Control Agents
• Loss Circulation Control Agents
• Speciality Additives
Details of all of these additives are given in the ‘Drilling Fluids Manual’.
7.2.1. Accelerators
Added to cements to shorten the setting time and/or accelerate the hardening process.
They are also required to counter the effect of other additives added to the slurry such as
dispersants and fluid loss control agents.
Calcium Chloride is undoubtedly the most efficient and economical accelerator. It is
generally added in concentrations of 2-4% BWOC (Refer to table 7.e) but over 6% its
performance becomes unpredictable and premature setting may occur.
CaCl2 %BWOC 91oF 103oF 113oF

0 4:00 3:30 2:32
2 1:17 1:11 1:01
4 1:15 1:02 0:59
Table 7.E – Calcium Chloride Thickening Time on Portland Cement
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CaCl2% 60oF 80oF 100oF

6hr 12hr 24hr 6hr 12hr 24hr 6hr 12hr 24hr
0 Not Set 60 415 45 370 1,260 370 840 1,780
2 125 480 1,510 410 1,020 2,510 1,110 2,370 3,950
4 125 650 1,570 545 1,245 2,890 1,320 2,560 4,450
Table 7.F– Calcium Chloride Compressive Strength Vs Temperature and Time of Portland
Cement
NaCl can also be used as an accelerator. Seawater is extensively used offshore as it has a
25g/l NaCl but the concentration of magnesium of about 1.5g/l must be taken into account.
7.2.2. Retarders
The retardation process is not completely understood but there are a number of additives
available. The chemical nature of the retarder to be used is dependent on the cement
phase (silicate or aluminate).
Common retarders are lignosulphonates, hydroxycarboxylic acids, saccharide compounds,
cellulose derivatives, organophosphonates and inorganic compounds.
7.2.3. Extenders
Extenders are used for the following uses:
• Reduce slurry density
• Increase slurry yield
• Water extenders
• Low-density aggregates
• Gaseous extenders
A list with general information on the most common extenders is given in table 7.g
Range of Slurry Densities Performance Feature and Other

Extender
Obtainable (lbs/gal) Benefits
Bentonite 11.5-15.0 Assists fluid loss control.
Fly Ash 13.0-14.1 Resists corrosive fluids.
Only low percentages required. Ideal
Sodium Silicates 11.1-14.5
for seawater mixing.
Good compressive strength, thermal
Microspheres 8.5- 15.0
stability and insulating properties.
Excellent strength and low
Foamed Cement 6.0-15.0
permeability.
Table 7.G- Summary of Extenders
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The most frequently used clay-based extender is bentonite which contains 85% of the clay
mineral smectite (or montmorillonite). It is added in concentrations of up to 20% BWOC.
Concentrations above 6% requires the addition of a dispersant to reduce the slurry viscosity
and gel strength. API recommends that 5.3% water BWOW be added for each 1% bentonite
but testing with a particular cement is necessary to determine the optimum water content.
table 7.h shows the slurry density decreases and the yield increases quickly with bentonite
concentration, however compressive strength correspondingly decreases.
Bentonite Class G - 44% Water

Concentration %
Water (gal/sk) Slurry Density Yield (ft3/sk)
(lbs/gal)
0 4.97 15.8 1.14
2 6.17 15.0 1.31
4 7.36 14.4 1.48
6 8.56 13.9 1.65
8 9.76 13.5 1.82
10 10.95 13.1 1.99
12 12.15 12.7 2.16
16 14.55 12.3 2.51
20 16.94 11.9 2.85
Table 7.H- Bentonite Effects on Slurry Properties
High concentrations of bentonite tend to improve fluid loss and is also effective at elevated
temperatures.
7.2.4. Weighting Agents

When high pore pressures, unstable well bores, and deformable/plastic formations are
encountered, high weight muds of over 18ppg may be used are correspondingly cement
slurries of equal weight must be used.
One method of achieving high weight slurries is to simply reduce the amount of mix water,
however dispersants would be required to maintain pumpability. When weights higher than
this are required, materials with high SGs are added. The most common weighting agents
and there properties are shown in table 7.i.
Absolute Additional Water

Material Specific Gravity Colour
Volume (gal/lbs) (gal/lbs)
Limenite 4.45 0.027 Black 0.00
Hematite 4.95 0.024 Red 0.0023
Barite 4.33 0.028 White 0.024
Table 7.I- Common Weighting Material Properties
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7.3. SALT CEMENT

Salt cements have applications where freshwater cement will not bond properly. This is
usually in wells which have salt formations where water will dissolve the formation or leach
away the salt at the interface producing no bond at all. A good bond can be achieved if salt
slurries are used.
Salt slurries found another use to protect shale formations which are sensitive to fresh
water and tend to slough when in contact. This problem causes:
• Excessive washouts and channelling behind the pipe.
• Lost circulation into the weakened shale structure.
• Annular bridging which may prevent slurry circulation.
The cement used in salt slurries is usually NaCl but there is no reason that KCl cannot be
used. Previously, the benefits of using salt cements was known but was unpopular due to
the inconvenience of premixing salt with water prior to adding cement. Today the technique
of blending dry granulated salt with cement at the bulk plant greatly simplifies its use.
The mix water requires a minimum 3.1lbs of dry salt for every gallon of water (0.3714kg/l) or
37.2 BWOW. If the concentration is less then the slurry will not be saturated and may cause
the problems previously outlined. If more salt is added then there is no detrimental effects
except changes in density and pumping ability.
table 7.j shows the BWOW for various concentrations of salt in water including saturated:
Concentration %BWOW Absolute Volume
(gal/lbs) (m3/t)
2 0.0771 0.310
4 0.0378 0.316
6 0.0384 0.321
8 0.0390 0.326
10 0.0394 0.329
12 0.0399 0.333
14 0.0403 0.336
16 0.0407 0.340
18 0.0412 0.344
20 0.0416 0.347
22 0.0420 0.351
24 0.0424 0.354
26 0.0428 0.357
28 0.0430 0.359
30 0.0433 0.361
32 0.0436 0.363
34 0.0439 0.366
37.2 saturated 0.0442 0.369
Table 7.J - BWOW for Various Concentrations of Salt in Water
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An example calculation of a salt slurry using the previous fresh water slurry is as follows:
94lbs cement x 50% = 47lbs
47lbs of water x .372 = 17.48lbs NaCl
Weight Absolute Volume Volume

Component
(lbs) (gal/lbs) (gal)
Cement 94 0.0382 3.59
NaCl 17.48 0.0442 0.77
Water 47.00 0.1202 5.65
Total 158.48 10.01
158.48
10.01
= 15.26lbs / gal
The yield is:
10.01gal / sk
Slurry Yield =
7.48gal / sk
= 1.338ft 3 / sk
7.4. SPACERS AND WASHES

When the fluids are incompatible, to ensure all the mud is displaced, it is common practice
to pump one or more intermediate fluid or preflushes which are compatible with both the
mud and the slurry. This will buffer the two fluids and prepares the casing and formation
walls leaving them receptive to bonding. To accomplish all of the above, the rheological and
chemical properties must be carefully designed.
The rheology and density of washes are close to that of water or oil. They act be thinning
and dispersing the mud and, because of their very low viscosity, they are ideal for use in
turbulent flow. The simplest form of wash is fresh water although surfactants and
dispersents are often added.
Spacers are also used which are preflushes with a much higher solids content. the particles
are thought to scrub the walls and provide a better preparation. the most common spacer is
a scavenger slurry which is a cement slurry with a low density and low fluid loss rate good
for turbulent flow. The best spacer is a spacer that has a density higher than the mud but
less than the cement slurry. This is achieved by adding weighting agents (usually insoluble
minerals with high density) with a viscofier for efficient suspension.
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There are two classes of viscofiers:

a) Water soluble polymers
• Polycrylamides
• Guar and guar derivatives
• Cellulose derivatives, CMC, HEC, HMC, HPC
• Xantham gum and other biopolymers
b) Inorganic clays
• Bentonite, attapulgite, kaolinite, sepiolite
Eni-Agip recommends that, unless an effective mud density is required to control the
formation pressure, a water spacer be used on all cement jobs which shall have sufficient
volume to provide a contact time of three mins.
7.5. SLURRY SELECTION

The selection of a slurry design depends on many factors other than simply pore and
fracture pressures.
• Cements are sometimes mixed at high density to achieve specific strengths
within a short time interval or it may be designed on an economic basis where
high yield per sack is achieved at the expense of strength.
• Temperature as previously explained has a large impact on the class of cement
that can be used.
• Fluid loss additives are necessary where the cement is in contact with
production zones or in small annular gaps to prevent the loss of the aqueous
phase. As fluid loss additives are viscofiers they require dispersants to be added
to preserve mixability.
• Dispersants are used for the previous reason but also to reduce viscosity and
reduce pump pressures and improve placement efficiency. caution should be
taken when using dispersants as they can change thickening time.
• Additives such as accelerators and retarders are required to hasten or slow
down the setting times.
In the main, the compressive strength of the cement is secondary to the properties of the
liquid slurry as cement systems generally provide strengths which exceed those actually
required in most cases.
The ADIS programme should help the engineer to obtain the ideal slurry for a specific well
application.
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7.6. CEMENT PLACEMENT

Good mud removal is the essence of obtaining a successful primary cement job and
therefore the use of an effective preflush and/or spacer is pumped between the mud and
the slurry.
Freshwater spacers are normally used when water based mud is in the hole and salt
tolerant spacers for salt saturated muds. Oil based mud is generally removed with spacers
dosed with surfactants and/or organic solvents.
In every case laboratory testing should be carried out beforehand to ensure that no
unforeseen interactions can occur, hence affecting the performance of the spacer.
7.7. WELL CONTROL

Every well has a band of pressures in which the engineer must remain to execute a
successful cementing operation. The limiting pressure boundaries are determined by
formation pore and fracture pressures and casing strength limits. Unless a software
package is used, the engineer would find it impractical to calculate the pressures at point in
the well throughout the entire job, therefore, if it is necessary to conduct manual
calculations, the usual approach is to select the worst case scenario analysis technique
where the key points will be identified and examined.
These are normally at the weakest formations which will experience their highest pressure
at the end of the displacement just before the plug bumps and conversely the at high
pressure zones at the time the low density preflush or spacer passes.
A good rule of thumb under such circumstances, is to select the shallowest active zone
which poses a risk to security and concentrate on the worst cases at this point using
hydrostatic pressure without the friction component.
An important impact on well control is the amount of excess cement calculated which can
cause higher than expected hydrostatic pressure is the hole is close to gauge causing
losses therefore compromising the success of the job and well security.
Similarly, if using low density flushes or spacers, better than expected hole gauge will raise
the column of the fluid to higher than expected height therefore exerting reduced
hydrostatic pressure.
If pressure band over long sections to be cemented is narrow, it may be necessary to vary
the density of the cement slurry and pump two slurries, a lead and tail with different
densities. See example figure 7.a
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Figure 7.A- Downhole Pressure Density Plot

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7.8. JOB DESIGN

The selection of a slurry for a job design is dependent upon conducting a problem analysis
into:
• Depth/configuration data
• Wellbore environment
• Temperature data
These data will directly affect the basic cement properties and displacement regime. The
annular configuration will determine which flow regime is practical and required rheological
properties. Wellbore conditions will indicate whether special materials are required due to
the presence of gas, salt, etc., need to be incorporated. The mud density indicates the
minimum acceptable cement slurry density. These factors, together with the temperature
data, guide the selection of the additives for the control of the slurry flow properties and
thickening time.
7.8.1. Depth/Configuration
The hole depth and configuration will make a considerable impact on the temperature and
fluid volume, hydrostatic pressure and friction pressure. this could even lead to the design
of a special system.
In open hole sections the volume of slurry depends upon the shape of the hole which is
rarely ‘gauge’ and some formations are liable to become eroded or washed out. For open
hole sections the volume should have an increment added to cater for such problems. If
there is a reason to have doubts over the size of the hole, a caliper survey should be run to
estimate the hole size. It should be noted that the amount of pads on the caliper will affect
the accuracy of the calculation if the hole is not round.
The increments to be applied in absence of a caliper survey are:
• Surface Casing - 100%
• Intermediate Casing - 50%
• Production Casing - 30%
If a log is available the increment will be the hole volume calculation plus 10%.
The trapped volume between the cement collar and cement shoe must be added to total
volume.
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7.8.2. Environment
Pore pressure in the formations are important from a security standpoint and, in conjunction
with leak-off test results, to prevent formation damage through fracturing or leak-off of
cement into producing zones. The engineer must not look solely at target zones but also the
risk from other non-producing zones. The presence of gas, salt and other formations will
also affect the job design.
Mud physical and chemical properties must also be considered, with regard to compatibility
with chemical washes, spacers or other fluids. The displacement of oil based mud from
formations may invariable require the use of surfactants to improve compatibility, remove oil
film from the formations and leave the surfaces water wet.
If 100% mud removal is not possible, the slurry properties can be altered to ensure it is not
adversely affected by the mud. Data on compatibility can be obtained by laboratory testing.
7.8.3. Temperature
Circulating bottom hole and static temperatures need to be considered as well as the
temperature differential between the bottom and top of the cement column. The circulating
temperature is the temperature it will be exposed to as it is placed in the well and for which
the thickening time tests for high-temperature and high-pressure is carried out.
Circulating temperatures by calculation in accordance with temperature schedules
published in API 10 Specification. However, actual temperature is often preferred and these
can be obtained by running a temperature measurement device.
One rule of thumb which should apply to the slurry design, is to ensure that the static
temperature at the top of the cement exceeds the circulating bottom hole temperature. If
this is not the case then stage cementing should be employed. This rule of thumb also
provides a means of determining the depth for the location of the cementing stage collar.
7.8.4. Slurry Preparation

Mixing is one of the most important practical cementing problems. The goal of the mixing
process is to obtain the correct proportioning of solids and carrier fluid with the properties
similar to those of the expected from pre-job lab testing. If this is not achieved, the careful
pre-planning calculations to determine the displacement rate, friction pressure, etc., will be
erroneous and thickening time and fluid loss parameters may change dramatically.
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8. WELLHEADS
This section provides design criteria for wellheads which have been standardised by Eni-
Agip Division and Affiliates.
With regard to modular type surface wellheads, the most commonly used wellhead in Eni-
Agip’s activities is the National/Breda wellhead system which is covered later in this section.
However, there is no commonality in the selection of compact surface wellheads or subsea
wellheads.
Each project must be assessed to ascertain the most economic type of wellhead to be used
for the location or type of completion..
8.1. DEFINITIONS
The following are a list of definitions and their abbreviations specific to wellhead equipment.
MSCL Modular Single Completion Land
DCSFSL Dual Completion Seal Flange solid-block Land
SCSO Single Completion Seal Flange Offshore
DCSO Dual Completion Solid-block Offshore
8.2. DESIGN CRITERIA

Eni-Agip divide wellhead equipment into two classifications:
Class A Equipment designed to operate up to 5,000psi WP
Class B Equipment designed to operate up to 10,000psi WP
The selection of the wellhead system pressure rating will be based upon the max
anticipated surface pressure.
8.2.1. Material Specification

The material selection will meet with either ‘General Service’ or ‘Sour Service’ conditions.
General service conditions are defined as:
o o
Operating Temperature Range: -29 C to 82 C as per API 6A
The steels which meet with this criteria are material standard (no sour service), class Dd as
per API 6A as defined by NACE MR-01-75
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Sour service conditions are when the CO2 or H2S concentrations exceed 7psi and 0.05psi
respectively. In this case the material will be selected in accordance whether an inhibition
programme is implemented which may decide if chrome or carbon steel is applicable.
However if the event of any H2S being present above the limit, a steel with a hardness less
than 22Rc will be selected to comply with NACE MR-0175 specification. Refer to section
4.13 on corrosion.
In offshore environments, the wellhead and Xmas tree equipment should be protected
against the corrosive effects of salt spray by application of an appropriate coating.
Modern compact wellheads, described below, may offer enhanced safety due to the
increased fire resistance by the use of all metal-to-metal seals.
8.3. SURFACE WELLHEADS

Compact wellheads have many advantages over composite types in that they are shorter,
have less connections, less outlets and are therefore have fewer potential leak paths. The
compact wellhead was developed from subsea systems which require the stacking of a
number of casing mandrel hangers in a single body.
The advantages of the traditional composite type wellhead with its modular construction are:
its ability to be altered during drilling operations (due to enforced changes in the casing
programme), and low cost.
The compact wellhead, also sometimes referred to as speed, fast or unitised head, comes
in various configurations but usually consists of a body that is mounted onto the surface
casing and into which each subsequent casing hanger is run and landed. The sealing of
these hangers is via a seal assembly run above each hanger with metal-to-metal seals. The
main advantages of the compact head is the reduced height, saving of rig time due to being
able to run the hangers without removing the BOPs and enhanced safety for the same
reason.
8.3.1. Standard Wellhead Components

Refer to ‘Specification for Surface Wellhead and Xmas Tree Standard Equipment Manual’.
table 8.a shows the standard equipment for the various classifications and well options.
From this table, the sizes and pressure rating of equipment available for the various
applications can be determined.
8.3.2. National/Breda Wellhead Systems

National/Breda wellhead systems are, up to now, the most commonly used systems by Eni-
Agip Division and Affiliate companies. It is of traditional modular construction and covers
pressure ranges between 3,000 and 15,000 psi for both standard and non-standard casing
profiles.
table 8.a shows the standard range of National/Breda wellhead configurations and an
example wellhead. Other wellhead and equipment details can be obtained from the
manufacturer’s catalogue.
Agip Division
ENI S.p.A.
Typical outlines for on-shore, off-shore single and dual completion class -A and class -B
(STAP -M-1-SS-5701E)
AGIP CASING HEAD SPOOL CASING HEAD SPOOL TUBING SPOOL TUBING HANGER
CASING HEAD
CODE
Table 8.A- Eni-Agip Standard Wellhead Equipment Chart
Ref.nr Top Max. Btm (CSG) Ref. nr Btm Max. Top Max. Ref. Btm Max. Top Max. Ref. Btm Max. Top Max. Ref. Diam Max. Diam
flange W.P. (in) Flange W.P. flange W.P. nr flange W.P. flange W.P. nr Flange W.P. flange W.P. nr (in) W.P. tbg
(in) (psi) (in) (psi) (in) (psi) (in) (psi) (in) (psi) (in) (psi) (in) (psi) (psi) (in)
ARPO
MSCL 1 1.3 13 5/8 5000 13 3/8 & 9 5/8 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.1 13 5/8 5000 9 5000 6.1 9 5000 2 7/8
MSCL 2 1.3 13 5/8 5000 13 3/8 & 9 5/8 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.1 13 5/8 5000 9 5000 6.2 9 5000 3 1/2
MSCL 3 1.3 13 5/8 5000 13 3/8 & 9 5/8 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.1 13 5/8 5000 9 5000 6.3 9 5000 5
DCSFSL 1 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.1 13 5/8 5000 9 5000 6.6 9 5000 2 x 2 3/8
IDENTIFICATION CODE
DCSFSL 2 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.2 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 10000 5.2 13 5/8 10000 9 10000 6.8 9 10000 2 x 2 3/8
STAP-P-1-M-6100
DCSFSL 3 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.3 13 5/8 5000 11 5000 6.5 11 5000 2 x 3 1/2
SCSO 1 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.4 13 5/8 5000 7 1/16 5000 6.4 7 1/16 5000 3 1/2
DCSO 1 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.1 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 5000 5.4 13 5/8 5000 7 1/16 5000 6.9 7 1/16 5000 2 x 2 3/8
DCSO 2 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.2 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 10000 5.5 13 5/8 10000 7 1/16 10000 6.7 7 1/16 10000 2 x 2 3/8
DCSO3 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.4 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 5000 2.2 13 5/8 5000 13 5/8 10000 5.2 13 5/8 10000 9 10000 6.8 9 10000 2 x 2 3/8
(*) 1.2 21 1/4 5000 20 & 18 5/8 2.5 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 10000 2.3 13 5/8 10000 13 5/8 10000
3° CASING HEAD SPOOL
1.1 26 3/4 3000 24 1/2 2.6 26 3/4 3000 21 1/4 5000 2.5 21 1/4 5000 13 5/8 10000 2.3 13 5/8 10000 13 5/8 10000
PAGE
(*) Typical wellhead configuration for deep wells (po Valley)
REVISION
114 OF 230
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20"
13 3/8"
9 5/8"
7"
WP (psi) 3K (A) 3K (B) 5K (C) 5K (D) 10K (E) 10K (F) 15K (G) 15K (H)
Section 1 470 470 470 470 470 510 510 -
Section 2 620 620 625 690 690 850 850 510
Section 3 472 472 472 670 660 700 700 850
Section 4 - - - 581 700 700 750 700
Section 5 - - - - - -- 750
Figure 8.A - Wellhead Dimensions (mm)
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8.4. COMPACT WELLHEAD

