Section03 - General Systems Found On Drilling Rigs

HRH Limited Introduction to Drilling
SECTION 3
GENERAL SYSTEMS FOUND ON DRILLING RIGS
A working knowledge of the functions of the key rig systems is essential in the interpretation
of data acquired while drilling. Many important interpretational parameters are monitored
within these systems.
3.1 LIFTING SYSTEM

The lifting system is essentially formed from a massive block and tackle system attached to a
winch, and suspended within the familiar derrick. This equipment is operated by the driller
(the senior member of the drill crew). The other members of the drill crew are the
derrickman and two or three floormen (roughnecks). Together they manoeuvre the lengths
of drill pipe within the derrick as this is inserted or removed from the well.
Monkey
Board
Travelling Block
Figure 3-1: Travelling Block Being Used to Hoist Casing Onto Drill Floor
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3.1.1 Primary Components of the Lifting System

There are two large pulleys (blocks). One is located at the top of the derrick (crown) and is
known as the crown block. The other is suspended below the crown block. This mobile block
is called the travelling block.
The structure of the travelling block itself will depend on the rotary system in use. The more
complex is called the top drive in which the rotary assembly itself is mounted within the
travelling block. The simpler system is called a kelly drive which has no components in the
travelling block. With kelly drive systems the drill string is suspended from a simple latched
hook. Modern offshore rigs use a top drive, although kelly drive rigs are still common in land
applications.
The blocks are linked together by cable called the drilling line. Cable is added to the system
to allow the travelling block to move downwards, and is removed from the system to raise the
travelling block. This is achieved by using a winch called the drawworks. The driller can
alter the direction of travel using a simple gear system. The block then moves depending on
the rotation direction of the cable drum in the drawworks. The cable linking the crown block
to the drawworks is called the fast line.
Since one end of the cable is attached to the drawworks, the other has to be attached to a
fixed point on the opposite side of the drill floor area. This is called the dead line anchor as
the cable from the anchor point to the crown block is called the dead line. The hook load
sensor (load cell) is mounted here to measure the tension in the cable at this point. This
tension increases as the cable, and therefore the travelling block, supports more weight of
drill string.
The drill string is suspended from the travelling block.
The length of cable released can be measured and the distance of travel of the travelling block
can be computed from this. Note that this is a non-linear measurement since full travel of the
block within the derrick (up to 30 metres) requires unwrapping of several layers of cable
from the cable drum. Most sensors for evaluation of block distance measure the number of
cable drum rotations rather than the actual length of cable moved. This can be linearised by
relating sensor output voltage to measured distance above the drill floor at a minimum of
three points, rather than the simple two points required in calibration of a linear signal.
Block position data can be used together with the length of the drill string (pipe tally) to
assess both the measured depth (MD) and penetration rate (ROP).
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Crown Block
Top Drive
(Travelling Block)
Fast
Line
Dead Line
Dead Line
Draw Works Anchor
Drill String
Figure 3-2: Schematic of the Lifting System
Figure 3-3: Draw-works - Offshore on Left, Land Rig on Right
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Crown
Monkey Board
Travelling Block
Drill Floor
Figure 3-4: Land Rig in Ukraine
Drilling
The driller can place the bit onto the bottom of the well and apply weight using the lifting
system. As with a conventional drill used around the home, the hole is drilled by
simultaneously applying weight to the drill bit and rotating the bit.
Tripping
Figure 3-5: Elevators Used to Lift Pipe From the Hole

The drill pipe (or drill string) can be withdrawn to allow worn drill bits to be replaced or to
prepare the well for wireline logging or casing insertion. Attached to the travelling block are
the elevators, which latch around the drill pipe during a trip. The drill pipe can be run back
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into the well by simply reversing the extraction process. This is referred to as tripping out
(of the well) and tripping in (to the well). When drill string is tripped from the hole it is
stacked as stands in the derrick.
The derrickman works on a platform (the monkey board) located about 90 feet (if stands are
triples) above the drill floor. The stands are racked in fingers, i.e. slots built into the derrick
at monkey board level.
3.1.2 Secondary Components of the Lifting System
Figure 3-6: Slips Used to Hold Pipe When Elevators Disconnected

Wedges used in the suspension of the drill string from the rotary table when connections are
made or broken are called slips. These support the drill string when the top drive or kelly are
disconnected.
Figure 3-7: Roughnecks Operating Tongs

Tongs are attached via cables to spinners on the draw works called cat-heads. These are
operated by the driller, whose control panel includes a gauge to read the strength of pull. One
tong is pulled by the cat-head, while the other is chained in place to a post. Depending on
which is fixed and which is chained, these are used to either make or break drill pipe
connections. Tongs are also suspended from cables that pass over pulleys to counterbalances,
enabling easy handling by the roughnecks.
The kelly spinner is used during connections to rotate the kelly and so quickly screw or
unscrew the pipe joints.
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Air hoists (more commonly called tuggers) are wire pulleys for use in ascending the derrick
or for lifting heavy pieces of equipment onto the drill floor through the aperture known as the
v-door.
3.2 ROTATING SYSTEMS

In order to drill the hole, the bit is placed on the bottom of the hole and weight is applied as
discussed above. However, for the bit to actually cut the rock it must also be rotated.
The bit is connected to the drilling rig by a long hollow conduit called the drill string. This is
formed of a number of components, of which the greatest variety is located at the bottom of
the string. This collection of equipment is called the bottom hole assembly (BHA). Different
operations require different designs of BHA, e.g. drilling vertical hole, drilling deviated hole,
coring, etc.
Rotation of the bit can be achieved either by rotating the entire drill string from the surface or
by incorporating a motor (in the BHA above the bit) which uses mud flow to create rotation
of the motor and bit only.
3.2.1 The Drill String

The components listed below are by no means the only pieces of equipment available; rather
they represent typical components used during vertical well drilling. Other specialised
activities such as coring, directional drilling, etc all have their own dedicated string
components.
Tri-cone Bits
This category of bit represents the oldest design of bits currently in use. In general, each bit
comprises three cones capable of rotating about their centre. Each cone has teeth projecting
from it’s surface. As the drill string is rotated, the cones respond by rotating along the bottom
of the hole. This brings the points of the teeth onto the bottom of the hole. The weight applied
to the bit is therefore concentrated on the teeth points. The relatively high weight on bit used
causes the rock to fracture below the teeth, and so break down into small fragments (drill
cuttings). Drilling fluid passes through the drill string and emerges through small holes in
the body of the bit, usually above the cones. Nozzles in the holes focus the drilling fluid into
high velocity streams which dislodge the cuttings from the bottom of the hole and flush them
up through the annular space between the hole and the outside of the drill string.
The main differences between the bits are the materials from which the teeth are constructed,
and the efficiency and durability of the bearings about which the cones rotate. Prices for tri-
cone bits are generally less than the more recent bit designs, and vary from a few hundred to
several thousand US dollars.
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Figure 3-8: Typical Tri-cone Drill Bit
Diamond Bits
Diamond bits have neither cones nor teeth. Instead, many small diamonds are embedded into
the bottom and sides of the bit. Since diamond is so hard, these bits are sometimes used to
efficiently drill rock formations that are themselves quite hard.
The diamond bit generally produces a lower rate of penetration (ROP) compared with that of
an appropriate tri-cone bit. However, it has the advantage of long life, thus saving trip time
and hence rig time.
PDC Bits
Figure 3-9: Typical PDC Bit

