Balac Srdan MSC 2019

Master thesis
FULL DESIGN OF A DRILLING MUD PUMP AND FLOW

PROGRAM
Srđan Balać
TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF CRETE DEPARTMENT OF MINERAL
RESOURCES ENGINEERING
The undersigned hereby certify that they have read and recommended to the Faculty of
Mineral Resources Engineering for acceptance a thesis entitled “Full Design of a Drilling Mud
Pump and Flow Program ‘’ by Srđan Balać in requirements for the degree of Master of Science.
Examination committee:
Supervisor Prof. Dr Nikos Pasadakis
Scientific advisor Assist. Prof. Gaganis Vassilis
Professor Dr Dimitris Marinakis
Date of presenting: _________________07.02.2019_______________
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Acknowledgement
This work could not have been completed without the assistance and supervising of Prof.
Nikos Pasadakis.
He has been a real source of motivation during this work by giving new challenges and
developing me engineering way of thinking.
His is always there when you need help with his valuable comments, guidelines, and
interesting discussions during this study.
I would also like to thank all the professors at the MSc Petroleum Engineering program for
their effort and unrelenting attitude to teach and inspire students, but most of all preparing them
for future success in their engineering life in the petroleum industry. It was such a great honor to
study under Professor Pasadakis, Professor Varotsis, Dr. Marinakis, Dr. Kourounis, Dr. Maravelis,
and of course Dr. Gaganis.
Also, a big thank you to the secretary of the program, Mrs. Maria Michalogianaki; whose
guidance and leadership has helped in my successful completion of the program.
A special thank you for EKO Serbia A.D. Member of the Hellenic Petroleum Group that
provided me with the scholarship and give me opportunity to study at Technical University of
Crete as a student of Master petroleum engineering. I was honored to be your scholar and thank
you for your generosity.
Finally, I would like to show my appreciation to my family, friends and classmates for their
care and support, esspecily to my mom Olgica Balać, dad Milan Balać, brothers Danilo and
Tomislav Balać.
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Abstract
Drilling projects must be planned carefully as they need to be a balance of both efficiency
of drilling and the project expenditure; that is, the goal is to drill the well reaching target depth
with highest performance at the lowest cost.
When it comes to reducing the cost of a project, mud hydraulics are one of the most
important factors. By minimizing pressure loss, due to friction in drilling string and annulus,
maximum efficiency of the drilling bit and the maximum usage of pump pressure is achieved.
Knowing the rheology of the mud and the flow regime we can calculate pressure loss in
the system. Rheology studies the flow, or rather deformation of matter, described in terms of shear
rate and shear stress. Shear rate is defined as the flow velocity gradient in the direction
perpendicular to the flow direction. Hence, the higher the shear rate, the higher the friction between
the flowing particles. On the other hand, Fluids are described as Newtonian or non-Newtonian
depending on their response to shear stress.
Flow regime that appear in drilling are laminar flow, turbulent flow, and transitional flow.
Pressure loss in the system can be expressed by calculating fluid velocity and Reynolds number
for flow regimes. Circulating fluid must overcome friction between the fluid layers and the drill
pipe, hole walls or casing walls, as well as the friction between solid particles and fluid. The major
pressure loss occurs on the drilling bit nozzles. Therefore, pressure on the pump must be high
enough to compensate for it; and it is equal to sum of all these forces.
When it comes to the required hole cleaning and high rate of penetration, mud pumps are
the most important equipment for providing the bit hydraulics. Drilling hydraulics can always be
optimized by altering the pump liner, flow rate, and size of the nozzles; in accordance to the depth
of drilling.
In making an effective design, it is essential to have an understanding of hydraulics
problems, as well as all their possible causes; in order to prepare adequate solutions to overcome
delays, reduce operation costs, and reach the target.
This thesis studies hydraulics as a means of assisting the design of full flow programs, that
will in return give us the necessary mud pump specification for optimal drilling. Through modeling
this problem, the goal is to avoid potential drilling problems in order to ensure further efficient
drilling; especially in complex and inclined wells, where the hydraulic are usually more complex
because of well path and geometry.
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgement ...........................................................................................................3
Abstract ...........................................................................................................................4
List of figures ..................................................................................................................7
List of tables ....................................................................................................................8
Chapter 1 Basic of drilling ...............................................................................................9
1.1. Introduction ..........................................................................................................9
1.2. Drilling .................................................................................................................9
1.2.1. Borehole planning ..........................................................................................9
1.2.2. Well types ......................................................................................................9
1.2.3. Drilling rigs .................................................................................................. 10
1.2.4. Rotary Drilling System ................................................................................. 15
1.3. Mud circulation system ....................................................................................... 18
1.3.1. Mud pit ........................................................................................................ 19
1.3.2. Mud Pumps .................................................................................................. 19
1.3.3. Mud-mixing equipment ................................................................................ 22
1.3.4. Contaminant removal equipment .................................................................. 22
1.4. Drilling cost and significance of optimization ..................................................... 23
Chapter 2 Hydraulics calculation ................................................................................... 27
2.1. Introduction ........................................................................................................ 27
2.2. Drilling Fluids .............................................................................................. 27
2.2.1. Type of muds ............................................................................................... 27
2.2.2. Functions of mud ....................................................................................... 29
2.2.3. Properties and Characteristics .................................................................... 30
2.3. Mud hydraulics ............................................................................................. 31
2.3.1. Rheological models ...................................................................................... 31
2.4. Hydraulics calculation for different models ........................................................ 35
2.4.1. Reynolds number Newtonian fluids .............................................................. 36
2.4.2. Bingham plastic fluids .................................................................................. 37
2.4.3. Power Law fluids ......................................................................................... 37
2.4.4. Herschel-Bulkley Fluids ............................................................................... 38
2.5. Pressure loss ................................................................................................. 39
Chapter 3 Requirements and Optimization ..................................................................... 48
3.1. Introduction ........................................................................................................ 48
3.2. Mud flow rate requirements ................................................................................ 48
3.2.1. Extreme mud properties ............................................................................... 48
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3.2.2. Extreme annular geometry............................................................................ 48
3.2.3. The minimum required flow rate .................................................................. 48
3.3. Pressure requirements ........................................................................................ 49
3.3.1. Extreme borehole configuration and conditions ............................................ 49
3.3.2. Circulating pressure...................................................................................... 49
3.3.3. Minimum required pressure .......................................................................... 50
3.3.4. Horsepower requirements ............................................................................. 51
3.4. Optimizing the drill bit hydraulics ....................................................................... 52
3.4.1. The maximum bit hydraulic horsepower ....................................................... 52
3.4.2. The maximum jet impact force ..................................................................... 53
3.4.3. The maximum nozzle velocity ...................................................................... 53
Chapter 4 Model details and used Methodology for solving ........................................... 54
4.1. Model details ...................................................................................................... 54
4.1.1. Drilling 36’’ hole ......................................................................................... 55
4.1.2. The Second section 28” HOLE: ................................................................. 56
4.1.3. The Third section 23” HOLE: .................................................................... 56
4.1.4. The Fourth section 16” HOLE: .................................................................. 57
4.1.5 The Fifth section 12-1/4” HOLE: .................................................................. 58
4.1.6. The sixth section 8-1/2” HOLE: ................................................................. 59
4.1.7. The seventh section 6” HOLE : .................................................................. 59
4.2. Methodology................................................................................................. 60
Chapter 5 Results and discussion ................................................................................... 63
5.1. First stage ..................................................................................................... 63
5.2. Second stage ................................................................................................. 65
5.3. Third stage .................................................................................................... 67
5.4. Fourth stage .................................................................................................. 69
5.5. Fifth stage ..................................................................................................... 71
5.6. Sixth stage .................................................................................................... 73
5.7. Seventh stage ................................................................................................ 75
5.8. Overall results ............................................................................................... 77
Chapter 6 Conclusion .................................................................................................... 79
References ..................................................................................................................... 80
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List of figures
1.1. Classification of Rotary Drilling Rigs, Applied Drilling Engineering. SPE
Textbook Series …………………………………………………………….. 10
1.2. Jackknife, …………………………………………………………… 11
1.3. Portable mast, https://skyledllc.com/store/wilson-model-75-double-drum-
carrier-mounted-portable-drilling-rig/ 19.11.2018. …………………………. 12
1.4. Barge, http://www.oil-gasportal.com/drilling/offshore-drilling-rigs/
19.11.2018…………………………………………………………………… 13
1.5. Platform, https://www.fastcompany.com/41051/life-board-gulf-mexico-oil-
drilling-platform 19.11.2018. ……………………………………………… 13
1.6. Jackup rig, https://www.rigzone.com/training/insight.asp?insight_id=339
19.11.2018. …………………………………………………………………… 14
1.7. Semisubmersible,
https://www.rigzone.com/training/insight.asp?insight_id=338 19.11.2018. … 14
1.8. Drillship, https://www.rigzone.com/training/insight.asp?insight_id=306
19.11.2018. …………………………………………………………………….. 15
1.9. Basic elements of rotary system, Applied Drilling Engineering. SPE
Textbook Series……………….……………………………………………… 16
1.10. Circulating system, Tehnologija Bušenja sa Projektovanjem ………. 18
1.11. Mud pits, private collection …………………………………………. 19
1.12. Mud pumps, private collection ……………………………………… 20
1.13. a) duplex double-acting pump b) triplex single-acting pump, Fundamentals
of Drilling Engineering, SPE Textbook Series …………………….……… 20
1.14. Trichter for adding additives in drilling mud. private collection ……….22
1.15. Vibrating screens, private collecton ………………………………… 23
1.16. Desander and Desilter, private collection …………………………… 23
2.1. Shear stress vs shear rate for Newtonian fluid, Fundamentals of Drilling
Engineering, SPE Textbook Series ……………………..………………………31
2.2. Shear stress vs shear rate for Bingham plastic fluid. Applied Drilling
Circulation Systems Hydraulics, Calculations, And Models, Elsevier Inc ……..32
2.3. Shear stress vs shear rate for Power Law fluid, Fundamentals of Drilling
Engineering, SPE Textbook Series……………………………………………. 34
2.4. Shear stress vs shear rate for Herschel-Bulkley fluids, Fundamentals
of Drilling Engineering, SPE Textbook Series ……………………………. 35
4.1. Well diagram …………………………………………………………... 55
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List of tables
1. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 36’’…………………………..56
2. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 28’’………………………… 56
3. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 23’’ …………………………. 57
4. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 16’’ …………………………. 57
5. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 12 1/4’’ ………………………58
6. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 8 1/2’’ ………………………. 58
7. BHA program and drill bit program for hole 6’’ ………………………… 60
8. Casing program ………………………………………………………… 60