Modern offshore drilling has uncovered a need for specially designed wellheads requiring
less space with shorter installation times, thus offering a greater degree of safety. The
solution to this need was met by the introduction of the unitised or compact wellhead which
incorporates a casing flange, casing spools and possibly a tubing spool in a single offshore
composite wellhead body.
Eni-Agip Division and Affiliates generally use the compact wellhead system in development
drilling operations.
The concept is quite different from that already described in section 8.3 and similar to
subsea wellhead systems from which the compact head was developed.
Each manufacturer has its own particular product which differs from other manufacturers.
Considering the number of different varieties available, it is not possible to provide a unique
assembling procedure for all the existing unitised or compact wellhead types in this manual.
figure 8.b and figure 8.c show two typical examples of compact wellhead systems. For
specific running procedures reference should always be made to the well specific Drilling
Programme and manufacturer's instructions.
Technical advantages of the compact wellhead are:
• Elimination of the rig time lost in nippling-up or down the BOPs, which is
normally associated with conventional wellhead spools.
• Once the pack-off is set, the BOP can be tested.
• No crossover adapters are required.
• The stack-up height is greatly reduced by the elimination of the casing and
tubing spools.
• The Well is under BOP control from the time the 13 3/8” BOP stack is installed on
the Compact Wellhead to the time the Xmas tree is installed.
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Figure 8.B - Wellhead ‘Unitised 3,000psi WP

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5
Figure 8.C - Wellhead SMS 13 /8 10,000psi WP Assembly
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8.5. MUDLINE SUSPENSION

The Mudline Suspension system is a method for supporting the weight of casing at the
seabed (mudline) while drilling from a jack-up (Refer to figure 8.d and figure 8.e)
It offers a method of disconnection for all casing strings, allowing the temporary
abandonment of the well in the minimum of time and without having to cut the casings.
The casing strings extend from the mudline back to the drilling unit. Conventional land type
wellhead and BOPs are installed for well control during drilling operations.
The system utilises simple fluted landing rings or expanding collets in which the hangers are
landed. Each casing string is supported at the mudline by a mudline casing hanger. The
running tools or the tieback tools connect the mudline casing hangers with the casing string
above (landing string).
Running tools used in the mudline system, include a square bottom thread, to install it into
the hangers and seal, to maintain the pressure integrity of the running tool mudline hangers.
The connection of the running tools is the casing thread as per the user’s requirement.
Washout ports, located in the mudline hanger or in the running tool, ensure thorough
flushing of the annulus. The washout ports are exposed by a partial rotation of the running
tool. When the washout ports are closed the pressure integrity of the casing is provided by
the seals of the running tool.
When temporarily abandoning a well, the casing landing string is retrieved by disconnecting
the running tools. Corrosion caps used in temporary well abandonment may be installed at
this time.
Any, or all, of the casing strings can be re-installed back to a conventional land type
production tree, installed on a production platform wellhead deck, by means of tie-back
tools.
Metal to metal seals between the tieback tool a 133/8” or smaller mudline casing hangers
provide a permanent pressure seal for the producing life of the well.
Eni-Agip have used a ‘mudline completion system’ enabling a well to be drilled using a
Jack-up drilling equipment and afterwards completing it with a subsea production system.
Each mudline suspension manufacturer produces its own product different from those of
competitors. Considering the great number of different features, it is not possible to
describe all the existing mudline suspension system in this manual. For the installation
procedure, refer to the well specific ‘Drilling Programme’ and the manufacturer’s ‘operating
procedures’.
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Figure 8.D - MLL Mudline Casing Suspension System

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Figure 8.E - The MLC Mudline Suspension System

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9. PRESSURE RATING OF BOP EQUIPMENT
The prime considerations, when selecting and procuring pressure control equipment, are
the safety of the personnel, rig and the wellbore. In order to assure this safety requirement,
several factor need to be considered.
It should be noted that each drilling area may have regulations unique to that particular area
which may exceed the general requirements covered within this manual. In addition,
different operating companies and contractors may vary from these general requirements if
dictated by individual company policy and philosophy.
The anticipated formation pressure is the governing parameter which dictates the casing
depth, casing selection, BOP selection and pressure rating of the BOP equipment.
The weakest element within any pressure control system determines the maximum pressure
that can be safely contained.
Individual elements of the pressure control system may exceed the assembly WP, but
under no circumstances should components be used which are less than the
designated assembly WP. For instance, a 10,000psi choke may be rigged up with a
2,000psi BOP stack in anticipation of its later use when a 10,000psi BOP stack is nippled
up for a subsequent string of casing.
The equipment in the well control system with the lowest pressure rating will set the rating
for entire system e.g. 2,000psi stack and 10,000psi choke manifold would be rated to only
2,000psi.
Since the well control system must be able to contain any anticipated formation pressures
that may be encountered, the maximum anticipated surface pressures must first be
calculated.
Many different methods are available to determine the maximum casing pressures which
may be encountered during a kick.
9.1. BOP SELECTION CRITERIA

Blow-out preventer equipment shall consist of an annular preventer and the specified
number of ram type preventers.
The working pressure of any blow-out preventer shall exceed the maximum anticipated
surface pressure to which it may be subjected, except that the WP of the annular preventer.
The graph illustrated in the attached figure 9.a has been prepared to enable the first
approximation of the BOP rating necessary for use in drilling an exploration well. To use the
graph, the setting depths of the various casings and the relative pore pressure gradients
must be found or determined during the design phase.
The co-ordinates in the graph are ‘depth’ and ‘pressure’ and comprises of two groups of
lines respectively, are representing the BOP’s to be used while drilling, and the other the
BOPs to be used during well testing.
Each group outlines the different solutions available to the various pore pressure gradients.
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Example:
The casing program assumes that a well test will be carried out at the shoe of 7” casing.
From the diagram shown in table 9.a the maximum test, drilling pressure values and the
size of BOP to be used should be obtained which is given in table 9.a.
Shoe Overburden Pore Press. Fracture BOP Size

Casing
Depth Gradient Gradient Gradient Drilling Production
(ins)
(m) (kg/cm2/10m) (kg/cm2/10m) (kg/cm2/10m) (psi) Test (psi)
20 750 2.23 1.03 1.83 2,000 -
3
13 /8 2.620 2.36 1.30 2.01 5,000 -
5
9 /8 4.200 2.42 1.70 2.18 10,000 -
7 4.830 2.43 2.00 2.29 - 15,000
Table 9.A - BOP Selection Example Data
The maximum theoretical stress possible at the casing head (Pmax) occurs when the well is
full of gas and the fracture pressure has been reached at the shoe of the last casing run.
This pressure is:
H
Pmax = (GF - Dg) (Kg/cm 2 )
10
where:
H = Casing shoe depth (m)
Gf = Fracture gradient of the casing shoe (kg/cm2/10m)
Dg = Gas density, assumed = 0.3 (kg/dm3)
In the case of a well test, this pressure roughly corresponds to the limit value required for
pumping gas into the formation and is thus actually attainable in practice.
This hypothesis however is completely unrealistic in the drilling design, for which 60% of the
pressure Pmax will be used as limit value according to company policy in burst design
criteria of the ‘Casing Design Manual’.
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Figure 9.A - BOP Selection Example

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10. BHA DESIGN AND STABILISATION
10.1. STRAIGHT HOLE DRILLING

Drilling a perfectly straight hole is certainly an impossibility. A well designed bottom hole
assembly only controls veering off-line to be maintained within acceptable pre-planned
limits.
The exact cause of holes becoming crooked is not well known but some logical theories
have been presented based on appearance. It has been confirmed that the drilling bit will
attempt to up dip in laminar formations with dips up to 40o.
Another factor for consideration is the bending characteristics of the drill stem. With no
weight on the bit, the only force acting on the bit is the result of the weight of the string
portion between the bit and the tangency point. This force tends to bring the hole back
towards the vertical. When weight is applied, there is another force on the bit which tends to
direct the hole away from vertical. The results of these two forces may be in such a direction
as to increase angle, decrease angle, or to maintain a constant angle. This theory is based
on the assumption that the drill string will lie on the low side of an inclined hole.
In general, drilling in soft formations makes the problem of drilling a straight or nearly
vertical hole much easier than in very hard formations. In particular the effects of the drill
string bending and encountering dips may be much less when drilling soft formations while
in hard formations which have high dip angles require high bit weight which are the factors
against drilling a straight or vertical hole.
10.2. DOG-LEG AND KEY SEAT PROBLEMS

10.2.1. Drill Pipe Fatigue
If a programme is designed in such a way that drill pipe damage is avoided while drilling the
hole, then the hole will be acceptable for conventional casing, designs, tubing and
production string as far as dog-leg severity is concerned. A classical example of the severe
dog-leg condition which produces fatigue failures in drill pipe can be seen in figure 10.a.
The stress at point B is greater than the stress at point A; but as the pipe is rotated, point A
moves from the inside of the bend to the outside and back to the inside again, so that every
fibre of the pipe under goes both minimum tension and maximum tension every rotation.
Cyclic stress reversals of this nature cause fatigue failures in drill pipe, usually within the
first two feet (0.6m) of the body adjacent to the tool joint due to the abrupt change of
section.
To avoid rapid fatigue failure of pipe, the rate of change of the hole angle must be
controlled. Suggested limits are given in figure 10.b. This graph is a plot of the tension in
1
the pipe versus change in hole angle in degrees per 100ft. This curve is designed for a 4 /2"
16.60lbs/ft Grade ‘E’ drill pipe and represents the stress endurance limits of the drill pipe
under various tensile loads and in various rates of change in hole angle. If conditions fall to
the left of this curve, fatigue damage is avoided, but to the right, fatigue damage will build
up rapidly and failure of the pipe is likely.
It can be seen from this plot that with a dog-leg high WP in the hole with high tension in the
pipe, only a small change in angle can be tolerated. Conversely, if the dog-leg is close to
total depth, tension in the pipe will be low and a larger change in angle can be tolerated.
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Note: Refer to figure 10.c for the maximum safe dog-leg limits when using Grade
‘E’ drill pipe. If the stress endurance limit of the drill pipe is exceeded, an
expensive fishing job or a junked hole could occur.
10.2.2. Stuck Pipe

Sticking can occur by sloughing, heaving of the hole or also by extra large OD drill collars
contacting a key seat while tripping the drill string out of the hole.
10.2.3. Logging
Logging tools and wire line can become stuck in key seats. The wall of the hole can also be
damaged, causing future hole problems.
10.2.4. Running casing

Running casing through a dog-leg can cause serious problems. If the casing becomes stuck
in the dog-leg, it will not extend through the productive zone. This would make it necessary
to drill out the shoe and set a smaller size casing through the productive interval. Even if
running the casing to bottom through the dog-leg is successful, the casing could be
severely damaged, thereby preventing the running of production equipment inside the
casing.
10.2.5. Cementing
Dog-legs will force casing tightly against the wall of the hole, preventing a good cement
bond as no cement can circulate between the wall of the hole and the casing at this point.
10.2.6. Casing Wear While Drilling

The lateral force of the drill pipe rotating against the casing in the dog-leg or dragging
through it while tripping, can cause substantial wear to the casing. This could cause drilling
problems and/or a possible serious blow-out.
10.2.7. Production Problems

In rod pump completions rod wear and tubing leaks associated with dog-legs can cause
expensive remedial costs. It may be difficult to run packers and tools in and out of the well
without getting stuck because of distorted or collapsed casing.
It is obviously preferred to produce through straight tubing to avoid friction losses and
prevent turbulence.
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Figure 10.A - Dog Leg and Key Seating
Figure 10.B - Endurance Limit For 16.60# Grade E Drill Pipe

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Figure 10.C -Maximum Safe Dog leg Limits
10.3. HOLE ANGLE CONTROL

In order to reduce the possible causes of bit deviation and the problems associated with
crooked holes, There are two possible solutions, one using the pendulum and the other the
packed BHA concepts.
10.3.1. Packed Hole Theory

A packed hole assembly is used to overcome crooked hole problems and the pendulum is
used only as a corrective measure to reduce angle when the maximum permissible
deviation has been reached. The packed hole assembly is sometimes referred to as the
‘gun barrel’ approach because a series of stabilisers is used in the hole already drilled to
guide the bit straight ahead.
The object is to select a bottom hole assembly to be run above the bit with the necessary
stiffness and wall contact tools to force the bit to drill in the general direction of the hole
already drilled. If the proper selection of drill collars and bottom hole tools is made, only
gradual changes in hole angle can develop. This should create a useful hole with a full-
gauge, smooth bore free from dog-leg, key seats, offsets, spirals and ledges, thereby
making it possible to complete the well.
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10.3.2. Pendulum Theory

The forces which act upon the bit can be resolved into:
1) The axial load supplied by the weight of the drill collars.
2) The lateral force, the weight of the drill collar between the bit and the first point of
contact with the wall of the hole by the drill collar i.e. Pendulum force. This force is the
tendency of the unsupported length of drill collar to swing over against the low side of
the hole due to gravity. It is the only force that tends to bring the hole back towards
vertical.
3) The reaction of the formation to these loads may be resolved into two forces, one
parallel to the axis of the hole and one perpendicular to the axis of the hole.
10.4. DESIGNING A PACKED HOLE ASSEMBLY

The following factors need to be considered when designing a packed hole assembly.
10.4.1. Length Of Tool Assembly

It is important that wall contact assemblies provide sufficient length of contact to assure
alignment with the hole already drilled. Experience confirms that a single stabiliser just
above the bit generally acts as fulcrum or pivot point and will build angle because the lateral
force of the unstabilised collars above will cause the bit to push to one side as weight is
applied. Another stabilising point, for example, at 30ft (10m) above the bit will nullify some
of the fulcrum effect. With these two points, this assembly will stabilise the bit and remove
some of the hole angle-building tendency, but it would still not be considered a good
packed hole assembly.
As shown in figure 10.d, two points will contact and follow a curved line, but the addition of
one more point makes it impossible to follow a curve. Therefore, three or more stabilising
points are needed to form a packed hole assembly.
10.4.2. Stiffness
Stiffness is probably the most misunderstood of all the issues to be considered about drill
collars. Realisation of diameter and its proportion to stiffness is an important factor. If a bar
diameter is doubled its stiffness is increased 16 fold.
table 10.a shows moments of inertia (I), which is proportional to stiffness which is given for
the most popular drill collars in various diameters.
Large diameter drill collars are the ultimate in stiffness, so it is important to select the
maximum diameter collars that can be safely run.
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Three or more stabilising points make a packed bottom hole assembly.
2
2
1 1
Figure 10.D - Packed Hole Assembly Stabilising Points
OD (ins) ID (ins) I (ins4)

5" 2 /4" 29
1 1
6 /4" 2 /4" 74
1 1
6 /2" 2 /4" 86
3 1
6 /4" 2 /4" 100
13
7" 2 /16" 115
13
8" 2 /16" 198
13
9" 2 /16" 318
10" 3" 486
11" 3" 713
Table 10.A - Drill Collar Stiffness
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10.4.3. Clearance
The closer the stabiliser is to the bit, the more exacting the clearance requirements are. If,
for example, a 1/16" undergauge from hole diameter is satisfactory just above the bit, then
60ft above the bit, 1/8" clearance can be critical factor for a packed hole assembly.
10.4.4. Wall Support and Length of Contact Tool

Bottom assembly must adequately contact the wall of the hole to stabilise the bit and
centralise the drill collars. The length of contact needed between the tool and the wall of the
hole will be determined by the formation. The surface area in contact must be sufficient to
prevent the stabilising tool from digging into the wall of the hole. If this should happen,
stabilisation would be lost and the hole would drift. If the formation is strong, hard and
uniform, a short narrow contact surface is adequate and will insure proper stabilisation.
On the other hand, if the formation is soft and unconsolidated, a long blade stabiliser may
be required. Hole enlargement in formations that erode quickly tends to reduce affective
alignment of the bottom hole assembly.
This problem can be reduced by controlling the annular velocity and mud properties.
10.5. PACKED BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLIES

Proper design of a packed bottom hole assembly requires a knowledge of crooked hole
tendencies and the degree of drillability of the formations to be drilled in each particular
area.
For basic design practices the following are considered pertinent parameters and are
defined:
Crooked Hole Drilling Tendencies
• Mild crooked hole
• Medium crooked hole
• Severe crooked hole.
Formation Firmness
• Hard to medium hard formations
• Abrasive
• Non abrasive
• Medium hard to soft formations.
figure 10.e shows three basic assemblies required to provide the necessary stiffness and
stabilisation for a packed hole assembly. A short drill collar is used between Zone 1 and
Zone 2 to reduce the amount of deflection that might be caused by the drill collar weight. As
a general rule of thumb, the short drill collar length in feet is approximately equal to the hole
size in inches, plus or minus two feet. For example a short drill collar length of 6 to 10ft (2-
3m) would be satisfactory in an 8 “ hole.
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* The short drill collar length is determined by the hole size

Hole size (inches) = Short DC (ft) +/- 2ft
Figure 10.E - Basic Packed BHAs

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10.6. PENDULUM BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLIES

Because all packed assemblies will bend to some extent, however small the amount of
deflection drilling, a perfectly vertical hole is not possible. The rate of hole angle change
may be kept to a minimum but occasionally conditions will arise where the total hole
deviation must be reduced.
When this condition occurs the pendulum technique is employed. If it is anticipated that the
packed hole assembly will be required after reduction of the hole angle, the packed
pendulum technique is recommended.
The pendulum assembly is based on the principle that the only force available to straighten
a deviated hole is the weight of the drill collars between the point of tangency (stabiliser)
and the bit.
In the packed pendulum technique, the pendulum length of collars are slung below the
regular packed hole assembly. When hole deviation has been dropped to an acceptable
limit, the pendulum collars are removed and the packed hole assembly again is run above
the bit. It is only necessary to ream the length of the pendulum collars prior to resuming
normal drilling.
If a vibration dampening device is used in the packed pendulum assembly, it should remain
in its original pick-up position during the pendulum operations. (Refer to figure 10.f).
Figure 10.F - Pendulum BHA

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10.7. REDUCED BIT WEIGHT

By reducing the weight on the bit, the bending tendency of the drill string are changed and
the hole will be straighter.
One of the earliest techniques for straightening the hole was to reduce the weight on the bit
and speed up the rotary table. In recent years it has been found that this is not always the
best procedure because reducing the bit weight sacrifices considerable penetration rate.
Worse than this, it frequently causes dog-legs as illustrated in. Therefore as a point of
caution, the straightening of a hole by reducing bit weight should be done very gradually so
that the hole will tend to return to vertical without sharp bends and be much safer for future
drilling. A reduction of bit weight is usually required when changing from a packed hole
assembly to a pendulum or packed pendulum drilling operation.
Figure 10.G - Reduced Bit Weight

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10.8. DRILL STRING DESIGN

The normal drill string design practice aim is to avoid abrupt changes in component cross
sectional areas.
Abrupt changes can lead to concentrations in bending stresses which in turn can lead to a
twist off (Refer to figure 10.h).
The ratio I/C between the moment of inertia (I) and radius (C) of the pipe is directly related
to the resistance to bending. The following are used to determine the section modulus I/C:
I = Moment of inertia
= π/64 x (OD4- ID4)
C = Radius of the tube
= OD/2
At a crossover from one tubular size to another size, the ratio (I/C large pipe)/(I/C small
pipe) should be less than 5.5 for soft formations and less than 3.5 for hard formations.
table 10.b shows the ratio (I/C) for the most common sizes of drill pipes, HW drill pipes and
drill collars.
table 10.c illustrates some possible drill strings and their acceptability.
Figure 10.H - Bending Moment

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Drill Collar Drill Pipe

OD (ins) ID (ins) I/C OD (ins) ID (ins) WT I/C
31/2 11/2 4.1 23/8 2 4.85 0.7
41/8 2 6.6 23/8 1.815 6.65 0.9
43/4 21/4 9.8 27/8 2.441 6.85 1.1
53/4 21/4 18.3 27/8 2.151 10.40 1.6
53/4 213/16 17.6 31/2 3 9.50 2.0
6 21/4 20.8 31/2 2.764 13.30 2.6
6 23/16 20.2 31/2 2.602 15.50 2.9
61/4 21/4 23.3 4 3.476 11.85 2.7
61/4 23/16 22.7 4 3.340 14.00 3.2
61/2 21/4 26.7 41/2 3.958 13.75 3.6
61/2 23/16 26.2 41/2 3.826 16.60 4.3
3
6 /4 21/4 30.1 41/2 3.640 20.00 5.1
63/4 23/16 29.6 5 4.408 16.25 4.9
7 23/16 32.7 5 4.276 19.50 5.7
71/4 23/16 37.5 5 4.000 25.60 7.3
73/4 23/16 44.6 51/2 4.892 19.20 6.1
73/4 3 44.4 51/2 4.778 21.90 7.1
3
8 2 /16 49.5 51/2 4.670 24.70 7.8
8 3 49.3 65/8 5.965 25.20 9.8
81/4 23/16 55.9
81/4 3 54.2
81/2 3 59.2
9 3 71.0
91/2 3 83.8
10 3 97.2
111/4 3 138.8
12 3 154.5
Extra Weight Pipe
OD (ins) ID (ins) WT I/C
41/2 213/16 32.0 7.7
5 3 42.6 10.7
1 4 4
l =(Moment of Inertia) = ( /64) x (OD – ID ) x 3.142
C = Radius of the Tube in inches
I / C Drill Collars
Ratio =
I / C Drill Pipes
Table 10.B - I/C Ratios for standard Tubulars
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Hole Size Drill Collar/Drill Pipe I/C I/C Ratio Remarks