PDC (Polycrystalline Diamond Compact) bits are similar to diamond bits in that they do
not have any cones or teeth. The compacts (cutters) are embedded in a matrix similar to that
of diamond bits. The chief difference is that the compacts shear the rock whereas the
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diamond bits grind the formation. In optimum conditions PDC bits can achieve high rates of
penetration for quite long bit runs.
Core Bits
Figure 3-10: Diamond Core Bit

These are specialised drilling bits designed to preserve a column of rock as the bit cuts
through the formation. The bit has an aperture in the middle, with a ring of cutting apparatus
around this. The cutters can be diamond or PDC type. The uncut central column of rock
passes through the bit and enters a storage unit called the core barrel. Up to 90 feet (27 m) of
core can be drilled.
Hole Openers
Figure 3-11: Hole Opener
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These are run above a normal bit to enlarge the hole drilled. They are usually run on the top-
most sections of the well, where large diameter must be obtained. The standard bit drills a
short pilot hole ahead of the cutters on the hole opener. The second tier of cutters then
completes the expansion of the hole to full diameter.
Drill Collars
The drill string is structured so that the compression involved in applying weight to the bit
will not damage the relatively fragile drill pipes. Heavy, thick-walled tubing called drill
collars are located at the bottom of the drill string for this purpose. The quantity of drill
collars used will be decided upon such that the maximum anticipated weight on bit
appropriate to the selected bit type can be applied without compressing the drill pipes used
above the drill collars. If this is not done the development of leaks and string failures
becomes more likely.
Figure 3-12: Spiral Drill Collars and Casing Joints

Drill collars are usually constructed of steel but alternatively may be monel, a non-magnetic
alloy, where MWD directional survey tools are used.
Their purposes include supplying weight to the bit, keeping the drill pipe in tension, and
through their stiffness keeping the hole straight.
Usually, large diameter round collars are run at the bottom of the string to provide stiffness.
Above these are run spiral collars, which provide weight, but reduce the possibility of
differential sticking as the spiral grooves on their outer surface reduce the area of collar in
contact with the hole walls.
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Subs
Sub is a general term for any small piece of drill collar. Usually this is used for a specific
task, e.g. junk subs are used to collect small pieces of metal during periods of drilling, and are
located immediately above the bit.
Stabilisers
Figure 3-13: Typical Stabiliser

Stabilisers are used to control hole deviation. In a straight well the bottom hole assembly will
have full gauge stabilisers spaced at pre-determined intervals which will reduce the risk of the
well deviating from the vertical. A similar assembly will also maintain constant angle in a
deliberately deviated well.
Other combinations of size and position of stabilisers will either build angle or drop angle.
For example to drop back towards vertical in a highly inclined hole, the directional driller
may decide to use stabilisers high up in the bottom hole assembly, but leave out the stabiliser
just above the bit. The lowermost stabiliser acts as a fulcrum, with the weight of the bit and
drill collars below the fulcrum point creating a net downward force on the string.
The body of the stabiliser is usually of the same diameter as the collars in which it is
incorporated. The blades on the stabiliser extend to either full gauge or sometimes slightly
less. The spaces between the blades allow the passage of drilling fluid up through the
annulus, and should also be big enough to ensure that accumulations of cuttings, which could
lead to annular blockage, cannot develop.
Cross-Over Subs
These are short pipes which allow connection between two sections of string of different
diameters and/or whose ends bear different threads, for example between heavyweight drill
pipe and collars.
Heavy Walled Drill Pipe (HWDP)

This pipe is lighter than drill collar, but is heavier than standard drill pipe. It provides a
transition zone between the collars and drill pipe, which reduces the stress at any point where
the drill string changes from one size to another. The most commonly used pipe of this type is
called Hevi Wate Drill Pipe.
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Drill Pipe
Figure 3-14: Drill Pipe Showing Tapered Threads at Pin End

Drill pipe forms the majority of the drill string, and is manufactured in relatively short lengths
(either 30 or 45 feet) called singles or joints. It is available in various diameters and wall
thicknesses. It’s purpose is to carry drilling fluid from the surface to the BHA. It has
relatively thin walls compared to drill collar and heavy weight drill pipe and is also relatively
weak. It is designed such that it will be at it’s strongest when held in tension. The suspended
drill string is therefore stretched by the weight of the BHA pulling down on the collars.
Drill pipe has a tapered upset tool joint at each end (bottom end male or pin, top end female
or box). The shoulders of the joints are thickened, to provide added strength.
Figure 3-15: Stands of Drill Pipe Racked in Derrick
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On kelly drive rigs, the drill string is added to as singles, but in top drives multiple lengths of
pipe called stands are added (fig 3-15). These usually comprise three singles, although some
smaller rigs use only two pipes per stand (doubles).
Reamers
Reamers are located in the drill string immediately above the drill bit and are run as required
rather than as standard components. They perform several functions, including reaming the
hole just behind the bit to maintain hole gauge, acting as a fulcrum point just behind bit to
increase angle in directional holes, and acting as stabilisers in stiff hole assemblies.
Under reamers open the hole to a diameter greater than the internal diameter of the previous
casing. The tool is folded for running into and out of the hole through this casing. Pressure of
pumped drill fluid causes the tool to open when required.
3.2.2 The Kelly System

