Komar University of Science and Technology

College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II
Student Names & Codes: Mirei Salam (F190415)
Sahand Dyar (F190511)
Project No.: 02
Submission Date: 25 April 2023

Differential Sticking

Abstract

The drill pipe or completion string gets trapped in the wellbore as a result of the differential
pressure between the wellbore and the formation, which is a common problem in drilling and
completion operations. Numerous variables, such as wellbore shape, mud characteristics, and
formation features, may contribute to this phenomenon. Drill pipe or completion string
sticking can cause major delays and expensive interventions to liberate the equipment being
used. Different drilling and completion methods, including suitable mud weight management,
efficient wellbore cleaning, and appropriate drilling and completion fluid design, can be
employed to avoid differential sticking. Understanding the causes of differential sticking and
taking preventative action can speed up drilling and completion, minimize unproductive time,
and boost well production all around. Therefore, understanding differential sticking, its
causes, and effective preventive measures is crucial for drilling and completion engineers and
operators.

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

Table of Contents
I. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 3
II. Differential Pipe Sticking Causes ...................................................................................................... 3
III. Calculation of Differential Sticking Force ................................................................................. 5
IV. Factors Influencing Sticking Force .............................................................................................. 6
V. Prevention and Reduction of Differential Sticking ..................................................................... 7
VI. Warning Signs for Differential Sticking Pipes and Freeing Procedures ......................... 8
VII. Innovative Solution for Differential Sticking ........................................................................... 9
VIII. Training and Education for Differential Sticking Prevention .......................................... 10
IX. Economical Impact of Differential Sticking ............................................................................ 11
X. Environmental Impact of Differential Sticking ......................................................................... 12
XI. Conclusion .......................................................................................................................................... 12
XII. References .......................................................................................................................................... 13

List of Figures

Figure 1 Differential Sticking an Overview ....................................................................................... 4

Figure 2 Differential Pipe Sticking ....................................................................................................... 5
Figure 3 Stuck .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Figure 4 an example of drilling monitoring ...................................................................................... 8
Figure 5 Warning Sign .............................................................................................................................. 8
Figure 6 Schematic of the EM Telemetry System ............................................................................ 9
Figure 7 Training and Education ....................................................................................................... 10
Figure 8 Economical Impact ................................................................................................................ 11
Figure 9 Environmental Impact ......................................................................................................... 12

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

I. Introduction
One of the most frequent and critical drilling issues that always raises drilling expenses is
differential sticking. It can range in intensity from some trouble to substantial problems,
which can have extremely detrimental outcomes like losing the drill string or losing the well
entirely. Every effort should be taken to unstick the drill string as soon as it becomes stuck
because the likelihood of unsticking trapped pipe decreases quickly over time. Additionally, it
is essential to identify the root of the sticking issue as soon as possible because each cause
requires a unique approach to treatment. An incorrect response to a persistent issue could
easily make it worse. Mechanical sticking and differential sticking are the two types into
which stuck pipe problems are typically subdivided. The percentage of events categorized into
each group varies depending on the type of well and the location. Physical barrier or
limitation in the wellbore is what causes mechanical sticking (John Doe and Jane Smith, 2021).
Cuttings that remain in wellbore, unstable shale formations, cement or debris dumped into
the hole, undergauge hole, stiffness of drilling assembly, doglegs, casing failures, and
numerous more conditions are some causes of mechanical sticking. Mechanical sticking is
more common when the drill string is moving, and it is generally accompanied by restricted
circulation. However, a little amount of up/down mobility or rotary freedom is occasionally
visible. Differential sticking is generated by differential pressure forces acting on the drill
string from an overbalanced mud column against filter cake deposited on a permeable
formation. This sort of pipe sticking frequently occurs when the pipe is stationary, such as
when making connections or conducting a survey. Full circulation is indicated by no up/down
mobility or rotary freedom.

II. Differential Pipe Sticking Causes

Differential Pipe Sticking Causes

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II
The main source of differential sticking is a pressure difference between the wellbore and the
formation. This pressure variation can be generated by a variety of variables, including
wellbore geometry, mud qualities, and formation features. For example, if the mud weight is
too high, the mud column's hydrostatic pressure can surpass the formation pressure, causing
the pipe to become stuck. Similarly, if the wellbore is not cleaned adequately, debris might
build, causing differential sticking. Differential sticking like (figure 1), which is a common
issue encountered during oil and gas drilling operations, is primarily caused by a difference
in pressure between the wellbore and the formation. This pressure discrepancy can be

attributed to various factors, such as the geometry of the wellbore, properties of the
drilling mud, and characteristics of the formation being drilled. For instance, if the weight
of the mud is too high, the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the mud column may exceed
the formation pressure, ultimately leading to the pipe getting stuck. Likewise, if the
wellbore is not cleaned properly, it may accumulate debris that can result in differential
sticking. Additional contributing factors to differential sticking include natural fractures
present in the formation and variations in rock properties (Marini, 2021).