(ins) (ins)
DC 91/2 x 3 83.8 1.5
1 3
DC 8 /4 x 21 /16 55.9 9.8
DP 5 x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 - Not
1
DC 9 /2 x 3 83.8 1.5 Recommended
1 13
DC 8 /4 x 2 /16 55.9 7.1
1
DP 5 /2 x 19.5lbs/ft 7.8 1.4
DP 5x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 -
1 1
17 /2 DC 9 /2 x 3 83.8 1.5 OK for
1 13
DC 8 /4” x 2 /16 55.9 5.2 SOFT
HWDP 5” x 42.6lbs/ft 10.7 1.9 Formations
DP 5” x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 -
1
DC 9 /2 x 3 83.8 1.5
81 13
DC /4 2 /16” 55.9 2.5 OK For HARD
1 13
DC 6 /4 x 2 /16” 22.7 1.9 Formations
DP 5” x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 -
Note: For every hard formations, add HWDP
91
DC /2” x 3” 83.8 1.5
1 1 13
12 /4” DC 8 /4 x 2 /16” 55.9 2.5 OK For HARD
1 13
DC 6 /4 x 2 /16 22.7 3.9 Formations
DP 5” x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 -
Note: For every hard formations, add HWDP
91
DC /2” x 3” 83.8 1.5
1 1 13
12 /4” DC 8 /4 x 2 /16” 55.9 5.2 OK For SOFT
HWDP 5” x 42.6lbs/ft 10.7 1.9 Formations
DP 5” x 19.5 lbs/ft 5.7 -
1 13
DC 6 /4 x 2 /16” 22.7 Not
DP 5” x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7 3.9 Recommended
5 1 13
8 /8 DC 6 /4 x 2 /16” 22.7
HWDP 5” x 42.6lbs/ft 10.7 Recommended
DP 5” x 19.5lbs/ft 5.7
Table 10.C - Drill String Acceptability
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10.9. BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY BUCKLING

Without weight on the bit, a drill string is straight if the hole is straight. With a sufficient small
weight applied on the bit, the string will remain straight. As the weight is increased, a critical
value of weight is reached and the drill string will buckle and contact the wall of the hole. If
the weight on the bit is further increased, a new critical value is reached at which the drill
string buckles a second time. This is designated as ‘buckling of the second order’. With still
higher weights on the bit, buckling of the third and higher orders occur.
When a buckled string is rotated, stresses in the outside fibres of tubular are developed.
These stresses increase with the diameter of the hole and results in fatigue failure of the
string. As soon as a drill string buckles in a straight hole, the bit is no longer vertical and a
perfectly vertical hole can not be maintained. Therefore, in the design of BHAs, it is
important to determine the critical values of weight on bit at which buckling occurs.
The critical weight on bit of the first order (W cr1) and second order (W cr2) are given by the
following equations:
W cr1 = 1.94 x m x p
W cr2 = 3.75 x m x p
where:
m = Length of one dimensionless unit, in meters
p = Weight in mud per unit of length of the pipe, in kg/m
The dimensionless unit ‘m’ is a function of Young's modulus for steel, moment of inertia of
the pipe cross section and weight in mud per unit of length of the pipe. The values of ‘m’ for
various sizes of drill collar are plotted in figure 10.i.
Under normal conditions, some buckling of the drill string is inevitable, therefore stiffer
collars and stabiliser should be used for control of the hole angle.
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Dimensionless Unit (m) for Various

m
28 11" *
9 1/2" *
8 1/4" *
26
8 1/4" * 2
8" *
24 8" * 2
7 1/2" * 2
22
20
18
1,0 1,2 1,4 1,6 1,8 2,0 2,2
Mud Weight
m
21 6 3/4" * 2
6 3/4" * 2
20 6 1/2" * 2
6 1/2" * 2
19
6" * 2
6" * 2
18
4 3/4" * 2
17
16
15
14
1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2,
Mud Weight
Figure 10.I - Dimensionless Unit (m) for Various Sizes of DC

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10.10. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STABILISATION

1) For the vertical section of the hole the purpose of stabilisation, more than any other
factor, is to maintain the drift angle as low as possible to zero and, if applicable, to
prevent wall sticking.
2) For deviated holes, the stabiliser positions in the BHA depend entirely on directional
drilling requirements and as a rule determined by the Directional Engineer.
3) All stabilisers shall be the ‘integral type’ and machined from a single block of material
or the ‘integral sleeve type’ fitted by head or hydraulic pressure (not threaded).
4) The spiral profile of blades, for both string and near bit type stabiliser, shall be the
‘right hand type’.
5) All stabilisers for hole size up to 121/4” must be the tight type in order to assure a
complete (360°) contact with the borehole. All stabilisers for hole size over 121/4" must
be open type but not less than 210°.
6) All stabilisers should have a fishing neck with the same OD as the drill collars and a
length not shorter than 20” for stabilisers up to 6” hole size and 26” for larger hole size
stabilisers.
7) All stabilisers smaller than 15" OD shall have three blades. Stabilisers larger than 15"
shall have four blades as standard.
8) Stabilisers (and subs, etc.) should be demagnetised after a magnetic particle
inspection.
9) The maximum allowable reduction value on outside diameter of stabilisers should be
according to the attached tables .
10) Tungsten carbide smooth surface solid body integral blade stabilisers are preferred.
Integral sleeve stabilisers may also be used in large hole sizes above 121/4", mainly as
the near bit stabiliser, in order to position the stabilisation point right on top of the bit.
11) The maximum allowable wear of the stabiliser blades should be in accordance with
the previous point. If such a limit is reached at any point, the stabiliser has to be
replaced.
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Blade OD Blade OD Length of Length of

Hole Rotary Length of Min Width
Body String Near Fishing Box
Size Conns Pin End of Blades
OD Type Bit Type Neck Bit
53/4 421/32 NC 38 519/32 519/32 20 12 10 2
57/8 421/32 NC 38 23
5 /32 23
5 /32 20 12 10 2
6 421/32 NC 38 23
5 /32 27
5 /32 20 12 10 2
83/8 63/8 NC 46 3
8 /16 13
8 /64 26 12 10 21/2
81/2 63/8 NC 46 5
8 /16 21
8 /64 26 12 10 21/2
121/4 77/8 6 5/8 R 12 123/64 26 12 10 3
121/4 93/8 7 5/8 R 12 123/64 26 12 10 3
16 93/8 5
7 /8 R 3
15 /4 3
15 /4 26 12 10 4
16 107/8 5
8 /8 R 3
15 /4 3
15 /4 26 12 10 4
171/2 93/8 5
7 /8 R 3
17 /4 1
17 /4 26 12 10 4
171/2 107/8 5
8 /8 R 3
17 /16 1
17 /4 26 12 10 4
23 93/8 5
7 /8 R 11
22 /16 3
22 /4 26 12 10 4
23 107/8 5
8 /8 R 11
22 /16 3
22 /4 26 12 10 4
26 93/8 5
7 /8 R 11
25 /16 3
25 /4 26 12 10 4
26 107/8 5
8 /8 R 11
25 /16 3
25 /4 26 12 10 4
28 107/8 8 5/8 R 2711/16 273/4 26 12 10 4
Main dimensions of string and near bit type stabilisers in ins.
Table 10.D - Acceptable Dimensions For Used String And Near Bit Stabilisers
The maximum overall length, for string type stabilisers only, must be as follows:
• 75" for 53/4" to 6" hole size stabilisers
• 85" for 83/8" to 121/4" hole size stabilisers
• 100" for 16" to 28" hole size stabilisers.
Hole Size Body OD Rotary Blade OD Length of Length Minimum Width

Conn. String Type Fishing Neck Pin End of Blades
6 421/32 NC 38 527/32 20 12 2
81/2 3
6 /8 NC 46
5
8 /16 26 12
1
2 /2
121/4 7
7 /8 5
6 /8 R 12 26 12 3
121/4 93/8 7 5/8 R 12 26 12 3
3 5 3
16 9 /8 7 /8 R 15 /4 26 12 4
171/2 3
9 /8 5
7 /8 R 3
17 /16 26 12 4
Main dimensions of string and near bit type stabilisers in ins.
Table 10.E - Acceptable Dimensions For Used String And Near Bit Stabilisers
The maximum overall length must be as follows:
• 75" for 6" hole size stabilisers
• 85" for 81/2" to 121/4" hole size stabilisers
• 100" for 16" to 171/2" hole size stabilisers.
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10.11. OPERATING LIMITS OF DRILL PIPE

The design of the drill string for static tensile loads requires sufficient strength in drill pipe to
support the submerged weight of drill pipe and drill collar below. The submerged load (P)
hanging below any section of drill pipe can be calculated as follow:
[(
P = L dp x W dp ) + (L c ]
x Wc ) x K b
where:
Ldp = Length of drill pipe in feet
Lc = Length of drill collar in feet
W dp = Weight per foot of drill pipe in air
Wc = Weight per foot of drill collar in air
Kb = Buoyancy factor
The difference between the maximum allowable tension and the calculated load represents
the Margin of Over Pull (MOP):
MOP = (Pt x 0.9) - P
where:
Pt = Theoretical tension load from table
0.9 = Design factor
The minimum recommended value of MOP is 60,000lbs (27t) and it shall be calculated for
the topmost joint of each size, weight, grade and classification of drill pipe. The anticipated
total depth with next string run and expected mud weight should be considered when
calculating the MOP.
The overall drilling conditions (directional well, hole drag, likelihood of becoming stuck, etc.)
may require higher values of MOP. When the depth is reached where the MOP approaches
the minimum recommended value, stronger drill pipe shall be added to the string.
10.12. GENERAL GUIDELINES

1) Packed hole assemblies shall generally be used unless otherwise dictated by hole
conditions.
2) Standard packed hole assembly should be:
3) Bit + Near Bit Stab + Short DC (7ft =2.5m) + String Stab + K Monel DC + String Stab +
2 DC + String Stab.
4) A stabilised string can be used to drill out shoe-tracks after casing setting unless there
is so much cement left inside the casing to discourage such a procedure.
5) If the bottom hole assembly is different from the one previously used, run in the hole
with maximum care, monitoring the weight indicator closely. Any indication of string
dragging must be promptly detected. Tight zones must be reamed free before
proceeding with the trip.
Any change in the stabilisation from that specified in the drilling programme must be
authorised by the Company Drilling Office
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11. BIT SELECTION
This section is a guide to engineers in the selection of bits and bit optimisation.
11.1. PLANNING
Selection of the proper bits for a well programme is an important decision that has a big
impact on well costs. Many factors need to considered and evaluated:
• Bit cost
• Method of drilling (turbine, rotary, air)
• Formation type and properties
• Mud system
• Rig cost
With emerging improvements in technology on bit design, it is necessary to optimise drilling

operations by evaluating all of the above parameters.
Drilling optimisation can be considered to having three phases:
a) Selection of the proper bit for drilling conditions
b) Monitoring the drilling performance and conditions on the prospect well so that
the performance is equal to or above the average in the area.
c) Implementing a bit weight-rotary speed programme based on theoretical
calculations that will improve the performance above the existing best
performances in the area.
The last phase is difficult to implement in a one or two well drilling programme but is
valuable in development drilling. However, often the first two phases are not given the
importance they deserve
11.2. IADC ROLLER BIT CLASSIFICATION

The array of bit names and nomenclature in earlier years gave rise for the need of a
standard classification system. In 1972 the IADC adopted a three digit classification system
for roller bit nomenclature. Most bit manufacturers adopted the system followed by the API
and the system now appears as API Recommended Practice 7G
The original system uses a three digit code for classification constructed as follows:
A, B, C
where:
A: Is a number from 1-8, which is the major class
B: Is a number from 1-4, which is the subgroup
C: Is a number from 1-9, which is the speciality feature
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11.2.1. Major Group Classification

The major classification number denotes the formation types in which the rollers bit should
be used as per table 11.a below:
Group Number Formations

Mill Tooth Bits
1 Soft formations of low compressive strength and high drillability
2 Medium to medium-hard formations with high compressive strength
3 Hard semi-abrasive or abrasive formations
Insert Bits
4 Very soft formations
5 Soft to medium formations with low compressive strength
6 Medium-hard formations with high compressive strength
7 Hard semi-abrasive or abrasive formations
8 Extremely hard and abrasive formations
Table 11.A – Roller Bit Major Group Classification
Sub-Group Classification
The subgroup classification is simply four progressive steps of compressive strength from 1
being low up to 4 for the highest within that major group.
For example a 1-2 bit is a mill tooth bit designed to drill formations of a slightly greater
compressive strength than required for a 1-1 bit, etc.
Speciality Feature
The code numbers and relative speciality features are shown in table 11.b below:
Code Number Feature

1 Standard
2 Air
3 Gauge insert
4 Roller seal bearing
5 Seal bearing and gauge protection
6 Friction seal bearing
7 Friction bearing and gauge protection
8 Directional
9 Other
Table 11.B– Special Feature Codes
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11.2.2. Bit Cones

The range of bits listed in the major classification primarily has two types of cone. The
original cutter bits had cone teeth machined out of the cone material by a mill, hence they
were termed ‘Mill Tooth’ bits. These bits, however, were found to wear quickly when hard
abrasive rocks were encountered. This resulted in the introduction of cones which had teeth
inserted into the cone made of more wear resistant materials such as tungsten carbide. The
inserts are of varying shapes to suit the best penetration in a particular rock.
The mill tooth bit cone teeth can be heat treated to provide better wear resistance but only
are good up to classification 3. Insert bits are used for range 4 through 8, see table 11.c
below:
Cone offset also has a significant effect on the penetration rate due to the shear
mechanism which best suits the formation types.
Type Class Formation Type Tooth Description Offset

1-1, 1-2, Very soft Hard-faced tip 3-4o
Mill 1-3, 1-4 Soft Hard-faced side 2-3 o
Tooth 2-1, 2-2 Medium Hard-faced side 1-2o
Bits 2-3 Medium hard Case hardened 1-2o
3 Hard Case hardened 0o
4 Very soft
5-2 Soft Long blunt chisel 2-3o
5-3 Medium-soft Long sharp chisel 2-3o
Insert Bits 6-1 Medium shales Medium chisel 1-2o
6-2 Medium limes Medium projectile 1-2o
7-1 Medium hard Short chisel 0
7-2 Medium Short projectile 0
8 Hard chert Conical or hemispherical 0
Table 11.C– Roller Bit Type and Classification
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11.3. DIAMOND BIT CLASSIFICATION

Two types of diamond bits are used for special applications where their cutting action is
most efficient. These are natural diamond and the PDC (Poly-crystalline Compact).
11.3.1. Natural Diamond Bits

Natural diamond bits are constructed with diamonds embedded into a matrix and are used
in conventional rotary, turbine, and coring operations. Diamond bits can provide improved
drilling rates over roller bits in some particular formations and all the diamond bit suppliers
provide comparison tables between roller bit and diamond bit performance to aid users in bit
selection based on economic evaluation.
Some of the most important benefits of diamond bits over roller bits are:
• Bit failure potential is reduced due to there being no moving parts.
• Less drilling effort is required by the shearing cutting action compared to the
cracking and grinding action of the roller bit.
• Bit weight is reduced, therefore deviation control is improved.
• The low weight and lack of moving parts make them well suited for turbine
drilling.
11.3.2. PDC Bits

PDC or Stratapax bits were introduced in the 1970s and features the greater abrasion
resistance of the diamond complimented by the strength and impact resistance of cemented
tungsten carbide.
The advancement in technology in PDC design and performance in recent years has been
significant and there is now many manufacturers with wide ranges of bits now available.
Due to the diversity of bits and bit features available, there is no IADC classification system
similar to roller bits but simply a code to provide a means of characterising the general
physical of fixed cutter drill bits.
11.3.3. IADC Fixed Cutter Classification

To cater for the wide range of fixed cutter bits including natural diamond and PDC, IADC
introduced the following classification system.
The classification system consists of a four character code
Code 1 - Cutter Type and Body Material (D, M, T, S, O)
Code 2 - Bit Profile (1-9)
Code 3 - Hydraulic Design (1-9)
Code 4 - Cutter Size and Density (1-9)
Code 1 Code 2 Code 3 Code 4
Cutter Type & Body Cutter Size and

Bit Profile Hydraulic Design
Material Density
Table 11.D - IADC Fixed Cutter Classification Code
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Code 1
The subgroup classification is simply a five letter designation categorising the type of cutter
and body material.
Group Letter Cutter Type and Body Material

D Natural Diamond Matrix Body
M PDC Matrix Body
T TSP Matrix Body
S PDC Steel Body
O Other
Table 11.E – Code 1 Cutter Type and Body Material
Code 2
The code numbers (1-9) categorise the bit profile by shape.
Code 2 Bit Profile

1 Long Taper Deep Cone
2 Long Taper Medium Cone
3 Long Taper Shallow Cone (parabolic)
4 Medium Taper Deep Cone
5 Medium Taper Medium Cone
6 Medium Taper Shallow Cone (rounded)
7 Short Taper Deep Cone (inverted)
8 Short Taper Medium Cone
9 Short Taper Shallow Cone (flat face)
Table 11.F– Code 2 Bit Profile
Code 3
The code numbers (1-9) describe the hydraulic features.
Changeable Sets Fixed Ports Open Throat

Bladed 1 2 3
Ribbed 4 5 6
Open Faced 7 8 9
Table 11.G - Code 3 Hydraulic Design
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Code 4
The code numbers (1-9) categorise the cutter size and cutter material.
Light Medium Heavy

Large 1 2 3
Medium 4 5 6
Small 7 8 9
Table 11.H - Code 4 Cutter Size and Density
An example bit code would then be M442 equates to a PDC bit with matrix body, medium
taper-deep cone, changeable jets-ribbed design with large size cutter of medium density.
11.4. BIT SELECTION

Selecting the correct bit for the anticipated drilling conditions requires an evaluation of
numerous parameters. Since the variety of bits available, outlined in the previous sections,
is much wider with the introduction of innovative bit designs and the improvement in existing
designs, the bit selection process is now much more complicated than it was previously.
However there is still a simple guidelines that can be used to increase drill rates and, hence
reduce drilling costs.
The parameters involved in the selection of drill bits are:
• Formation hardness
• Mud types
• Directional control
• Rotary system
• Coring
• Bit size
11.4.1. Formation Hardness/Abrasiveness

As can be seen from the previous IADC bits are generally categorised by the hardness of
the formation they can drill, however these classifications are vague but unfortunately no
superior classification method exists.
Some formations such as ‘medium to hard’ are sometimes wrongly defined because they
had previously experienced low drilling rates although this was actually due to wrong bit
selection or operating parameters used.
Where a number of bits can be used, say to drill a soft formations, the bit selected will
depend on other conditions such as mud type and hole size. Therefore, bit selection in soft
formations becomes a matter of defining the conditions that produce the lowest drilling
costs.
Bit action in hard and abrasive formations is by failure in the compressive mode and as a
result bits which use shear action are not very successful. In this case, roller bits in IADC
code range 6-1-7 or higher are usually more successful as they have been designed for
abrasive wear which may be very damaging to shear failure action bits.
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Formations with sticky characteristics, often resulting from clay rocks that are hydratable,
the cuttings stick to the teeth or bit structure and impede drilling efficiency. Bits designed for
sticky formations have a high degree of teeth inter-fit and hydraulics such as centre jetting
capabilities. PDC, diamond and short tooth roller cone bits have been particularly
unsuccessful unless when PDCs are used with oil based mud.
In general, PDC bits drill faster than mill tooth or diamond bits in soft to medium-soft rocks
unless they are sticky. This is substantiated by numerous results test reports.
11.4.2. Mud Types

Oil based muds often reduce the drilling rates with roller cone bits whereas PDC and
diamond bits are not effected. Oil based mud is actually believed to enhance the
performance of PDC bits since they inhibit clay hydration and stickiness.
Air drilling almost certainly requires the use of roller cone bits as air cannot provide
sufficient cooling as liquids do, therefore causing bit failure. Cone bits are available with
internal porting to the roller bearings keeping them cool enough and, although PDC and
diamond bits do not have ant moving parts, the matrix and blade structures becomes weak
and break. Diamonds themselves will fail around 750oC for polycrystallines and 1,200oC for
natural.
11.4.3. Directional Control

Directional control is affected by a number of factors including these relating to drill bits. The
factors affecting directional control are:
• Method of drilling
• BHA design
• Type of bit
• Rotary bit cone offset, number of cones, cutting structure on the cone
• Bit weight
Rotary drilling operations are inclined to right-hand walk. This tendency is increased when
using roller bits are used as cone offset from the bit centre increases. The advantage of
increased drilling rate when using cones with higher offsets must be balanced with the
difficulty in maintaining directional control.
Turbine drilling may have a tendency to left-hand walk. This is controlled by the turbine
used, bit gauge length, and BHA stabilisation.
Some bit manufacturers have developed two and four coned roller bits purely for directional
cone purposes. These are include in the IADC codes under special feature #8, e.g. 1-2-8 is
a soft bit for directional control.
Roller bits are also available with a special cutting structure that are caused by formation
dip which normally induces movement towards the dip. The special feature is outside teeth
that dig into a dipping formation thus preventing the movement towards the dip.
High bit weights tend to increase directional control problems and, vice versa, low bit
weights help maintain straight hole at a penalty in reduced drilling rate. Due to this PDC bits
with their relatively lower bit weights and no cones, hence cone offset problems are
favoured.
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11.4.4. Drilling Method

The means of turning the bit with either the rig’s rotary system or downhole motor does not
place any restriction on bit selection. However, in general in deep wells, PDC bits are
preferred when using surface rotary systems as reduced weight on bit reduces torque due
to bit and wall friction which can be significant.
Due to turbine drilling efficiency, bits with long life expectancies should be used such as
PDC, diamond and journal bearing insert bits.
11.4.5. Coring
Bits used for coring must be designed so that it minimises flushing of the formation fluids
from core by the mud. PDC or diamond bits are both used for coring operations and are
selected by using the previous parameters outlined.
11.4.6. Bit Size