This is the oldest system currently in use and has been largely replaced in offshore
applications by the top drive system discussed below (section 3.2.3).
The key components of the kelly drive are detailed as follows.
Kelly Swivel
This has three main functions: to sustain the weight of the drill string; to permit the string to
rotate; to afford a rotating pressure seal and passage way for drilling mud to be pumped down
the inside of the drill string.
The swivel also has a large bail, similar to the bail or handle on a bucket but much larger,
which fits inside the hook at the bottom of the travelling block. The rotary hose (also called
the kelly hose or the mud hose) is attached to the side of the swivel via a curved steel pipe
(the goose neck). It is through this hose that drilling mud enters the swivel.
Kelly
Located immediately below the swivel is a hexagonal piece of pipe called the kelly. Like the
swivel, this is also a unit through which drilling mud is pumped on it's way to the bottom of
the hole.
The purpose of the six sides is to serve as a means of transferring the rotating motion of the
rotary table to the drill string.
When not in use, the kelly is located in a storage slot on the drill floor called the rat hole.
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Kelly Drive System Top Drive System
Drilling
Mud Hose
Line
Kelly
Swivel
Rotary Mud Hose
Kelly Electric
Bushing Motor
Connection
Rollers
Kelly Pipe
Elevators
Slots in
Electric Master
Motor Bushing Drill Pipe
Rotary
table
Figure 3-16: Schematics of Kelly Drive and Top Drive Systems
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Rotary Kelly Bushing (RKB)

The kelly fits inside a corresponding hexagonal opening in a device called the rotary kelly
bushing. This in turn fits into another part of the rotary table called the master bushing. Thus
as the master bushing rotates, the kelly bushing also rotates. Since the kelly mates with the
kelly bushing, the kelly rotates. Finally, since the drill pipe is attached to the bottom of the
kelly it rotates and hence the bit rotates.
Kelly Pipe
Rollers
Pins to Seat Bushing in

Rotary Table
Figure 3-17: Rotary Kelly Bushing (Kelly in Rathole)
Rotary Table
The rotary table is usually powered by it's own electric motor and is capable of rotating a drill
string at speeds up to 250 rpm. Measurement of the current flow from the rig generator to the
rotary table motor can be related to the degree of resistance to rotation (torque) experienced
by the drill string. Electrical power is calculated from
Power (Watts) = Voltage x Current (Amps)
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Thus at constant voltage, electrical power drawn by the rotary system varies with the current
flowing to the motor. The driller sets the rotary table to rotate at the desired speed. The
system reacts to resistance experienced downhole by varying the current flow as the string
alternately sticks and slips in contact with the formations drilled. Drilling torque is therefore
often referred to in the units Amps.
Conversion to a true torque unit such as foot-pounds is possible but complex. Each drilling
unit will have different rotary motor, generator, gearing, etc configurations. All of these
factors will affect the conversion of electrical power supplied to the system into force to
overcome drill string sticking.
Pins projecting from the bottom of the kelly bushing fit into corresponding holes in the
central component of the rotary table, called the master bushing. The master bushing in turn
is located within the rotary table itself. As the rotary table turns, the master bushing transmits
this rotation to the kelly bushing and hence to the drill string.
Slots to Seat Kelly

Master Bushing
Bushing
Figure 3-18: Rotary Table

The electric motor is connected to the rotary table via a gearbox providing a choice of
forward and reverse gears. There may be more than one gear available for the rotation
direction used during drilling. The rotary speed is usually measured by counting the rotations
of the drive shaft below the drill floor. These rotations can be used to calculate the rotary
table speed provided the gear ratio is known. When viewed from above, this rotation is
always clockwise to ensure that in sticky conditions down hole the pipe joints will never
unscrew themselves.
3.2.3 Top Drive Drilling Systems

Top drive drilling has largely replaced kelly drive systems, particularly on offshore drilling
platforms. Such platforms have a high daily cost. The significant reduction in rig time
afforded by use of a top drive is welcomed by the operator.
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The most commonly used version of the top drive incorporates an electric motor similar to
that used to drive the rotary table. This motor is built into an assembly which itself hangs off
the travelling block hook, and is directly connected to the drill pipe itself.
Figure 3-19: Top Drive System

This similarity in motor design means that the SCR assignment for the existing rotary table
can also be used for the top drive. The rig wiring can be organised to allow switching from
top drive to rotary table as required. This allows reversion to the original kelly drive should
failure occur in the top drive system.
Motion compensation on semi-submersible or drill ship platforms is incorporated as usual in

the travelling block or at the crown block. The top drive assembly is suspended below this.
For stability, guide rails are built into the derrick to prevent movement of the blocks induced
by reactive torque. Since the top drive is much heavier than the usual travelling block,
swinging in high winds would also be a problem without these rails.
An early disadvantage of the top drive was the common need to extend the derrick height to
allow enough clearance for the much bigger travelling section. This was done in dock prior to
the rig moving onto location. Modern rigs built today automatically have a top drive fitted.
Connection Time
Use of a top drive eliminates the need to drill each single individually. The top drive
effectively takes the rotary table out of the drill floor and mounts it in the travelling block
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assembly. The motor in the top drive can therefore be directly linked to the drill string itself.
The kelly, which slips through the bushings at the rotary table, is therefore not required.
The space in the derrick occupied by the kelly (up to 50 feet) can therefore be used for drill
pipe. Thus the hole may be drilled in 90 foot sections, rather than 30 foot, with only one
connection needed in the same interval where three would be required using the kelly system.
This saves around ten minutes of rig time per ninety feet of drilled depth. If the well is 15000
feet deep, then roughly 28 hours of rig time may be saved in this way.
However, pipe is transported to the wellsite as singles. Before running stands into the hole
after a bit change, the driller will pick up and run into the hole sufficient singles to enable
him to drill the next bit run. This distance can be estimated from knowledge of the local
geology and past bit performance. When the bit is returned to bottom, this leaves an
equivalent amount of singles already made up as stands in the derrick. The time taken per
connection when running pipe into the hole is much less than the time taken to make a
connection during drilling. Thus there is a net saving in time. The stands in the derrick can
then be connected to the drill string as drilling proceeds.
Circulation
Further advantages are gained by the ability to quickly resume circulation of the well at
almost any time. This reduces the risk of stuck pipe situations where the well has developed
tight spots. These can be back-reamed while pumping, effectively re-drilling the tight spot.
Tight spots (bridges) encountered when running into the hole, are simply drilled away as they
are met.
Drilling fluid enters via a gooseneck mounted on the top of the drive assembly, and passes
through the drive shaft into the drill pipe.
The top drive shaft can be reconnected to the top of the pipe in the elevators in around one
minute, compared with several minutes spent picking up the kelly from it’s storage slot in the
drill floor (the rat-hole).
This ability to quickly recommence circulation is also useful should an influx occur in the
well. The top drive incorporates both manually operated and remotely controlled internal
blow out preventers (kelly-cock valves). The well can be shut in more quickly, minimising
kick volume.
Safety Advantages
The use of the top drive means that the hazard represented by a rotating section of drill floor
is removed. The reduction in the number of drilling connections also exposes the roughnecks
to fewer potentially dangerous situations.
Top drives incorporating internal pipe handlers allow the connections to be tightened or
broken without need for either cat-heads on the draw-works, or tongs. Many drill floor
injuries have been caused by the use of this equipment.
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Casing Fill Up
Casing is designed such that fluid cannot enter the inside of the casing from the bottom
(shoe). This is because a one way valve (or float) is built in. Thus, to overcome buoyancy and
allow the casing to move down into the well, it is necessary to fill the casing from the top as
each joint is run. This may be performed by rigging up a pipe system between the mud pumps
and the rotary table, but is easier and quicker to achieve using the top drive.
An appropriate nipple can be used to attach the top drive to the casing, allowing rotation of,
and circulation through, the casing. This is very helpful in easing casing through tight or
highly deviated sections of the well.
Tripping
The top drive incorporates conventional elevators for running and pulling pipe. The drive and
circulating assembly is disconnected from the pipe during this process, but needs only to be
lowered one or two feet to reconnect.
3.2.4 Downhole Motors

