CHAPTER 1

BASIC KNOWLEDGE

Chapter At the end of this section, you should be able to:

Objectives
 Explain what a sidetrack is and why it might be necessary to perform a
sidetrack.
 Identify and explain the differences between an unplanned sidetrack and a
planned sidetrack.
 Explain the basics of how a whipstock is oriented with an MWD and a
gyroscope.
 Explain the difference between a one-trip and a two-trip sidetracking job.
 Identify the major components in both a cased-hole and an open-hole
whipstock assembly.
 Identify each type of anchor and the circumstances under which each should
be used.
 Identify and explain the difference between a Trackmaster Plus Standard,
Hard Formation Whipstock and a GeoTrack Whipstock.
 Explain the purpose and function of the mid-ramp.
 Identify and explain the primary uses of the four types of cutters used on
whipstock assembly mills.
 Identify and explain the difference between a Trackmaster bi-mill and tri-
mill.
 Identify and explain when a GeoTrack mill should be used in an
application.
 Explain the importance of center point.
 Explain the importance of the criteria for selecting a mill type.
 Explain the between the Non-Advancing Multi-Cycle Bypass Valve
(NAMCBV) and the High Flow Bypass Valve.
 Identify the applications where the NAMCBV and High Flow Bypass Valve
should be used.
 Explain the importance of the drill collar, drill pipe, and HWDP in a
whipstock BHA.
 Explain the function of a debris barrier.
 Explain the basic process of retrieving a whipstock with both a hook

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 retrieval tool and a die collar assembly retrieval tool.
 List and discuss the basic steps in performing a sidetracking job.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Table of Contents

Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................................5
Wellbore Construction...............................................................................................................................................................5
What is a Sidetrack?.................................................................................................................................................................5
What are the Reasons for a Sidetrack?....................................................................................................................................5
Orientation of the Whipstock.....................................................................................................................................................7
Evolution of Wellbore Departure...............................................................................................................................................8
Two-Trip Sidetracking System..................................................................................................................................................9
One-Trip Sidetracking System..................................................................................................................................................9
Assembly Components................................................................................................................................................................10
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................10
Cased Hole and Open Hole....................................................................................................................................................10
Anchors........................................................................................................................................................................................12
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................12
Mechanically Set Anchor........................................................................................................................................................12
Hydraulically Set Anchor.........................................................................................................................................................12
Expandable Anchors...............................................................................................................................................................13
Permanent Packer (Anchor)...................................................................................................................................................13
Canfish Anchor.......................................................................................................................................................................14
Bridge Plug.............................................................................................................................................................................14
Whipstocks..................................................................................................................................................................................15
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................15
Trackmaster Plus Whips.........................................................................................................................................................15
Mid-Ramp...............................................................................................................................................................................16
Mill/Whip Hook-Up..................................................................................................................................................................17
Whip Selection Criteria...........................................................................................................................................................17
Mills..............................................................................................................................................................................................18
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................18
Cutter Technology...................................................................................................................................................................18
Roller Cone Bit (Open Hole)...................................................................................................................................................19
The Tri-Milling Assembly (Cased Hole)..................................................................................................................................20
Trackmaster Plus FasTrack Bi- and Tri-Mill............................................................................................................................21
Trackmaster Plus Hard Formation Bi-Mill...............................................................................................................................22
Trackmaster Plus GeoTrack Mill.............................................................................................................................................22
Trackmaster Plus CRA Milling System...................................................................................................................................23
Center Point............................................................................................................................................................................23

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mill Selection Criteria..............................................................................................................................................................23
Running Tool...........................................................................................................................................................................24
Orientation Devices.....................................................................................................................................................................25
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................25
The Non-Advancing Multi-Cycle Bypass Valve......................................................................................................25
UBHO......................................................................................................................................................................................26
Drill Collars..............................................................................................................................................................................27
Drill Pipe or Hevi-Wate Drill Pipe............................................................................................................................................27
Exercise: Whipstock Assembly Components..............................................................................................................................29
Accessories.................................................................................................................................................................................31
Debris Barrier..........................................................................................................................................................................31
Retrieval Tools........................................................................................................................................................................31
Basic Sidetracking Steps.............................................................................................................................................................33
Run In Hole.............................................................................................................................................................................33
Orient the Whipstock...............................................................................................................................................................33
Set the Anchor........................................................................................................................................................................34
Free the Mill............................................................................................................................................................................34
Mill the Window.......................................................................................................................................................................35
Trackmaster Plus Profile Window...........................................................................................................................................35
Drill the Rathole......................................................................................................................................................................36
Criteria for Successful Casing Exit..........................................................................................................................................36

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Introduction

Wellbore Wellbore generally begin the same way. The land is cleared of any obstructions
Construction and leveled. The drill site is prepared and the main borehole is drilled. As each
part of the hole is drilled, casing is put into the hole and cemented into place. The
cement prevents the casing from moving as well as protects the formation from
hydrocarbons that will be produced from the
wellbore.