9. First stage results ………………………………………………………….. 63
10. Second stage results ……………………………………………………….. 65
11. Third stage results …………………………………………………………. 67
12. Fourth stage results ………………………………………………………… 69
13. Fifth stage results ……………………………………………………………71
14. Sixth stage results ………………………………………………………… 73
15. Seventh stage results……………………………………………………… 75
16. Full requirements for pump to drill the well ………………………………..77
17. Technical data for triplex pump https://www.products.slb.com/-
/media/cam/resources/2014/10/17/14/28/wh-and-w-series-mud-pumps-
brochure.ashx ………………………………………………………………78
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Chapter 1 Basic of drilling
1.1. Introduction
Drilling exploration and exploitation wells require huge capital investments; it can take up
to more than 40% of whole project for exploration and developing the field (Bourgoyne, 1986).
Therefore, it must be planed carefully and there needs to be a balance between the efficiency of
drilling and the costs. That is, the goal is to drill the well reaching target depth with optimal
performance at minimal cost. In this chapter, we will take a brief look at the basics of drilling and
the necessary equipment. Although, this project is aimed at design and optimization of mud pumps,
its implications go far beyond that. Hence, we will further highlight its significance in other drilling
projects.
1.2. Drilling
1.2.1. Borehole planning
Simply reaching the target depth does not imply a successful outcome. Well designs should
fulfil these general requirements: safety, minimum costs, and functionality. Different variables
influence well designs and a program that defines these variables is termed as Borehole Planning.
Health, safety and the environment are imperative, and must be considered at all times.
Due to the nature of the work, human error must be avoided as much as possible, as it may lead to
serious injury, or even loss of human life. Furthermore, the safety of the well itself must be
evaluated in order to avoid eruptions, mud loss in formation, and other problems that threaten the
safety of workers and their environment. Furthermore, another factor that should be taken into
consideration is the costs of the project. Risk and cost management is a key part of project
development, and it must be done with care.
1.2.2. Well types
Wells can be classified either according to their purpose of use, or according to the type of
fluid that they produce or inject. Based on their purpose there are:
1. Wildcat wells – based on seismic data in an area where very little is known about
the geology, and no drilling projects were conducted before. Very high cost and
high-risk drilling, as it is likely to lead to a dry well.
2. Exploration wells – drilled solely for the purpose of gathering information in a new
area.
3. Appraisal wells – used to assess characteristics (e.g. flow rate) of a proven
hydrocarbon reservoir.
4. Production wells – drilled primarily for producing oil or gas once the producing
structure and characteristics are established.
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On the other hand, most wells produce a mixture of oil, gas and water. Depending on their
production they can be classified in 5 groups:
1. Oil producers
2. Gas producers
3. Aquifer producers
4. Water injectors
5. Gas injectors
1.2.3. Drilling rigs
Drilling rigs are primary used for drilling the well. However, they can also be used for
installing the casing and cementing, as well as doing well testing while drilling.
Depending on the location of where the drilling operations are conducted, drilling rings
can be classified into, two big groups; land or marine (Figure 1.1). When it comes to the drilling
technology and the design of the borehole, there are no significant differences between land and
water installations. However, the cost of equipment for offshore drilling rigs is much higher; and
is progressively increasing with the water depth.
Figure 1.1. Classification of Rotary Drilling Rigs.
Onshore, that is, land rigs can be further divided into two subgroups:
1. Conventional Rigs - use a standard derrick, that used to be built on location before
drilling the well, and is dismantled before moving to the new location. However
sometimes, if necessary, the installation stays on the location in case of workover
jobs (e.g. installing the production pump)
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2. Mobile Rigs - due to the high cost of installation for conventional rigs, mobile rigs
are used as a cheaper and easier transporting alternative.
a. The Jackknife derrick (Figure 1.2) is assembled on the ground using
hoisting equipment to be raised as a unit.
b. The Portable Mast (Figure 1.3) is commonly mounted on the wheel trucks
or trailers; it has a hoisting system, engines, and derrick acting as a single
unit. The portable unit must be lifted vertically before stretching to its full
height, after which it stretches to the full height by an hydraulic system
(Mitchell, Miska ,2001).
Figure 1.2. Jackknife
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Figure 1.3. Portable mast
On the other hand, offshore, or the marine rigs are divided in two big subgroups
1. Bottom Supported Rigs - for shallow water and there are three main types
a. Barge (Figure 1.5) - is used for waters between 8ft and 20ft of depth, the
rig floats to the drill site where the lower hull is sunk to the sea bottom.
b. Platforms (Figure 1.) - use a jacket structure in order to provide support for
the surface production equipment, the living quarters, as well as the drilling
rig. They are meant for waters up to 1500ft of depth and can be used for
drilling multiple direction wells. Furthermore, they can be both a self-
contained or a tendered platform.
c. Jackups (Figure 1.6) - most commonly used bottom supported rigs, similar
to platforms except that their support legs are not permanently attached to
the seafloor. That is, the support legs can be jacked down to drill as well as
jacked up for transport. Jackups can be used for water
2. Floating Rigs - for deep water drilling, where attaching to the bottom is implausible.
Hence, they are floating vessels stabilized by an anchor or by a dynamic positioning
system. Because they are not restricted by the length of the rig’s legs, there is no
limitations when in it comes to the water depth besides the cost of operation; which
increases proportionally, the deeper it gets.
3. The Semisubmersible Rigs (Figure 1.7) are quite like the bottom supported barge
rigs, except that they can drill at a much higher depth of up to 6000ft. They are
usually anchored over the hole; however, a dynamic motion system can also be
used in order to stabilize the rig. They offer high stability; hence, they are used in
restless wavy waters,
4. Drilling ships (Figure 1,8) - they are less costly than the semi-submersible rigs, if
not using a dynamic motion system. They can operate at depths of up to 13000ft,
but they cannot sustain strong waves.
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Figure 1.4. Drilling Barge
Figure 1.5. Drilling Platform
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Figure 1.6. Jackup rig
Figure 1.7. The semisubmersible rig
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Figure 1.8. Drilling ship
1.2.4. Rotary Drilling System
The rotary drilling system (Figure 1.9) is the most widespread drilling system; it utilizes a
drill bit, which combines the downwards gravitational force and rotation of the system to create
cracking and breaking rock into smaller pieces. The rotation of the drill bit comes from a drill
string that is rotated on the surface either by a rotary table or a top driving drilling system. The
downward force comes from the weight of the pipes, which can be achieved through adding
drilling collars and heavy wall drilling pipes to the drilling string.
Drilling fluid circulates through the drilling string and bit nozzles, lifting up drilled
material; the drilled material is lifted up through the annulus up to the surface where it is separated
from the mud, so it may be reused later. Rotary drilling is the most widespread drilling system,
while the application of drilling motors is mainly reserved for directional and horizontal drilling.
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Figure 1.9. The Rotary Drilling Processes.
● 1.2.4.1. Basic elements of rotary system
Although drill rigs differ significantly when it comes to their external appearance, as well
as developed methods, all of them share the same basic elements.
1. Power system
Most drilling rigs are required to operate in a remote location where a power supply is not
available. Therefore, they must have a way to generate the necessary electrical power required to
operate the system. he total power requirements for most rigs are from 1000 to 3000 HP; and the
major users are mud pumps and drawworks. Older rigs used mechanical transmission systems, but
modern drilling rigs use electric transmission. Generally, this is accomplished through a power
system with a diesel engine as its prime mover, as well as some means of transmitting the power
to the end-use equipment; such as drawworks, rotary table, and mud pumps.
2. Hoist system
The hoisting system is a large pulley system used for lowering and raising equipment into
and out of the well. Primarily, it is used for the drill string and casing, and these operations are
known as making a connection and making a trip, respectively.
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The main parts of a hoist system are:
i. the derrick and substructure
ii. block and tackle
iii. drawworks
iv. miscellaneous hoisting equipment such as hooks, elevators, and weight
indicator.
3. Circulating system
The circulating system is necessary for removing the drilled cuttings from the face of the
bit; achieved by circulating fluid down through the drill string and up the annulus, this way the
drilled cuttings are carried to the surface.
4. Rotary system
The rotary system is used to rotate the drill string, and hence the drill bit on the bottom of
the borehole.
The main parts of a rotary system are:
i. The Swivel - positioned at the top of the drill string, it has three functions: to
support the weight of the drill string, to permit the string to rotate, and to allow mud to be
pumped while the string is rotating.
ii. The Kelly - the first section of pipe, right below the swivel. Usually 40’ long
with an outer hexagonal cross-section. This hexagonal, and sometimes square, shape is
necessary in order to transmit the rotation from the rotary table to the drill string. More
modern rigs use the top drive system in place of the kelly; where rotation is attained through
electrical or hydraulic motors.
5. Well-control system
The well control system regulates the flow of formation fluids from the wellbore; it enables
the driller to:
i. Detect a kick;
ii. Close the well at the surface;
iii. Circulate the well under pressure in order to remove the formation fluids and
increase the mud density;
iv. Move the drill string up and down with the well closed;
v. Divert the flow away from rig personnel and equipment;
A kick refers to the displacement of drilling fluid from the well, as a result of fluid
formation pressure being higher than the drilling fluid pressure. Failure to detect a kick, or other
malfunctions in the well-control system, may result in an uncontrolled flow of formation fluids
into the wellbore. This unwanted fluid production is called a blowout. In case of such an event a
Blowup preventer (BOP) is used. The BOP is a safety equipment, consisting of preventers,
accumulators for activation of the BOP, and the chock manifold.
6. Well-monitoring system
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Constant monitoring of some parameters is essential in order to improve safety, as well as
the efficiency of the process. Some of the major parameters that are monitored and recorded are:
well depth, load on the bit, pump pressure, pump rate, rotary speed, and torque.
1.3. Mud circulation system
Figure 1.10. Circulating system
The circulating system (Figure 1.10.) is one of six major aspects of the rotary drilling
process. It is a network of components in continuous motion, providing hydraulic power to drilling
mud during the drilling process. To generate desirable hydraulic power, mud pumps and primer
movers are used.
First, pumped drilling mud travels along the drilling string to the drill bit. there it is
released in the annulus through nozzles of the bit, later returning to the surface carrying produced
rock cuttings. Finally, on the surface drilling mud is removed out of the annulus using contaminant
removal equipment, and returned to mud pit for treatment and reusing. The recovered cuttings can
be used by geologists to identify which formation is being drilled so far.
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1.3.1. Mud pit
At the surface of the rig, mud pits (Figure 1.11.) are required for storing and preparing
drilling mud; to be used in the circulation process. Mud pits are a series of large interconnected
steel tanks fitted with motor-driven agitators; keeping solids in suspension. Some pits are used for
circulation and others are used for mixing and storing drilling mud. Fresh water and base oil, which
are used for making drilling fluids, are pumped from storage tanks.
Figure 1.11. Mud pits
1.3.2. Mud Pumps
Mud pumps (Figure1.12) are the heart of the circulating system; they deliver pressure
differential allowing the drilling fluid to flow. Usually there are at least two mud pumps on drilling
rigs, to ensure the rig does not stop working, in case of main pump failure and needs a replacement
There are two types of mud pumps used in the industry, the duplex (two-cylinder) and the
triplex (three-cylinder) pump; both using reciprocating positive-displacement pistons (Figure
1.13). By changing the diameters of pump liners and pistons, reciprocating positive-displacement
pumps have the ability to push high solids content mud and operate over wide range of pressures
and flow rates.
The duplex pump is generally double acting because of the double acting piston stroke.
Meaning the piston is pumped forward displacing fluid and then pumped backwards returning to
its previous position. Duplex pump can provide higher flow rate than triplex.
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Aside from its lighter and more compact size, the main advantage of the triplex pump is
that the piston is single action, and therefore cheaper to operate. The triplex pump design makes
up most of the mud pumps used on drilling rigs today. Triplex pump provides high pressure.
Figure 1.12. Mud pumps
Picture 1.13. a) duplex double-acting pump b) triplex single-acting pump
The discharge flow rate depends on: stroke length of each piston, rod size, liner size,
volumetric efficiency, and pumping speed. Pumping speed can be regulated with prime movers,
such as diesel engines or DC motors. Volumetric efficiency varies with the fluid properties. The
rod size changes with the size of liner.
The discharge flow for duplex pump depending on geometrical analysis can be calculated
with following equation (Guo et al., 2007).
qT=0.0068ev(2d12-d22)lN (3.1)
where:
qT – flow rate of duplex pump [gpm]
ev – volumetric efficiency, dimensionless
d1 - piston diameter [in]
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d2 - rod diameter [in]
l – stroke length [in]
N – pumping speed [spm]
The pumped volume per stroke is:

𝑒𝑣𝑑 2𝑙
qs = (3.2)
5,912
where:
qs - pumped volume per stroke [bbl]
Input for horsepower needed from prime movers can be calculated with following equation.
𝑝(2𝑑12 −𝑑22)𝑙𝑁
HP = (3.3)
252,101𝑒𝑚
Where:
HP – pump horsepower [hp]
Em – pump mechanical efficiency, dimensionless
The discharge flow for triplex pump depending on geometrical analysis can be calculated
with following equation.
qT=0.01evd2lN (3.4)
where:
qT – flow rate of triplex pump [gpm]
ev – volumetric efficiency, dimensionless
d - piston diameter [in]
l – stroke length [in]
N – pumping speed [spm]
The pumped volume per stroke is
𝑒𝑣𝑑 2𝑙
qs = (3.5)
4,118
where:
qs - pumped volume per stroke [bbl]
Input for horsepower needed from prime movers can be calculated with following equation.
21
𝑝𝑑 2 𝑙𝑁
HP = (3.6)
168,067𝑒𝑚
Where:
HP – pump horsepower [hp]
Em – pump mechanical efficiency, dimensionless
1.3.3. Mud-mixing equipment
Mud is mixed in the mud pit by adding in base–makeup water (for water base mud);
bentonite, polymers, or some other special additives. The quality of makeup water is one of the
most important factors in mixing a good mud. To get the most from bentonite fluid, water should
be warm and soft, otherwise there is a risk of inhibiting the performance of the bentonite and any
polymers added to the mix. When needed, trichter (Figure 1.14.) is used to slowly dose additives
in mud.
.
Figure 1.14. Trichter for adding additives in drilling mud.
1.3.4. Contaminant removal equipment
Once the drilling fluid reaches the surface and completes one cycle; passing through the
drill string, down to the drill bit and back up to the surface, it will contain solids, some gas (if
drilling is performed through the reservoir), and other contaminants. These non-drilling fluid
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products or contaminants must be removed in order to keep the required properties for drilling
mud.
The drilling fluid passes over a series of vibrating screens (Figure 1.15.) of different mesh
sizes. Tanks can also allow residue settling before the mud passes to the mud pits. Fine solids are
removed by other components such as de-sanders and de-silters; a combination of them is called a
mud cleaner or centrifuge.
Figure 1.15. Vibrating screens
Figure 1.16. Desander and Desilter
Removing all types of solids that are not desirable in drilling fluid we improve drilling
performance, and consequently reduces drilling costs. Fluids properly treated will:
i. Increase drilling rates, by enhancing cuttings removal
ii. Provide better bit hydraulics, due to lower fluid viscosity
iii. Avoid premature wear on surface equipment such as lines and the mud pumps
iv. Reduce formation damage
1.4. Drilling cost and significance of optimization
In order for a drilling project to be effective, there needs to be a design for the process of
drilling that is as safe and as cheap as possible.
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The estimation of drilling costs represents the last stage in design of the borehole project,
because it depends on the technical aspects of the designed borehole, and in many cases, it plays a
key factor in the evaluation for approval of the project.
Primarily, the cost of drilling depends on the location and depth of the well. Expenses of
drilling increase exponentially with depth and is calculated using the following equation:
C=a*ebd (4.1)
Where:
C – costs of drilling [$]
a,b – constants that depends on well location
d – depth of the well [ft]
For a more detailed analysis of the cost of drilling, these factors must be taken into account:
i. Equipment costs (location surface preparation, rig rental, facilities, tubulars, mud
program, cementing, casing program, formation evaluation...),
ii. Daily operative costs (rental crew, transportation, crew housing, drilling fluid treatment,
completion jobs, rig supervision etc...)
iii. Drilling time (drilling and completion, trip, casing placement, formation evaluation)
iv. Trouble time (losing circulation, stuck pipe, formation fracturing, fishing, mud
pollution…)
A Simple equation that is used to calculate costs of drilling. based on drill bit efficiency:
𝐶𝑏 +𝐶𝑟 ∗(𝑡𝑏+𝑡𝑡 +𝑡𝑐 )
Cf= (4.2)
𝛥𝐷
Where:
Cf – drilled cost per unit depth
Cb – bit cost per item
Cr – fixed operating cost per unit time
tb – total rotating time during bit run
tt – trip time
tc – total non-rotating time during bit run
The majority of time spent on drilling, is spent on drilling operations and tripping. Hence,
estimation for drilling operation time can be calculate based on data for penetration rate and depth.
Penetration rate exponentially decrees with depth.
𝑑𝐷
= 𝐾 ∗ 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(−2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐷) (4.3)
𝑑𝑡
Where:
24
K – penetration rate at surface
a - decrease rate of the penetration rate with depth.
Penetration rate can be used for predicting drilling time by separating variables and
integration by t d:
𝑑𝐷
= 𝐾 ∗ 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(−2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐷)
𝑑𝑡
dD= 𝐾 ∗ 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(−2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐷) dt
𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐷) dD= 𝐾 dt
𝐷 𝑡𝑑
∫ 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐷)⁡𝑑𝐷 𝑒 = 𝐾 ∫ 𝐾⁡𝑑𝑡
0 0
1
𝑡𝑑 = (𝑒𝑥𝑝 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(2.3032𝑎2 𝐷) ⁡ − 1) (4.4)
2.3032𝑎2𝐷
Estimation of tripping time can be calculated with following equation:

𝑡𝑠
𝑡𝑡 = 2 ∗ 𝐷 (4.5)
𝑙𝑠
Where:
tt - tripping time
ts – time to handle one stand of pipelines
ls – length of one stand of pipelines
The value of tripping increases linearly with depth, while drilled footage with bit decrease
with depth. Hence, the value of tripping increase with depth. If bit life and penetration rate are
known; by integrating equation 4.3 the depth at which the tripping will be required can be
calculated
1
𝐷 = 2.3032𝑎 𝑙𝑛⁡(2.3032 ∗ 𝑎2 ∗ 𝐾 ∗ 𝑡𝑑 + 𝑒𝑥𝑝⁡(2.3032𝑎2 𝐷𝑖 ) (4.6)
2
From the equations above, it is clear that time has a major role in influencing the cost of
drilling. Therefore, it is a good reason to optimize circulating system and mud pumps.
Mud can take from 5% up to 15% of drilling costs but may cause 100% of drilling
problems. If mud velocity is too low, drilled solids will stay and can cause tools to be stuck or
reduce the efficacy of the drill bit by decreasing the rate of penetration. In turn, all these
malfunctions lead to an increase in cost, due to the time spent on addressing the issues. The highest
power usage comes from the circulating system and hydraulics. Hence, the pump pressure needs
to be optimized to satisfy minimum pump pressure and pump flow rate. Furthermore, the bit
hydraulics need to be optimized to have maximum jet impact force, hydraulic horse power on drill
bit, and maximum bit velocity. Other key factors in the evaluation are also bit nozzle size and flow
rate.
25
1.5. Objective of thesis
The objective of the thesis is to deal with the pressure loss in the flow path which is
dependent on the type of fluid and regime of flow and to ensure that fluid will be delivered on the
surface at any point of drilling. The biggest pressure loss is at drilling bit, but we want to spend as
much power we can on the drill bit to have higher efficiency in drilling. Evaluation of drilling
hydraulic will provide a full return of mud to the top hole of drilling system. Intermediate
objectives include to evaluate possible system components, and solutions to obtain a functional
system. This includes selection of:
• Rheological model,
• Pressure loss calculations,
• Satisfying all requirements,
• System optimization,
• And on the end providing final pump pressures that needs to be satisfied.
First of all, there will be talk about the drilling fluids and their properties, afterwards it will
be talk about Newtonian and Nonnewtonian fluids which is very important for further hydraulic
calculations and to obtain the pressure loss in drilling system. Some requirements for fluid flow
and pressure need to be satisfied so we will have functional system, but after we can optimize
those parameters to have better efficiency of the system.
For the system parameters above, needs to be considered and a new system to be developed.
It will be done on model using real data for this project. Code for calculations of full flow path is
developed for all cases and it is given results of optimizing the system and choosing the best
solution and select the right mud pump properties.
26
Chapter 2 Hydraulics calculation
2.1. Introduction
Drilling fluids or muds are one of the vital components of all drilling processes. Thus, we
can call it the “blood’’ of any drilling system. Drilling fluids can have base of water, oil or gas,
depending on the characteristic of mud needed for the drilling process. Mud hydraulics are the one
of most important factors for reducing the cost of project. With optimization, maximum efficiency
of drilling bit and the maximum usage of pump pressure are achieved. Optimization is
accomplished by minimizing pressure loss due to friction in drilling string and annulus.
2.2. Drilling Fluids
The cost of mud by itself is lower when compared to the cost of the rig cost. Choosing the
appropriate mud for drilling can have an effect on total well cost. The things that need to be
considered while selecting the most suitable type of mud are: the type, the function and the
properties of mud.
2.2.1. Type of muds
● Water-based Muds (WBM)
Water-based muds are the most commonly used mud type for drilling purposes. They are
relatively inexpensive and are available on most rigs.
They can either be pure water, or a combination of fresh or salt water mixed with various
solids. Some water-based muds also contain emulsified oils or other additives to increase their
cooling and lubricating capacity.
An inhibited water-based mud can be used to minimize chemical reaction between the
drilling mud and formation in the borehole. Hydration reduces the structural stability of the
wellbore and slows down the speed at which clays in the formation hydrate. For these reasons
inhibitors are used in drilling muds. Four common inhibited muds are gypsum muds, lime muds,
seawater muds, and saturated saltwater muds.
Dispersed: In dispersed mud, chemicals are used that cause clay to disperse within the
fluid. Dispersed muds tend to have better viscosity control, higher solids tolerance, and better
filtration control than non-dispersed muds. A common example of dispersed mud is lignosulfonate
mud which is frequently used in drilling young, highly active clay.
Non-dispersed: These muds are usually formulated with a minimum amount of bentonite
and lack chemical dispersants. A polymer that extends the effects of small amounts of bentonite
and selectively flocculates undesirable drilled solids is used in this mud type. While using non-
27
dispersed mud system, careful monitoring of solids control equipment, alkalinity, and bentonite
concentrations is required for the system to function effectively.
Brines: In drilling operations that do not require high densities or high viscosites, clear
water and some brines can be used. Brines are used extensively in completion and workover
operations where very low solids and a clean environment are critical. Brines can be composed of
as many as three salt compounds.
● Oil-based Muds (OBM)
Oil-based muds are the most expensive mud type. In oil-based muds, diesel or highly
processed paraffin-based minerals oils are commonly used because they are less harmful to the
environment. However, they are less environment-friendly than nonpetroleum oils.
Most oil-based muds contain additives that increase viscosity, and emulsified water. Some
of the water is added intentionally, while some is accumulated from the formations. Less than five
percent of the oil mud is comprised by water. When the water concentration is more than five
percent, it is called an invert emulsion.
Oil-based muds are generally used in cases that demand high lubricity, maintenance of hole
stability in hydratable formations, or drilling of hydrogen sulfide-bearing zones.
❖ Advantages of Oil-based mud in comparison with Water-based mud