Downhole motors are located in the BHA immediately above the drill bit. In general terms
they are used to convert the energy available in the drilling fluid, as supplied by the mud
pumps, into rotational energy for the drill bit. Where bent systems are used, they allow
controlled directional drilling to be carried out relatively easily. In this circumstance no
surface rotation would be used.
Where constant angle is required surface rotation can be added to the downhole rotation to
further increase bit rotary speeds and so enhance the performance of some bit designs.
Turbines
The oldest version of downhole motor in the drilling industry is the turbine (or turbodrill)
system. The first designs were patented as early as 1873 in the USA, although the drilling
industry at that time made no use of them. Research and experimentation continued for many
years after this with little interest in the USA. However, in the USSR the relatively poor
quality of steel used in drill pipe manufacture encouraged the use of downhole rotary systems
as these largely removed the problem of twist-offs. Elsewhere the continued use of surface
rotary systems was considered to be more economic.
In more recent times, the use of turbodrills has reflected the variation in rig day rates. In the
early to mid-1980’s, for example, it was common practice for many companies to use a
turbodrill to penetrate the Cretaceous limestones in the Northern North Sea in only one bit
run. This resulted in significant savings as a result of the reduction in trip times achieved.
Conventional drilling systems usually required three or four bits to drill the same sequence.
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The drastic oil price reduction in 1986 caused huge falls in day rates as the drilling
contractors competed for a decreasing number of wells, so the use of turbodrills once again
became less attractive for reasons of economy.
Principle of Operation of the Turbodrill

In simple terms, a turbine operates as follows. A rotary drive shaft, connected to the bit, is
housed within the motor body. This is attached to the drill collars above. The body itself does
not rotate.
Inside the body, a series of inclined blades are attached to the inner walls of the motor
housing. This assembly of blades is called the stator. Below the stator, a second series of
blades, inclined in the opposite sense, are attached to the drive shaft. This series is called the
rotor. As drilling mud is pumped down the drill string, it flows through the space between the
drive shaft and the motor housing, striking the stator blades first. These alter the direction of
flow so that the mud strikes the blades of the rotor at the perfect angle. The force of the
drilling fluid then pushes the rotor blades away from the direction of applied force, imparting
rotation to the drive shaft. The greater the applied force to the rotor, the faster the rotor will
move.
The stator/rotor assembly is called a stage. The turbine will contain several of these stages.
By controlling pump speed, and hence the force in the mud, the speed of rotation of the drive
shaft and therefore of the bit can be varied as required. Bit rotary speeds up to 1000 rpm are
possible using turbodrills. Diamond or PDC bits are usually run with these motors as the
cutting action of these bits depends on high revs and low weight on the bit.
Positive Displacement Motors (PDM)

While these have the same effect as a turbine, .i.e to convert fluid energy to bit rotation, the
operating principle of the PDM (mud motor) is very different. PDM technology is more
recent than turbines, first emerging in the 1950’s.
Principle of Operation of the PDM

The mud motor operates on the principle of the Moineau pump run in reverse. A helical
(spiral) shaft is located inside the motor housing. This shaft is the rotor. In the pump
application, rotation is applied to this rotor by a surface mounted drive system. As the rotor
turns, the position of the cavity between the rotor and the motor housing becomes mobile.
Fluid contained in the cavity is therefore transported with the cavity. The pump is designed to
take fluid from a low elevation and transport it upwards under the action of the rotor.
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Figure 3-20: Positive Displacement Motor Showing Rotor/Stator

Apparatus
Figure 3-21: Rotor/Stator Variations in PDM

The PDM injects fluid into the cavity between rotor and motor housing (stator) using the mud
pumps to supply the fluid motion. As the fluid enters the cavity it imparts force on the mobile
rotor which will move in response to this force. The rotor is ultimately attached to the drill bit
via a compensating joint, which removes the off-centre rotation of the helical rotor giving
simple centred rotation to the bit. As fluid supply through the cavity is continuous, so the
movement of the rotor will also be continuous.
Pump speed controls the force available from the mud and hence controls the rotary speed of
the bit. The manufacturers of motors calibrate the rotation pushed against fluid flow rate
through the motor. This is often expressed as revolutions per gallon (or litre). The values of
rotation will vary with the design of the motor. A typical value could be around 0.4 revs/gal.
The rotor is made from a strong metal alloy while the stator is composed of a rubber
compound (elastomer) which coats the inside of the motor housing. A typically used
elastomer is Nitrile. The use of elastomers can act as a disadvantage in applications of mud
motors, particularly in high temperature wells. Rubber compounds can become unstable at
high temperature, although higher cost products capable of resisting temperature can be
obtained. A similar problem is faced by blowout preventer (BOP) system designers when
dealing with high temperature muds.
Drilling fluid chemistry can also be a problem with mud motor elastomers as some chemicals
used in drilling fluids act aggressively towards rubber products.
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The profile (cross section) of the rotor/stator assembly will determine the speed and torque
handling capability of the motor. The rotor is usually formed from several helical rods,
wrapped around each other, thus the cross section is not circular. Instead it is formed of a
number of lobes.
The stator is not a smooth coating on the housing, but has a cross section also characterised
by lobes. The stator always has one lobe more than the rotor. The interaction of these rotor
and stator lobes more efficiently converts the fluid movement in the cavity to rotation. The
greater the number of lobes used, the greater the torque capability of the motor. The motor is
therefore classified according to the number of lobes, for example a motor may be classified
as 3/4 (3 lobes on rotor, 4 lobes on stator) or 7/8 (7 rotor lobes, 8 stator lobes).
Rotary
3.3 CIRCULATING SYSTEM Hose
Standpipe
Mud Pump
Flowline
Drill
String
Annulus
Shale
Active Shakers
System
Degasser Desander
Figure 3-22: Schematic of Circulating System
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Mud Storage Silos
Reserve Pits
Centrifuge
Shale Shaker
Active Pit House
Degasser
Mud Pumps
Figure 3-23: Mud Tanks, Mud Cleaners and Mud Pumps