Deeper holes will typically be cased with a liner

instead of casing. A liner is less expensive than
casing and offers more flexibility. Liners, not
including slotted liners, are also cemented into
place. Liners are used closer to the target depth
(TD) than at the top of the wellbore; they are
also used more frequently in horizontal
applications.

After the wellbore is drill, it is perforated and

the well is produced. Production means that the
hydrocarbons are being removed from the
wellbore. Depending on the hydrocarbon and the
production area, it may be necessary to stimulate
the well to produce faster.

What is a Sidetracking is the practice of milling an exit window from an existing wellbore
Sidetrack? or casing, creating an alternate path around a wellbore obstruction or to help
enhance well production.

Historically, sidetracking required multiple trips to mill a useable window for the
next directional drilling assembly. The number of trips needed depended on the
sidetracking tool’s capability and performance, the downhole environment and
the comfort level of the drilling engineer.

What are the Performing a wellbore sidetrack is either due to a planned or unplanned event. An
Reasons for a unplanned event could be collapsed casing or an irretrievable fish. A planned
Sidetrack? event could include increasing production or drilling a multi-lateral. In an open
hole, a planned event would be to sidetrack as an alternative to using a cement
plug.

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 Unplanned Sidetrack
An unplanned event can occur during any time of the life of the well.
Sidetracking may be necessary when the wellbore is no longer viable due to an
obstruction; casing collapse or loss of an unstable open hole, and fishing or
recovery of the wellbore is not economically feasible.

Some factors affecting an unplanned sidetrack include the risk involved, time and
money. These factors will determine the best course for remediation of the well.
A sidetrack is not always the best option. The customer will need to determine
how to proceed once all the options have been presented.

Planned Sidetrack
A planned sidetrack is prepared and
known well in advance of being
performed. Sidetracking can be done
any time during or after the well is
drilled.

A well with low production is

sometimes enhanced by drilling a
sidetrack. In a well where production
has slowed, it is often possible to
sidetrack into the well vertically and
increase the production. This is because
more of the formation is open for
production or stimulation.

The type of hydrocarbon being

produced will determine the best place
to penetrate the formation. Penetrating
the formation along the top is better for
producing a lighter hydrocarbon such
as gas. Penetrating the middle of a formation is typically better for producing oil.
The amount of water in the well will affect where the well is penetrated. Since
water is heavier than hydrocarbons, a formation saturated with water will need to
be penetrated higher.

The expense of drilling a well makes multi-lateral drilling profitable for oil
companies. A multi-lateral well is one where there are horizontal wells
constructed off a main wellbore. Multi-laterals make it possible to produce
multiple formations through a single main bore. In cases where there are
restrictions on where locations can be built either due to environmental or legal
concerns, multiple wells can be drilled from a single location, thus reducing the
thumbprint of the drilling process.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Orientation of the The whipstock bottom hole assembly (BHA) traveling
Whipstock down a wellbore will rotate as it descends. Once the
assembly reaches TD, it may not be facing the direction of
the planned sidetrack. An orientation device needs to be
included in the BHA to identify the direction the whip is
facing before the anchor is set.

Orientation Devices
Orientation of any type of BHA is typically done with a measurement-while-
drilling (MWD) or gyroscope device.

The MWD can be utilized to orient whipstocks in either open hole or cased hole
applications. One of the benefits using an MWD is that it does not have to be
pulled out of hole (POOH) to complete the job. The MWD is attached above the
whipstock and is aligned to the whipstock’s face. Once the bottom hole assembly
(BHA) is run to the required depth, the MWD will provide toolface data so the
operator can correctly orient the whipstock.

A gyro uses the gyroscopic principle where a spinning wheel attempts to hold its
direction. Prior to running in the hole, the gyro is pointed in a known direction.
When the gyro is lowered into a universal borehole orientation (UBHO) sub it
continues to maintain its set direction. The toolface of the BHA can then be
determined with respect to the gyro’s direction.

Identifying Direction
An MWD works by using accelerometers (to measure
earth’s gravity) and magnetometers (to measure earth’s
magnetic field) to determine the tool’s orientation and
directional data while in the wellbore at a set location. The
information is transmitted to the surface by mud pulse
telemetry and displayed on the rig floor display (RFD). Azimuth

The exact orientation of a borehole is measured by azimuth

and inclination. Azimuth is the compass direction of the
wellbore and is measured when a directional survey is
taken. The azimuth is usually specified in degrees with
respect to the geographic or magnetic north pole. For
example, a measurement could be 5º north or 355º north.

