Well Blueprint TM Drilling Conditions

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SOP Code: SP
Revision Date: 02/12/97

Stuck Pipe

Introduction
Stuck pipe is an expensive and time consuming occurrence. Expensive because specialized
technical services and equipment must be ordered and time consuming due to lost drilling time.
Stability of uncased hole may deteriorate in the time required to free the stuck pipe and get back
to drilling. A review of recent industry studies reveals the following information concerning
stuck pipe:
• Hole Angle: Low angle holes had the best success rates for freeing stuck pipe
• Hole Size: Success rate for freeing stuck pipe was slightly higher for larger
than smaller holes.
• Mud Weight: The chance of freeing stuck pipe is higher in wells requiring
lower mud weights.
• Spotting Time: The quicker the spot is applied, the higher the chance of
success.
• Open Hole: Open hole length did not consistently affect the success rate for
freeing stuck pipe.

Causes of Stuck Pipe

Drill strings or casing strings can become stuck by basically two mechanisms:
• Differential Sticking
• Mechanical Sticking
For detail on each of these mechanisms, refer to the appropriate Well BlueprintTM .