Positive aspects of oil-based muds include:
● Oil-based muds possess higher inhibitive properties when compared to water-based
muds. This characteristic inhibits clays from swelling and breaking into pieces.
● PDC performance can be improved through inhibition of reactive formations by
oil-based muds. Through inhibition, reactive shales are kept from swelling and
becoming sticky, thus improving bit cleaning.
● Bit performance is better with oil-based mud than with water-based muds.
However, water-based mud is more commonly used.
● The lubricity of oil-based muds assists cleaning by keeping the bit, cutter surfaces
and drilled particles coated with oil.
● Higher solids contents can be tolerated, because they act less abrasively on the bit
head and cutters.
● Diamond material is oil wettable, but not water wettable. This means that not only
does the diamond material benefit from oil's higher heat transferring capability, but
also from being microscopically wetted on its surface.
● Oil-based muds hold good rheological properties: flow characteristics.
● These muds are effective against most types of corrosion.
● Permits mud densities as low as 7.5 lbs per gallon.
.
❖ The disadvantages of oil-based muds include:
● Higher initial cost is demanded.
28
● More stringent pollution control procedures are required.
● Effectiveness of reservoir analysis (logging and core analysis) is reduced. This
refers to diesel, oil-based systems.
● More difficult and expensive treatments are required in cases of lost circulation.
● Aerated Muds
Aerated drilling fluids are comprised of air, natural gas, foam, or aerated muds. Their
reduced hydrostatic pressure allows the drilled rock fragments to explode into the wellbore, thus,
allowing high penetration rates. Lost circulation problems are minimized with aerated muds.
Air is more commonly used than natural gas because it is free. Natural gas is used where a
hydrocarbon gas zone is expected, since explosions can occurs when air, formation gas and the
heat from drilling are combined.
In certain circumstances, soap is added to aerated muds to increase the thickness of the
fluid. These "foam muds" can improve cleaning because cuttings are lifted by the mud.
A disadvantage of aerated drilling fluids is the cost of the large compressors required to
pump the air or gas. In addition, aerated fluids cannot be used in fluid making formations. Wellbore
stability and pressure control are more difficult with these systems as well as establishing
necessary lubricity levels.
2.2.2. Functions of mud
Drilling fluids(muds) serve many purposes or functions. The major functions are:
● Cleaning the bit and bottom hole
Bottom hole and bit must be cleaned so that new formations are drilled effectively, and
the re-cutting of old cuts is avoided.
● Annular cleaning
Annular cleaning refers to the "lifting" of formation pieces up the annulus to the surface.
In this process, the fluid is required to overcome gravity and carry the cuttings upward. The average
speed of fluid moving up the annulus is called annular velocity, while the velocity of the cuttings
trying to fall downward through the moving fluid is called slip velocity. Annular velocity must be
greater than the downward falling rate or slip velocity.
● Cooling and lubricating the bit
All bits need to be properly cooled and lubricated for best performance. Diamond cutter
elements especially require good cooling. Lubrication increases penetration rate and reduces wear.
● Pressure balancing
29
Subsurface pressures are controlled by drilling fluids. As a formation is drilled, wellbore
pressure should be higher than formation pressure to prevent formation fluid from flowing into the
hole, and to prevent collapses. The exceeding wellbore pressure is called "overbalance."
The typical situation of well pressure controlling should be approximately 50-300 psi to
prevent kicks and blowouts, where formation fluids enter the wellbore and push the cuttings to the
surface.
● Fluid-Loss Control
Filter cake with low permeability is formed by mud on the walls of hole which seals pores
in formation and minimizes mud loss.
2.2.3. Properties and Characteristics
The properties and characteristics of drilling fluids are interrelated, however, they can be
individually identified and measured. Each property is controlled for best overall drilling results.
● Density
Density refers to the weight of the drilling fluid, and is usually referred to as mud weight.
It is expressed in pounds per gallon (ppg). For example, clear water weighs 8.33 ppg and typical
drilling mud’s weighs between the range of 9 to 16 ppg or higher in some cases. Mud weight is a
key factor in controlling subsurface pressures.
● Solid Content
Solid content refers to the volume percentage of solid matter in a volume of drilling fluid.
This refers to the specific gravity (sg) of the solids. High gravity solids (Barite 4.2 sg and Hematite
5.0 sg) are added to raise the density and hydrostatic pressure of the fluids. Sometimes low gravity
solids (Bentonite 2.6 sg) are added to increase viscosity and reduce fluid loss. However, these
solids generally accumulate in the drilling fluid from the breakdown of formation cuttings. The
solids content measured is the result of both low and high gravity solids.
Another measure of solids in drilling fluids is the sand content. Due to sand’s notable
abrasiveness, its amount should be kept to a minimum, usually less than 0.25%.
● Viscosity
The viscosity of drilling fluids can be changed using chemical additives, that are polymers.
Viscosity needs to be high enough to carry cuttings to the surface and maintain proper flow in the
annulus, but low enough to prevent excessive annular pressure and to permit the release of the
drilled cuttings at the surface. The circulating fluid naturally picks up additional solids, thus,
effectively increasing the fluid’s viscosity.
30
2.3. Mud hydraulics
2.3.1. Rheological models
Rheology is the study of the flow or deformation of matter; these phenomena are described
in terms of shear rate and shear stress. Shear rate is defined as the flow velocity gradient in the
direction perpendicular to the flow direction. The higher the shear rate, higher is the friction
between the flowing particles. Shear stress is the friction between particles and is measured by the
shear force per unit area of shearing layer. 3 For rheological models, the properties can be measured
with a viscometer. The most commonly used viscometer type is Fann 35 VG. Using this
instrument, the shear rate and stress for six different speeds are measured. Plotting the measured
data, we can identify the rheological model which can later be used to calculate the parameters for
each model.
● Newtonian fluids
Fluids are referred to as Newtonian or non-Newtonian, depending on their responses to

shear stress. Newtonian fluids’ shear stress is directly proportional to the shear rate:
𝜏 = 𝛾𝜇 (2.1)
Where:
τ – shear stress [lb/100ft 2]
γ – shear rate [s-1]
μ – viscosity [cP]
Newtonian fluids are water or light oil, but drilling fluids are usually non -Newtonian. In
Figure 2.1., a linear increase in stress with increasing shear rates is observed, where the slope is
given by the viscosity of the fluid. This means that the viscosity of Newtonian fluids remains a
constant regardless of how fast they are forced to flow through a pipe or annulus.
31
Figure 2.1. Shear stress vs shear rate for Newtonian fluid.
Viscosity can be calculated using the measured data from Fann 35 Vg using following
equations:
300
𝜇= 𝜃𝑁 (2.2)
𝑁
Where:
N – rotary speed of Fann VG meter [rpm] usually 300rpm
θN – dial reading of Fann VG meter at rotary speed N
● Bingham plastic model
The most commonly used fluid model to determine the rheology of non-Newtonian fluid
is the Bingham plastic model. The equation of the model is expressed as:
𝜏 = 𝜏𝑦 + 𝜇𝑝 𝛾 (2.3)
Where:
τy– yield point [lb/100ft 2]
μp – plastic viscosity [cP]
Bingham plastic model (Figure 2.2.) makes the assumption that the shear rate is straight
line function of the shear stress. however, this model flow is not described in low shear-rate
regions. Bingham plastic fluid doesn’t flow until minimum shear stress, also known as yield point,
is applied.
Figure 2.2. Shear stress vs shear rate for Bingham plastic fluid.
32
The plastic viscosity can be calculated using data received from Fann VG meter using
following equation:
300
𝜇𝑝 = (𝜃𝑁 2 − 𝜃𝑁1 ) (2.4)
𝑁2 −𝑁1
Where:
θN1 – dial reading of Fann VG meter at rotary speed N1
θN2 – dial reading of Fann VG meter at rotary speed N 2
If the rotary speeds, N1 and N2, are chosen to be 300 and 600 respectively, equation 2.4.
has the following expression:
𝜇𝑝 = 𝜃600 − 𝜃300 (2.5)
If the rotary speed if Fann VG meter is 300 rpm, the Bingham yield point can be calculated
with following equation:
𝑁1
𝜏𝑦 = 𝜃𝑁1 − 𝜇𝑝 = 𝜃𝑁1 − 𝜇𝑝 (2.6)
300
● Power Law model
The behaviors of non-Newtonian fluids are determined by the Power Law model by
measuring the flow behavior of the fluids.
Fluids behave as pseudo plastic fluids when the flow behavior is less than 1 (n<1), as
Newtonian fluids when flow behavior is equal to 1 (n=1), and as dilatant fluids when flow behavior
is higher than 1 (n>1).
Power Law is expressed with equation:
𝜏 = 𝐾𝛾 𝑛 (2.7)
Where:
K – consistency index [cP]
n – flow behavior index, dimensionless
Figure 2.3. is a graphical representation of the model
33
Figure 2.3. Shear stress vs shear rate for pseudoplastic Power Law fluid.
The flow behavior index of Power Law model can be calculated using data got from Fann
VG meter using following equation:
𝜃𝑁2
𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡( )
𝜃𝑁1
𝑛= 𝑁 (2.8)
𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡( 2)
𝑁1
If the rotary speed of Fann VG meter is N1= 300 rpm and N2=600 rpm than Power Law
flow behavior index can be calculated with following equation
𝜃𝑁2
𝑛 = 3.322 ∗ 𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡( ) (2.9)
𝜃𝑁1
The consistency index of Pawer Law model can be calculated using data got from Fann
VG meter using following equation:
510𝜃
𝑁
𝐾 = (1.703𝑁) 𝑛 ( 2.10)
If speed is taken as N1= 300rpm:

510𝜃300
𝐾= (511)𝑛
(2.11)
● Herschel-Bulkley Fluids model
The Herschel Bulkley is an improved version of the Power Law fluid model to match the
actual behavior of drilling fluid at a low shear rate. It is done by assuming an initial shear stress
value. Herschel Bulkley (Figure 2.4.) can be described as per the equation below:
34
𝜏 = 𝜏𝑦 + 𝐾𝛾 𝑛 (2.12)
This model determines fluids as yield-pseudoplastic fluid (n < 1), a dilatant fluid (n > 1), a
pseudoplastic fluid (t y = 0, n < 1), a plastic fluid (n = 1), or a Newtonian fluid (t y = 0, n = 1). These
rules are specific to laminar flow.1
Like in the Bingham plastic model, a fluid will not flow until the applied shear stress τ
exceeds a minimum value of yield stress τyy. The fluid behaves like a solid until the applied force
is high enough to exceed the yield stress.1
The rotary speeds of Fann VG meter for yield stress are taken at N 1=3 rpm and N2=6 rpm,
and the speed for behavior index and consistency index are N 1= 300 rpm and N2=600 rpm
respectively. Shear stress is calculated with following equation:
𝜏𝑦 = 2𝜃3 − 𝜃6 (2.13)
The flow behavior index

𝜃𝑁2 ⁡−𝜏𝑦
𝑛 = 3.322 ∗ 𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡( ) (2.14)
𝜃𝑁1 −𝜏𝑦
The consistency index

510(𝜃300 −𝜏𝑦 )
𝐾= (511)𝑛
(2.15)
Figure 2.4. Shear stress vs shear rate for pseudoplastic Herschel-Bulkley fluids.
2.4. Hydraulics calculation for different models
Hydraulics models define the relationships between pressure drop and flow rate for various
rheology models and given geometry of flow and flow regime. Flow regime that are observed
while drilling are laminar flow, turbulent flow and transitional flow.
35
In laminar flow, the fluid flows in parallel layers with different velocities, the highest
velocity is in the center of pipe and the lowest are closer to the walls of the pipe or annulus. Laminar
flow is desirable in annulus to prevent erosion and move the cuttings to the surface.
In turbulent flow, the fluid moves chaotically and have higher velocity than in laminar
flow. This flow is useful below the drilling bit in the annulus to help removing of cuttings, and
cleaning the bottom hole.
Transitional flow has the characteristic of both laminar and turbulent flows. This regime
has not been found in normal drilling conditions.
The flow regime is defined is by calculating a fluid’s Reynolds number.
2.4.1. Reynolds number Newtonian fluids
For Newtonian fluids, laminar flow occurs when Reynolds number is less than 2100,
turbulent flow when Reynolds number is higher than 4000, and transitional flow occurs for the
values between 2100 and 4000.
Reynold number for flow inside pipes.
𝜌𝑣𝑑
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 928 ∗ (2.16)
𝜇
Where:
NRe – Reynolds number, dimensionless
ρ – fluid density [ppg]
v – average flow velocity [ft/s]
d – inside diameter of pipe [in]
μ – fluid viscosity [cP]
Average velocity to calculate Reynolds number for inside pipe flow is calculated by the
equation:
𝑞
𝑣= (2.17)
2.448𝑑2
Where:
q – flow rate [gpm]
Reynold number for annular flow is calculated by the equation:

𝜌𝑣(𝑑2 −𝑑1 )
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 757 ∗ (2.18)
𝜇
Where:
36
d1 – outside diameter of pipe [in]
d2 – inside diameter of hole or casing [in]
And average velocity for annular flow
𝑞
𝑣= (2.19)
2.448(𝑑22 −𝑑12)
2.4.2. Bingham plastic fluids
For Bingham plastic, the viscosity needs to be calculated before calculating the Reynolds
number. Apparent viscosity is defined to account for plastic viscosity and yield point.
Apparent viscosity inside pipe
6.66𝜏𝑦 𝑑
𝜇𝑎 = 𝜇𝑝 + (2.20)
𝑣
Reynolds number for inside pipe flow

𝜌𝑣𝑑
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 928 ∗ (2.21)
𝜇𝑎
Apparent viscosity for annular flow

5𝜏𝑦 (𝑑2 −𝑑1 )
𝜇𝑎 = 𝜇𝑝 + (2.22)
𝑣
Reynold number for annular flow
𝜌𝑣(𝑑2 −𝑑1)
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 757 ∗ (2.23)
𝜇𝑎
Boundaries for the flow regime are the same as for Newtonian fluids, laminar flow occurs
for Reynolds numbers below 2100 and turbulent flow for values above 4000.
2.4.3. Power Law fluids
Apparent viscosity is also used in Power Law model. Then, the formulae 2.20 and 2.22
respectively become
Apparent viscosity inside pipe:
37
1 𝑛
𝐾𝑑 1−𝑛 3+𝑛
𝜇𝑎 = (0.0416) (2.24)
96𝑣 1−𝑛
Apparent viscosity for annular flow:

1 𝑛
𝐾(𝑑2 −𝑑1)1−𝑛 2+𝑛
𝜇𝑎 = (0.0208) (2.25)
144𝑣 1−𝑛
Reynolds number for inside pipe flow:

𝜌𝑣𝑑
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 928 ∗ (2.26)
𝜇𝑎
Reynold number for annular flow:
𝜌𝑣(𝑑2 −𝑑1 )
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 757 ∗ (2.27)
𝜇𝑎
Critical Reynolds number is estimated with equations (2.28. and 2.29.), which is then used for
determining the nature of the occurring regime. The upper limit of Critical Reynolds determines
laminar flow, the lower limit determines turbulent flow, and values in between determine
transitional flow.
Upper limit for laminar flow is given by:
𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = 3470 − 1370𝑛 (2.28)
Lower limit for turbulent flow is given by:
𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = 4270 − 1370𝑛 (2.29)
2.4.4. Herschel-Bulkley Fluids
For Herschel-Bulkley fluids, Reynolds numbers are calculated using the following
formulae:
Inside drill pipe:
𝑑 𝑛
2(3𝑛+1) 𝜌𝑣 (2−𝑛) (2 )
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = [ 𝑑 𝑛 (3𝑛+1) 𝑛
] (2.30)
𝑛 𝜏𝑦 (2𝑣) +𝐾( 𝑛𝐶 )
𝑐
In the annulus:
38
𝑑 −𝑑 𝑛
4(2𝑛+1) 𝜌𝑣 (2−𝑛) ( 2 2 1)
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = [ (𝑑 −𝑑 𝑛 2(2𝑛+1) 𝑛
] (2.31)
𝑛 𝜏𝑦 ( 22𝑣 1) +𝐾( 𝑛𝐶 )
𝑎
Where constants Cc and Ca are given by:

1 𝜏𝑦
𝐶𝑐 = 1 − ( ) 𝑛 (2.32)
2𝑛+1
(3𝑛+1)𝑞
𝜏𝑦 +𝐾[ ]
𝑑 3
𝑛𝜋( 2 )
1 𝜏𝑦
𝐶𝑎 = 1 − ( ) 𝑛 (2.33)
𝑛+1
(2𝑛+1)2𝑞
𝜏𝑦 +𝐾[ ]
𝑑 𝑑 𝑑 2 𝑑 2
𝑛𝜋[( 22 )−( 21 )][( 22 ) −( 21 ) ]
Flow regime is definite. If the Reynolds number is higher than the critical Reynolds
number, the regime of flow is turbulent otherwise it is laminar flow.
Critical Reynolds number inside drill pipe
1
4(3𝑛+1) 1−𝑧
𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = [ ] (2.34)
𝑛𝑦
Critical Reynolds number in annulus
1
8(2𝑛+1) 1−𝑧
𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = [ ] (2.35)
𝑛𝑦
Where:
𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡(𝑛)⁡+3.93
𝑦= (2.36)
50
1.75−𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡(𝑛)⁡
𝑧= (2.37)
7
2.5. Pressure loss
Pressure loss is calculated using fluid velocity, Reynolds number and flow regime.
Circulating fluid must overcome frictional forces between the fluid layers, drill pipe walls and hole
walls or casing walls, and the forces between solid particles and fluid. The highest-pressure loss
occurs at the drilling bit nozzles. The pressure on the pump must be equal to the sum of all pressure-
inflicting forces in order to overcome all pressure losses.
𝑝𝑝 = 𝛥𝑝𝑠 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐 + 𝛥𝑝𝑚𝑡 + 𝛥𝑝𝑏 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐𝑎 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝𝑎 (2.38)
Where:
pp- pump pressure [psi]
39
Δps- pressure loss in surface equipment [psi]
Δpdp – pressure loss in drill pipe [psi]
Δpdc – pressure loss in drill collars [psi]
Δpmt – pressure loss in mud motor [psi]
Δpb – pressure loss at drill bit [psi]
Δpdca – pressure loss in drill collar annulus [psi]
Δpdpa – pressure loss in drill pipe annulus [psi]
All pressure losses in the drilling string and the annulus is called parasitic pressure.
𝛥𝑝𝑑 = 𝛥𝑝𝑠 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐 + 𝛥𝑝𝑚𝑡 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐𝑎 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝𝑎 (2.39)
Consequently, the pump pressure equation is simplified:
𝑝𝑝 = 𝛥𝑝𝑑 + 𝛥𝑝𝑏 (2.40)
With the given fluid type and geometry of circulating system, we can find flow regime and
calculate the parasitic pressure loss inside drilling pipes and in annulus. To calculate the pressure
loss, firstly, we need to calculate the Fanning friction factor which is a function of Reynolds
number and relative roughness. The relative roughness is a function of absolute roughness and
pipe diameter:
𝛿
𝜀= (2.41)
𝑑
Where:
ε - relative roughness, dimensionless
δ – absolute roughness [in]
d – pipe diameter [in]
For the laminar flow formula for friction factor is simple, but for turbulent flow are derived
from several empirical correlations. The most known formula, Colebrook (1938), is the basis for
all other correlations.
Friction factor for laminar flow is given by:
16
𝑓= (2.42)
𝑁𝑅𝑒
Where:
f- friction factor, dimensionless
Colebrook (1938) friction factor for turbulent flow:
40
1 0.269𝛿 1.255
= −4𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡( + ) (2.43)
√𝑓 𝑑 𝑁𝑅𝑒 √𝑓
Where:
𝜌𝑣𝑑
𝑁𝑅𝑒 = 928 ∗ (2.44)
𝜇
In turbulent flow, the smooth pipe friction factor is given by the following equation:
1
= 4 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝑙𝑜𝑔⁡(𝑁𝑅𝑒 √𝑓) ⁡ − 0.395 (2.45)
√𝑓
Simplified friction factor function for smooth pipes gives us Colebrooks’s (1938), but it
was first presented by Blasius (1913) with the equation:
0.0791
𝑓= 0.25 (2.46)
𝑁𝑅𝑒
Chens’s (1979) explicit correlation gives a friction factor with high accuracy:
(2.47)
When we have friction factor values, we can calculate pressure loss for each rheological model
and for both geometries.
2.5.1. Newtonian fluids
Pressure loss under laminar flow inside drilling string and in the annulus, can be calculated
if. friction factor Eq. (2.42.) is replaced in the equation:
(2.48.)
Where:
L pipe length [ft]
Vavg – average velocity [ft/s]
d- equivalent pipe inner diameter [in]
We will get for flow inside drilling pipe
41
(2.49)
And for the annulus:
(2.50)
Where:
pf- pressure loss [psi]
L – length of section [in]
Using Blasius correlation for turbulent flow we will get the following equations for flow
inside drill pipe and in annulus respectively:
(2.51)
(2.52)
Using Chen’s correlation, we could have more accurate results, but these equations are
adequate enough.
2.5.2. Bingham plastic fluids
Pressure loss under laminar flow inside drill pipe:
(2.53)
Pressure loss under laminar flow in annulus:
(2.54)
Pressure loss under turbulent flow inside drill pipe:
42
(2.55)
Pressure loss under turbulent flow in annulus:
(2.56)
2.5.3. Power Law fluids
(2.57)
(2.58)
(2.59)
(2.60)
2.5.4. Herschl-Bulkley fluids
(2.61)
(2.62)
43
(2.63)
Where friction factor fc inside drill pipe is calculated:
(2.64)
(2.65)
Where friction factor fa in the annulus is calculated:
(2.66)
2.5.5. Pressure drop at the bit
As pressure loss can be calculated for all type of fluids, for each flow regime, and for any
geometry of the well, parasitic pressure can be calculated with the simple addition of all the
pressure losses except for the pressure drop at the drill bit. Then, the drop at the bit can be
calculated. The sum total of all pressure losses then gives the pump pressure.
Highest pressure drop occurs on the drill bit nozzles due to high velocity achieved by the
small diameter of nozzles. Jet nozzles on a bit improves cleaning of the bottom hole which increase
erosion rates, thus, increase the pressure loss. Drill bit velocity can be expressed as:
(2.67)
Where
vn – nozzles velocity [ft/s]
q – mud flow rate [gpm]
At – total nozzle area [in^2]
Pressure drop on the bit is expressed as:
(2.68)
44
Where:
Cd -nozzle discharge coefficient, dimensionless
The discharge coefficient has the highest value of 0.98, but 0.95 is generally used as the
practical limit. These values are determined experimentally.
The hole capacity cleaning is represented by the horse power of drilling fluid at the drill
bit. This can be expressed as:
(2.69)
Where:
PHb – bit hydraulic power [hp]
The next indicator of hole drilling capacity of drilling fluid is hydraulic impact force.
It is expressed as:
(2.70)
Where:
Fj – bit hydraulic impact force [lbf]
2.5.6. Minimum mud flow rate required for cuttings carrying capacity of mud
Minimum flow rate can be calculated by using minimum required velocity. This velocity
should be higher than drill cutting slip velocity. The slip velocity can be calculated only for ideal
conditions due to their complex geometry and boundary limitations. Slip velocity for Newtonian
fluids is given by following equation:
(2.71)
Where:
(2.72)
vsl – cuttings slip velocity [ft/s]
ds – equivalent cuttings diameter [in]
ρs – cuttings density [lb/ft^3]
ρf -fluid density [ppg]
45
fp – particle friction factor, dimensionless
ROP – rate of penetration [ft/hr]
RPM – rotary speed of bit [rpm]
Equivalent cuttings diameter depends on the rate of penetration and rotary speed, and other factors
like formation lithology and bit type. Using this information regarding drill bit and lithology of
formation, we can reduce cuttings size by increasing the rotary speed and decreasing the rate of
penetration.
The particle friction factor f is a function of the Reynolds number and particle sphericity
ψ. The sphericity is defined as the surface area of a sphere containing the same volume as the
particle divided by the surface area of the particle. 5 (boyun and gefei 2011,55) Charts are been
generated for finding the values of the friction factor (Bourgoyne et al., 1986). However, Fang et
al. (2008) developed the following correlations to replace the use of charts.
(2.77)
μ-viscosity of Newtonian fluid
Slip velocity is implicitly involved in Eq. (2.71.) and (2.73.) and can be solved by trial and
error method.
Methods to calculate the slip velocity of non–Newtonian fluids are yet to be developed.
The minimum required mud velocity should be higher than drill cuttings transport velocity.
It is calculated by the equation:
𝑣𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 𝑣𝑠𝑙 + 𝑣𝑡𝑟 (2.78)
Where:
vmin – minimum required mud velocity [ft/s]
vtr – transport velocity [ft/s]
The required transport velocity has been expressed as:
46
(2.79)
Where:
db – bit diameter [in]
Cp – cutting concentration, volume fraction
A- Annulus cross-sectional area at the depth of interest [in2]
In directional well drilling, the minimum required mud velocity for drilling the vertical
holes is usually taken as 1.8 times the minimum required mud velocity, and 1.5 times for horizontal
well.
The minimum required mud flow rate in the extreme wellbore geometry can be calculated
using following equation:
qmin = 3.1167vminA (2.80)
47
Chapter 3 Requirements and Optimization
3.1. Introduction
For the required hole cleaning and high rate of penetration, mud pump is the most important
equipment. It provides the bit hydraulics.
Drilling hydraulics can be improved by optimizing the hydraulic program. It is done by changing
the pump liner, flow rate and nozzles size according to the depth of drilling.
3.2. Mud flow rate requirements
For efficient hole cleaning, some requirements of mud flow rate must be satisfied. Cutting
transport depends on mud properties and flow velocity, but this parameter changes with depth,
geometry and mud properties. The most practical approach to create conditions that satisfy all
requirements is to find properties suitable for extreme conditions.
3.2.1. Extreme mud properties
Mud properties affect transport velocity for drill cuttings in annulus. To clean the hole
efficiently, mud type for different well geometry and depth need to be considered. By choosing
the extreme conditions, minimum required transport velocity for the drill cuttings can be measured.
That then gives the minimum required mud flow that satisfied all stages of drilling. Mud properties
that influence the choice of pump type are mud weight and rheological model.
3.2.2. Extreme annular geometry
By knowing the drilling assembly and borehole geometry for each drilling section, and
taking into account extreme values which are minimum required velocity and maximum possible
cross-sectional area, required minimum flow rate can be calculate. In this case, the minimum
required flow rate is expressed as:
qmin = 3.1167vminAmax (3.1)
3.2.3. The minimum required flow rate
Minimum flow rate is evaluated according to the required minimum mud velocity which
needs to be higher than the slip velocity.
48
3.3. Pressure requirements
Similar to mud requirements, certain pressure conditions need to be satisfied in order to