Inclination

The inclination is the angle between the hole and the

horizontal measure of the vertical plane or the angle being
drilled from the vertical. The tool face is the indication of the
tool’s axis with respect to the “high side” of the hole. All of
these measurements are sent to the RFD.
Toolface

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mud Pulse Telemetry
MWDs transmit information via mud pulse
telemetry. Mud pulse telemetry uses the rigs
drilling mud to transmit data to the surface.
Once the MWD tool is in position to take a
survey, mud is pumped down the drill string
and through the tool.

Internal movement of a poppet into the pulsing Rig Floor Display (RFD)
position creates the pulse. This allows high
pressure from above the stator to reach the front of the main piston while keeping
the lower pressure from below the stator on the opposite side of the main piston.
The pressure differential across the piston causes the main piston to move and
drive the main valve up into the pulse height sleeve, which creates a pulse.

Evolution of Over time, the technology surrounding wellbore departure has advanced from an
Wellbore expensive time consuming process to a possible one-trip, money saving
Departure operation.

 1950s-1960s—Section Milling
 A complete length of casing is removed
 1970s-1980s—Multi-Trip Window Milling
 Initial mill run followed by one or more lengthening runs
 1997—Trackmaster
 Reliable one-trip casing exit system
 2004—Trackmaster Plus
 Advanced technology servicing both simple and complex
applications

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 Two-Trip The two-trip sidetracking system is less expensive than using the Trackmaster
Sidetracking Plus, but it does take more time to do the two trips.
System
In the first run:

 Whipstock assembly is lowered into the

wellbore on the starter mill
 Oriented and set
 Starter mill is sheared from the assembly,
then used to initiate cut-out, then tripped out
of well

The second trip:

 The second milling assembly completes the

window and drills the rathole
 Assembly is tripped out of the hole

One-Trip The Trackmaster Plus system was designed to complete a job

Sidetracking with just one run. It can do everything from cutting out to
System drilling the rathole. The type of formation may affect the
Trackmaster
Run 1 Plus’s ability to accomplish this feat; very rarely Run 2
are two trips required to perform a job.

The advantages of the Trackmaster Plus:

 Eliminates multi-trip runs

 Aggressive initial ramp to ensure quick efficient cut
out
 Mid-whip ramp to reduce core problems and milling
time
 Full gauge mills to ensure full gauge window and
rathole

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Assembly Components

Introduction A wellbore departure job can be performed in both cased and open holes. The
Trackmaster Plus system is designed as a cased hole sidetracking system, but is
successful when used in conjunction with the Hydraulic Set Expandable Anchor.
Open hole sizes where completions can be performed range from 6-1/8” to
12-¼”.

Cased Hole and There are many possible variations for sidetracking assemblies. For the purposes
Open Hole of this course, the two main assemblies are open hole and cased hole. This section
covers all of the tools to be found in either system.

Cased Hole
There are six major
components included in every
assembly. These tools also
happen to be the major
components in a cased hole.

 Bypass Valve
 Running Tool
 Drill Pipe
 Tri-Mill
 Whipstock
 Mechanical Anchor

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Open Hole
An open hole system uses
slightly different tools to
complete a job.

 Expandable Anchor
 Open Hole Whipstock
 Roller Cone Bit
 Positive Displacement
Motor
 Running Tool
 Hevi-Wate Drill Pipe
 Non Advancing Multi-
cycle Bypass Valve

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Anchors

Introduction The next few sections will discuss the basic components that are in a whipstock.
The components are discussed in order from bottom (anchor) to the top (drill
pipe).

The anchor is the component that creates a solid base for the whipstock to sit on
during orientation and milling. The following anchors are those that are most
commonly used.

Mechanically Set The mechanically set anchor should be used only in a cased wellbore.
Anchor It is initially set with 3,000-3,500 lbf, which triggers the slips to move
to the setting position. A second weight load will set the anchor.

Using a mechanical anchor requires the customer to provide a solid

base such as a bridge plug or cement plug to initiate setting. A solid
surface is required for the spring-loaded plunger of the anchor to
function properly. A pre-determined amount of weight needs to be
applied to force the plunger into the body of the anchor, driving the
slips outward to engage the wellbore wall. Friction holds the slips in
place against the casing.

This anchor works in a 4 ½” to 9 5/8” casing ID range.