3
Roller bits are available off-the-shelf for almost all sizes between the range of 3 /8” – 26” in
almost every type, cutting structure and jetting system. PDC and diamond bits are not
available off-the-shelf as rotary bits in sizes over 15”.
In deep wells with small holes, i.e. 4” or 5”, the PDC bits have much better performance as
they have no moving parts as rotary bits which have high failure rates due their small
bearing areas.
11.5. CRITICAL ROTARY SPEEDS

The effect of rotary drilling speeds on the rate of penetration of toothed rotary bits is difficult
to evaluate and has less impact than drilling weight. Apparent inconsistencies sometimes
appear in the data which may be due to vibration originating at the bit which helps in the
rock failure and so aids the drilling process. Vibration on the other hand is undesirable as it
causes drill string material failures such as bearings and bit teeth or failures in drill string
collars and drill pipe. It has often been proven that slower bit speeds and greater bit weight
obtain faster rates of penetration.
It might be thought that drilling rate should be proportional to rotary speed since the drilling
occurs due to contact of between the bit teeth and the rock formations and that these are
proportional to rotary speed. However this only holds true if the contact was equally
effective at both slow and high rotational speeds. This linear assumption is not
substantiated by any data and in fact penetration rates are less than linear. The following
figure 11.a shows example drilling rates versus rotary speeds with differing bit weights and
it is seen that the penetration rates are not linear to rotational speed.
When drilling in a particular area, the bit records for previous holes drilled in the area or
other offset data obtained should be analysed to determine the initial best bit programme
then new technology or individual well requirements evaluated to perfect the programme.
This will include rotary speeds.
Most bit suppliers will provide data on optimum bit weight and rotary drilling speeds for
specific areas of operation and most operating companies will also have built up a
significant data base on the types of bits they have used on previous drilling projects with
respective drilling parameters. These data from all of the sources should be evaluated to
obtain the optimum drilling parameters.
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In practice the rotary speed should start slowly and increased until an optimum penetration
rate is achieved without vibration. In general, if weight on a bit is increased, the RPM should
be decreased and vice versa.
Note: Eni-Agip’s recommended weight on bit is 2ton/inch of hole diameter.
Critical rotary speed can be calculated by:
Critical Rotary speed =

(
4760000 DP 2 + ID 2 ) 1
/2
LP 2
where:
DP = Diameter of drill pipe, ins
ID = Internal diameter, ins
LP = Length of pipe joint, ins
Figure 11.A - Rotary Speed Effect on Drilling Rate

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11.6. DRILLING OPTIMISATION

In past years many attempts have been made to optimise drilling operations. Some of the
efforts have been directed in:
• Developing drilling fluids to that yield high rates of penetration
• Improving solids control equipment to improve mud properties
• Designing bits to improve penetration rates, bit life or both
Nowadays, the primary criteria is economic resulting in optimisation based on the correct
selection of bit weight, rotary drilling speed and bit types which produce the lowest cost per
foot or metre, i.e. minimum cost drilling or MCD.
The cost of the depth drilled during a single bit run is the sum of three costs, bit cost, trip
costs and rig operating costs for the time required for the depth drilled. Dividing the bit run
cost by the footage drilled, results in the cost per foot. The trip costs and rig operating costs
are variable whereas the bit cost is fixed and generally less significant (Refer to figure 11.b).
With MCD it should be noted that selection of proper bit weights and drilling speeds does
not always yield the maximum ROP nor the longest bit runs.
Figure 11.B - Drilling Cost Per foot

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12. DIRECTIONAL DRILLING
Controlled Directional Drilling can be defined as the technique of intentionally deviating a

well bore so that, the bottom hole location or any intermediate portion of the hole, is
positioned in a predetermined target(s) area, that is located at a given horizontal and
vertical distance from the surface location of the well.
Many new tools and techniques have been developed in recent years to enhance the
accuracy of this technique.
12.1. TERMINOLOGY AND CONVENTIONS

True North: The direction from any point on the earth's surface to the
geographic north pole which is fixed.
Geographic North: The direction from any point on the earth’s surface.
Magnetic North: The direction from any point on the earth's surface to the
magnetic north pole.
Magnetic Declination: The angle between True North and the direction shown by the
north pointer of a compass needle at the location being
considered, measured from True North. Magnetic declination
for a given location changes gradually with time, An annual
rate of change is applied to give the present declination. The
magnetic declination and rates of change are obtained from
detailed charts or computer program. To obtain the
geographic direction, the direction obtained from magnetic
surveys shall be corrected simply by adding or subtracting the
appropriate declination.
Direction: Directions can be measured and given in three ways:

• Azimuth, where the angle is measured from north in a
clockwise direction from 0 to 360° (for example: 252°
AZ).
• Quadrant Format (called ‘Field Co-ordinate’ or ‘Oil Field
Format’), the direction is expressed as an angle E or W
of N or S (the 252 AZ becomes S72° W).
• Bearing Angle, the angle is measured from 0 to 180°
East (positive) or West (negative) of North (108° W or –
108°).
The correction due to magnetic declination is the same for
any of the three formats.
Inclination (Inc) also The angle the centre line of the well bore makes with a
termed Drift: vertical axis below the well. By definition, straight holes have
zero angle of inclination. All inclination angles are positive.
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Target: A predetermined area of interest whose position is defined by

its horizontal and vertical distance from the surface location of
the well.
Well Path: The path of the bore hole drilled by the bit.
Projected Well Path: The path expected of the bit to follow beyond the end of the
well bore.
Station: A survey data point. A station length is the measured footage

between stations. The well path is described by all of the data
points therefore a well path survey is all the data points
surveyed.
Survey Data The inclination angle, the direction of the well bore is pointing
and the measured depth of the surveying instrument.
Build Up Rate (BUR): The build-up should be kept as close as possible to the
designated well trajectory ensuring that the rate of build-up
neither lags behind nor exceed the projected well path. Large
rates of build-up result in increased torque and wear on drill
pipe and casing and in the problems associated with
accidentally side tracking or formation of key seats.
Insufficient build-up rate will result in an increased final angle
required to achieve the objective; generally build-up rates of
1.5 to 3.0o/100ft are normally used.
Dog Leg Severity The rate of change of the combination of both inclination and
(DLS): direction of a well path between data points. It is usually
expressed in degrees per 100ft or 30m interval drilled.
Tangent Section: The section of the well starting from the end of build up and
where direction and inclination are maintained constant.
Horizontal The distance projected onto a horizontal plane from the origin
Displacement (or to the point under consideration.
Horizontal Departure):
Vertical Section: The projection of the horizontal displacement onto a vertical
plane usually along the target direction.
Lead Angle: When drilling with rotary drilling assemblies there is a

tendency for the hole to ‘walk to the right’. Turbine drilling
assemblies have the opposite tendency, that is ‘walk to the
left’. The lead is the angle to be applied to the project
direction at kick-off to correct the walking tendency of the
drilling assemblies.
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12.2. CO-ORDINATE SYSTEMS

12.2.1. Universal Transverse Of Mercator (UTM)
In the Transverse Mercator Projection the surface of the spheroid chosen to represent the
Earth is wrapped in a cylinder which touches the spheroid along a chosen meridian.
From the centre of the globe (Refer to figure 12.a), shapes on the surface of the spheroid
are transferred to the surface of the cylinder (A becomes A1 and B becomes B1). The
cylinder is then unwrapped giving a correct scale representation along the central meridian
and an increased scale away from it.
CIRCLE OF CONTACT
NORTH POLE
(AXIS)
A1 B1
A B
Figure 12.A - Universal Transfer Of Mercator
As a Mercator projection becomes increasingly inaccurate as one moves away from the
chosen meridian, a series of reference meridians is used so that it is always possible to use
a map with the reference meridian close to the place of work.
The reference meridians used are 6 degrees apart providing 60 maps, called zones, to
cover the whole world. The zones are numbered 0 to 60 (from west to east) with zone 31
having the 0o meridian (Greenwich) on the left and 6o E on the right.
o
Each zone is further sub-divided into grid sectors each one covering 8 latitude starting from
the equator. Grid sectors are identified by the zone number and by a letter ranging from C
to X (excluding I and O) from 80o South to 80o North. Identification of the sector is simply
the number and letter of the relevant area, i.e. 31U being the Southern North Sea (Refer to
figure 12.b).
The co-ordinates for each UTM grid sector are given in meters with the origins (i.e. the zero
value) at a line 500,000m West of the centre meridian to avoid negative values and at the
equator. The co-ordinates are given as Eastings and Northings.
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Example
UTM co-ordinates of the rig:
410,261.0 E
6,833,184.2 N
The rig is 500,000 - 410,261m west of the central meridian and 6,833,184.2m north of the
equator.
The bearing between any two points in the same grid sector is referenced to Grid North
which is the direction of a straight line running from top to bottom of the map.
Convergence is the angle ‘a’ (Refer to figure 12.b) between the Geographic North and the
Grid North for the location being considered measured from Geographic North. In the
northern hemisphere the convergence is positive for locations east of central meridian and
negative for locations west of central meridian. The opposite applies for the southern
hemisphere.
NORD (CENTRALMERIDIAN)
G G G N G G G
True North
- +
a
EST
WEST EQUATOR LINE
+ -
CENTRAL MERIDIAN SOUTH
Figure 12.B - Convergence Angle
12.2.2. Geographical Co-ordinates

Generally rig and target co-ordinates are given in either UTM and/or geographical co-
ordinates.
Geographical co-ordinates are expressed in degrees, minutes and seconds for Latitude and
Longitude. Each degree is subdivided into 60 minutes and each minute further subdivided
into 60 seconds (Refer to figure 12.c).
Example
Rig location:
3° 36' 01.0" E Longitude
40° 43' 06.5" N Latitude
For the purpose of calculations degrees, minutes and seconds are often converted into
decimal degrees. This is done by dividing the minutes by 60 and the seconds by 3,600 so
that 3° 36' 01" becomes:
3 + 36/60 + 1/3600 = 3,600.278°
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° N
80 80
N °
0 60
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
S °
80
° 80
S
THE METHOD OF ZONE NUMBERING ACCORDING TO THE UTM SYSTEM ESCH ZONE IS 6°
LONGITUDE IN WIDTH AND EXTENDS FROM 80° NORTH TO 80° SOUTH
27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42
64
V
56
U 31 U
48
T
40
S
32
R
24
Q
16
P
8
N
-8
DEGREE -24 -18 -12 -6 0 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72
Figure 12.C - Grid Sectors

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12.3. RIG/TARGET LOCATIONS AND HORIZONTAL DISPLACEMENT

The first step in planning a well, starts with the data defining the rig and target locations,
generally in UTM or geographical co-ordinates. With these data the horizontal displacement
and direction to the target can be calculated.
If the data supplied for the rig and target location are in geographical co-ordinates these
must first be converted to UTM data.
12.3.1. Horizontal Displacement

Using UTM co-ordinates (Refer to figure 12.d), displacement and direction can be
determined with trigonometry as shown in the following example.
UTM co-ordinates of rig: 410,261.0 E 6,833,184.2 N
UTM co-ordinates of target: 412,165.0 E 6,834,846.0 N
Absolute difference in Eastings: 1,904.0m
Absolute difference in Northings: 1,661.8m
1904,0 m TARGET
48,9°
1661,8 m
H D 2527,21 m
RIG
Figure 12.D - Example Calculation Of Horizontal Displacement
The origin used may correspond to wellhead or slot in a template.

The horizontal displacement (HD) to the target is thus:
HD = (1661.82 + 1904.02)½ = 2527.21m

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12.3.2. Target Direction

The bearing to the target is:
φ = tan1 (1,904.0 : 1,661.8) = 48.90° or N 48.90° E
12.3.3. Convergence
The target co-ordinates and bearing, as calculated above , are relative to the Grid North.
Since survey data make reference to the Geographic North (also called True North), the
convergence must be applied to the target co-ordinates and bearing to present them
relative to the Geographic North.
Taking convergence as being 1.45° in this example (Refer to figure 12.e), it is necessary to
rotate the target location about the origin of the well by -1.45° to place it in its relative
position to True North.
True North GRID NORTH
Target NEW TARGET

Grid North
RIG
-1,45° Est
Grid
EST
Convergence
Fig. (a) Fig. (b)
Figure 12.E - Example Grid Convergence
In the previous example the bearing of the target with respect to Grid North was 48,90° or N
48.90° E. Then the target bearing relative to the True North is:
48.90 - 1.45 = 47.45° or N 47.45° E
The horizontal displacement remains the same but its co-ordinates change. The True North
co-ordinates of the target are calculated with trigonometry as follow:
Eastings = 2,527.21 sin 47.45 = 1,861.76
Northings = 2,527.21 cos 47.45 = 1,708.98
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12.4. HIGH SIDE OF THE HOLE AND TOOL FACE

The high side is the top of the hole viewed along the bore hole axis. Assuming the hole has
an inclination, the low side is the path, that a small, heavy ball would follow if it is rolled
slowly down the well (Refer to figure 12.f).
HIGH SIDE
a
HIGH SIDE
ROLLING BALL
LEFT RIGHT
ROLLING BALL
LOW SIDE VERTICAL

LOW SIDE
Figure 12.F - Definitions of Inclined Hole
During a kick off or correction run, the measurement of greatest value is tool facing since it
indicates the orientation of the bent sub. When a MWD or steering tool is used to control
the deviation, tool face is referred to the high side of the hole when sufficient inclination
exists (over 5o) or to magnetic North for low inclinations (up to 5o). The gravity tool face
angle (GTF) is the projection onto a plane perpendicular to the hole axis of the angle
between high side of the hole and tool face.
The magnetic tool face angle (MTF) is the projection onto horizontal plane of the angle
between magnetic North and tool face(Refer to figure 12.g)
MAGNETIC NORTH HIGH SIDE

45°
TOOL FACE
TOOLFACE
LEFT RIGHT
LOW SIDE
Steering the mud motor by means of magnetic Steering the mud motor by means of
toolface Bit and mud motor trying to kick off in gravity toolface Bit and mud motor trying to
the direction of 45° magnetic azimuth build angle and turn well to the right
Figure 12.G - Magnetic Tool Face
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12.4.1. Magnetic Surveys

Length Of Non Magnetic Drill Collar
Magnetic instruments must be run inside a sufficient length of non-magnetic drill collars
(NMDC or Monel Collar) made of special nickel alloy to allow the instrument to respond to
the earth's magnetic field, by isolating it from the magnetic influence of the drill string.
The required length of NMDC is determined by taking into account the following factors:
• The geographical area of operations. Since the earth's horizontal magnetic
intensity varies geographically, a zone selection map is used to determine which
set of empirical data should be used for a given area.
• The proportion of steel drilling tools below the NMDC.
• The direction and inclination of the well.
The Directional Drilling Contractor shall provide updated indication of magnetic intensity
related to the area of operation.
Compass spacing is generally recommended to be at or below the centre of the non-
magnetic collars.
Magnetic Single Shot Surveys

Prior to use, the instrument should be thoroughly checked out and tested to ensure it is in
good working condition. After loading, the timer is set and synchronised with a watch on the
surface.
The time required for the instrument to fall is approximately 1,000ft per minute for
inclinations up to 40o and 800ft per minute for inclinations over 40o. A safety margin of 5
mins shall be added to the calculated running time. Mud weight and viscosity are important
factors to be considered, as are drill string restricted internal diameters.
For high inclinations (over 60) sinker bars should be used and the survey barrel may need
to be pumped down. The mud pump rate should be very low, giving just sufficient pressure
to break circulation. The drill string may be rotated slowly (not however, if running the
survey on wireline) and reciprocated to prevent sticking and assist the survey tool in
reaching bottom.
Drill pipe movement and pumping (if used) should be continued until a minute or so before
the timer is due to operate..
If run on wireline, it should be taken into account the time the instrument generally takes
longer to assemble and to run. Sandlines are quicker to run but can cause higher wear on
drill pipe protective linings. Whichever wireline is used, thread protectors should be installed
on the tool joint.
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Magnetic Multishot Surveys

Magnetic multishot surveys are generally run prior to running casing as a check on the
single shot surveys taken while drilling. This survey may be run either as an in run or
running outrun survey, although it is generally run on the outrun wiper trip before casing.
This gives an opportunity for the instrument to be retrieved at the casing shoe and checked
whilst the trip back to bottom is being made. A second opportunity is then available if
necessary.
As the name implies, the magnetic multishot provides a series of single shot surveys. The
camera of the instrument, instead of carrying one single shot disc, contains a length of
photographic film. The film is exposed and advanced continuously, at a set time interval,
from the time the instrument is started until stopped. The interval between exposure is
generally 20secs but it is altered on some instruments.
The survey is normally made by dropping the instrument into the drill string and allowing it to
get to bottom before pumping the slug and commencing the trip out of the hole.
As the drill string becomes stationary in the slips after each stand is broken off, the time
since starting the instrument is recorded together with the number of stands out of hole.
This enables the survey picture to be correlated to instrument depth. With an instrument set
on a twenty second sample rate, good practice is to ensure there are a minimum of two
surveys taken at each depth by remaining stationary.
Steering Tool (with mud motor)

Steering tools use a system of magnetometers and accelerometers to measure the Earth's
magnetic field and gravity in order to determine inclination and direction.
The tool is run on a conductor wireline which provides power for the sensors and returns the
signal to the surface computer where it is decoded and relayed to the rig floor read out.
The tool may be operated on one of two modes displaying tool face with respect to North
(Magnetic Tool Face) or relative to the high side of the hole (Gravity Tool Face). The
magnetic tool face mode is used in vertical or near vertical wells for kick off in the desired
direction. As the inclination is increased above about 5o the tool is switched to gravity tool
face.
The advantages of steering tools over single shot orientation are in the continual read-out of
the tool face whilst drilling and in saving time in situations where orientation problems may
require repeated single shot surveys.
One of the drawbacks of the system is the time required to pull the tool out of hole for
making pipe connections.
The steering tool system is used only in specific situations, i.e. KOP in a high temperature
zone.
When a motor is used for kick off or correction runs (operations not requiring rotation of the
drill string), a side entry sub may be used. This sub prevents the need to pull the tool to
make connections. The wireline passes through the entry sub enabling the drill pipe to be
added to the string in the normal manner.
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Measurement While Drilling (MWD)

Measurement While Drilling is a technique which takes various downhole measurements
and transmitting these data to the surface for decoding and display. The most common
transmission media is mud pulse telemetry in which the flowing column of drilling mud is
modulated periodically by some mechanical means within the downhole assembly. The
intermittent pressure pulses are transmitted from downhole to the surface where they are
detected by a pressure transducer mounted in the standpipe. The transducer converts the
mud pulses into electrical signal that is then transmitted to the surface computer. The
computer decodes and displays this transmitted information.
There are three distinct types of MWD transmission systems currently available, all using
mud column as their transmission medium:
• The positive system uses a plunger type valve that momentarily obstructs mud
flow thus creating a positive, transient pressure pulse.
• The negative pulse system utilises a valve that momentarily vents a portion of
the mud flow to the borehole annulus, resulting in a negative, transient pressure
pulse.
• The continuous wave system utilises a spinning, slotted rotor and slotted
stator that repeatedly obstructs mud flow. This operation generates a
continuous low frequency fluctuation in standpipe pressure of approximately
50psi.
One of the most common applications for a directional MWD system is to orient downhole
motor/bent sub assemblies when changing the course of the well path. Sensors located
immediately above the bent sub, taking measurements while the bit is drilling on bottom,
provide immediate data (inclination, azimuth and tool face) to the Directional Driller.
As already discussed in the description of steering tool systems, tool face may be referred
to magnetic North or high side of the hole, depending on hole inclination.
12.4.2. Gyroscopic Surveys

Gyro instruments are used when the proximity of casings or other magnetic interference
precludes the use of magnetic tools.
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Gyro Single Shot Surveys

Gyro single shot surveys are run on wireline. Since gyroscopes are delicate instruments,
running speeds should be within that recommended and the tool stopped and started off
gently.
The gyro instrument has the same mule shoe feature as the magnetic single shot used for
orientation and, although it uses a different system, the data obtained is the same, (i.e. hole
direction, inclination and tool face).
The maximum depth to which they can be effectively run is approx. 1,300ft about 400m.
This is a limitation imposed by the time taken between orienting the gyro on surface,
running into hole, taking the survey, pulling out of hole and checking the orientation.
The difference in azimuth between the initial orientation and final check on return to surface
is the amount the gyro has drifted or wandered off its true north orientation. The drift is
assumed to be constant for the time interval between initial and final orientation. The
correction is calculated by simply determining the proportion of drift occurring in the time
from the initial orientation to the survey picture being taken. Gyro drift is approx. 4o per hour
o
in static conditions and 8 per hour in dynamic conditions.
Gyro Multishot Surveys

The gyroscopic multishot is the survey tool for surveying extended intervals inside casing or
drill pipe without a non-magnetic drill collar. The tool comes in two sizes. The smaller one
can be run in completed wells or through drill pipe. The larger one is a more rugged tool and
is used to run surveys inside casing. Depending on the length of survey run, it will be a
number of hours before the calculated survey data are available.
Gyro multishot drifts are the same as that of the single shot gyro.
Surface Read-out Gyroscopes