The following list describes the major component parts of the rig circulating system.
3.3.1 Active Pit (or System)

This is the mud tank(s) where the drilling fluid begins and ends it’s journey around the
circulating system. Fluid is extracted from the suction tank and cleaned mud returned to the
returns tank.
Tank Volume
Sensor Mud Density &
Mud Temperature
Sensors
Active Tank
Figure 3-24: Drilling Mud Tank System on Land Rig
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If a large volume of drilling fluid is required at the surface two tanks may be connected
together (equalised). In this circumstance the term active system is best used.
Active volume is monitored closely at the surface to allow early detection of fluid gains or
losses in the system.
Mud density, temperature and sometimes conductivity are also monitored. The derrickman
will also measure the relative viscosity of the mud from here. These may be compared with
the density, viscosity, temperature and conductivity of the same mud returning later to the
surface (before the mud cleaners) to allow analysis of downhole effects on the mud system to
be performed.
3.3.2 Reserve Tanks

Reserve tanks are the other tanks at surface that are not currently connected to the well. Fresh
mud can be made here to allow the system to be periodically topped up as the hole deepens.
If problems such as kicks or lost circulation are expected, there may be tanks of specialised
mud already prepared. Small pumps are positioned around the tank system to allow easy
transfer of fluid from one tank to another at any time, independent of the main pumps (mud
pumps).
Reserve tank volumes are monitored at surface to allow understanding of well behaviour
whenever the response of the active pit monitoring system becomes confused by transfers to
the active system.
3.3.3 Mud Pumps

Pump Counter
Figure 3-25: Triplex Mud Pump

Pumps may be either single or double acting. In the latter case mud is displaced on both the
forward and backward stroke. There are two main pump types; duplex or triplex (i.e. two
pistons or three pistons). The triplex pumps are the most commonly used today, and are
usually single-acting. Efficiency of the pumps should be checked with the toolpusher, as this
can seriously affect the calculated pump output and hence all associated calculations (e.g.
motor rotary speed, fluid flow regimes, pressure losses in the system, etc)
Version 1.1 3-23

Mud is piped to the derrick from the mud pumps.
Mud Suction
From Pumps
Transfer Pumps
Figure 3-26: Mud Suction Pipes and Mud Transfer Pumps

Pump speed is monitored as strokes per minute (fig 3-25). This allows variations in
circulating system pressures to be better understood, and can also allow the flow rate of the
mud, and hence mud motor rotary speed and fluid velocity in the different sections of the
system to be calculated.
3.3.4 Standpipe
The standpipe is a hollow steel tube attached to the derrick, through which mud flows to
reach the drill string. Typically there will be two of these to allow for punctures in the rotary
hose during drilling. Only one standpipe will be in use at any given time. The selection of
standpipe is done by closing and opening the correct valves on the standpipe manifold,
located at the base of the standpipes (usually on the drill floor).
Pressure in the circulating system is measured at the standpipe manifold. This is referred to as
standpipe pressure (SPP) and is a measure of the total resistance to fluid flow through the
circulating system between the standpipe manifold and the top of the annulus. This may also
be referred to as pump pressure, although it does not include the friction pressure needed to
circulate fluid from the pumps to the standpipe manifold (the surface system pressure loss).
This pressure gauge can also be used after the well is shut in at a kick to measure the
underbalance between the hydrostatic pressure of mud inside the drill string and the pore
fluid pressure in the kicking formation. In this situation the measurement is known as shut in
drill pipe pressure (SIDPP).
Version 1.1 3-24

Standpipe
(Red)
Rotary Hose
(Black)
Top of Kelly
Figure 3-27: Standpipe (Red) Running Up Side of Derrick
3.3.5 Rotary Hose

This is a high-pressure (5000psi) flexible reinforced rubber tube through which the mud
passes from the standpipe to the gooseneck. It is also known as the mud hose or kelly hose.
3.3.6 Goose Neck

This curved steel pipe, onto which the rotary hose is fitted, allows fluid to enter the top drive
or kelly swivel.
3.3.7 Top Drive/Kelly Swivel

This is the rotating drive swivel, which creates rotation of the drill string within the travelling
block while providing high-pressure seals to contain the fluid. This system superseded the
kelly swivel, which acts simply as the rotating seal assembly without the capability of driving
the drill string.
Version 1.1 3-25

Goose Neck
Kelly
Swivel
Mud Hose
Kelly
Figure 3-28: Kelly Swivel
3.3.8 Kelly
Usually a square or hexagonal pipe that fits on the top of the drill string, this device enables
rotary torque to be applied to the drill string using the rotary table located within the drill
floor. This is now relatively rare compared with top drive systems.
3.3.9 Drill String

Series of pipes connected together to pass drilling fluids to the bottom of the well where it
exits through nozzles in the drill bit.
3.3.10 Annulus
The well annulus is the space between the walls of the hole and the outside of the drill string.
The diameter of the annulus is variable due to the different sizes of string components and the
difference in diameter of the open and cased hole sections. On fixed platforms (i.e. not
floating) casing is continuous from the rig to the base of casing (casing shoe).
Version 1.1 3-26

3.3.11 Marine Riser

This represents the top section of the well, and is unique to floating structures. The blow out
prevention equipment located at the wellhead is on the seabed in these structures. The riser
accommodates rig motion due to heave and tide through a slip joint, which resembles the
sliding section of a trombone.
Figure 3-29: Section of Marine Riser
3.3.12 Bell Nipple

This is a large diameter pipe situated on top of the marine riser or conductor pipe, which
allows downhole assemblies to be guided into the borehole due to it’s widened end. It is also
the place where the mud returning to surface is drawn off along the flowline.
3.3.13 Flowline
Also known as the ditch, this inclined pipe or trough carries mud from the top of the well
annulus to the mud cleaning equipment.
Mud flow out of the well is often measured here using a paddle assembly which is deflected
according to the force of the mud. This moves the wiper on a variable resistor, which allows a
variable current flow related to mud flow to be detected. This is particularly useful in the
detection of well kicks as it’s proximity to the annulus allows more rapid response to
increased flow rates compared to alterations in the active tank volumes.
Version 1.1 3-27

Flowline
To Shale
Shakers
BOP
Figure 3-30: Flowline
3.3.14 Header Tank

The header tank (or possum belly) is an open rectangular tank that allows settling out of large
rock particles from the drilling fluid prior to the fluid entering the shale shakers. On floating
platforms this tank additionally compensates for changes in the volume of mud in the
flowline due to rig heave.
Flow Line
Gas Trap
Mud Density &
Mud Temperature
Sensors
Shale Shaker Header Tank
Figure 3-31: Header Tank With Mud Logging Sensors
Version 1.1 3-28

