Now that we’ve explored drilling systems, pressure containment, and the considerations that go into developing a drilling plan, we’re ready to take a more detailed look at the drilling process. There are several processes that are repeated over and over during the drilling phase of operations: these include drilling rock, adding pipe, tripping out, tripping in, cementing casing, and running wireline tools.
Why It Matters
Drilling operations have shifted dramatically over the last several years to incorporate new technologies and engineering principles. The science of directional drilling and logging principles can help ensure wells are developed using the best practices and technology. Additionally, if trouble arises, understanding some of the potential operations may give insight into how industry personnel, a regulator, or a policymaker might investigate.
Learning Objectives
- Define tripping out.
- Recognize how various wireline tools are used in best practices to increase efficiency, ensure safety, and identify or mitigate contamination or geohazards.
- Describe the importance of cementing a casing string properly.
- Recognize from a bond log when a cement job is bad and needs to be remediated.
- Define tripping in.
- Recognize and identify the differences between vertical, inclined and horizontal drilling equipment and techniques.
Images: “Many Pipes” by Michael Black