Surface read-out gyroscopes are used for the same purposes in single shot and multishot
data collection. The instrumentation is more sophisticated and requires a conducting
wireline to power the tool and transmit the information back to the surface for decoding by
computer. With a surface read-out multishot gyro, the drift can be constantly monitored to
ensure the tool is performing well and the calculated survey is produced shortly after
completing the log run.
Gyrocompass (North Seeking Gyroscope)

These instruments use the principle of earth rate gyro compassing to define true azimuth
and inclination in near vertical parts of the borehole. Then, as the hole builds angle to
above 15° it switches to a continuous integrating mode. This dual mode makes the tool
accurate in either vertical and deviated borehole where it eliminates the inaccuracies that
gyrocompass based instruments have at high latitude, high inclination or in the East/West
axis. The rugged construction makes these tools capable of steering and surveying while
drilling (Gyro While Drilling).
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12.4.3. Survey Calculation Methods

When drilling on a cluster, the co-ordinates of the centre of the 30" conductor shall be used
on the rig for computations of each individual well.
The centre of the cluster may be used by the Company Drilling Office for mapping, planning
and reporting.
There are a number of methods of calculating the wellbore trajectory from the survey data.
The most common are:
• Average angle method: It assumes the borehole is parallel to the simple

average of both the drift and bearing angles between two survey stations. It is
fairly accurate and calculation is simple enough for field use with a non
programmable scientific calculator.
• Radius of curvature: Using sets of angles measured at the upper and lower
ends of sections along the surveyed course length, it generates a space curve
representing the wellbore path. For each survey interval, it assumes that the
vertical and horizontal projections of the curve have constant curvature.
• Minimum curvature method: shall be used on the rig, in Company Drilling
office and Directional Drilling Contractor office for survey computations. It
assumes the borehole is a spherical arc with minimum curvature (maximum
radius of curvature) between survey stations. It is the most accurate for most
boreholes, however it requires very complex calculations using a programmable
calculator or computer.
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Average Angle method
(
∆ North = ∆MD x sin(l1 + L 2 ) / 2 x cos A1 + A 2 / 2 )
∆ East = ∆MD x sin(l1 + l 2 )2 x sin(A 1 + A 2 ) / 2 A1
∆ Vertical = ∆MD x cos(l1 + l 2 ) / 2
A2
I1
N
I2
W E
S
Radius Of Curvature Method
∆MD x (cos l1 − cos l2 ) x (sin A 2 − sin A1)

∆ North =
(l2 − l1) x (A 2 − A1)
∆MD x (cos l1 − cos l1) x (cos A1 − cos A 2 )
A1
∆ East =
(l2 − l1) x (A 2 − A 2 )
I1
A2
N I2
Minimum Curvature Method W E
( )
S
∆ North = (∆MD) / 2 x sin l1 x cos A1 + sin l2 x cos A 2 x RF
∆ East = (∆MD ) / 2 x (sin l1 x sin A 1 + sin l2 x sin A 2 ) x RF
∆Vertical = (∆MD ) / 2 x (cos l1 + cos l 2 ) x RF DL

2
DL
2
RF = 2 / DL x tan (DL / 2) A1
cos(DL ) = cos(l − l) − sin l x sin x [1 − cos (A − a )]

I1
DL
A2
N I2
W E
S
F
i
gure 12.H - Survey Calculation Methods
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12.4.4. Drilling Directional Wells

Kicking Off The Well
Jetting is the term used to describe the deviation of a well using bit hydraulics to erode the
formation in a particular direction. A special jetting bit may be used or a conventional tricone
bit run with two undersized and one oversized (or blanked) jet nozzles. Usually the bit is run
on a typical build up assembly (bit, full gauge near bit stabiliser, orienting sub, non-magnetic
and steel-drill collars as required) and once on bottom the blind nozzle, representing the
‘tool face’, is oriented in the desired direction. Maximum circulation is then established and
the washing action begun. Some of string weight is slackened on the bit and the weight
indicator will give an indication of drilling off if the formation is soft enough to be washed
out.
In formations where the degree of compaction makes jetting ineffective, deviation is started
with a downhole motor. This has become the most commonly adopted method of kick off.
With downhole motors, bent and orienting subs (or combined bent/orienting sub) are
required. With the deflection assembly in the hole, there is a correction to apply to the
desired tool face setting or proposal direction. This correction is due to the reactive torque
developed by downhole motors. Reactive torque is dependent on motor power, weight on
bit, formation, hole inclination and drilling assembly design and length. The actual value of
reactive torque must be assessed as drilling proceeds as it is unique to the conditions
prevailing.
During the kick off, the advantages and/or disadvantages of the different methods of
orientation are highlighted. With single shot orientation, reactive torque can only be
estimated based on the experience of the Directional Driller in the area of operation. Since
the survey tool is at least one joint above the bit, the first assessment of actual reactive
torque can be made only after the second joint has been drilled.
Steering tools provide the most accurate measurement of tool face position. A continuous
read-out on surface enables adjustment of the weight on bit/rate of penetration in order to
maintain a constant tool face. MWD tools provide the same information with the advantage
of not require a wireline and the consequent rigging up and trip time. On the other hand,
steering tools provide extremely high data rates that may be of critical importance when
drilling with very high rates of penetration.
Build Up Section
After the desired direction has been reached, the kick off assembly may be replaced with a
rotary build up assembly. However, if jetting has been the method of initial control, drilling
can continue with the same BHA in the rotary mode without requiring a trip. Selection of the
appropriate build up assembly is dependent upon the angle achieved during initial kick off
and maximum angle required.
The decision of when and if to replace the kick off assembly depends on several factors
such as hole size, weight on bit and rate of penetration, response of the kick off assembly,
residual bit life and final planned inclination. Controlling the BUR is imperative if fatigue to
drill pipe and drill collars is to be avoided.
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This can be accomplished by varying the drilling parameters (weight on bit, rotary speed
and pump pressure) or changing the BHA. In this case careful assessment must be made to
consider whether the amount of time lost in tripping out of hole to change the assembly,
would be gained later with a better rate of penetration or by preventing difficulties.
The alternative is to accept the current performance and make adjustments at the next bit
trip.
Tangent Section (Hold On Section)

When the desired inclination has been reached, the kick off or build up assembly is
replaced with a stiff bottom hole assembly that will maintain the inclination and direction.
Small variation in behaviour of a BHA can be obtained by adjusting the weight on bit and
rotary speed.
Providing it is necessary, the earlier a correction to inclination or direction can be made the
better it is. As the bit get closer to the target, longer corrections are required to get the well
back on the target. Advanced planning should be continuously done during operations to
ensure that, should a trip become necessary at short notice, any change to the BHA may be
made at the same time.
Drop Off Section

Drilling a directional well it may be necessary to allow the drift angle to straighten back to
vertical or near vertical.
Drop off assemblies should be used starting with the least successful. The reason being
that the higher the inclination, the greater the pendulum effect and the same rate of drop
might be achieved with the least successful assembly at 50° and the most successful
assembly at 30°. Therefore, as the inclination is reduced, stronger dropping tendency
assemblies may be run to maintain the rate of drop required.
Only where the maximum negative side force is required, at low inclinations and in hard
formations, should pendulum assemblies be run (i.e. assemblies without a near bit).
Care Of Stabilisers
The bottom 120 (40m) of a drilling assembly is the critical portion for controlling a directional
well. The stabilisers used in this area should be full gauge to 1/16" under unless undergauge
stabilisers are required to hold or drop angle.
Stabilisers shall be gauged each trip: undersized tools should be moved up higher in drill
collar assembly or replaced with full gauge tools.
All stabilisers shall be magnafluxed at the end of each well phase.
As a general rule, do not drill out casing shoe with a ‘packed hole assembly’. However, the
decision whether or not to use stabilisers to drill casing shoe shall be evaluated case by
case.
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String Stabilizer
Drill Collars
Maximum
60' Drill Collars
Angle Building
Assemblies
30' Drill Collars
Near Bit Stabilizer Near Bit Stabilizer
Bit Bit
String Stabilizer String Stabilizer
30' Drill Collar

30' Non Mag.
Drill Collar
Maximum
30' Non Mag.
Drill Collar
Angle Building
Assemblies
Near Bit Stabilizer Near Bit Stabilizer
Bit Bit
String Stabilizers
String Stabilizer String Stabilizer
30' Non Mag. 30' Non Mag.
30' Non Mag.
Drill Collar Drill Collar
Drill Collar
Packed
String Stabilizers String Stabilizers
String Stabilizer Hole
10' Drill Collar 10' Drill Collar
Assemblies
10' Drill Collar
Near Bit Stabilizers Near Bit Stabilizers

Near Bit Stabilizer
Bit Bit Bit
Figure 12.I - Build up Assembles

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Bottom Hole Assembly Response

Assembly Response Relative * Bit Near bit stabilizer (Approx.
No. response 3-5' from bit face to leading
stenght edge of stabilizer)
90'
1 Build 10
60' 30'
2 Build 8
60'
3 Build 7
30' 30'
4 Build 7-3
5 Build 7-5
45' 30'
6 Build 5-3
15' 30' 30'
7 Build 4-2
45'
8 Build (drops under 3-2
certain circumstances)
30'
9 Hold 1
15' 30' 30' 30'
10 Hold 10
15' 30' 30'
11 Hold 9
15' 30'
12 Hold 8
5-10' 30'
13 Hold 5-8
30' 30' 30'
14 Hold 1-3
60 - 70'
15a Drop 10
60 - 70' 30'
15b Drop 10
45'
16 Drop 5 - 10 **
30'
17 Drop & Build
drop (at highter incl.) and/or 30'

18
Build (at lower incl.)
19 Drop or Build (highly
dependent on collar OD)
* 10 is the highest and 1 is the lowest = Undergauge
** (smaller holes con be better than 15)
Figure 12.J - Bottom Hole Assembly Response

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Figure 12.K - Common Holding Assembly
Figure 12.L - Drop Off Assembly

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12.4.5. Dog Leg Severity

Changes in hole curvature are often referred to as dog-legs
The severity of a dog-leg is determined by the average changes in angle and/or direction
calculated on the distance this change occurs. For example, if there is a 3° change in angle
(no direction change) over 100ft of hole, the dog-leg severity is 3° per 100ft.
Until a dog-leg reaches some threshold value, no drill stem fatigue damage occurs. This
threshold value is called Critical Dog-leg. The critical dog-leg is dependent upon the
dimension (size) and metallurgy of the drill pipe and drill pipe tension (pull) in the dog-leg.
The planning of directional wells should include a ‘Dog-leg control programme’. Critical dog
leg limits should also considered for drill collars.
Dog-leg limits are established to prevent drill pipe fatigue, but when those limits are
maintained, there is also a reduction in associated hole problems. Excessive dog-legs
cause key seats, casing wear, rotating torque, trip drag, etc. Overall drilling rate can be
greatly improved by a carefully planned and executed dog-leg control programme
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13. DRILLING PROBLEM PREVENTION MEASURES
It is necessary to for drilling engineers to anticipate potential drilling problems which may
occur during a well programme in order that he can make suitable arrangements in the
planning and preparation stage of a project. Anticipation of problems may result in having
suitable equipment and stocks of materials available on site or in the warehouse, ultimately
leading to a saving in rig time and cost. Descriptions of some of the problems are given
below with possible causes, preventative measures or solutions.
Refer to the ‘Drilling Procedures Manual’
13.1. STUCK PIPE

The following is a list of the different types of pipe sticking which can occur due to:
• Differential sticking.
• Hole restriction.
• Caved in hole.
• Hole irregularities and/or change in BHA.
It is impossible to lay down hard rules which will successfully cover all the case, however,
for each situation, indications about the possible causes of the problem, preventive
measures and remedial actions are listed in the following subsections.
Detailed procedures should be based on each particular case, evaluating every aspect of
the problem and applying any past experience gained in the area concerned.
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13.1.1. Differential Sticking

Causes
This phenomenon can occur, where there is case of high differential pressure between the
mud hydrostatic pressure and the formation pore pressure. Some indications of pipe
becoming differentially stuck may be:
• The string becomes stuck in front of a porous formation.
• Pipe has not been moved for a period of time before getting stuck i.e. during a
pipe connection.
• Circulation is free with no pressure variation.
• A normal amount of cuttings is observed at the shaker.
Preventive Measures
When conditions for a potential differential sticking are encountered, the risk can be
minimised by applying the following procedure:
a) Reduce the mud weight as much as possible, maintaining the minimum differential
pressure necessary for a safe trip margin.
b) Reduce the contact surface by using spiral type drill collars also called NWS( No Wall
Stick) and using properly a stabilised bottom hole assembly. A shorter BHA with a
greater number of HWDPs could be considered.
c) Use mud with minimum solids content and low filtrate in order to obtain a thinner wall
cake.
d) Reduce the friction factor by adding lubricants to the mud.
e) Keep the pipe moving and in rotate as much as possible.
f) Consider the use of a drilling jar/bumper.
Methods of Freeing Pipe

1) Work the pipe applying cyclic slack-off and overpull combined with torque Always
check the reduction in the pipe yield stress due to the application of the torque.
2) Spot oil-base mud or oil containing a surfactant around the drill collars.
3) Reduce the mud weight, if possible.
4) Use a drilling jar/bumper.
5) Conduct a DST procedure.
Note: Quick reactions are fundamental in freeing the wall of stuck drill pipe,
since the problem becomes worse through time.
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13.1.2. Sticking Due To Hole Restrictions

Causes
The most common causes of hole restriction:
• Too thick a wall cake due to the use of high solids/high filtrate mud across
porous and permeable formations.
• Swelling of formations containing clay.
• Extrusion of gumbo shale into the wellbore in underbalance situations.
Preventive Measures
Problems are usually suspected by incurring increase drag during connections. Once the
cause is recognised to be any of the three causes previously listed above, the following
actions should be undertaken:
a) Reduce mud filtrate, cake and solids content.

b) Use inhibited mud.
c) Increase mud weight.
d) Increase mud clearing capacity.
e) Increase flow rate.
In all situations, frequent wiper trips can reduce the problem and provide information on the
severity.

1) Work the pipe applying slack-off if the string has become stuck pulling out, and
overpull if it stuck while running in.
2) Spot a cushion to break and remove the mud cake around the drill collars.
3) Increase the mud weight, if possible.
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13.1.3. Sticking Due To Caving Hole

Causes
This problem is mainly experienced in shale sections. The most common causes are:
• Hydration and swelling of clay minerals when in contact with fresh mud filtrate.
• Insufficient supporting action of the mud hydrostatic column.
• Mechanical action of the drill string.
Preventive Measures
Depending on the various causes, there are different prevention possibilities, to reduce the
severity of the problem and to avoid the consequences of sticking the string.
Possible mud changes are:
a) Reduce water losses.
b) Lower pH value to 8.5 to 9 (if needed).
c) Use inhibited mud.
d) Add mud stabilising compounds (mainly sodium asphalt sulphonate).
e) Increase the mud weight.
f) Increase the YP/PV ratio to create laminar flow on the wall after pipe.
g) Increase the gel value to obtain a good cutting suspension when circulation is
stopped.
Note: It is not always drilling with underbalance which results in a caving hole.
Possible BHA changes are:

a) Use bits without nozzles, particularly when reaming, to avoid scouring the well.
b) Use the minimum acceptable number of stabilisers.
Possible changes in parameters are:

a) Reduce rotary speed, if possible, to 80rpm or less.
b) Reduce the mud flow rate to obtain laminar flow in the annulus between hole and drill
collars.
c) Avoid long circulation times across unstable sections.
d) Do not rotate pipe when tripping. Use a spinner or chain out.
e) Trip out with care to avoid swabbing. If any swabbing occurs, pull out with the kelly on.
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1) If circulation is possible, keep circulating trying to expel the caving.
2) If the string becomes stuck across a carbonate formation, spot an acid pill.
3) If circulation is blocked, try to regain it by applying pressure shocks and working the
pipe at the same time. Special care is required to avoid breaking the formation i.e.
overcoming fracture gradient below the stuck point.
Note: The problem of pipe sticking due to cuttings dropping out is not
necessarily related to a caving hole. The origin of such problems can also
be an excessive rate of penetration in large holes and inadequate carrying
capacity of the mud. In this case, change the mud properties and flow rate
and, if necessary, limit the rate of penetration.
It is good practice to spot high viscosity pills from time to time to keep the hole clean.
The methods of getting pipe free in this situation are the same as listed above.
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13.1.4. Sticking Due To Hole Irregularities And/Or Change In BHA

Causes
The causes for sticking, related to, hole conditions and change in BHA, are:
• Dog legs.
• Key seats.
• New bit is run following a dulled bit which was undersize.
• New stabilisers run to replace previous worn stabilisers..
• String is stiffer than the previous one..
• Rock bit run after a diamond or a core bit.
Preventive Measures
a) The formation of dog legs can be prevented by the use of packed bottom hole
assemblies.
b) Dog legs can be eliminated by using very stiff BHA's and reamers.
c) A key seat can be eliminated by reaming it with a key seat wiper or an undergauge
stabiliser installed on the top of the drill collars.
d) Always ream a whole interval drilled with the previous bit.
e) Ream always the cored section, even if a full gauge core bit was used.

1) Work the pipe applying slack-off if dog leg or key seat (the string becomes stuck
pulling out) and overpull if running a new BHA (the string becomes stuck while running
in the hole).
2) Spot on oil-based mud or oil containing a surfactant around the stuck point.
3) If the stuck point is in a calcareous section, spot an acid pill.
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13.2. OIL PILLS

Depending on the specific gravity of the mud in the hole, two different types of oil pill can be
used to help free pipe.
13.2.1. Light Oil Pills

To be used for mud specific gravity up to 1,350g/l (11.3 PPG).
The standard pill will be obtained adding 10 to 30l/m3 of surfactant to oil (diesel oil, crude oil
or used engine oil).
The procedure for the use of pill is the following:
1) The pill volume shall be at least twice the volume of DC-open hole annulus (take into
account excess for compensating hole enlargement).
2) Pump at the maximum practical rate.
3) Displace in order to have a pill volume in the annulus 1.3 times the volume of the DC-
open hole.
4) At 30 to 60mins intervals, circulate out of the string batches as a balanced plug.
5) Work the string at the same time.
6) Repeat the procedure if the pill does not succeed (the pill may be active for 4 to 16
hours).
13.2.2. Heavy Oil Pills

To be used for mud of a specific gravity greater than 1,350g/l (11.3 PPG).
For pill preparation clean a mud pit and mix (the ratios among the various components
varies depending on the required density):
• Fresh water
• Calcium chloride
• Diesel oil (maximum 200l/minute)
• Emulsifier (maximum 1 sack/minute) to be added at the same time as the diesel
• Viscosifier (heavy stirring for at least 15 mins is required)
• Barite.
While mixing, continuous agitation is compulsory .