As this is the first accessible point to measure mud properties after the mud has left the
annulus, there are many sensor systems located in or near to the header tank. Mud density,
temperature and conductivity can be measured here and compared with the parameter
values of the same mud as it began it’s journey around the system. This data is useful in pore
fluid pressure analysis and kick detection. The roughneck who mans the shale shaker area
during drilling (shaker hand) will also sample the relative viscosity of the mud from the
header tank or flowline.
Any gas trapped in the drilling fluid will begin it’s release at this point in the system, leading
to potentially high concentrations of explosive and/or toxic gases accumulating here. Total
combustible gas, chromatographic analysis of hydrocarbons, H2S, and CO2 may also be
measured from here. The vibrating nature of the shale shakers will cause most gas to be
released at this point, so there is no purpose in including gas detection equipment
downstream of the header tank.
3.3.15 Shale Shakers
Cuttings Sample
Board
Figure 3-32: Shale Shaker

These are large vibrating sieves, which filter rock cuttings from the mud. An electric motor
provided the shaking action. Drilling fluid spills from the header tank onto the top filter
screen. The apertures on the screens should be large enough to allow the passage of bentonite
and barite particles, which are part of the drilling fluid, to pass through but small enough to
remove the majority of drill cuttings and cavings.
There are two filter screens, with the upper having the largest aperture size. The screens are
inclined so that the rock particles will bounce to the end on the shaker where they fall off into
a storage pit (land rigs) or into the sea (offshore rigs). The filtered mud then flows onwards to
the next stage of mud cleaning.
Version 1.1 3-29

Figure 3-33: Shale Shakers Above Cuttings Collection Pit

The efficiency of the shaker system is measured by the mud engineer, as part of the regular
full mud checks performed every six hours or so. By centrifuging a sample of mud collected
just downstream of the shale shaker, the relative proportions of drilling mud fluids, drilling
mud solids, and rock solids (referred to as sand content) can be observed. If the shaker mesh
size is too big, the proportion of rock solids will become unacceptably large. This can have
severe effects on the drill string if it is re-circulated down the hole. Measurement While
Drilling (MWD) equipment located in the BHA is particularly prone to failure through
erosion of this type. To reduce the sand percentage passing through the shakers, the mud
engineer will replace the existing screens with smaller mesh sizes and retest. If reducing the
screen sizes is still insufficient, further mud cleaning devices (desander or desilter) located
downstream from the shakers can be switched on as needed.
Drill cuttings samples are particularly useful in assessing the nature of the rocks being drilled,
including their hydrocarbon content. The cuttings are collected from the output of the shale
shakers by interrupting the fragments’ fall into the pit (or the sea) by placing a board at the
front of the shaker (figure 3-32). Cuttings are allowed to accumulate until they represent a
complete depth interval, ideally around 10 feet, and are collected and analysed by a service
company specialist called the mud logger.
3.3.16 Sand Trap

This is situated immediately below the shale shakers and acts as a settling pit to collect fine
particles of rock material still remaining in the drilling fluid after passing through the screens.
This tank will eventually fill up with rock material over a period of time. This must then be
dumped from the system. This creates a large apparent loss from the active pit when
Version 1.1 3-30

circulation is resumed since the sand traps need to be refilled completely before fluid can
pass further downstream.
3.3.17 Mud Cleaners

After passing through the sand traps any further sand or silt in the mud must be removed
before it is re-circulated down the hole. A variety of devices exist to achieve this.
Desander/Desilter
Figure 3-34: Desander/Desilter

These are centrifugal devices, which are only switched on when sand concentrations in the
mud rise above about 1% since some mud is lost in the extraction processes. The difference
between desander and desilter is related to the size of the particles that are removed from the
mud. Otherwise these are basically identical devices. Each has a small mud tank into which
the mud flows. The desander then sucks the mud into the centrifugal devices from this tank.
The rock fragments are dumped and the cleaned mud output to the next stage.
Some oil companies require volume sensors on the mud cleaner tanks to more fully
understand some of the variations that may appear in the measured surface mud volumes
during drilling. The mud logger can collect samples of the output of these devices for
lithological analysis since the action of some drill bits can break the rocks into fine powder
(rock flour) which may be missed from the routine cuttings samples.
Version 1.1 3-31

Centrifuge
Figure 3-35: Centrifuge

This is a more powerful device than the desander and desilter discussed above. However, the
mud loss associated with it’s operation means that it will only be used where the economics
of not fully cleaning the mud of rock fragments outweighs the cost of losing mud itself. The
centrifuge may not be standard in the rig’s solids control system.
Degasser
The vacuum degasser is only used when the gas content of the mud remains high after
passing through the shale shakers (gas-cut mud). This can reduce the density of drilling fluid
if re-circulated, and can also confuse the gas analysis on the mud returns if a peak reappears
upon the second circulation.
The degasser sucks mud from it’s small tank into a vessel which has internal pressure less
than atmospheric. This encourages gas release. Inside the tank, the mud is allowed to flow
through a series of grilles, which create some turbulence in the fluid, which also encourages
gas release. The low-density gas produced is bled off from the top of the degasser, while the
heavier cleaned mud is released from the bottom.
Version 1.1 3-32

Figure 3-36: Vacuum Degasser
3.3.18 Active System

Once the fluid has been through the required solids control equipment, it is piped to the
returns section of the active pit or active system. It can then repeat it’s journey around the
well.
3.4 WELL CONTROL EQUIPMENT
3.4.1 Hydrostatic Pressure Control

True well control is maintained by having a mud density in the hole such that the pressure
exerted by the drilling fluid is greater than the pressure of the pore fluids in the formations
being drilled at all times. This situation is termed overbalance.
When mud pressure is identical to formation fluid pressure the system is said to be in
balance.
The worst case situation occurs when the pore fluid pressure in the formation is greater than
that exerted by the drilling fluid. In this underbalanced situation the conditions are perfect
for either fluid influx (kick) or stuck pipe. The former situation is both dangerous and costly
to correct, while the latter is often extremely costly, sometimes causing the well to be
sidetracked.
Version 1.1 3-33