overcome pressure loss, as well as pressure drop at the dill bit. Pressure loss depends on mud flow
rate and mud properties, and also on drilling string and borehole geometry. Pressure drop at the bit
nozzles should be optimized according to total pressure loss in the system to ensure maximized bit
hydraulics.
3.3.1. Extreme borehole configuration and conditions
In each drilling section, maximum pressure loss takes place at the target depth. At this depth,
maximum circulating pressure is also experienced. While tripping out, it is necessary to increase
mud weight so that the pressure will be high enough to maintain the borehole stability.
3.3.2. Circulating pressure
The maximum circulating pressure is at extrema borehole configuration and it is equal to

the sum of total pressure loss and pressure drop at the bit. In normal conditions, fluid regime in the
drilling string is turbulent, in annulus is laminar. Thus, in locations inside the drill pipe where the
regime is turbulent flow, often higher-pressure losses are observed.
Pressure loss for turbulent flow can be expressed as:
(3.2)
Where:
c- is a constant that depends on mud properties and well geometry
m- is a constant
Constant m theoretically takes values of 1.75 for turbulent and less than 1.75 for laminar
flows. But it can be estimated by matching calculations for pressure loss at the flow rates with
following equation:
(3.3)
Then constant c takes the value:
49
With this generalized pressure loss constant m, pressure drop on the bit needs be expressed
as the total pressure loss in the system. According to the maximum bit hydraulics horsepower
criterion pressure should be held as: (Kendall and Goins 1960)
(3.6)
Where
pp -pump pressure [psi]
According to the maximum jet impact force criterion the following relation should be held:
(3.7)
3.3.3. Minimum required pressure
The minimum required pressure is expressed as:
(3.8)
Combining Eq. (3.6) and (3.8), the following relation is derived for maximum bit hydraulic
horsepower criteria:
(3.9)
Combining Eq. (3.7) and (3.8), following relation is derived for maximum jet impact force criteria:
(3.10)
Eq. (3.9) and (3.10) give the expressions required for pump pressure for hydraulic horsepower and
maximum jet impact criterium as:
50
(3.11)
and
(3.12)
3.3.4. Horsepower requirements
Mud pumps are limited with maximum horse power and maximum working pressure. It is
essential to maintain the pump pressure lower than maximum working pressure at all times as a
safety factor. Mud pump hydraulic horsepower is expressed as:
(3.13)
Where:
Ph- hydraulic horsepower [hp]
p-pump pressure [psi]
q- mud flow rate [gpm]
Knowing maximum Hp and ppm we can calculate maximum flow rate with following
expression:
(3.14)
Where:
qmax- maximum mud flow rate [gpm]
PH- horsepower rating of pump [hp]
Ep- pump efficiency, dimensionless
ppm – maximum working pressure of pump [pis]
Because the pump will always run at flow rate less than maximum, available pump pressure
is expressed as:
(3.15)
Maximum horsepower of duplex and triplex pump are described in Chapter 1.
51
3.4. Optimizing the drill bit hydraulics
To get sufficient hole cleaning, the drill bit hydraulics need to be optimized and hydraulic
horsepower on the bit must be maximized. Because we are limited for pump power with the pump
horsepower and with liners for the flow rate and pressure, the only thing left to be optimized is the
drill bit hydraulics. This can be achieved by maximizing the bit impact force, the bit hydraulic
power and the jet velocity.
3.4.1. The maximum bit hydraulic horsepower
The maximum possible horsepower bit hydraulics is the most common design procedure
to clean the bottom hole. Maximizing the bit hydraulic horsepower will increase the efficiency of
the hydraulic system. It increases the penetration rate and removes the cuttings as fast as they are
produced. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the maximum pump horsepower will provide
maximum bit horsepower. The conditions for maximum bit horsepower were derived by Kendall
and Goins in (1960). The pressure drop at the bit is expressed as:
(3.16)
Substituting this expression into Eq. (2.69) gives:
(3.17)
Using calculus to determine the flow rate at which the bit horsepower is a maximum gives:
(3.18)
Solving the root of this equation yields:
(3.19)
Or
(3.20)
It can be shown that (d2PHb/dq2) <0 at this root, so the root corresponds to a maximum. Bit
hydraulic horsepower is a maximum when the parasitic pressure loss is 1/(m+1) times the pump
pressure. Since
(3.21)
52
the bit hydraulic horsepower is a maximum when the pressure drop at that bit is m/(m+1)
times the pump pressure.
3.4.2. The maximum jet impact force
Jet impact fluid force cleans the bottomhole by direct erosion and by cross flowing beneath
the bit. The conditions for maximum jet impact force were also derived by Kendall and Goins
(1960). Substituting Eq. (3.16) into Eq. (2.70):
(3.22)
Using calculus to determine the flow rate at which the bit impact force is a maximum:
(3.23)
Solving the root of this equation yields:
(3.24)
It can be shown that (d2Fj)/(dq2) <0 at this root, so the root corresponds to a maximum. Thus, the
jet impact force is a maximum when the parasitic pressure loss is 2/(m+2) times the pump pressure.
Since
(3.25)
bit jet impact force is a maximum when the pressure drop at that bit is m/(m+2) times the
pump pressure. This criterion is used in shallow to middle depths.
3.4.3. The maximum nozzle velocity
The bit velocity needs to be set in a way that provides minimal annular velocity for transportation
of cuttings from bottom hole to have minimal flow rate. By decreasing the flow rate, the velocity
also decreases as shown in following equation:
(3.26)
High nozzle velocity is typically used at deeper depths.
53
Chapter 4 Model details and used Methodology for solving
4.1. Introduction
Calculation for Reynolds number, pressure loss, satisfying requirements and optimizing
the parameters will be done on the real data for the real problems in this chapter. Briefly describing
the problem and data for the well we can see what are requirements that we need to satisfy and to
calculate. Also it has been calculated dynamic pressure while drilling the each segment and it will
be shown by graphs.
4.2. Model details
The well will be vertical (figure 4.1.) with target depth at 12993 ft (3943 m). It will have 7
sections.
Firstly, 36” holes will be drilled through unconsolidated sand and sticky clay for the
installation of 30” conductor with setting depth at  190 ftBRT (48 mBRT). This will provide
structural support near the ground level.
After cementing, the second section will be drilled with 28’’ drill bit through the loose
friable and for the installation of 24” casing at the depth of  780 ftBRT (240 mBRT ).
Then will be drilled for surface casing 18 5/8”; that will be settled at the depth of  1624
ftBRT (495 mBRT). It will isolate several potential loss zones below the 24’’ casing and will
provide sufficient shoe strength to withstand any pressure that might occur while drilling 16’’ hole,
and support weight of wellhead and subsequent casing. This third section will be drilled with 23’’
drill bit.
The fourth section will be drilled with a 16” drill bit for installation of intermediate
casing 13 3/8” at depth 7997 ftBRT (2438 mBRT) to case off the low-pressure regime before
starting to drill through high pressure zone.
The fifth section, the high-pressure zone, will be drilled with 12 ¼’’ bit up to target depth
of  11690 ftBRT (3564 mBRT) to isolate the zone before penetrating in the zone of interests.
The sixth section will have 8 ½” hole up to the depth of  12615 ftBRT ( 3845 mBRT).
The last will be drilled with 6” bit and it will stay open for well test and in the future, it
will act as the production well with target depth of  12933 ftBRT (3943mBRT).
54
Lead Cement Depth
mBRT Rotaty table
Tail Cement
11.00 Ground Level
0 36" hole 48 30" Casing shoe
28 " hole 240 24" Casing shoe
23 " hole
500 495 18 5/8" Casing shoe
1000
1500
2000
16" hole
2438 13 3/8" Casing shoe
2500
Horizon B
3000
Top 7" Liner
12 1/4" hole
3500 3564 9 5/8" Casing shoe
8 1/2" hole
Hamra 3846 7" liner shoe
4000 6" hole
3943 Well TD
Figure 4.1 Well diagram
4.1.1. Drilling 36’’ hole
A pre-hydrated bentonite mud with a low mud weight of 8.7 ppg with will be used to drill
this section. The flow rate needs to be kept as low as possible, just sufficient enough to clean the
hole to avoid hole washout. The drilling string, and drill bit data used for drilling 36’’ hole section
are presented in table 4. 1..
55
Table 4.1 BHA program and drill bit program for hole 36’’
Length
OD " ID " Number of equipment m Length ft
Drilling collars 8 2.8125 4 38.6 127
Drilling collars 9.5 3 2 19.3 63
total 6 57.90 190
Drilling bit
Drill bit diameter 36
Nozzles '' 0.75
Number of nozzles 3
Total area nozzles in^2 1.325
Cd 0.95
4.1.2. The Second section 28” HOLE:

The mud system used for drilling should be 8.9 ppg, and pre-hydrated bentonite mud will
be used to drill the 28” hole. Mud weight will be required to be kept as low as possible (and pump
rate will be controlled to minimize the washout in this top-hole section.) Good cleaning of the hole
will be mandatory to minimize the risk of losing returns. The drilling string, and drill bit data used
for drilling 28’’ hole section are presented in table 4. 2..
Length
OD " ID " Number of equipment Length m ft
Drilling pipes 5 3.25 10 92 302
Heavy wall drill pipe 5 2.5 12 114 374
stabilizer 9.5 3 1 5.5 18
Drilling collars 9.5 3 2 19 62
total 16 240 787
Drilling bit
Nozzles 24/32'' 0.75
Number of nozzles 3
Nozzles 20/32'' 0.625
Number of nozzles 1
Cd 0.95
4.1.3. The Third section 23” HOLE:
The same mud system used for drilling 28” hole will be used for drilling 23” through the
potential loss interval to 18-5/8” casing depth of 1624 ftBRT. Stuck pipe has been experienced in
56
that section. Jarring is required to get the string free. The drilling string, and drill bit data used for
drilling 23” hole section are presented in table 4.3..
Length
Drilling pipes 5 4.25 25 238 780
jar 8 2.8125 1 10.1 33
stabilizer 9.5 3 1 5.5 18
shock sub 9.5 3 1 4.12 14
total 27 495 1624
Drilling bit
Nozzles 20/32'' 0.625
Number of nozzles 3
Nozzles 18/32'' 0.5625
Number of nozzles 1
Cd 0.95
4.1.4. The Fourth section 16” HOLE:
Loss of circulation may be observed in this section if the mud weight is raised over 10.5
ppg. The 13-3/8” casing will be run and cemented up to 150 m above the previous shoe. The
drilling string, and drill bit data used for drilling the 16” hole section are presented in table 4.4..
OD " ID " Number of equipment Length m Length ft

Drilling pipes 5 4.25 228 2168 7111
jar 8 2.8125 1 10.1 33
stab 9.5 3 1 5.5 18
stab 9.5 3 1 5.5 18
pony DC 9.5 3 1 6 20
stab 9.5 3 1 5.5 18
total 257 2438 7997
57
Drilling bit

Nozzles 12/32'' 0.375
Number of nozzles 9
Nozzles/32'' 0
Number of nozzles 0
Cd 0.95
4.1.5 The Fifth section 12-1/4” HOLE:
The mud weight will be 17.6 ppg. The 9-5/8” production casing will be run to section TD
and cemented to 150 m above the 13-3/8” casing shoe. The drilling string, and drill bit data used
for drilling the 12 1/4” hole section are presented in table 4. 5.
Table 4.5 BHA program and drill bit program for hole 12 1/4’’
OD " ID " Number of equipment Length m Length ft

Drilling pipes 5 4.25 344 3265 10711
Drilling collars 6.5 2.25 3 28.5 93
jar 8 2.8125 1 10.1 33
stab 8 2.8125 1 5.5 18
stab 8 2.8125 1 5.5 18
pony DC 8 2.8125 1 6 20
stab 8 2.8125 1 5.5 18
total 376 3564 11690
Drilling bit
Drill bit diameter 12.25
Nozzles 16/32'' 0.5
Number of nozzles 8
Nozzles/32'' 0
Number of nozzles 0
Cd 0.95
58
4.1.6. The sixth section 8-1/2” HOLE:
The mud weight will be 13.5 ppg. The 7” liner will then run and be cemented. The drilling
string, and drill bit data used for drilling the 8 1/2” hole section are presented in table 4. 6..
Table 4.6 BHA program and drill bit program for hole 8 1/2’’
Length
Drilling pipes 5 2.5 373 3547 11635
jar 6.5 2 1 10.1 33
Drilling collars 6.5 2 14 133 436
stab 6.5 2 1 5.5 18
stab 6.5 2 1 5.5 18
pony DC 6.5 2 1 6 20
stab 6.5 2 1 5.5 18
total 405 3846 12615
Drilling bit
Drill bit diameter 8.5
Nozzles 14/32'' 0.40625
Number of nozzles 5
Nozzles/32'' 0
Number of nozzles 0
Cd 0.95
4.1.7. The seventh section 6” HOLE :
The mud weight will be 13.5 ppg. The 6” hole will be drilled and cored to well TD 3,943
mBRT. The drilling string, and drill bit data used for drilling the 6” hole section are presented in
table 4. 7.
59
Length
Drilling pipes 3.5 2.5 376 3569 11706
Heavy wall drill pipe 3.5 2.5 15 142.5 467
jar 4.75 2 1 10.1 33
RR 4.75 2 1 5.3 17
RR 4.75 2 1 5.3 17
pony DC 4.75 2 1 6 20
RR 4.75 2 1 5.3 17
total 416 3943 12933
Drilling bit
Nozzles 14/32'' 0.4375
Number of nozzles 3
Nozzles/32'' 0
Number of nozzles 0
Cd 0.95
Casing program is shown in Table 4.8. whit all specifications.

Table 4.8 Casing program
Casing Depth Length Name of Grade Weight Casing Pressure