Hydraulically Set The hydraulically set anchor should be used only in a cased wellbore. It
Anchor is locked into postion when hydraulic pressure between 3,000-3,500 psi
is applied. The anchor serves to absorb the load variations that occur
during the milling operation.

Many people consider hydraulically set anchors to be a better option

because it can be set at any point in the wellbore with pressure from the
surface. The customer does not have to provide a solid base to activate
slips.

This anchor is one of the best on the market.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Expandable Expandable anchors can be used in either cased or open holes. They are
Anchors capable of being used in a variety of wellbore diameters. The slips lock
at three points, 120º apart, providing a stable anchor that is capable of
being removed by a straight pull. In a cased hole a debris barrier should
be run if the whip is to be retrieved.

The expandable anchor is hydraulically set at pressures of 3,000-3,500

psi. As you pressure up, the slips expand. The slips have inserts that dig
into the sides of the casing and offers a high axial load capacity.

The expandable anchor covers several sizes. For example, one size can
cover four different jobs; using a regular (or older) version would
require a different anchor for each job. This is also a good anchor to
choose if there are formation or casing ID inconsistencies.

This anchor is one of the best on the market.

Size OD (in) Torque (lbf-ft) Weight (lb)

4½x7 3.69 6,000 50,000

7 x 9 5/8 5.62 30,000 100,000
9 5/8 x 13 3/8 8.00 50,000 150,000
13 3/8 x 20 11.75 80,000 150,000

Permanent A permanent packer is sometimes used in place of an anchor; mostly in

Packer (Anchor) cases where the customer wants to go back into the lower zone after
retrieving the whip. A minimum of 3,000 psi is required to ensure
complete setting of the anchor. The permanent packers that can be used
as an anchor in a whipstock job include the MDF, MDFBB, and
Millennium.

The permanent packer to be removed has to be washed over. The

customer needs to be aware so they understand what using a permanent
packer entails.

Permanent packers range in sizes from 5 ½” to 13 3/8”.

MDF Packer

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Canfish Anchor The canfish anchors are still being used in the field. Sales and
operations should be aware that these tools exist in the districts.
Canfish mechanical anchor is extremely effective for securing the
Trackmaster Plus Whipstocks in place during sidetracking operations.
The Canfish mechanical anchor can be set on any solid bottom such
as a cement plug, bridge plug or packer. Decentralized slip actuation
provides wedge action inside the casing for superior anti-rotation and
one-directional loading capabilities.

Some features and benefits of a Canfish anchor include:

 Fully retrievable
 Easy set and retrieve
 Stiff design eliminates any chance of whipstock falling across
the hole.
 Tri-directional slip eliminates any chance of rotation.

Bridge Plug A bridge plug is the customer supplied downhole

foundation that weight is applied to in order to set
the mechanical anchor (gradually up to 3,600 lbs. is
set on here to shear the pins on the plunger).

Make sure to ask the customer follow-up questions

about their job if it appears they need a bridge plug
but have not made a decision yet. Try to sell the
bridge plug and wireline service to place bridge plug
with the whipstock job.

 The mechanical anchor needs a bridge plug in order to set.

Cast Iron Bridge Plugs

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Whipstocks

Introduction The introduction of Trackmaster Plus technology into the design

of the whipstocks has helped improve the performance of the
tool. The whip guides the mill to the wall of the wellbore. As the
mill moves down the ramp, it starts milling the casing. Each
whip is equipped with a retrieval hook slot, internal oil
repository for hydraulic fluid, and a bore to accommodate the
shear bolt that attaches to the mills.

Trackmaster Plus whipstocks feature a(n):

Trackmaster Plus
Whips  Customized whipstock designed to mill a customized
window
 Multi-ramp design to guide the milling tool effectively
and expediently through the casing and into the
formation.
 Increased slide length on extended gauge
 Full gauge window
 Low dogleg severity across the window

Other whipstocks include the Hard Formation and Geo- Track.

Hard Formation Whipstock

The Hard Formation Whipstock has a shortened full gauge
section for quick departure. It also has a short slide, which is best
for open hole sidetracking.

GeoTrack Whipstock
The GeoTrack Whipstock has mid-ramp geometry. It delivers a
full gauge window and provides low dogleg severity across the
window.

Trackmaster
Plus Whip

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mid-Ramp A proprietary feature of Schlumberger
whipstocks is the mid-ramp. The mid-
ramp aids the mill in cutting out of the
casing by helping deflect the mill across
the center point. This prevents problems
and reduces center point coring.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mill/Whip All Trackmaster Plus Whipstock Systems use updated window mill to whipstock
Hook-Up attachment technology. The mill/whip hook-up is designed to provide higher
torque values while delivering the same reliable shear performance. This non-
threaded retention system allows up to 3º of flex between the milling assembly
and the whipstock to facilitate passage through high doglegs in the wellbore.