Hydrostatic Pressure
When fluid is stationary, the pressure exerted is calculated simply from the density of the
fluid and the vertical height of the fluid column. This is given by the equation
Hydrostatic pressure = fluid density x true vertical depth x units constant
Pressure Variations
When the fluid is disturbed, the pressure exerted against the formations can vary above or
below the hydrostatic pressure.
Swab Pressure
As the drill string is lifted through the mud column, the viscosity of the mud combined with
the very small clearance around the drill bit means that the pressure exerted by the mud
below the drill bit is temporarily reduced. This effect is called swabbing and may result in
kicks entering the well during trips out of the hole to change the bit or BHA.
Surge Pressure
A similar effect to swabbing occurs when the drill string is lowered through the mud, except
that in this case the pressure below the bit is increased due to compression of the mud. This
can cause fractures to be initiated in weak formations below the drill bit, with the consequent
risk of mud losses.
Effective Circulating Density (ECD)
The fluid circulated through any pipe experiences a frictional pressure, which attempts to
oppose the fluid flow. If two pressure sensors were mounted at either end of a pipe through
which drilling fluid was being circulated, the downstream sensor would read a pressure less
than the upstream. The difference in pressures is termed the pressure loss.
In the well annulus, the friction pressure loss between the bottom of the hole and the top of
the annulus will therefore be added to any hydrostatic pressure exerted by the mud. Thus the
pressure experienced by the formations at the bottom of the hole will have the appearance of
hydrostatic pressure of a heavier mud. This effect is known as ECD (Effective Circulating
Density)
3.4.2 Blowout Preventers

The blowout preventer (BOP) is a stack of valve systems located at the wellhead (on top of
the well casings) which are used to close the well annulus when the drilling fluid fails to
control formation pressures. By closing the well annulus in this way, further fluid entry into
Version 1.1 3-34

the well is prevented. The volume of gas entering the well during the kick may be critical in
terms of the pressures generated as the gas attempts to expand as it eventually approaches the
surface.
Fig 3-37: Simple BOP Stack
Figure 3-38: Subsea BOP Stack
Version 1.1 3-35

High pressures may damage exposed formations in the well resulting in fracture and
corresponding fluid loss at a formation other than the influx-producing formation. High
pressures may also damage the well control equipment itself, and hence threaten the safety of
the rig. Correct design of the BOP system should ensure that the latter case is avoided in most
wells, but exploration conditions may mean that there is no prior knowledge of reservoir
pressures before the well is drilled.
Once the well is sealed and the flow of gas has halted, the next stage is to remove the
intruding fluid and replace the existing mud with new mud whose density will be sufficient to
restore primary hydrostatic pressure control to the well. Thus there must be a system to allow
drilling fluid to circulate through the closed BOP system at a pressure greater than the
formation pressure even though the fluid in the well is insufficient in density on it’s own.
This device is called the choke valve, which increases ECD by introducing an extra pressure
loss at the top of the annulus by reducing the aperture of the choke.
Finally there must be a system at the surface downstream of the BOP device to allow efficient
separation of the intruding fluid from the drilling fluid (mud-gas separator).
3.4.3 Types of BOP

BOPs may be operated hydraulically or manually. This hydraulic pressure is provided by
using an accumulator of high-pressure nitrogen (often called the Koomey unit). Koomey is a
manufacturer of BOP control equipment. Manually operated valves are opened or closed by
turning large wheels mounted on the valves themselves.
Figure 3-39: BOP Closing System ("Koomey Unit")
Version 1.1 3-36

Ram Preventers
Figure 3-40: Hydril Ram Type Annular Preventer

These are gate-type preventers used to shut-in the hole when empty, or close around pipe, or
in extreme cases to cut and seal the drill pipe. Hydraulic pressure from the control system
operates a piston on either side of the well, which pushes a shaped ram towards the centre of
the hole. When the rams meet the rubber facings should ensure that the well is sealed. There
are different rams used for different purposes.
Pipe rams have rubber faces moulded to fit a specific size of pipe. There must therefore be
one set of rams present for each pipe size in the drill string.
Blind rams have flat faces that will seal the hole if no pipe is present. These are used mainly
when the drill string has been removed to prevent equipment from being accidentally dropped
from the drill floor into the hole.
Shear rams are shaped such that they can cut through the drill pipe held in the BOP, and seal
the pipe and annulus when cutting is complete. To save space in the BOP stack, a shear ram
may be used as both blind ram and cutting tool.
Packer Type Preventers

These are often called the hydril, since Hydril is a major manufacturer of BOP equipment.
They are also sometimes called bag preventers.
A large rubber packer element is used to close the annulus. The design does not favour use of
the preventer to seal the hole without pipe present, although this may be possible if the
operator is willing to accept the damage done to the system. Pressure is applied to the packer
through a piston mounted below the packer itself. This pressure compresses the rubber
against the roof of the preventer, causing it to close around the drill string.
Version 1.1 3-37

Figure 3-41: Hydril Packer Type Annular Preventer

This type of preventer has the advantage of being useful for all sizes of pipe i.e. collars and
drill pipe, and will also fit around the joints on drill pipe. Ram preventers are shaped to fit
around the main body of the pipe and cannot close around the greater diameter presented by
the joint.
Closing pressure can be progressively applied and, if necessary, pipe may be relatively easily
moved through the preventer without opening (stripping pipe).
Unless the flow rate of the kick is dangerously fast, or the underbalance is exceptionally
severe, the driller will always try to use the packer preventer rather than the ram preventer.
3.4.4 Supplementary BOP Equipment
Inside Blowout Preventers
Kelly Cock Valve
This is a ball valve located between the drill string and the top drive or swivel. The ball is
bored through to the same inner diameter as the drill pipe or kelly. When open, the fluid
passes through the hole in the ball with no associated pressure effect. To close this valve the
ball is rotated through 90° either manually by inserting a key into the valve, or automatically
using hydraulic control pressure.
Valves of this type can contain pressures up to 10000psi.
Float Valve
Usually located close to the bottom of drill string in the BHA, or at the bottom of casing in
the float collar. This is a non-return valve permitting fluid flow in one direction only. Many
Version 1.1 3-38

BHA's include a section to receive a float valve, which can be pumped down to the BHA
from the surface. This has the advantage of not sealing the drill string under normal
circumstances.
These are often called check valves.
3.4.5 Wellhead Connections

The second function of the BOP system, after the initial containment of the influx, is to allow
circulation of the well to displace the influx material from the well and also replace the
existing mud with kill mud. This kill mud is designed so that it has sufficient density to allow
it to exert a hydrostatic pressure that overbalances the pore fluid pressure in the formation
without further need of the well closing system.
Communication with the annulus is facilitated by several pipes, which enter the BOP below
each component in the stack.
Kill Line
The kill line allows fluid (heavy mud, cement, etc) to be pumped into the well annulus below
the BOP to bring the well under control under certain conditions. For example, if the shear
rams have been used to cut the drill string, the cut pipe below the ram is supported by a pipe
ram located at the bottom of the stack. Since the mud or cement pumps no longer have access
to the drill string directly through the drill floor systems, the kill line can be used to inject
fluid into the space between the shear and pipe rams, and hence into the drill string.
Another application of the kill line would be when reverse circulation, i.e. circulation down
the annulus and up through the drill string, is required.
Choke Line and Choke Valve
Figure 3-42: Hydril Choke Valve
Version 1.1 3-39