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The procedure for the use of the pill will be the following:
1) The pill volume will be at least twice the volume between the drill collars and the open
hole (take into account excess for compensating hole enlargement).
2) Pump a cushion of diesel oil with 5% Free Pipe, or similar, ahead and behind of pill.
3) Pump at the maximum practical rate.
4) Displace in order to have a pill volume in the annulus 1.3 times the volume of DC-
open hole.
5) At 2 to 3hr intervals, circulate out of the string batches of 300 to 600ltrs.
6) Work the string at the same time.
7) Repeat the procedure if the pill results ineffective (the pill may be active for 20 to
48hrs).
Note: When the oil pill is circulated out of the hole it shall be recovered and
stored separately.
Note: Take into account the influence of the pill on the hydrostatic pressure.
13.2.3. Acid Pills

The use of acid pills can be successful if the string gets stuck across of a carbonate
formation. Considering the risks related to this operation, this should be carried out only if
other methods prove to be ineffective.
a) Decisions concerning pill's characteristics (volume, compositions, strength,
displacement schedule, etc.) shall be taken, on a case by case situation, after
consultation with the Company Drilling Office.
b) Whichever recipe is adopted, consideration has to be given to the corrosion problem.
The proper amount of corrosion inhibitor shall be used and the acid pill will be spaced
with oil or water ahead and behind.
c) Due to the acid reaction, gaseous products develop in the well and special care is
required when circulating out the pill. It may be necessary to circulate through on the
choke and line up the surface equipment to safely dispose of the gas.
d) While displacing the acid in front of the formation, the gaseous product will cool off
the drill string. To avoid breaking, do not work the string but only apply an overpull or
slack off.
e) As a result of the acid action, the permeability of the formation will increase, thus
creating the conditions for possible mud losses.
Whenever acid is handled, the appropriate safety measures shall be adopted:

• Wear gloves and protective clothing and have eyes protected with goggles.
Ensure there are safety showers available for any personnel who come into
contact with acid.
• Have water sprays ready to wash spilled acid.
• Ensure proper ventilation if the pill is mixed in a closed area.
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13.3. FREE POINT LOCATION

If it is confirmed that it is not possible to free the string by working the pipe and spotting oil
or acid pills, the string shall be backed-off in order to allow proceeding with a different
method, such as running jars or wash pipes, or abandon the hole and side-track.
There are two methods for estimating the depth at which a string is stuck:
• Applying tension and measuring the pipe stretch.
• Locating the tow point with a free-point indicating tool.
13.3.1. Measuring The Pipe Stretch

A reasonable estimate of the depth at which the pipe is stuck can be obtained by
calculation using Hooke's Law. Applying two different tensile loads (T1 < T2) to the drilling
string, two magnitudes of stretch (S1 < S2) are measured.
Calculating: the differential stretch (E = S2 - S1), differential pull (P = T2 - T1) and applying
Hooke’s Law, it is possible to determine the depth of free point (L) using the following
formula.
SI UNITS API UNITS
26.374 x Wdp x E 735,294 x Wdp x E

L= L=
P P
where: where:
L = Length of free pipe in m L = Length of free pipe in ft
Wdp = Plain end pipe weight in kg/m Wdp = Plain end pipe weight in lbs/ft
E = Differential stretch in mm E = Differential stretch in ins
P = Differential pull in kN P = Differential pull in lbs
The value obtained is less reliable as deviation increases due to down hole friction.
Another minor inaccuracy is introduced by neglecting the changing cross section of the
string at the tool joints.
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13.3.2. Location By Free Point Indicating Tool

A Free Point survey shall be run to select the back-off point.
Free Point Indicators are essentially accurate strain gauges which measure molecular
rearrangement between drag springs, setting dogs or electromagnets.
The tool is run on a logging cable through which measurements of torque and stretch are
sent to surface read-out instruments.
The Free Point Indicator is lowered to various depths and, at each depth, tension and
torque are applied to the string at the surface. The strain gauge indicates whether the pipe
reacts at that depth to the applied tension and applied torque.
The read-out of the instrument is given in percentage i.e. 100% represents entirely free
pipe.
Pipe which appears to be free in tension does not always react to applied torque. There is a
greater chance of succeeding with the back-off if the pipe is free under both tension and
torque.
Separate slim acoustic logs are designed to indicate intervals of stuck, partially stuck or free
pipe, which may exist below the upper stuck point.
Interpretation of free point data is very subjective and susceptible to operator skill, hole
condition, etc.
13.3.3. Back-Off Procedure

Drill pipe or drill collars can be unscrewed downhole by exploding a charge inside a
selected tool joint connection, close to the stuck point.
Requisites for a successful back-off are the following:
• There must be sufficient minimum inside diameter.
• The charge must be accurately placed across the connection
• There must be sufficient string shot strength.
• Neutral or slightly positive tension is applied at the back-off point.
• Sufficient left hand torque must be applied at the back off point.
As a general rule, the first attempt to back-off should be made at the first connection above
the free point. If there is a failure, the second attempt should be performed on the first stand
above the free point. Subsequent attempts should be made moving upward one stand at a
time.
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13.4. FISHING
13.4.1. Inventory Of Fishing Tools
The following tools shall be always available on the rig for the various hole sizes drilled:
• Fishing jars to match the drill collars in use.
• Bumper subs to match the drill collars in use.
• Overshot and oversize guides with grapples, baskets and extension subs, to
catch all diameters of tools in hole.
• Taper taps for drill pipe body and tool joints.
• Junk baskets or Globe-type baskets.
• Reverse circulation junk baskets.
• Junk subs.
• Fishing magnets.
• Milling tools.
• Re-dressing tools for 5" and 31/2" sheared DP.
• Impression blocks.
• Fishing tools to catch electrical log tools (supplied by electrical log contractor)
and relevant crossover.
• Safety joints.
13.4.2. Preparation
Before fishing operations the following preparations shall be carried out:
1) Apply the greatest accuracy to all measurements.
2) Draw a complete sketch of the equipment to be run, specifying lengths, inside and
outside diameters and a description of each tool.
3) Make sure that the Contractor's personnel directly involved in operations is fully
acquainted and familiar with equipment to be used and its limitations.
4) The fishing equipment should arrive to the rig fully inspected. Further inspection and
maintenance shall be carried out on the rig if in prolonged use.
5) Keep mud properties in good conditions at all times.
6) Keep rig the equipment in good working conditions at all times.
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13.4.3. Fishing Assembly

The standard fishing assembly consists of the following:
• Fishing tool + Jar and Bumper Sub + Drill Collars + Heavy Weight Drill Pipe +
Drill Pipe.
• Use as many drill collars as is in the fish. If the required number of drill collars is
not available on the rig, use a jar accelerator.
• A Safety Joint should not be run. Since the Safety Joint will not transmit left
hand torque, it would not be possible to back-off below it using a string shot.
• However, a Safety Joint could be run between the catching tool and the jar
when a non releasing tool such as taper tap is being employed.
• Avoid any restrictions in the bore of tools, run above the catching tool, which
would prevent the use of a cutting tool or the back-off shot within the fish.
• Where losses are expected the use of a Circulation Sub in the fishing assembly
should be considered.
13.5. FISHING PROCEDURES

13.5.1. Overshot
Plan the operation taking into account the following factors:
• The catching action of the tool will stress the fish neck in words.
• A regular, smooth shape of the fish neck is necessary for a successful
operation.
• Jarring is only possible only using type SFS, FS and XFS overshots.
• If the fish diameter is near the maximum catch or size, a spiral grapple is
recommended. On the other hand, if the fish diameter is considerably below the
maximum catch size, a basket grapple is preferable.
• If the hole is enlarged, use an oversize guide or run a bent drill pipe just above
the overshot.
• When the fish has been milled over, if possible, run an overshot extension to
avoid catching the fish by the milled part.
13.5.2. Releasing Spear

Plan this operation taking into account the following factors:
• The fish will be stressed outwards due to the catching action of the tool.
• A regular, smooth shape of the fish is essential for a successful operation.
• To allow unlatching of the spear, if it is not possible to run an adequate number
of drill collars above the releasing spear, the use of a bumper sub is
recommended.
• Install a pack-off on the tool, if circulation is required after latching the fish.
• Use the fishing jar If jarring is required. In this case the use of a spear stop is
required. Check the Spear Stop OD when it is used in open hole and use the
stop only if hole condition permits.
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13.5.3. Taper Taps

Plan this operation taking into account the following factors:
• The size of the taper tool should be selected in order to engage the fish with the
middle of the tapered point.
• The taper taps do not allow free passage to the back-off tool.
• Excessive torque can damage the tapered thread and swell the top of the fish.
• It is nigh impossible to release the tool once engaged. For this reason its use
has to be considered the last resort and only used after consultation with the
Eni-Agip Shore Base (Drilling Manager/Superintendent).
13.5.4. Junk basket

This procedure is more successful in soft formations.
A reverse circulation type junk basket is preferred to a forward circulation type.
Plan the operation to use the following parameters:
• WOB = 2 to 4t
• Rotary = 45rpms
• Low Pump Rate (1/2 pump rate while drilling).
13.5.5. Fishing Magnet

Magnets can be successfully used but only in hard formations to retrieve small steel objects
such as bit cones, bearings, slips, tong pins and milling cuttings.
To avoid sticking the fish in the hole, weight must not be applied.
Fishing magnets may be run on wireline or on pipe. Wireline operations have the advantage
of speed and economy. Pipe operations has the great advantage of utilising the circulation
holes in the magnet to remove settling above the fish.
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13.6. MILLING PROCEDURE

There is a wide variety of mills specifically designed for various applications. Mills are
available in two basic categories: ‘hydraulically activated mills’ and ‘fixed milling tools’.
A Section Mill is a hydraulically actuated tool and is used to mill out a complete section of
casing. Downhole section milling of casing, is generally done for the following reasons:
• To mill a section of casing that permits side-tracking in any direction.
• To mill the perforated zone in a production casing string or to expose cased off
formations. The formations may be then underreamed and gravel packed past
the original completion.
The most commonly used Fixed Mills are:

Junk Mills Used to mill all type of junk, including rock bit cones,
reamers cutters, items dropped through the rotary, drill
pipe cemented inside and outside, etc.
Pilot Mills Designed to mill drill pipe, casing, tubing, wash pipe,
safety joint, swaged casing, etc.
Taper Mills Generally used to eliminate restrictions or to mill through

collapsed casing.
Washover Shoes Designed to mill away formation or tool obstructions

such as stabiliser blades, reamer cutters, expanded
packers and bit bodies which may be holding the drill or
tubing string in the hole
Special Mills (Window mills, For casing side-tracking systems.

Watermelon mills, etc.)
The following are general guidelines for the use of milling tools:
a) Milled cuttings are much heavier than drilling cuttings. Therefore, mud viscosity should
be increased or high viscosity pills should be pumped to help in carrying the steel
cuttings out of the hole.
b) Oil based mud has poor carrying capabilities and should be avoided whenever
possible. Polymer muds are most suitable for milling.
c) Never mill faster than it is possible to remove the cuttings.
d) Magnets placed in the flow line will help in removing metal particles from drilling mud.
Removal of mill cuttings and debris reduces the wear on mud pumps and other
equipment.
e) A junk sub placed in the string above the mill can aid in catching the larger cuttings.
f) Whenever possible, a stabiliser should be run within 60 or 90ft (20-30m) above the
mill to prevent it from moving eccentrically.
g) The stabiliser OD should not exceed the dressed OD of the mill.
h) Always start rotating, with low rpm about 3ft (1m) above the fish. Lower onto the fish
and adjust the weight and the rotary speed to obtain satisfactory penetration.
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a) Generally the most efficient milling rates are obtained by running the rotary at 80 to
100rpm. Milling with washover shoes is an exception and are usually more efficient at
speeds of 60 to 80rpm. Continuously monitor the torque indicator during milling
operations.
b) ‘Reading the cuttings’ is essential to evaluate the performance of the mill. The ideal
cuttings are usually 1/32" to 1/16" thick and 1" to 2" long. If cuttings are thin long
stringers, penetration rates are probably too low and weight on the mill should be
increased. If fish-scale type cuttings are being returned, penetration rate will improve
by decreasing weight and increasing rpm.
c) The type and stability of the fish (cemented or not) together with the hardness of the
fish and/or cement are factors that affect milling rates.
13.7. JARRING PROCEDURE

a) Jarring should be done with a Kelly or Top Drive. If the use of a Kelly is not possible,
secure the elevator latch by using a piece of rope or chain.
b) Prior to jarring check the drill line sensor. Ensure the weight indicator readings are
accurate and that the dead line anchor is secure and free of debris. Check the derrick
and all equipment for any loose items.
c) When jarring, the drill floor must be cleared of all non -essential personnel.
d) Prior to jarring, mark the drill string at the rotary table.
e) Check the drill line usage, slip and cut if necessary. When sustained jarring is carried
out, the drill line should be slipped at regular intervals, depending on the particular
situation. Also check the derrick, lifting equipment and travelling block attachment
bolts.
f) Always allow the jars to trip within their safe working load. Wait until the jars have
tripped before pulling the string further. Never exceed the safe working limit without
confirmation that the jars have tripped.
g) If a top drive system is used, after jarring, check the TDS as per the maintenance and
operating specification.
Note: For details on jarring procedures, refer to ‘Drilling Jar Acceptance And
Utilisation Procedures’.
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Depth From Surface in feet

3,000 to 6,000 to 9,000 to Over
Pipe OD ins 0 to 3,000
6,000 9,000 12,000 12,000
23/8 1 1 1 2 2
7
2 /8 1 1 2 2 3
1
Tubing 3 /2 1 1 2 2 2
1
4 to 4 /2 2 2 2 3 3
3 7
2 /8 to /8 1 2 2-3 3-4 4-6
1
3 /2 to 4 2 3 3-4 4-6 5-8
1 9
Drillpipe 4 /2 to 6 /16 2 3-4 4-6 5-9 6-12
5
6 /8 3 4-5 5-7 6-10 7-14
1
3 /2 to 4 2-4 2-5 3-7 3-8 4-9
1 1
4 /8 to 5 /5 2-4 3-6 4-8 4-10 5-12
3
Drill Collar 5 /4 to 7 3-6 4-8 5-10 6-12 7-15
1 1
7 /4 to 8 /2 4-6 5-9 6-12 7-15 8-18
1 3
7 /4 to 9 /4 6-12 8-12 8-15 8-18
1 1
4 /2 to 5 /2 3 3 3 3 3
6 to 7 3 3 3 4 4
5
Casing 7 /8 4 4 4 4 5
5
7 /8 5 5 5 5 5
5
9 /8 5 5 5 6 6
3
10 /4 6 6 6 7 7
Table 13.A - Recommended Strands of 80 Gr/ft RDX Primacord for String-Shot
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14. WELL ABANDONMENT
14.1. TEMPORARY ABANDONMENT

14.1.1. During Drilling Operations
Any well drilled which is to be temporarily abandoned shall be cemented with drilling/kill
weight mud below. Where there is an open hole below the deepest string of casing a
cement plug shall be placed in such manner that extends at least 50m above and below the
casing shoe.
The top of the cement plug shall be located and verified by mechanical loading.
If the condition of the formation makes cementing difficult, a bridge plug may be positioned
in the lower part of the casing, but not more than 50m above the shoe and a cement plug at
least 20m long shall be placed on top of the mechanical plug.
Then, a cement plug shall be set at least 50 - 100m in length into the casing, depending on
casing diameter, between 20 - 50m below ground level or the seabed. The top of the
cement plug shall be located and verified by mechanical loading.
14.1.2. During Production Operations

1) Plugging programme before a production well test:
Open Hole
In the part of borehole where casing has not been installed and where permeable
zones containing liquid or gas have been found, cement plugs shall be placed in such
a way as to prevent liquid or gas from cross flowing into other zones. For each
individual zone the cement plug shall be positioned such that its upper and lower ends
are located at least 50m above and below the zone respectively.
The top of each cement plug shall be located and verified by mechanical loading.
Deepest Casing Shoe

Where there is an open hole below the deepest string of casing, a cement plug shall
be placed in such a manner that it extends at least 50m above and below the casing
shoe.
The top of the cement plug shall be located and verified by mechanical loading.
If the condition of the formation makes cementing difficult, a mechanical plug may be
positioned in the lower part of the casing, but not more than 50m above the shoe and
a cement plug at least 20m long shall be placed on top of the mechanical plug.
These plugs shall be verified by mechanical loading or pressure tested for sufficient
time and with enough differential pressure to detect a possible leak.
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2) Plugging programme after a production test:
Uninteresting perforated zones

These intervals shall be isolated by means of a mechanical plug and shall be squeeze
cemented. If the condition of the formation makes cementing difficult a cement plug
50m high will be set on top of the mechanical plug.
If this is not possible, a cement plug shall be placed in such a way that the upper and
lower ends of the plug are located at least 50m above and below the perforated zone
respectively, or down to the nearest plug if the distance is less than 50m. All the plugs
shall be described, as seen in the previous subsection.
Interesting perforated zones

These intervals shall be isolated by means of a mechanical plug.
Then, a cement plug shall be set at least 50 - 100m in length into the casing,
depending on casing diameter, between 5 - 50m below the sea bottom. The top of the
cement plug shall be located and verified by mechanical loading.
14.2. PERMANENT ABANDONMENT

14.2.1. Plugging
A well has to be plugged so as to effectively seal-off all potential hydrocarbon bearing
zones from fresh water bearing formations and to protect any zones which may contain
other minerals.
14.2.2. Plugging Programme

Open Hole
All permeable zones in an open hole shall be plugged so that formation fluid is prevented
from flowing from one zone to another.
Plug(s) shall be set so that the top and the bottom is at least 50m above and below the
zone(s). Each plug has to be tested.
Deepest Casing Shoe

At the top of the open hole a cement plug shall be set so that the upper and lower ends of
the plug are located at least 50m above and below the casing shoe. The plug shall be
tested by mechanical loading.
Perforated Casing Zones

Each zone tested through casing perforations shall be squeeze-cemented as soon as the
test is finished, should the well be abandoned. A cement retainer will be set 10-15m above
the perforated zone (avoid setting it on a casing collar) and an injection test shall be
performed using fresh water and recording the pressure/flow rate ratios.
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The cement slurry volume will be calculated in order to have the cement from bottom
perforation to the cement retainer and a minimum of 100ltrs slurry per metre of perforated
zone into the formation. At the end of the squeeze, a 50m cement plug shall be set above
the cement retainer. The length of this plug may be reduced to avoid any interference with
upper intervals to be tested or produced.
Liner Top
At the hanging point of the liner, a cement plug shall be set so that the top and bottom of
the plug is at least 50m above and below the hanging point.
Intermediate Casing Shoe

In case any of the intermediate casings is not cemented up to at least 100m inside the
previous casing shoe, the casing shall be cut at least 100m above the shoe of the previous
casing string, the casing recovered, and a cement plug shall be placed so that it extends at
least 50 - 100m above and below the casing cut point.
Surface plug
A surface plug (at least 150m long) shall be set so that the top of the plug be 50m or less
below ground level or seabed.
After setting the surface plug, each surface casing and conductor pipe shall be cut at least
5m below sea bed, using mechanical cutters.
14.2.3. Plugging Procedure

1) Cement plugs, set when abandoning wells, should be formed from neat slurries
whenever possible. If static bottom hole temperature exceeds 110°C use special non
degradable cements (i.e. Geotherm).
2) Spacers should be pumped ahead and behind slurry.
Special consideration should be given to the composition and volume of the spacers
when the mud is oil based, calcium chloride or lignosulphonate treated.
The hydrostatic head reduction due to the spacer volume and density should be
calculated. The spacers should have a volume corresponding to a length of at least
328ft (100m).
3) The slurry volume should be calculated using a calliper log, if available. When a
calliper log is not available, use a slurry volume excess based on local experience.
Plugs exceeding 200m in length should not be set in one stage.
4) If the hole is badly washed out or when potential losses are expected; it is preferable
to set two short plugs instead of one long one.
5) All cement plugs shall be placed using a tubing stinger.
6) Displacement should be calculated in order to spot a balanced cement plug
(hydrostatic heads inside the string and outside in the annulus shall be the same).
7) An under displacement of 1 or 2bbl is suggested to help draining the slurry off the
pipe when pulling out of hole.
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8) As soon as the plug is set, pull out slowly 30 - 50m above the theoretical top of the
plug and direct circulate (reverse circulation can also be considered if conditions allow
it).
9) Monitor and record spacer and slurry returns.
10) Never stab the stinger back into the plug to avoid plugging of the stinger.
11) The position and efficiency of all cement plugs shall be verified by locating the top of
the plug and by applying bit weight on the plug after cement setting, usually 20,000-
40,000lbs, but dependent on hole size) .
12) Record shall be kept of all plugs set and the results of tests shall be available for
inspection.
14.3. CASING CUTTING/RETRIEVING

Consideration can be given, if deemed economically profitable, to cut and retrieve sections
of uncemented 7" and 95/8" casing.
Mechanical cutters are used for this operation.
After cutting the casing, a complete circulation shall be made to reduce friction and balance
the mud.
If the casing is cut and recovered leaving a stub, one of the following methods shall be used
to plug the casing stub:
14.3.1. Stub Termination (Inside a Casing String)

A stub inside a casing string shall be plugged by:
• A cement plug is set so as to extend 50m above and 50m below the stub,
• A permanent bridge plug set 10-15m above the stub and capped with at least
20m of cement.
14.3.2. Stub Termination (Below a Casing String)

If the stub is below the next larger string, plugging shall be accomplished in accordance with
the previous section.
The plug shall be mechanically tested.
After setting a surface plug, each surface casing and conductor pipe shall be cut at least
5m below sea bed using mechanical cutters.
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15. WELL NAME/DESIGNATION
The original name will be set by the geology or exploration department. There are three
categories of well which need to be coded.:
1) Wells With The Same Well Head And The Same Target
2) Wells With The Same Well Head Different Targets
3) Wells With Different Well Heads And The Same Target
15.1. WELLS WITH THE ORIGINAL WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND TARGET
15.1.1. Vertical Well
Is defined as having the same well head and target co-ordinates as defined in the well
programme.
The well code will be:
Prospect/Field name: Amelia
Well Number: 1
Therefore the name/number is:
Illustration Line 1) Amelia 1
1
15.1.2. Side Track In A Vertical Well.
The term Side Track will only be used when there is a
mechanical Side Track due to operational problems. If a new
hole is drilled due to a operational problem maintaining the
same target co-ordinates, this does not alter the well name.
To permit the identification of the various side-tracks each is
given a number. 1 is the original hole, 2 is the first side-track,
3 the second, etc. This is shown in the figure and in the
following example:
Illustration Line 1) Field name: Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) 1st Side Track: Amelia 1 (hole No. 2)
Illustration Line 3) 2nd Side Track: Amelia 1 (hole No. 3) 1
2
3
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15.1.3. Directional Well

Is defined directional as a well where the target co-ordinates are different from the well
head co-ordinates. (see Figure). The well code will be
Field name: Amelia
Well number : 1
Code: DIR
So the final well code will be:
Illustration Line 1) Amelia 1 DIR
1
15.1.4. Side Track In Directional Well
This is considered the same condition as for a vertical well:
Illustration Line 1) Original Well name/number: Amelia 1 DIR
Line 2) Side Track: Amelia 1 DIR (hole n. 2)
2
15.1.5. Horizontal Well
Is defined as a well that has a final hole path with a
inclination of 90°.
The name will be:
Field name: Amelia
Well number: 1
Extension: OR
1
Therefore the final well code will be:
Illustration Line 1) Amelia 1 OR
Note: The pilot hole into the reservoir will

also be deemed part of the horizontal well.
15.1.6. Side Track In A Horizontal Well

This is considered the same condition as for a vertical well:
Original well name/number Amelia 1 OR
Illustration Line 2) Side Track: Amelia 1 OR (hole n.2)
1
2
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15.2. WELLS WITH THE ORIGINAL WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND DIFFERENT
TARGETS
In this category are wells with:
The original well head co-ordinates with more than one hole and different target co-
ordinates.
Each new hole will be given a new code as will the operations necessary to prepare for the
side-track (cement plug, casing window operation, etc.).
The name of the first hole will have the original code (AMELIA 1), the following holes will be
added to the original code with one of the following two additions:
The first one indicates the well type:
• DIR, directional well
• OR, horizontal well
• APPR, deepened well
The second one indicates the targets new co-ordinates:

• A, second target
• B, third target
Example #1
Illustration Line 1) Original well (vertical) Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) Directional hole: Amelia 1 DIR (A)
Illustration Line 3) Horizontal hole: Amelia 1 OR (B)
2
1
Example #2
Illustration Line 1) Original Directional Well: Amelia DIR
Illustration Line 2) Directional Well with the second target:
Amelia 1 DIR (A)
2
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Example #3
Illustration Line 1) Original Directional Well: Amelia 1 DIR
Illustration Line 2) Vertical well with a second target:
Amelia 1 (A)
Example #4
Illustration Line 1) Original Vertical Well: Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) Horizontal hole with a second target:
Amelia 1 OR (A) 3
Illustration Line 3) Horizontal hole with a third target:
Amelia 1 OR (B) 2
Example #5
Illustration Line 1) Original Directional Well: Amelia 1 DIR
Illustration Line 2) Directional hole with a second new target:
Amelia 1 DIR (A)
Illustration Line 3) Horizontal well with a third target:
1
Amelia 1 OR (B)
3
Example #6
Illustration Line 1) Original Vertical Well: Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) Directional hole with a second target:
1
Amelia 1 DIR (A)
Illustration Line 3) Deepened well with a third target:
2
Amelia 1 APPR (B)
Illustration Line 4) Deepened well with a fourth new target:
Amelia 1 DIR APPR (C) 3
4
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15.3. WELLS WITH DIFFERENT WELL HEAD CO-ORDINATES AND SAME ORIGINAL
TARGETS
In this category are the wells where the target co-ordinates remain the same while the
wellhead location has been moved. This condition can only occur where there has been a
drilling problem in the well.
There are two different cases:
Case 1
When there is one or more strings of casing set, it can be considered that every hole is a
single well, so the name of the wells after the first will be the original well plus the code to
define the well type (DIR OR) with the added code BIS for the second well, TRIS for the
third well, etc.
Example #1
Illustration Line 1) Original vertical well: Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) Second well: Amelia 1 BIS
Illustration Line 3) Third well: Amelia 1 TRIS
2
1
Case 2 (no casing set)

When no casing string has been set, it can be considered that every hole is part of a single
well. The code for the following holes is the original well plus (1) for the first hole, (2) for the
second hole, etc.
Example #2:
Illustration Line 1) Original well: Amelia 1
Illustration Line 2) Second hole: Amelia 1 (2°)
Illustration Line 3) Third hole: Amelia 1 (3°)
3
Illustration Line 4) Fourth hole: Amelia 1 (4°) 1 4
Illustration Line 5) Fifth hole: Amelia 1 (5°) 2
5
Illustration Line 6) Sixth hole: Amelia 1 (6°)
6
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15.4. FURTHER CODING

Further codes may be added to give additional information about a well with regard to its
location in a field or if it is a marine well, i.e.
Location Code Example Field Description

Marine, Mare M Belaym 113 M 35 Belaym 113 Mare 35
North, Nord N Beniboye N 5-2 Beniboye North 5-2
South, Sud S Imbondeiro S 1 Imbondeiro South 1
East, Est E Samabri E 1 Samabri East 1
West, Ovest W Belaym M N W 2 Belaym Mare North West 2
When the well code/name is written out in full the full code name must be placed in front of
the field name.
Example :
a) North Darag 1
b) Est Makerouga 2
c) South pass 75-2
d) West Butte 9-34-13-20
Listed in the following table 15.a are the definitions and the parameters to identify other well
characteristics.
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DEFINITION PARAMETER
Inclination ROC BUR Horizontal
da a (m) (°/m) (°/30 m) Section (m)
SHORT RADIUS x° 90° 5.8÷ 30.1 9.8 ÷ 1.9 150 ÷ 250
294 ÷ 57
INTERMEDIATE RADIUS x° 90° 43.1 ÷ 12.79 1.33 ÷ 4.48 150 ÷ 250
40 ÷ 70
MINIMUM RADIUS x° 90° 86.8 ÷ 220.4 0.66 ÷ 0.26 500 ÷ 900
20 ÷ 8
LONG RADIUS x° 90° 286 ÷ 573 0.2 ÷ 0.1 1000 ÷1600
3÷6
Curve Displacement ROC BUR
Characteristic (m) (m) (°/m) (°/30 m)
DRAIN HOLE Short 150 ÷ 250 5.8 ÷ 30.1 9.8 ÷ 1.9
Radius 294 ÷ 57
EXTENDED REACH WELL Long 1000÷1600 286 ÷ 573 0.2 ÷ 0.1
Radius 3÷6
LATERAL WELL All the Horizontal wells
MULTI LATERAL WELL As showed in chapter 2 example 5
RE-ENTRY WELL Well re-entered to put in production, by drilling operations, a old
suspended well. See example in chapter 2
BRANCH WELL Più drain hole con partenza da un unico extended reach
Depth Pore Pressure SIWH Temp Res. Water
(m) bar/10m Pressure (bar) O/WH (°C) Depth (m)
DEEP WELL > 4600 --- --- --- ---
ULTRA DEEP WELL > 6000 --- --- --- ---
DEEPWATER WELL --- --- --- --- 460
HIGH PRESSURE WELL --- > 1.81 > 690 --- ---
HIGH TEMPERATURE WELL --- --- --- > 150°c ---
Title Description
WATER WELL Producing water well
WATER INJECTION WELL Well for water injection
GAS INJECTION WELL Well for gas injection
Table 15.A - Well Definitions and Characteristics
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16. GEOLOGICAL DRILLING WELL PROGRAMME
The Geological and Drilling Well Programme (Refer to STAP-P-2-N-6001E) is a

‘controlled’ live document (i.e. univocally identifying and fulfilling the requirements of Eni-
Agip Division and Affiliate’s Quality Management System) according to a standard format
providing information on a specific well and avoiding duplication of data.
16.1. PROGRAMME FORMAT

The Geological and Drilling Well Programme, from now on defined as ‘‘G&DWP’’,
comprises four sections:
Section 1 - General Information
Section 2 - Geological Programme
Section 3 - Operation Geology Programme
Section 4 - Drilling Programme.
The ‘G&DWP’ will also be standardised with regard to the following:

• Print model
• Type and size of character
• Page numbering
• Identification
• Distribution list
• Graphic representations
• Structure of the sections.
16.2. IDENTIFICATION
All main sections in the ‘G&DWP’, must be identified by the Name/Designation of the Well.
The name of the well must be shown on all the pages of the document along with the
acronym of the Project Unit and the District/Affiliates.
16.3. GRAPHIC REPRESENTATIONS

In order to allow section of the ‘G&DWP’ to be easily accessible whether by E-Mail or
through shared network disks, the graphic representations shall be in electronic format,
using Eni-Agip Division and Affiliate’s standard ‘Windows’ tools Power Point, Freelance
Graphics, Excel, etc.
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The sketches and drawings which are not reproducible with this software, must be scanned
in and the files saved in the formats of the filters in ‘Word’ (.PCX, .BMP; etc.).The version of
word may be updated from time to time and, hence, the filters also altered to suit. The size
of the files produced must be rationalised and kept as small as possible to reduce the
document memory size hence make easier management.
Prints produced with software different from Eni-Agip Division & Affiliates standard such as:
prints and diagrams produced by means of ADIS, geological maps and seismic sections,
figures taken from catalogues and publications will be produced on a blank page and
applied a page number for consistency.
The number of these particular types of representations should be minimised to prevent the
format being different from A4, different fonts and colours. If unavoidable these must be
included as Annexes.
16.4. CONTENTS OF THE GEOLOGICAL AND DRILLING WELL PROGRAMME

The structure of the ‘G&DWP’ and its relevant competencies are detailed in the following
sub-sections.
The list of contents for each section and the section numbering must be strictly followed.
If some subjects are not applicable, the term ‘not envisaged’ will be placed against these
relevant sections or subsections.
Additional subsections to provide clarity or further explanation of a formal content subject
are permitted.
16.4.1. General Information (Section 1)

This section contains the main data of the well project and a synthesis of the main subjects
which are explained in detail.
This section must be proposed in conjunction with the Drilling & Completion and Geology
Departments of the particular District/Affiliates.
All depths of the well, both for offshore and onshore wells, must be referenced to the
Rotary Table (RT).
Section 1 comprises the sub-sections numbered and titled as follows:
1.1 GENERAL WELL DATA
1.2 WELL TARGET
1.3 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
1.4 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE RIG, BOP STACK AND
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
1.5 LIST OF THE MAIN CONTRACTORS
1.6 CONTACTS IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
1.7 REFERENCE MANUALS
1.8 MEASUREMENT UNITS
An explanation of each of these is given in the following sub-sections.

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Authorisation
The names and signatures of the technicians and managers involved in the preparation and
control of the section will always be specified.
General Well Data (Section 1.1)

This section lists the main data regarding the well project.
This section will be prepared by the District Geology Department following input by the
competent Project Department and will contain the information presented in table 16.a.
The Local Drilling & Completion Department will provide the Well Profile, the Time Versus
Depth Diagram, and the Location Layout. The District Geology Department will provide the
scheme Forecast and Acquisition Programmes.
Well Target (Section 1.2)

This section will be prepared by the Local Geology Department and summarises what is
described in sub-section 2.3 of section 2 (e. g. verification of the ‘up-dip’ potential of the
structure, and development of ‘probable’ undrained reserves, etc.).
General Recommendations (Section 1.3)

This section will be prepared with close co-operation between the Drilling & Completion and
Geology Local Departments, highlighting the possible operational problems envisaged and
which will be described in detail in the following sections (Geological Programme, Operation
Geology Programme and Drilling Programme).
General Characteristics of the RIG, BOP Stack and Safety Equipment (Section 1.4)
This section is prepared by the Local Drilling & Completion Department and will contain the
information listed in table 16.b and table 16.c
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ITEM DESCRIPTION
IDENTIFIABLE WELL DATA
Affilate in charge
Name and acronym of the well
Initial classification (LAHEE)
Expected final depth
Permission/concession
Operator
Older of the Permit/ Lease (shares specified as %)
Municipal Authority (onshore wells)
Province (onshore wells)
Harbour-master office (offshore wells)
Zone (off-shore wells)
Distance Rig/coast (offshore wells)
Distance Rig/operative base
Altitude (onshore wells)
Sea Depth (offshore wells)
WELL TARGET IDENTIFICATION
Reference seismic line
Lithology of the main target
Formation of the main target
Depth of the main target
TOPOGRAPHIC REFERENCES
Reference meridian
Starting latitude (geographic) N/S
Starting longitude (geographic) E/W
Latitude at the targets (geographic) N/S
Longitude at the targets (geographic) E/W
Starting latitude (metric) N/S
Starting longitude (metric) E/W
Latitude at the targets (metric)
Longitude at the targets (metric)
Type of projection
Semi-major axis
Squared eccentricity (1/F)
Central meridian
False East
False North
Scale Factor
Table 16.A - General Well Data
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Item Description
Contractor
Rig name
Rig type
Rotary table elevation at ground level Only onshore rigs
Rotary table elevation at sea level Only offshore rigs
Number of slots available Only offshore rigs
Power installed
Drawwork type
Rig potential with 5” DP’s
Max. operative water depth Only offshore rigs
Clearance height rotary beams/ground level Only onshore rigs
Top Drive System type
Swivel assembly working pressure If without Top Drive System
Dynamic hook load
Set back capacity
Deck load Only for semi-submersible rigs
Total load Only for semi-submersible rigs
Rotary table diameter
Rotary table capacity
Stand pipe working pressure
Mud pumps number and type
Available liner size
Total mud capacity
Shaleshaker number and type
Drinking water storage capacity Only for offshore rigs
Industrial water storage capacity
Gas oil storage capacity
Barite storage capacity
Bentonite storage capacity
Cement storage capacity
Table 16.B -General Rig Data
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Item Description
Diverter type
Diverter size
Diverter working pressure
BOP stack type
BOP size
BOP working pressure
Choke manifold size and working pressure
Kill lines size and working pressure
Choke lines size and working pressure
BOP control panel type
BOP control panel location
Inside BOP type
Inside BOP location
Table 16.C - Equipment Data
List of the Main Contractors (Section 1.5)

The section will be prepared by the Local Drilling & Completion Department in co-operation
with the Local Sub-surface Geology Department and must contain the services required and
the name of the provider.
The following Table is presented as an example:
SERVICE COMPANY
Rig
Mud
Water/mud disposal
Cementing
Mud logging
Electrical logging
LWD
Drilling tools
Coring
Directional drilling
Drilling equipment
Tubing and casing tong
Testing
Table 16.D - List of the Main Contractors
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Contacts in case of emergency (Section 1.6)

This section will be prepared by the Local Drilling & Completion Department and shows:
• A ‘flow chart’ of emergency contacts
• The telephone numbers of the relevant people in charge of the emergency.
Reference Manuals (Section 1.7)

Reference Manuals will be written by the Local Drilling & Completion Department. It
consists in a list of basic manuals to be referred for planning and implementation phases of
the well.
Measurement Units(Section 1.8)

The section ‘Measurement Units’ will be written in strict co-operation between the Drilling &
Completion and Sub-surface Geology Local Departments. It will contain a list of the units of
measurement for the main parameters used in the Geological Operation and Drilling
sections.
These are:
Depth: m
Pressures: kg/cm²
Pressure gradients : kg/cm²/10m or atm/10m
Specific gravity : kg/l or kg/dm³
Lengths: m
Weights: t
Oil volumes Sm3
Volumes: m³
Bit and casing diameters: ins
Tubular goods weight lbs/ft
Working pressure : psi
Gas volume Sm3
Salinity ppm of NaCl
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16.4.2. Geological Programme (Section 2)

The Geological Programme will be written by the Department in charge of the project in co-
operation with the Local Sub-surface Geology Department.
All the reference depths will be from:
• Ground level for ONSHORE wells
• Sea level for OFFSHORE wells
Section 2 comprises the sub-section headings listed below, numbered and titled as follows:
List of contents
2.1 GEOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK
2.2 SEISMIC INTERPRETATION
2.3 WELL TARGETS
2.4 SOURCE ROCKS
2.5 SEALING ROCKS
2.6 LITHOSTRATIGRAPHIC PROFILE
2.7 REFERENCE WELLS
Annexes and/or figures
Authorisation
The names and signatures of the technicians and managers involved in the preparation and
control of the section will be always specified.
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16.4.3. Operation Geology Programme (Section 3)

The ‘Operation Geology Programme’ will be prepared by the Local Sub-surface Geology
Department.
Section 3 will comprise the sub-sections numbered and titled as follows:
List of contents
3.1 SURFACE LOGGING
3.2 SAMPLINGS
3.2.1 Cuttings
3.2.2 Bottom Hole Cores
3.2.3 Side Wall Cores
3.2.4 Fluids Sampling
3.3 LOGGING WHILE DRILLING
3.4 WIRELINE LOGGING
3.5 SEISMIC SURVEY
3.6 WIRELINE TESTING
3.7 TESTING
3.8 STUDIES AND DRAWINGS
3.9 REFERENCE WELLS
Authorisation
The names and signatures of the technicians and managers involved in the
preparation and control of the section will be always specified.
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16.4.4. Drilling Programme (Section 4)

The ‘Drilling Programme’ will be prepared by the District Drilling & Completion Department.
The Drilling Programme structure is defined in procedure STAP-P-1-N-6001E. Particularly,
paragraphs 4.2.1 (forecast on pressure and temperature gradients) and 4.2.2 (drilling
problems) will be made in co-operation between the Drilling and Completion and Sub-
surface Geology Local Departments. Section 4 will comprise the sub-sections numbered
and titled as follows:
List of contents
4.1 OPERATIONAL SEQUENCE
4.1.1 Preliminaries
4.1.2 Conductor pipe phase
4.1.3 Superficial phase
4.1.4 Intermediate phases
4.1.5 Final phase
4.1.6 Testing
4.1.7 Completion typology
4.1.8 Well abandonment
4.2 WELL PLANNING

4.2.1 Forecast on pressure and temperature gradients
4.2.2 Drilling problems
4.2.3 Casing setting depths
4.2.4 Casing design
4.2.5 Mud programme
4.2.6 Cementing programme
4.2.7 BOP
4.2.8 Wellhead
4.2.9 Hydraulic programme
4.2.10 BHA and stabilisation
4.2.11 Bits and drilling parameters
4.2.12 Deviation project
Annexes and/or figures
Authorisation
The names and signatures of the technicians and managers involved in the
preparation and control of the section will be always specified.
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
17. FINAL WELL REPORT
This section details the procedure to prepare the ‘Final Well Report’.
Properly completed Final Well Reports are essential to enable all personnel involved in
drilling and completion activities access to well information for studies, analysis or to help
prepare future well programmes.
17.1. GENERAL
Whenever possible or applicable, the well final report shall include reports on both Drilling
and Completion activities. In the case of new wells the report will be titled ‘ Final Well
Drilling and Completion Report’ or, in case of workover on old wells, as ‘ Final Workover
Well Drilling and Completion Report’.
Where only Drilling operations are concerned (e.g. Exploration Wells, Dry Holes, Temporary
Abandonment, etc.), the report will be titled ‘Final Well Drilling Report’.
If completion operations are performed separately after the end of drilling operations are
completed (e.g. Temporary Abandoning or Batch Operations) the report will be titled ‘Final
Well Completion Report’. When separate drilling and completion reports are prepared, the
two reports will be merged.
In the case of a multi-well Development Project where, wells are drilled or completed from a
single location (platform or cluster) the report will be titled ‘ (platform name) or (cluster
name) Final Drilling and Completion Report’.
In the following section the structure and competency required in the preparation of the
‘Final Well Report shall be explained. Reporting will be standardised through using the
common format as follows:
• Print Model
• Type and Size of the Character
• Page Numbering
• Identification
• Distribution List
• Graphic Representations
• Chapters Structure
• Signatures
These criteria shall be common for all Well Operations ‘Final Well Reports’ in both domestic
and foreign operations.
17.2. FINAL WELL REPORT PREPARATION

The Final Well Report is prepared by the ‘Engineering Section’ of the Drilling and
Completion Department’ in co-operation with the ‘Operations Section’.
The numeration and the title of the sections as shown in section 17.3, must be strictly
followed. Extra sub-sections for clarity or further explanation are permitted.
If some subjects are applicable to a particular well, not envisaged will be typed against the
relevant sections.
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
17.3. FINAL WELL OPERATION REPORT STRUCTURE

17.3.1. General Report Structure
1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 GENERAL WELL DATA
1.2 GENERAL RIG SPECIFICATION
1.3 BOP SKETCH
1.4 LIST OF MAIN CONTRACTORS
1.5 OPERATIONS ORGANISATION CHART
1.6 LOCATION MAP
2 WELL HISTORY
2.1 FINAL WELL STATUS
2.1.1 Well Sketch
2.1.2 Well Head Sketch
2.1.3 Well Completion Sketch
2.2 DETAILED OPERATIONS HISTORY
2.2.1 Moving
2.2.2 Conductor Pipe Phase
2.2.3 Surface Phase
2.2.4 Intermediate Phases
2.2.5 Final Phase
2.2.6 Well Testing
2.2.7 Completion
2.2.8 Abandoning
2.3 DRILLING PROBLEMS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
2.4 COMPLETION REMARKS
3 DATA ANALYSIS
3.1 Pressure And Temperature Gradients
3.2 Casing Data
3.3 Cementing Data
3.4 Drilling Fluids
3.5 Bit And Hydraulic Data
3.6 Bottom Hole Assembly
3.7 Directional Drilling
3.8 Well Testing Data
3.9 Completion Details
3.10 Time Analysis
4 ATTACHMENTS
(Service companies must be requested to supply copies of their own reports as this
enhances the quality of the information contained in the report).
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
17.3.2. Cluster/Platform Final Well Report Structure

1 CLUSTER/PLATFORM INFORMATION
1.1 GENERAL DATA
1.2 GENERAL RIG SPECIFICATION
1.3 BOP SKETCH
1.4 LIST OF MAIN CONTRACTORS
1.5 OPERATIONS ORGANIZATION CHART
1.6 LOCATION MAP
1.7 CLUSTER/PLATFORM WELL BAY LAY-OUT AND ORIENTATION
2 GENERAL DRILLING & COMPLETION ACTIVITY REPORT
2.1 FINAL WELLS STATUS
2.1.1 Well Sketches
2.1.2 Wells Head Sketches And Elevations
2.1.3 Completion Schemes
2.1.4 General Cluster/Platform Time Vs Depth Diagram
2.2 DETAILED OPERATIONS HISTORY
2.2.1 Moving
2.2.2 Conductor Pipe Phase
2.2.3 Surface Phase
2.2.4 Intermediate Phases
2.2.5 Final Phase
2.2.6 Testing
2.2.7 Completion
2.2.8 Abandoning
2.3 PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS
2.4 DRILLING PROBLEMS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
2.5 COMPLETION REMARKS
3 DATA ANALYSIS
3.2 CASING DATA
3.3 CEMENTING DATA
3.4 DRILLING FLUIDS
3.5 BIT AND HYDRAULIC DATA
3.6 BOTTOM HOLE ASSEMBLY
3.7 DIRECTIONAL DRILLING
3.8 WELL TESTING DATA
3.9 COMPLETION DETAILS
3.10 TIME ANALYSIS
4 ATTACHMENTS
(Service companies must be requested to supply copies of their own reports as this
enhances the quality of the information contained in the report).
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
General Information (Section 1)