Whip Selection Selecting a whip requires knowledge about the well as well as the plans for the
Criteria future of the sidetracking operation and well. The following items are areas of
focus for making a selection:

 Directional objectives
 Multi-lateral concerns
 Rathole length
 Window requirements
 Unconfined compressive strength of the formation at the kick-off point
(KOP)
 Cement quality behind the casing
 Casing integrity
 Return on investment (ROI)—will the reduction in the wellbore diameter
be enough to justify the cost based on potential production increases?

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Mills

Introduction The mill is one of the most important components in the whipstock system.
Schlumberger mills used in sidetracking applications are among the best in the
industry. The customized mills ensure consistent, efficient window cutting and
productive rathole drilling.

A good cutting structure is important for a consistently successful one-trip

whipstock system. If you do not have the right mill, there is the possibility of
having to make multiple trips to change out mills. The Trackmaster Plus system
can consistently mill the window and go some distance into the formation in one
trip.

Cutter Trackmaster mills currently use four types of cutters, crushed sintered carbide,
Technology tungsten carbide inserts (TCI), millmaster inserts, and various polycrystalline
diamond composite (PDC) cutters. Each of these cutter types is ideal for various
downhole conditions. Factors such as temperature and formation will affect the
type of cutter best suited for a job.

Crushed Sintered Carbide

The crushed sintered carbide is used to
provide hardness and durability on drilling
tools. Specifically, crushed sintered carbide is
useful in deep drilling where the drilling tool
is exposed to impact with pieces of rock and
erosion as the cuttings are circulated up the
hole.

Millmaster Inserts
Millmaster inserts are used on the leading
edge of the follow and dress mills. The flat
square inserts are designed to control or
lessen the wear on the mills and to aid in
the milling and cleaning of the window.
The application of the inserts varies
depending on location.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Tungsten Carbide Inserts (TCI)
The tungsten carbide inserts are ideal for use
on milling the window. TCIs are the best tool
for cutting steel, but are not very effective
when used in high compressive strength
formations. TCIs are often used on the cutting
or lead edge of a mill to help cut the casing
and to protect the PDC inserts.

Polycrystalline Diamond Composite (PDC)

PDC cutters are more commonly used on
the Hard Formation and GeoTrack
systems. They work best in formations
with high compressive strength.

Roller Cone Bit In an open hole assembly a modified

(Open Hole) Smith Bits roller cone bit is used. The bit
is attaches to the whip tip neatly between
the cones and leg segments.

In this system, a hydraulic conduit goes

through the bit, which sets the anchor. A
burst disc in the roller cone connection
isolates the fluid from the annulus and
holds pressure for setting the anchor.

Once the bit is sheared from the

whipstock, the control line breaks free
from the bit. Once the burst disc
ruptures, fluid can exit through the bit
jets.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 The Tri-Milling  Lead Mill
Assembly (Cased  Full gauge
Hole)  Designed to initiate the cut-out
and mill the window further as
it slides down the whipface
 Drills the rathole
 Follow Mill
 Full gauge
 Engages with casing as the
lead mill travels down the
ramp and elongates the
window
 Dress Mill
 Full gauge
 Designed to dress the window
as the entire assembly passes
though the casing

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Trackmaster Plus Bi-Mill
FasTrack Bi- and The bi-mill is a necessary tool because it is more flexible, making it
Tri-Mill an ideal option for hard formations. The bi-mill is ideal for ratholes
3-10 feet in length and double casing exits. Often, this tool is part of
the Trackmaster Plus FasTrack system. It can also be used as a stand-
alone component in applications where the DLS is going to be high.

Tri-Mill
The Trackmaster Plus FasTrack Tri-Mill utilizes tungsten carbide
cylindrical cutters and crushed tungsten carbide rather than
conventional carbide inserts. The inserts are strategically placed; they
will effectively exit the casing and cut through the formation to drill
the required rathole. These cutters are ideal for both conventional and
extended ratholes.