The choke line allows pressure to be bled off from the well through an adjustable choke
valve, whilst the BOPs are closed. This may be necessary if gas migration in the annulus
causes pressure to rise before the kill mud is ready to be pumped. By observing the shut in
casing pressure (SICP) on the choke valve control panel, the choke valve can be opened to
allow the gas to expand, and so displace some mud from the annulus. The valve is closed
again as the pressure reduces in response to gas expansion. The SICP necessary to maintain
overbalance during such an operation can be calculated in terms of the height change of the
gas bubbles (calculated from the volume of displaced mud).
When gas or kill mud is being circulated through the closed well, the choke valve provides a
back-pressure which is added to the frictional pressure which must be overcome when
circulating through the annulus. This pressure (annular pressure loss) is added to the available
mud hydrostatic pressure, giving a total pressure at the formations at the base of the annulus
that can overbalance the pore pressure. This total pressure is converted into a density unit and
referred to as effective circulating density.
Fill-up Line
This is used to top-up mud volume in the hole whilst pulling out the drill string (ie
compensate for pipe displacement volume). This connection may be combined with the
kill-line.
Choke Manifold
This is a system of pipes and valves that allow the toolpusher to select the most favourable
pathways for mud and influx to follow as they are circulated through the system.
Choke Line
SICP Gauge
Remotely Controlled
Choke Valve
Manual
Choke Valve
To Mud/Gas Separator
Figure 3-43: Choke Manifold
Version 1.1 3-40

Depending on the pressures anticipated in the reservoirs being drilled, the choke manifold
will have at least two choke valves, more usually three, and connections for all choke and kill
lines. The shut in casing pressure is measured on a gauge located immediately upstream of
the choke valve. When circulating fluid through the system this sensor output is usually
called the casing or choke pressure.
The output of the choke manifold goes to the mud/gas separation system.
Mud/Gas Separator (Poorboy Degasser)

When fluid exits the annulus through the choke, it is very likely to be in a mixed form of mud
and gas, especially if the initial kick was taken during circulation (distributed kick). Since
drilling fluid can be expensive, and may in some cases also have potential for environmental
damage, it is desirable to separate the mud from the influx material to allow the drilling mud
to be retained for later use, and also to allow for more efficient disposal of the influx.
When fluid exits the choke manifold, it is piped to a separation chamber called the mud gas
separator (or poorboy degasser). This is usually located above the trip tank. The velocity of
material entering the degasser is particularly high, especially if gas is present. Once inside the
separator, the mixed fluid strikes a baffle plate and then falls through a series of interlocking
grilles. The disturbance caused by this process encourages the lower density gas to separate
from the higher density mud. An escape pipe at the top of the degasser channels the gas away
via a pipe to the top of the derrick, where it is allowed to mix with the atmosphere. If it is safe
enough to do so, the gas may be deliberately ignited at this point.
Mud/Gas
BOP Separator
Choke Manifold
Figure 3-44: Gas Disposal System
Version 1.1 3-41

The heavier mud gathers at the bottom of the separator vessel due to the attraction of gravity.
A pipe from here channels the mud back to the active system, via the mud cleaners or
vacuum degasser as required.
Since the large volume of gas building up inside the separator causes the chamber’s internal
pressure to rise, the outlet for mud is passed through a u-shaped tube that dips into the trip
tank. The hydrostatic pressure of the mud in this u-tube compensates for the pressure inside
the chamber, preventing gas from blowing down the mud pipe.
Version 1.1 3-42

Section03 - General Systems Found On Drilling Rigs

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Section03 - General Systems Found On Drilling Rigs

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HRH Limited Introduction to Drilling

3.1 LIFTING SYSTEM

Version 1.1 3-1

3.1.1 Primary Components of the Lifting System

The drill string is suspended from the travelling block.

Version 1.1 3-2

Figure 3-2: Schematic of the Lifting System

Figure 3-3: Draw-works - Offshore on Left, Land Rig on Right

Version 1.1 3-3

Figure 3-4: Land Rig in Ukraine

Figure 3-5: Elevators Used to Lift Pipe From the Hole

Version 1.1 3-4

3.1.2 Secondary Components of the Lifting System

Figure 3-6: Slips Used to Hold Pipe When Elevators Disconnected

Figure 3-7: Roughnecks Operating Tongs

Version 1.1 3-5

3.2 ROTATING SYSTEMS

3.2.1 The Drill String

Version 1.1 3-6

Figure 3-8: Typical Tri-cone Drill Bit

Figure 3-9: Typical PDC Bit

Version 1.1 3-7

Figure 3-10: Diamond Core Bit

Figure 3-11: Hole Opener

Version 1.1 3-8

Figure 3-12: Spiral Drill Collars and Casing Joints

Version 1.1 3-9

Figure 3-13: Typical Stabiliser

Heavy Walled Drill Pipe (HWDP)

Version 1.1 3-10

Figure 3-14: Drill Pipe Showing Tapered Threads at Pin End

Figure 3-15: Stands of Drill Pipe Racked in Derrick

Version 1.1 3-11

3.2.2 The Kelly System

The key components of the kelly drive are detailed as follows.

Version 1.1 3-12

Kelly Drive System Top Drive System

Figure 3-16: Schematics of Kelly Drive and Top Drive Systems

Version 1.1 3-13

Rotary Kelly Bushing (RKB)

Pins to Seat Bushing in

Figure 3-17: Rotary Kelly Bushing (Kelly in Rathole)

Power (Watts) = Voltage x Current (Amps)

Version 1.1 3-14

Slots to Seat Kelly

Figure 3-18: Rotary Table

3.2.3 Top Drive Drilling Systems

Version 1.1 3-15

Figure 3-19: Top Drive System

Motion compensation on semi-submersible or drill ship platforms is incorporated as usual in

Version 1.1 3-16

Version 1.1 3-17

3.2.4 Downhole Motors

Version 1.1 3-18

Principle of Operation of the Turbodrill

Positive Displacement Motors (PDM)

Principle of Operation of the PDM

Version 1.1 3-19

Figure 3-20: Positive Displacement Motor Showing Rotor/Stator

Figure 3-21: Rotor/Stator Variations in PDM

Version 1.1 3-20

Version 1.1 3-21

Mud Storage Silos