In this sub-section the main data relevant to the Well, Rig and Operation Organisation
should be reported.
All depths for both offshore and onshore wells must be referred to from Rotary Table (RT),
the elevation of which above datum shall be clearly stated.
General Drilling and Completion Activity Report (Section 2)

In this section the history of the well e.g. final well status, detailed operation history,
operation problems register and recommendations for Drilling and Completion activities etc.,
will be reported.
Data Analysis (Section 3)

In this part, data relevant to drilling and completion operations will be reported in detail.
17.4. AUTHORISATION
Authorisation for the ‘ Final Well Report’ will be included as follows according to the
procedures envisaged in paragraph 6.5 of STAP-G-1-M-9000:
Prepared by : District Drilling and Completion Expert
Controlled by: District Engineering and operation sections Manager of Drilling and
Completion department
Approved by : District Drilling and Completion Manager
17.5. ATTACHMENTS
Included In this section there are all paragraphs required for particular purposes, such as:
• Spider plot
• Cost analysis
• Evaluation of service main contractor
• Weather condition
• etc.
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
Appendix A - Report Forms

To enable the contents of this drilling design manual and other operating procedures
manuals to be improved, it is essential that ENI - Agip Division and Affiliates obtain feed-
back from the field. To this end a feed-back reporting system is in use which satisfies this
requirement.
Feed-back reports for drilling, completion, workover and well testing operations are
available and must be filled in and returned to head office for distribution to the relevant
responsible departments as soon as possible as per instructions.
The forms relevant to drilling operations are:
• ARPO 01 Initial Activity Report
• ARPO 02 Daily Report
• ARPO 03A Casing Running Report
• ARPO 03B Casing Running Report
• ARPO 04A Cementing Job report
• ARPO 04B Cementing Job report
• ARPO 05 Bit Record
• ARPO 06 Waste Disposal Management Report
• ARPO 13 Well Problem Report
Behind each report form are instructions on how to fill in the forms. As the first section is
generic to all the forms it is only shown in ARPO 01 instructions.
Note: If not otherwise specified , all depths referred to in this appendix will be
from Rotary Kelly Bushing Elevation (this being from the first Rig which
drilled the well).
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.1. Initial Activity Report (ARPO 01)
INITIAL ACTIVITY WELL NAME
FIELD NAME
District/Affiliate Company REPORT
DATE: ARPO 01 Cost center
Permit/Concession N° Well Code
General Data Depth Above S.L . Joint venture

On shore Off shore Ground Level[m] AGIP: % %
Latitude: Water Depth [m] % %
Longitude Rotary Table Elev.[m] % %
Reference First Flange[m] Type of Operation

Rig Name Top housing [m]
Rig Type Reference Rig Program TD (Measured) [m]

Contractor Ref. Rig RKB - 1st Flange Program TD (Vertical) [m]
Rig Heading [°] Cellar Pit Rig Pump

Offset FROM the proposed location Depth [m] Manufacturer
Distance [m] Length [m] Type
Direction [°] Width [m]: Liner avaible [in]
Major Contractors
Type of Service Company Contract N° Type of Service Company Contract N°
Mud Logging
D. & C. Fluids
Cementation
Waste treatment
Operating Time Jack-up leg Penetration Supply Vessel for Positioning

Moving [gg:hh] Leg Air gap Penetration N° Name Horse Bollard pull
Positioning [hh:min] N° [m] [m] Power [t]
Anchorage [hh:min]
Rig-up [hh:min]
Delay [hh:min]
Lost-time Accidents [hh:min]
Rig Anchorage
Anchor Mooring Line Piggy Back Mooring Line Tension Operative Total
Bow Weight Length Weight Chain Cable [Tested] Tension Time
N° Angle Type & Manufacturer [t] Cable Chain N° [t] Length Ø Length Ø [t] [t] [hh:min]
[m] [m] [m] [mm] [m] [mm]
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Note: Supervisor
Superintendent
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.2. Daily Report (ARPO 02)
DAILY REPORT WELL NAME
Drilling FIELD NAME

District/Affiliate Company
DATE: ARPO 02 Cost center
Rig Name RT Elevation [m] Well Code

Type of Rig Ground Lelel / Water Depth [m] Report N° of
st
Contractor RT - 1 flange / Top Housing [m] Permit / Concession N°
Well Last casing Next Casing BOP Type Ø w.p. [psi] M.D. (24:00) [m]
Ø nom.[in] Stack T.V.D. (24:00) [m]
Top [m] Diverter Total Drilled [m]
Bottom [m] Annular Rotating Hrs [hh:mm]
Top of Cmt [m] Annular R.O.P. [m / h]
Last Survey [°] at m Upper Rams Progressive Rot. hrs [hh:mm]
LOT - IFT [kg/l] at m Middle Rams Back reaming Hrs [hh:mm]
Reduce Pump Strockes Pressure Middle Rams Personnel Injured
Pump N° 1 2 3 Middle Rams Agip Agip
Liner [in] Lower Rams Rig Rig
Strokes Last Test Others Other
Press. [psi] Total Total
Lithology
Shows
From (hr) To (hr) Op. Code OPERATION DESCRIPTION
Operation at 07:00
Mud type Bit N° Run N° N° Run N° Bottom Hole Assembly N° __________ Rot. hours
Density [kg/l] Data Description Ø Part. L Progr.L Partial Progr.
Viscosity [s/l] Manuf.
P.V. [cP] Type
Y.P. [g/100cm2] Serial No.
Gel 10"/10' / IADC
Water Loss [cc/30"] Diam.
HP/HT [cc/30"] Nozzle/TFA
Press. [kg/cm2] From [m]
Temp. [°C] To [m]
Cl- [g/l] Drilled [m]
Salt [g/l] Rot. Hrs.
pH/ES R.P.M.
MBT [kg/m3] W.O.B.[t]
Solid [%] Flow Rate Stock Quantity UM Supply vessel
Oil/water Ratio. Pressure
Sand [%] Ann. vel.
pm/pom Jet vel.
pf HHP Bit
mf HSI Total Cost Supervisor:
Daily Losses [m 3] I O D L I O D L Daily
Progr. Losses [m 3] B G O R B G O R Progr.
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.3. Casing Running Report (ARPO 03)

ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.4. Casing Running Report (ARPO 03B)
RUNNING CASING WELL NAME
REPORT FIELD NAME
DATE: ARPO 03 / B Cost center
Operation type Casing type Ø [in] Top [m] Bottom [m]
Joint Length Progress. centr. Joint Length Progress. centr. Joint Length Progress. centr.
N° [m] [m] (N°) N° [m] [m] (N°) N° [m] [m] (N°)
Remarks:
Supervisor Superintendent
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.5. Cementing Job report (ARPO 04A)

ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.6. Cementing Job report (ARPO 04B)
CEMENTING JOB WELL NAME
REPORT FIELD NAME
DATE: ARPO-04 / B Cost center
Operation type Ø [in] Stage / No.:
SQUEEZE / PLUG
Type Ø Length [m] Cap.[ l/m] Bottom [m] Cement retainer Manufacturer Model / Type Ø Depth
Squeeze packer [inch] [m]
Injectivity Test with: Pump Rate Testing Pr. Tot. Vol. Final Sqz Pr. Returns Vol
[l/min] [kg/cm2] pumped [l] [kg/cm2] [l]
Test [kg/cm2] [mins]
Stinger Pressure test
Annular pressure
CEMENTATION
Operation (y/n) [kg/cm2] [mins]

Casing Reciprocation Bump Plug Casing testing pressure
Casing Rotation Valve holding Annulus pressurization
Inner string
GENERAL DATA
Slurry Displacement To Surface Losses [m 3]

With pumps Density pH Dumped During csg run
Fluid type: [kg/l] [m3] Circulation
3
Volume [m ] Mud Mix/Pump Slurry
Density: [kg/l] Spacer Displacement
Duration: [mins] Slurry Opening DV
Final pressure: [kg/cm2] Circ. through DV
Total
Circulation / Displacement / Squeeze
Time [mins.] Flow Rate Pressure Total Volume Operation Description Final Press. Returns
Partial Progr. [l/min] [kg/cm2] [l] [kg/cm2] Vol. [l]
Supervisor Superintendent
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.7. Bit Record (ARPO 05)
BIT WELL NAME
RECORD FIELD NAME
DATE: ARPO-05 Cost center

Run n°
Bit n°
Bit size [in]
Bit manufacturer
Bit type
Special features codes
Serial number
IADC code
Depth in [m]
Depth out [m]
Drilled interval [m]
Rotation hrs
Trip hrs
R.O.P. [m/h]
Average W.O.B. [t]
Average R.P.M.
D.H.M. R.P.M.
Flow rate [l/min]
2
St. pipe pressure [kg/cm ]
D.H.M. Press. drop [kg/cm2]
Bit HHP
HSI
Annulus min vel. [m/min]
1 [1/32 in]
J 2 [1/32 in]
E 3 [1/32 in]
T 4 [1/32 in]
S 5 [1/32 in]
C [1/32 in]
2
T.F.A. [in ]
B Inner rows [I]
I Outher rows [O]
T Dull char. [D]
Location [L]
D Bearing/Seals [B]
U Gauge 1/16 [G]
L Other chars [O]
L Reason POOH [R]
Mud type
Mud density [kg/l]
Mud visc.
Mud Y.P.
Survey depth
Survey incl.
Bit Cost
Li Type %
tho
lo
gy
Stabilizer Distance
B Diameter from bit
H [in] [m]
A
Currency Supervisor Superintendent

Pag.: of:
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.8. Waste Disposal Management Report (ARPO 06)
WASTE DISPOSAL WELL NAME
Management Report FIELD NAME

DATE: ARPO-06 Cost center
Report N° Depth (m) Mud Type
From [m] Interval Drilled (m) Density (kg/l)

3
To [m] Drilled Volume [m ] Cl- concentration (g/l )
3
Phase size [in] Cumulative volume [m ]
3 3
Water consumption Phase /Period [m ] Cumulative [m ]
Usage Fresh water Recycled Total Fresh water Recycled Total
Mixing Mud
Others
Total
3 3
Readings / Truck Fresh water [m ] Recycled [m ]
3
Mud Volume [m ] Phase Cumulative Service Company Contract N°
Mixed Mud Company
Lost Waste Disposal
Dumped Transportation
Transported IN
Transported OUT
Waste Disposal Period Cumulative Remarks

Water base cuttings
[t]
Oil base cuttings [t]
Dried Water base cuttings [t]
Dried oil base cuttings [t]
Water base mud [t]
Oil base mud transported IN [t]
Oil base mud transported OUT [t]
Drill potable water [t]
Dehidrated water base mud [t]
Dehidrated oil base mud [t]
Sewage water [t]
Transported Brine [t]
Remarks
Supervisor
Superintendent
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
A.9. Well Problem Report (ARPO 13)
WELL PROBLEM FIELD NAME
District/Affiliate Company REPORT WELL NAME
DATE: ARPO -13 Cost center
Problem Top [m] Start date

Code Bottom [m] End date
Well Ø Measured Depth Vertical Depth KOP [m] Mud in hole

Situation Top [m] Bottom [m] Top [m] Bottom [m] Max inclination [°] Type
Open hole @m Dens.[kg/l]:
Last casing DROP OFF [m]
Well problem Description
Solutions Applied: Results Obtained:
Supervisor Supervisor Supervisor
Remarks at District level:
Superintendent
Lost Time hh:mm Loss value [in currency]
Remarks at HQ level Pag.

Of
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
Appendix B - ABBREVIATIONS
API American Petroleum Institute
BG Background gas
BHA Bottom Hole Assembly
BHP Bottom Hole Pressure
BHT Bottom hole temperature
BOP Blow Out Preventer
BPD Barrel Per Day
BPM Barrels Per Minute
BPV Back Pressure Valve
BUR Build Up Rate
BWOC By Weight Of Cement
BWOW By Weight Of Water
CBL Cement Bond Log
CCD Centre to Centre Distance
CCL Casing Collar Locator
CDP Common Depth Point
CET Cement Evaluation Tool
CMT Cement
CP Conductor Pipe
CR Cement Retainer
CRA Corrosion Resistant Alloy
CW Current Well
DC Drill Collar
DHM Down Hole Motor
DIF Drill-In Fluid
DLS Dog Leg Severity
DM / D&CM Drilling & Completion Manager
DOB Diesel Oil Bentonite
DOBC Diesel Oil Bentonite Cement
DOR Drop Off Rate
DP Drill Pipe
DST Drill Stem Test
DV DV Collar
E/L Electric Line
ECD Equivalent Circulation Density
ECP External Casing Packer
EMS Electronic Multi Shot
EMW Equivalent Mud Weight
EOC End Of Curvature
ESD Electric Shut-Down System
FBHP Flowing Bottom Hole Pressure
FBHT Flowing Bottom Hole Temperature
FINS Ferranti International Navigation System
FPI/BO Free Point Indicator / Back Off
FTHP Flowing Tubing Head Pressure
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
FTHT Flowing Tubing Head Temperature

GCT Guidance Continuous Tool
GLS Guidelineless Landing Structure
GMS Gyro Multi Shot
GOC Gas Oil Contact
GPM Gallon (US) per Minute
GR Gamma Ray
GSS Gyro Single Shot
HAZOP Hazard and Operability
HDT High Resolution Dipmeter
HO Hole Opener
HP/HT High Pressure - High Temperature
HW/HWDP Heavy Weight Drill Pipe
IADC International Drilling Contractor
IBOP Inside Blow Out Preventer
ID Inside Diameter
KMW Kill mud weight
KOP Kick Off Point
LAT Lowest Astronomical Tide
LCM Lost Circulation Materials
LOT Leak Off Test
LQC Log Quality Control
LTA Lost Time Accident
LWD Log While Drilling
MAASP Max Allowable Annular Surface Pressure
MD Measured Depth
MLH Mudline Hanger
MMS Magnetic Multi Shot
MODU Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit
MOP Margin of Overpull
MSL Mean Sea Level
MSS Magnetic Single Shot
MW Mud Weight
MWD Measurement While Drilling
NACE National Association of Corrosion Engineers
NB Near Bit Stabiliser
NMDC Non Magnetic Drill Collar
NSG North Seeking Gyro
NTU Nephelometric Turbidity Unit
OBM Oil Base Mud
OD Outside Diameter
OEDP Open End Drill Pipe
OIM Offshore Installation Manager
OMW Original Mud weight
ORP Origin Reference Point
OWC Oil Water Contact
P&A Plugged & Abandoned
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
PCG Pipe Connection Gas

PDC Polycrystalline Diamond Cutter
PDM Positive Displacement Motor
PGB Permanent Guide Base
PI Productivity Index
PLT Production Logging Tool
POB Personnel On Board
PPB Pounds Per Barrel
ppm Part Per Million
PV Plastic Viscosity
PVT Pressure Volume Temperature
RBP Retrievable Bridge Plug
RJ Ring Joint
RKB Rotary Kelly Bushing
ROE Radius of Exposure
ROP Rate Of Penetration
ROU Radios Of Uncertainty
ROV Remote Operated Vehicle
RPM Revolutions Per Minute
RT Rotary Table
S (HDT) High Resolution Dipmeter
S/N Serial Number
SBHP Static Bottom Hole Pressure
SBHT Static Bottom Hole Temperature
SCC Stress Corrosion Cracking
SD Separation Distance
SDE Senior Drilling Engineer
SF Safety Factor
SG Specific Gravity
SICP Shut-in Casing Pressure
SIDPP Shut-in Drill Pipe Pressure
SIMOP Simultaneous Operations
SPM Stroke per Minute
SR Separation Ratio
SRG Surface Readout Gyro
SSC Sulphide Stress Cracking
ST Steering Tool
STG Short trip gas
TCP Tubing Conveyed Perforations
TD Total Depth
TFA Total Flow Area
TG Trip Gas
TGB Temporary Guide Base
TOC Top of Cement
TOL Top of Liner
TVD True Vertical Depth
TW Target Well
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
UAR Uncertainty Area Ratio

UGF Universal Guide Frame
UR Under Reamer
VBR Variable Bore Rams (BOP)
VDL Variable Density Log
VSP Velocity Seismic Profile
W/L Wire Line
WBM Water Base Mud
WC Water Cut
WL Water Loss
WOB Weight On Bit
WOC Wait On Cement
WOW Wait On Weather
WP Working Pressure
YP Yield Point
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
Appendix C - WELL DEFINITIONS

Definitions and parameters to described wells characteristics.
Parameter
Definition Inclination ROC BUR Horizontal Section
da a (m) (°/m) (°/30 m) (m)
9.8 ÷ 1.9 150 - 250
Short Radius x° 90° 5.8 - 30.1
294 ÷ 57
43.1 - 1.33 ÷ 4.48 150 - 250
Intermediate Radius x° 90°
12.79 40 ÷ 70
86.8 - 0.66 ÷ 0.26 500 - 900
Minimum Radius x° 90°
220.4 20 ÷ 8
0.2 ÷ 0.1 1000 -1600
Long Radius x° 90° 286 - 573
3÷6
Parameter
Definition Curve Displacement Roc Bur
Characteristic (M) (M) (°/M) (°/30 M)
Drain Hole Short 9.8 - 1.9
150 - 250 5.8 ÷ 30.1
Radius 294 - 57
Extended Reach Well Long 0.2 - 0.1
1000 - 1600 286 ÷ 573
Radius 3-6
Lateral Well All are Horizontal wells
Multi Lateral Well As shown in section 2 example #5
Re-Entry Well A well re-entered to production, by drilling operations, in a previous
suspended well. See example in chapter 2
Branch Well A drain hole drilled for extended reach
Parameter
Definition Depth Pore SIWH Temp Water Depth (M)
(M) Press. Press. Res.
Bar/10m (Bar) O/WH
(°C)
Deep Well > 4,600 --- --- --- ---
Ultra Deep Well > 6,000 --- --- --- ---
Deepwater Well --- --- --- --- 460
High Pressure Well --- > 1.81 > 690 --- ---
High Temperature Well --- --- --- > 150°c ---
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
Word Description
Water Well Producing water well
Water Injection Well Well for water injection
Gas Injection Well Well for gas injection
ENI S.p.A.
STAP-P-1-M-6100 0
Appendix D - BIBLIOGRAPHY
Eni-Agip Document: STAP Number
ADIS
Casing Design Manual
Drilling Fluids Manual
Drilling, Jar Acceptance and Utilisation Procedures
Drilling Procedures Manual
General Well Control Policy Manual
Other TEAP Number

Emergency Operating Procedures TEAP-P-1-M-6040
API Specifications 5c
API Specifications10
NACE Standard MR-01-75

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ARPO ORGANISING TYPE OF ISSUING DOC. REFER TO PAGE.

Eni - Agip Division Italian Districts

Date of issue: 28/06/99

€ Issued by P. Magarini C. Lanzetta A. Galletta

REVISIONS PREP'D CHK'D APPR'D

3. SELECTION OF CASING SEATS 21

4.7.4. Application of Design Factors 35

5.3.5. Oil Based Mud 80

8.3. SURFACE WELLHEADS 113

9. PRESSURE RATING OF BOP EQUIPMENT 122

10. BHA DESIGN AND STABILISATION 125

11. BIT SELECTION 143

11.4. BIT SELECTION 148

12. DIRECTIONAL DRILLING 153

13. DRILLING PROBLEM PREVENTION MEASURES 173

13.6. MILLING PROCEDURE 186

14. WELL ABANDONMENT 189

15. WELL NAME/DESIGNATION 193

16. GEOLOGICAL DRILLING WELL PROGRAMME 200

17. FINAL WELL REPORT 210

APPENDIX A - REPORT FORMS 214

APPENDIX B - ABBREVIATIONS 224

APPENDIX C - WELL DEFINITIONS 228

APPENDIX D - BIBLIOGRAPHY 230

1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

1.3. UPDATING, AMENDMENT, CONTROL& DEROGATION

2.1. FORECAST ON PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS

The formulas normally used to calculate the Overburden Gradient are:

∆t = Transit time (second 10-3)

2.2. OVERPRESSURE EVALUATION

2.2.1. Methods Before Drilling

Wireline Logs These can provide useful geological information such as

Seismic Surveys Provides two of the most important applications of seismic

2.2.2. Methods While Drilling

2.2.3. Real Time Indicators

Drilling Break A drilling break is defined as a rapid increase in penetration

Torque Torque sometimes increases when an abnormally pressured

MWD In addition to directional drilling data, MWD can provide a wide

Bottomhole mud temperature can also be an indicator of overpressure as discussed below.

2.2.4. Indicators Depending on Lag Time

Mud Temperature Measurement of mud temperature can also be used to detect

• Cuttings from normal pressured shales are small with

2.2.5. Methods After Drilling

Figure .2.A - Induction Log

Figure 2.B - ‘F’ Shale

Figure 2.C Sonic log

2.3. TEMPERATURE PREDICTION

2.3.1. Temperature Gradients

2.3.2. Temperature Logging

3. SELECTION OF CASING SEATS

Figure 3.A - Example of idealised Casing Seat Selection

Figure 3.B - Example Casing Seat Selection

3.1. CONDUCTOR CASING

3.4. DRILLING LINER

3.5. PRODUCTION CASING

Once the factors are considered, casing cost should be considered.

4.2. PROFILES AND DRILLING SCENARIOS

Offshore - Surface Wellhead

Offshore - Surface Wellhead & Mudline Suspension