PDC cutters are also available for this mill. The FasTrack Tri-Mill
not only reduces overall casing exit time, it ensures a level of
performance that can be duplicated consistently. The mill provides a
hydraulic path from the milling BHA to the whip and anchor via a
hydraulic hose. Generally, for the FasTrack Mill:

 Average job time is 20 hours

 Average milling time is 3 hours
 90% of job is completed in under 5 hours
 Dresses the window
 Used more in offshore applications
 Ideal for high compressive strength formations
 Ideal for cased hole, land applications

These statistics may vary depending on casing data and well

conditions.
Tri-Mill
Trackmaster Plus The Trackmaster Plus Hard Formation Bi-Mill makes it easier to
Hard Formation get off the whip and into the formation (especially open hole
Bi-Mill applications). A blend of synthetic diamond and cobalt has
resulted in a PDC cutting structure capable of milling such
materials as casing and drilling formations with compressive
strengths greater than 20,000 psi. The Trackmaster Plus Hard
Formation Bi-Mill is capable of drilling 3- to 15-feet of rathole. It
can be used as the lead mill on both bi-mill and tri-mill
configurations. The mill provides a hydraulic path from milling
BHA to the whip and anchor via a hydraulic hose.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Trackmaster Plus The Trackmaster Plus GeoTrack Mill has an impact wear resistant PDC cutting
GeoTrack Mill structure capable of milling materials such as casing, and drill an extended rathole
in a single trip. The mill is designed for high penetration rates and steerability.
The jet nozzles are placed strategically to ensure cutter cooling and good hole
cleaning. PDC technology ensures its ruggedness and quick cutting power. PDC
inserts will provide effective casing milling and formation drilling in one trip.
Used with drill ahead systems.

Trackmaster Plus The Trackmaster Plus CRA (corrosion resistant alloy) milling system consists of
CRA Milling a FasTrack Bi-Mill assembly for exiting through high chrome (22-25%) alloy
System casings. The FasTrack mill utilizes a special impact and wear resistant tungsten
carbide cylindrical insert capable of milling 25% chrome materials and desired
rathole in a single trip. The follow mill of the bi-mill system is machined integral
to the mandrel body having capacity of brazing cylindrical tungsten carbide
inserts into the machined pockets similar to the FasTrack mill heads. The inserts
are coated for minimizing the wear associated with milling high chrome
materials. The hydraulic path for setting the anchor is provided by the hydraulic
hose connecting the mill to the whip.

Center Point Center point is when the center of the

mill crosses the wall of the casing. The
center of the mill does not move (a
necessary design) and this could
potentially cause some concern. The
proprietary Schlumberger mid-ramp
helps to alleviate this concern by
providing a means to help the center of
the mill get across the casing.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mill Selection Selecting the proper mill for a job can be a difficult task. Time and experience
Criteria will help with making this decision. There are many factors that go into choosing
the right mill:

 Formation type/characteristics
 Hard spots or stringers?
 Compressive strength of formation
 Greater than 20,000 psi compressive strength?
 Rathole length
 10 ft., 100 ft., 1,000 ft.?
 Directional concerns
 How long does the window need to be?
 What does the radius and the build need to be?

Running Tool The running tool is made up above the mill system, which contains a
floating piston. The floating piston serves as a barrier between the
clean hydraulic fluid within the running tool and the drilling fluid
that is in the drill string above. The clean hydraulic fluid is used to set
the anchor/packer. The floating piston prevents contaminants from
plugging the hydraulic lines, which could prevent setting of the
anchor.

The operator fills the running tool with hydraulic fluid on the rig
floor.

The Trackmaster Plus running tool offers the following features:

 Run directly above mill for hydraulic setting anchor

 Designed to withstand rotational bending stresses during
sidetrack operation
 Piston moves into cavity to allow circulation to mill

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Orientation Devices

Introduction There are two types of orientation devices typically used in a whipstock operation
—gyroscope and measurement while drilling (MWD). Each type requires a
specific value to aid in operation and orientation. The two types of valves that are
available from Schlumberger: the non-advancing multi-cycle bypass valve
(NAMCBV) and the high flow valve. The selection of valves can be dependent
on how the customer plans to orientate the mill. The multi-cycle bypass valve can
be used for both MWD and gyro orientation measures, while the high flow by-
pass valve should only be used if the customer plans to orient with a gyroscope
where it is not necessary to pump on the string to orient the whipstock.

The Non- The NAMCBV allows fluid to be pumped downhole

Advancing without setting the anchor; this allows the operator to
Multi-Cycle orient the whip with an MWD. The valve is manually
Bypass Valve set to the open position to prevent pressure and fluid
from setting the anchor. The drill pipe fills with mud
while going downhole with the NAMCBV. Once
downhole, the valve allows circulation to occur,
which transmits information back to surface from the
MWD in pulses.

The NAMCBV can also be closed; this will require

It takes six cycles of the valve to advance. Once
turning the pumps on and the valve has completes
Pathfinder
off to bring the valve to the all six cycles, pressure is
closed position. Gyrodata
administered to set the
anchor. If you are unable to
orient the whipstock by the
sixth cycle, the tool has to be pulled out of the hole
and reset. Usually the tool is set up to begin on the
second cycle position.