size ftBRT Ft string ppf
(in)
30 157 197 Conductor X-56 196.1 N/A N/A N/A
24 787 787 Surface X-56 94.6 N/A N/A N/A
18 5/8 1624 1624 Surface K-55 87.5 2250 630 1367
13 3/8 7997 7997 Intermediate P- 110 72 7400 2880 2284
9 5/8 11690 11690 Production P – 110 53.5 10900 7930 1710
7 12615 1417 Production P - 110 29 11220 8510 929
liner
4.2. Methodology
This model will calculate pressure drop in the drilling string and annulus due to flow.
Additionally, it will optimize the flow rate to have less pressure loss due to friction, and to spend all
power to the bit to have the best performances. The problem is split seven sections, and pump
pressure and flow rate will be calculated for total depth of the hole. The mud pump should be capable
of providing enough pressure to overcome pressure loss and pressure drop at the bit. In the circulating
60
system and flow rate should be strong enough to lift the cuttings up to the surface, and to provide
sufficient cleaning. During every drilling point, hydrostatic pressure and frictional forces will be
present that will have influence on the total pressure of the system. The predicted normal hydrostatic
pressure for a give depth, or rather the pressure exerted per unit area by a column of freshwater at
sea level for a given depth,
can be calculated with the following formula:
𝑝ℎ = 0.052 ∗ 𝜌 ∗ 𝐷 (4.1)
Where:
ph – hydrostatic pressure [psi]
ρ – density of the fluid [ppg]
D – true vertical depth [ft]
0.052 – unit conversion factor
Friction loss occurs due to flow of fluid and it is described in Chapter 2. Because of the
geometry of the flow path, calculation will be split into two big sections, inside pipes and in the
annulus. Furthermore, calculation will be split into fluid path segments that have that same inner
diameter in the pipe as the inner and outer diameters as of the annulus. Further, fluid path will be
split into a big number of smaller steps where we assume that each one exhibits constant pressure,
velocity and angle. Drill bit will divide the pipe calculations from annulus calculations. Fluids flow
through the nozzles where occur pressure drop depends on flow rate and total nozzle.
For these calculations, the starting point is pump pressure and flow rate of the pump, but
before that some constraints to be satisfied. Flow rate should be high enough to lift up the cuttings
from the bottom of hole up to the surface. Minimum required flow rate is calculated for the worst
possible scenario: the maximum cross-sectional area and minimum velocity, by using Eq 3. 1.. The
minimum velocity is the summation of transport and slip velocity. All velocities are calculated using
equations 2.71-2.79. With the received results, we can run our calculations. For each segment, the
hydrostatic pressure and velocity are calculated. Friction pressure loss depends on rheological
models and flow regimes. By summing up the entering pressure with hydrostatic pressure and
pressure loss we will have pressure on the end of the segment, and that pressure it will be starting
pressure for the next segment. Pressure drop on the bit will be calculated with Eq 4.2. By the end of
the calculations, we will get pressure that will not be zero, which will be solved by setting the
equation to zero, and by changing the first entering pressure. We will have the pressure for running
the pump which is optimum and efficient. We can optimize the drill bit hydraulic horsepower,
hydraulic jet impact force and maximum nozzle velocity with equations 3.21 3.25 and 3.26
respectively; by expressing pump pressure with Eq. 3.11 for maximum horsepower and Eq. 3.12 for
maximum jet impact. We calculate total pressure loss due to friction with the generalized pressure
loss equation Eq. 3.1 using minimum flow rate. However, we need to check if the values satisfy the
constraints, if they are higher than the minimum required flow rate or not. We return to the
generalized pressure loss formula for calculating the pressure drop at the bit using Eq. 3.8. Using Eq.
4.1, flow rate will be calculated. When we get flow rate, we will carry out comparisons and choose
which one is the best one for us.
61
𝜌∗𝑞2
𝛥𝑝𝑏 = 8.311 ∗ 10−5 ∗ ⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡ (4.2)
𝐶𝑑2 ∗𝐴2𝑡
Where:
pb – pressure drop at the bit [psi]
ρ – density of the fluid [ppg]
q- flow rate [gpm]
Cd- nozzle discharge coefficient, dimensionless
At- total nozzle area [in2]
62
Chapter 5 Results and discussion
This chapter looks at the results of the constructed model, which has been split into 7 stages.
The results will be focused on:
i. minimum flow rate
ii. pressure loss due to friction
iii. pressure gain due to hydrostatic pressure
iv. pressure drop at the bit
v. velocity at the bit nozzles
vi. drill bit jet impact force
vii. bit hydraulic horsepower
viii. and on the end pump pressure.
This data will be compared for three cases: minimum pump flow rate, and for two optimized
parameters: maximized jet impact force and maximized usage of bit hydraulic horsepower. The
optimal data will be used for drilling that stage.
5.1. First stage
In this stage, a 36’’ hole for the installation of conductor will be drilled. Methodology
described in the Chapter 4, and the rheological model for Power law fluids for oil-based mud will be
used. The following results from Table 5.1 will be attained.
Table 5.1 First stage results
Mud Pressure
Pressure Velocity Jet Bit
pump loss due Pump
drop at at the bit Impact Hydraulic
flow to pressure
the bit nozzles force horsepower
rate friction (psi)
(psi) (ft/s) (lbf) (HP)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 1590 689 1154 385 2759 1070 1843
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 2229 1244 2268 540 5423 2950 3512
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 1576 678 1134 382 2711 1043 1812
force
We can see that the minimum required flow rate is 1590 gpm. Only one parameter for
optimization satisfied this condition, hence, we can’t optimize by using jet impact force. Due to the
high flow rate, we have a turbulent flow, and high frictional losses. Also, we have huge jet impact
63
force and bit hydraulic power that is used on the drill bit. We will choose minimum flowrate, and the
pressure that the pump needs to deliver is 1843 psi. In Figures 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 we can see how
pressure change in the system with changing depth and geometry of the well for all three cases.
Figure 5.1 Dynamic pressure profile with depth when is minimum required flow rate applied
Figure 5. 1 Dynamic pressure profile with depth when is optimized bit hydraulic horsepower
64
Figure 5.3 Dynamic pressure profile with depth when is optimized jet impact force power
5.2. Second stage
In this stage, a 28’’ hole for the installation of surface casing will be drilled. Methodology
described in the Chapter 4 and rheological model for Power law fluids will give us results as
presented in Table 5.2.
Table 5.2 Second stage results
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
the bit nozzles force power
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 1141 2131 324 202 1061 216 2455
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 2319 7374 1337 410 4382 1810 8711
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 1640 4021 669 290 2129 640 4690
force
65
We can see that minimum required flow rate is 1141 gpm and both parameters for optimization
satisfies this condition. Thus, we can choose the criteria that will be used for optimization. Due to
high flow rate, we have a turbulent flow and bigger frictional losses. Also, we will have bigger jet
impact force and bit hydraulic power that is used on the drill bit. We will choose to have minimum
flow rate, and the pressure that the pump needs to deliver is 2455 psi. In Figures 5.4, 5.5 and 5.6 we
can see how pressure change in the system with changing depth and geometry of the well for all three
cases.
Figure 5.5 Dynamic pressure profile with depth when is optimized bit hydraulic horsepower
66
5.3. Third stage
described in the Chapter 4, and rheological model for Power law fluids will give the us results as
shown in Table 5.3.
Table 5.3 Results for third stage
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 616 942 168 145 412 60 1110
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 1065 2456 502 251 1232 312 2958
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 753 1339 251 177 616 110 1590
force
We can see that the minimum required flow rate is 616 gpm and both parameters for
optimization satisfy this condition. Hence, we can choose which criteria to use for optimization. We
67
will choose to have maximum jet impact force spent in the bit, and the pressure that the pump needs
to deliver is 1590 psi. In Figures 5.7, 5.8 and 5.9, we see how pressure change in the system with
changing depth and geometry of the well in all three cases.
68
5.4. Fourth stage
described in the Chapter 4, and rheological model for Bingham fluids that are oil-based mud will
give us the results that are presented in Table 5.4.
Table 5.4 Results for fourth stage
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 407 819 162 131 291 39 981
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 559 1427 306 181 549 100 1733
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 395 777 153 128 274 35 930
force
We can see that minimum required flow rate is 407 gpm and only one criterion for
optimization satisfies this condition. We will have to choose between whether to stay with the
69
minimum flow rate or to take maximized horse power on the bit. As noticed from the Figures 5.10
5.11 5.12., we can see that the pressure inside drilling string increases due to hydrostatic pressure,
and is decreasing after the bit: in the annulus. We will choose to have minimum flow rate and the
pressure that the pump needs to deliver is 981 psi.
70
5.5. Fifth stage
In this stage, a 12 1/4’’ hole for the installation of production casing will be drilled.
Methodology described in the Chapter 4 and rheological model for Bingham fluids that are oil-based
mud will give the results that are presented in Table 5.5.
Table 5.5 Results for fifth stage
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 189 306 24 39 67 3 330
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 479 1558 151 98 427 42 1709
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 339 851 76 69 214 15 927
force
We can see that minimum required flow rate is 189 gpm and both criterions for optimization
satisfy this condition. Thus, we can choose between these three options. We will choose to stay with
minimal required flow rate because for deeper depths, the usual parameter for optimization is
71
velocity on the bit nozzles which usually goes with the minimal flow rate. The pressure that the pump
needs to deliver is 330 psi.
72
5.6. Sixth stage
In this stage, an 8 1/2’’ hole for the installation of production liner will be drilled.
Methodology described in the Chapter 4 and rheological model for oil-based Bingham fluids give us
the results presented in Table 5.6.
Table 5.6 Results for sixth stage
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 210 2737 131 104 153 16 2868
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 215 2852 137 106 160 17 2989
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 152 1563 68 75 80 6 1631
force
We can see that minimum required flow rate is 210 gpm and one criterion for optimization
satisfy this condition. Hence, we can choose between these two options. Gain form hydrostatic
pressure is 8855 psi as noticed in the Figures 5.16 ,5.17 and 5.18. We will go with minimal flow rate
that needs to be satisfied, which according to that pump pressure should be 2868 psi.
73
74
5.7. Seventh stage
In this stage, a 6’’ hole for the installation of production liner will be drilled. Methodology
described in the Chapter 4 and rheological model for oil-based Bingham fluids give the following
results.
Table 5.7 Results for seventh stage
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Minimum
required 46 994 2 33 3 0.03 996
flow rate
Maximized
Horsepower 44 920 0.98 31 3 0.03 921
on the bit
Maximized
Jet impact 31 501 0.48 22 1 0.01 502
force
75
We can see that minimum required flow rate is 46 gpm, and none of criterions for
optimization satisfies this condition. Hence, we will take minimum fluid flow. Gain form hydrostatic
pressure will be 9079 psi as noticed in figures 5.19 ,5.20 and 5. 21. The figures also show that the
difference between pressure inside the pump and annulus is small because the bit pressure is minimal.
We will go only with minimal flow rate that needs to be satisfied which according to that pump
pressure should be 996 psi.
76
5.8. Overall results
By the chosen program (Table 5.8) for the pump, we learn that we need to have a program
strong enough to satisfy the demanded amounts of pressure. To drill this well, we will need the pumps
that can provide us with a pressure of 2868 psi. The great amount is demanded due to the wellbore
geometry, and the minimum velocity of fluid for cleaning the high well. Later, the hydrostatic
pressure is on our side and pressure loss will decrease due to the lower flow rate. For the first stage,
we will need high flow rate of 1590 gpm. At least three pumps will be on the drilling site, while one
or two will operates, the other one will be for safety and precautions. I would suggest using triplex
piston pump W – 3000 with 3000 HP market in the Table 5.9. for all other stages of drilling, adjusting
the flow rate and pressure of the pump when needed. Whit the two pumps, the drilling can be
completed without complications.
Table 5.8 Full requirements for pump to drill the well.
Mud Pressure
pump loss due Pump
flow to pressure
rate friction (psi)
(gpm) (psi)
Stage 1 1590 689 1154 385 2759 1070 1843
Stage 2 1141 2131 324 202 1061 216 2455
Stage 3 753 1339 251 177 616 110 1590
Stage 4 407 819 162 131 291 39 981
Stage 5 189 306 24 39 67 3 330
Stage 6 210 2737 131 104 153 16 2868
Stage 7 46 994 2 33 3 0.03 996
77
Table 5.9 Technical data for triplex pump
78
Chapter 6 Conclusion
The Pressure in the flow path is dependent on the type of fluid and regime of flow. Turbulent
flow regime causes high pressure loss due to loss of friction. On the other hand, we have high
pressure gain due to gravity; hydrostatic pressure grows with depth.
As mentioned earlier, the drilling design should be aimed at maximizing efficiency.
Depending on the designed drilling bit there could be a big drop of pressure on the nozzles, that
makes cleaning the well easier, but in turn the drill jet impact force, as well as the horsepower spent,
would need to be optimized. Most of the time, hydraulic horsepower or maximum hydraulic impact
force is a criterion for shallow to middle depth wells. While at deeper depths, maximum nozzle
velocity must be evaluated. Optimized hydraulics lead to a reduce in cost; as it leads to a reduction
of causes for future problems, and in turn lowering non-working time.
The model code for calculation used in creating a full flow path and designing the pump for
this model, can be further applied to any well type modeling. Data necessary for calculating the
hydraulics are wellbore geometry, BHA that will be used for drilling, drill bits, and the type of fluids
that are going to be used.
79
References
1. Blasius, H., 1913. Das Aehnlichkeitsgesetz bei Reibungsvorgangen in Flussigkeiten.
VDL Forsch,
2. Bourgoyne Jr., A.T., Millheim, K.K., Chenevert, M.E., Young Jr., F.S., 1986. Applied
Drilling Engineering. SPE Textbook Series, Dallas
3. Boyun Guo, Gefei Liu, 2011. Applied Drilling Circulation Systems Hydraulics,
Calculations, And Models, Elsevier Inc
4. Chien, S.F., 1971. Annular velocity for rotary drilling operations. Proceedings of the
5th SPE Conference on Drilling and Rock Mechanics,
5. Colebrook, C.F., 1938. Turbulent flow in pipes, with particular reference to the
transition region between the smooth and rough pipe laws. JICE
6. EXLOG, 1985.Theory and aplications of drilling fluid hydraulics, EXLOG Series of
Petroleum Geology and Engineering Handbooks
7. Pal Skalle, 2012. Drilling Fluid Engineering, Ventus Publishing ApS
8. Paul Anawe, Adewale Folayan, 2018., Advance in Drilling Fluids Rheology, LAP
LAMBERT Academic Publishing
9. Renato Bizjak, 2004. Tehnologija Bušenja sa Projektovanjem
10. Robert F. Mitchell, Stefan Z. Miska, 2001. Fundamentals of Drilling Engineering,
SPE Textbook Series
Chania, 2018/2019

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Master thesis

FULL DESIGN OF A DRILLING MUD PUMP AND FLOW

Supervisor Prof. Dr Nikos Pasadakis

Scientific advisor Assist. Prof. Gaganis Vassilis

Professor Dr Dimitris Marinakis

Date of presenting: _________________07.02.2019_______________

1.2.1. Borehole planning

1.2.2. Well types

Figure 1.1. Classification of Rotary Drilling Rigs.

Figure 1.2. Jackknife

Figure 1.5. Drilling Platform

Figure 1.7. The semisubmersible rig

1.2.4. Rotary Drilling System

● 1.2.4.1. Basic elements of rotary system

1.3. Mud circulation system

Figure 1.10. Circulating system

Figure 1.11. Mud pits

1.3.2. Mud Pumps

Figure 1.12. Mud pumps

Picture 1.13. a) duplex double-acting pump b) triplex single-acting pump

The pumped volume per stroke is:

1.3.3. Mud-mixing equipment

1.3.4. Contaminant removal equipment

Figure 1.15. Vibrating screens

Figure 1.16. Desander and Desilter

1.4. Drilling cost and significance of optimization

Estimation of tripping time can be calculated with following equation:

2.2. Drilling Fluids

2.2.1. Type of muds

● Water-based Muds (WBM)

● Oil-based Muds (OBM)

❖ Advantages of Oil-based mud in comparison with Water-based mud

2.2.2. Functions of mud

2.2.3. Properties and Characteristics

2.3.1. Rheological models

Fluids are referred to as Newtonian or non-Newtonian, depending on their responses to

● Bingham plastic model

𝜇𝑝 = 𝜃600 − 𝜃300 (2.5)

● Power Law model

If speed is taken as N1= 300rpm:

● Herschel-Bulkley Fluids model

The flow behavior index

The consistency index

2.4. Hydraulics calculation for different models

2.4.1. Reynolds number Newtonian fluids

Reynold number for annular flow is calculated by the equation:

2.4.2. Bingham plastic fluids

Reynolds number for inside pipe flow

Apparent viscosity for annular flow

2.4.3. Power Law fluids

Apparent viscosity for annular flow:

Reynolds number for inside pipe flow:

𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = 3470 − 1370𝑛 (2.28)

Lower limit for turbulent flow is given by:

𝑁𝑅𝑒𝑐 = 4270 − 1370𝑛 (2.29)

2.4.4. Herschel-Bulkley Fluids

Where constants Cc and Ca are given by:

𝑝𝑝 = 𝛥𝑝𝑠 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐 + 𝛥𝑝𝑚𝑡 + 𝛥𝑝𝑏 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑐𝑎 + 𝛥𝑝𝑑𝑝𝑎 (2.38)

Date of presenting: ___07.02.2019_