The MWD requires a high fluid flow so strong

signals can be sent back to the surface. The absence
of a valve would also make it impossible for fluid to
exit, which would pressure up the string and cause
the anchor to set.
NAMCBV

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 UBHO If there is no valve present when using an MWD, the anchor needs to
be set with the use of a gyro and universal bottom hole orienting
(UBHO) sub. The UBHO is a profile sub that allows the ‘key’ or
wireline tool to fit into the anchor so it will stay in line during
rotation.

UBHO

 Beware of running a float valve in an assembly using the NAMCBV. If one is

used, reverse circulation cannot take place.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 High Flow Bypass Valve
The high flow by-pass valve allows low-flow circulation of drilling
fluid to the annulus; this aids in orientation using a gyro. Some
locations prefer to use the high flow valve because of its simplicity
and reliability.

A wireline gyroscope is generally

used where magnetic directional
control cannot be obtained. A high
flow valve should be used with this
orientation system. The high flow
bypass valve is not a good companion
tool for MWD because of slow
circulation at any great length. This is
because the amount of fluid required
to set MWD could prematurely set the
anchor.

The high flow bypass valve was

designed to function at two different
flow rates. The piston for the valve is
held open with shear pins. The low
flow rate is for the gyro orientation
and the higher flow rate is used to Gyro Internal
close the valve and set the
anchor/packer.

Which valve is used most often in your area? Why is it the best option?

 ______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 26

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Drill Collars Drill collars are stiff, very thick walled BHA components. These can
be used to provide weight-on-bit (WOB) or weight on mill for
sidetracking operations. Typically used in cased holes, drill
collars help supply the weight necessary to set the mechanical
anchor, although HWDP may also be substituted.

When drill collars are used in a sidetracking operation, they are

place in the BHA so they remain in the vertical section of the
hole.

Drill Spiral
Collar Drill
Collar

Drill Pipe or Hevi- Standard weight drill pipe is a thick walled (compared to tubing and casing)
Wate Drill Pipe hollow pipe with a bore through its center to allow the flow of drilling fluid
during the drilling process. Drill pipe performs the same job in a sidetracking
operation as in a drilling operation; it makes up the difference between the top of
the bottom hole assembly (BHA) and the surface. In sidetracking operations
involving measurement while drilling (MWD), the drill pipe ID is especially
important for fluid flow.

Hevi-Wate Drill Pipe (HWDP) is an alternative to or is used in addition to drill

pipe, depending on the sidetracking operation. Often in open hole applications the
HWDP is used as a flex joint. HWDP is available in conventional or spiral.

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 27

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Conventional
Drill Pipe Spiral HWDP HWDP

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 28

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Exercise: Whipstock Assembly Components

Answer the following questions based on the information covered up to this point of the chapter.

1. What are the ideal applications for a Trackmaster Plus FasTrack Tri- and Bi-Mill?

2. What applications are ideal for the Trackmaster Plus Hard Formation Bi-Mill?

3. What criteria are used in choosing a whipstock?

4. What component is necessary when using a mechanically set anchor?

5. Why would an anchor packer be used instead of a standard anchor?

6. How many cycles are available on the NAMCBV? Why are there so many?

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 7. What affects the selection of the valves? Why use an NAMCBV instead of a high flow
bypass valve?

8. What is the purpose of the flex joint?

9. When is it necessary to use a bridge plug (although it is always recommended)?

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 30

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Accessories

Debris Barrier A debris barrier is designed to catch debris that would otherwise fall to the top of
the anchor and interfere with retrieval. Available for every anchor, this device is
most necessary when anchor retrieval is planned.

Retrieval Tools Hook Retrieval Tool

The hook retrieval tool is designed to retrieve whipstocks. It
has a tab that fits into the hook retrieval slot of the whipstock.
The operator needs to make sure they have the correct
measurements so they do not accidentally hook into the
window instead of the whip. Additional equipment can be
used to remove a whipstock includes several sections of drill
pipe, HWDP, a crossover, full gauge stabilizer and surveying
equipment. This is the most common method of whipstock
retrieval used.

Features of the hook retrieval tool include:

 Orient hook tang to whip hook slot with gyro or MWD

(also possible to hook without the use of an orientation
device)
 Torque is not required and is very easy to engage and
disengage
 High overpull strength
 Nozzle to jet-wash hook slot free of debris

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 31

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Die Collar Assembly Retrieval Tool
The die collar retrieval tool serves to retrieve the whipstock by
fitting over the end of the whipstock and threading onto it. In
the process, the cut lip design of the retrieval tool separates the
wall of the whipstock from the wall of the wellbore. The
customer typically doesn’t prefer this retrieval method because if
the die cannot be removed from the whip while the
components are on the rig floor, there is an additional charge to
ship it back and have it done in the shop. This retrieval method is
most commonly used with a whipstock assembly using a
permanent packer for an anchor.

Features of the die collar assembly retrieval tool include:

 Superior design over standard rotary die collars

 Cut lip guide makes it easier to slide over whip
 Tapered wickers are deep for strong engagement
 Deep bore above wickers avoids premature
engagement
 Designed to grab the largest possible cross-section of
the whip

Which do you think is a better option to use, the hook retrieval tool or a die collar

 assembly retrieval tool?

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 32

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
Basic Sidetracking Steps

Run In Hole The first step to a sidetracking

operation is to run the equipment into
the hole. Run in the hole at a
reasonable rate, approximately 2-3
minutes per stand. Running in the hole
too quickly will cause the whipstock
to set, thus stopping the assembly and
causing the rest of the assembly to
shear off.

The block should be in the unlocked

position. Monitor weight indicator for
hole drag and trip tank for proper fill
up.

Orient the Whipstocks can be orientated using

Whipstock gyro or MWD. This is usually the job
of the directional driller or the
surveyor on location (they will let the
operator know where the whipstock
is orientated). For legal purposes,
verify with the directional driller or
surveyor and the company man that
the whipstock is in the correct place
before setting it.

Once the whipstock is pointing in the

direction needed, move the assembly
up and down (stroke it) to make sure
there is no trapped torque and that
the whipstock is still orientated
correctly.

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Set the Anchor Set the anchor once the whipstock has been orientated. The anchors are set
differently depending on the size and whether the anchor is mechanical or
hydraulic.

Hydraulic Anchor
Gradually apply 3,000-3,500 psi
hydraulic pressure to set the
anchor. The more pressure
applied, the deeper the anchor
bites into the casing. This method is
also for the expandable anchor or a
permanent packer. The anchor can
be set at any depth necessary. In a
cased hole, it needs to be set
immediately above the casing
collar. It should be set at 0º-90º
right or left of the high side of the
hole.

Mechanical Anchor
The amount of weight needed to set a mechanical anchor varies according to the
size. The Trackmaster Plus operation manual has a chart that lists the appropriate
weight needed to set each size anchor.

The anchor can be set at any depth necessary, but a solid base is needed to active
the anchor. In a cased hole, it needs to be set immediately above the casing collar.
It should be set at 0º-90º right or left of the high side of the hole.
Free the Mill Apply the necessary downward
weight for a mechanical anchor and
upward weight for the hydraulic
anchor. This will break the shear
bolt and free the mill. This weight
varies depending on the size whip
used.

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 34

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Mill the Window Mill the window once the mill has
been freed. As the mill moves down
the slide, the operator needs to be
aware of what the mill is doing at
each stage.

The operator should discuss the flow

rates with the customer for
assurance the flow rate is good
enough to circulate the cuttings out
of the hole.

Mills like to go in the direction of least resistance. During a cut out there are
times the whipstock can be milled instead of the casing or formation. This usually

 happens if the mill is not strong enough to cut the casing or formation. This is
why it is important to select the correct mill and assembly and to use the correct
milling parameters outlined in the Trackmaster Plus operation’s manual.

Trackmaster Plus The type of window needed on a

Profile Window sidetracking job is dependant on a varitey
of factors. First, the dogleg severity of the
area where the window will be placed.
Second, what tools will eventually pass
through the window.

What are other factors that will determine the type of window needed in a

 sidetracking job?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

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Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge
 Drill the Rathole Make several reaming passes
through the window and back to
the bottom to clean up any burrs,
after milling the window. Check
against possible fill. Once the
reaming is complete, stop rotating
and back through the window. The
operator should look for anything
unusual. If drag is encountered,
start rotating again and ream out
until smooth.

Criteria for Over the life of a well there may come a time at which the bore path needs to be
Successful Casing changed. It is sometimes the result of a blockage in the bore and sometimes a
Exit procedure to improve production. A variety of factors will affect how quickly a
sidetracking operation can be performed. The following is a list of criteria for a
successful sidetracking operation:

 The new window must be smooth with no hang ups going either in or out.
 The rathole must be to the specifications of the customer.
 The operation must have been completed in the least number of trips
possible (hopefully one trip).
 Standard drilling operations must be accomodated by the new window
and rathole.

©2010 Schlumberger Introduction to Wellbore Departure Page 36

Chapter 1 – Basic Knowledge