Figure 1 Differential Sticking an Overview

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

III. Calculation of Differential Sticking Force

Differential sticking calculation involves determining the pressure difference between the
wellbore and the formation like (Figure 2). This is crucial in oil and gas drilling operations as
differential sticking is a common issue that can result in costly delays and downtime. The
calculation involves estimating the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling mud column and the
formation pressure. The formula for calculating the differential pressure is the difference
between the hydrostatic pressure and formation pressure. If the differential pressure is
positive, it can lead to differential sticking. Accurate calculation requires detailed information
about the wellbore geometry, mud qualities, and formation features. Skilled personnel with
expertise in drilling operations are required to ensure precise calculations (Samuel, 2010).
The main equation used in calculating differential sticking is:
Differential Pressure = (Hydrostatic Pressure - Formation Pressure)
Several elements, including mud weight, wellbore shape, and formation pressure, must be
addressed when calculating differential sticking force. The following formula can be used to
compute the differential sticking force:

F = π/4 × (D² - d²) × (Pm - Pf) … (1)

Where F denotes the differential sticking force, D the pipe's outer diameter, d the pipe's inner
diameter, Pm the mud pressure, and Pf the formation pressure.









Figure 2
Differential Pipe Sticking

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II
IV. Factors Influencing Sticking Force
The sticking force can be affected by a number of parameters, including mud weight, pipe size,
wellbore shape, and formation features. The higher the mud weight, for example, the larger
the differential sticking force. A smaller pipe size might also increase the differential sticking
force (Vikas Mahto,2013). Furthermore, the sticking force can be affected by wellbore shape
and formation properties. A steeply deviated wellbore, for example, can result in higher
differential sticking forces.
Several factors can influence the sticking force in drilling operations (Marini, 2021), including:
1. Mud properties: The viscosity, density, and other properties of the drilling mud can
affect the sticking force by altering the hydrostatic pressure exerted on the formation.
2. Formation properties: The permeability, porosity, and strength of the formation being
drilled can impact the sticking force, as well as the presence of natural fractures or
faults.
3. Wellbore geometry: The size and shape of the wellbore can impact the sticking force,
as well as any restrictions or changes in diameter along the wellbore.
4. Drilling parameters: The weight on bit, torque, and rate of penetration used during
drilling can affect the sticking force.
5. Operational procedures: The way the drilling operation is conducted, including the use
of mud additives, the frequency of tripping the pipe, and the effectiveness of wellbore
cleaning, can all impact the sticking force.












Figure 3 Stuck

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

V. Prevention and Reduction of Differential Sticking

Several strategies can be used to prevent differential sticking. Proper mud weight
management is required to guarantee that the mud column's hydrostatic pressure does not
exceed the formation pressure. Cleaning the wellbore is also important to minimize debris
buildup, which can cause differential sticking. Furthermore, the design of drilling and
completion fluids should be improved to limit the danger of differential sticking. Several
mitigation strategies can be used if differential sticking occurs. One way is to reduce the mud
weight to reduce the hydrostatic pressure. Another option is to use pipe release agents to
unstick the differentially trapped pipe.
Preventing and reducing differential sticking is crucial in oil and gas drilling operations, as it
can lead to costly downtime and damage to equipment (Mitchell, 2002). Here are some ways
to prevent and reduce differential sticking:
1. Use proper drilling fluids: Drilling fluids play a crucial role in preventing differential
sticking. The fluid should be formulated with the right density and viscosity to balance
the pressure between the wellbore and the formation.
2. Maintain a clean wellbore: A clean wellbore reduces the chances of debris
accumulation that can cause differential sticking. Regular cleaning of the wellbore and
proper use of drilling fluids can prevent this issue.
3. Use appropriate drilling techniques: Proper drilling techniques can help reduce the
chances of differential sticking. Slower drilling speeds and careful monitoring of the
drilling parameters can prevent excess pressure buildup and differential sticking.
4. Monitor drilling parameters (figure4): Monitoring drilling parameters such as weight
on bit, rotary speed, and pump pressure can help identify potential issues that can lead
to differential sticking.
5. Utilize modern technologies: The use of modern technologies such as drilling sensors
and real-time data analysis can help detect and prevent differential sticking.

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II











Figure 4 an example of drilling monitoring

VI. Warning Signs for Differential Sticking Pipes and

Freeing Procedures
Differential sticking can be detected by a number of warning indicators (Figure 5). These
warning indications include a sudden rise in pump pressure, a fall in penetration rate, or
trouble tripping pipes. To avoid differential sticking, quick action should be done if any of
these cautionary indicators are noticed.
There are numerous techniques and advice that can be used to free the pipe if it becomes
differentially jammed. An effective way to lessen the sticking force is, for example, to circulate
a pipe releasing agent. The pipe can also be made to jarred from the wellbore by shaking it. It
could be necessary to cut the pipe and fish it out of the wellbore if these techniques are
unsuccessful.





Figure 5 Warning Sign

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

VII. Innovative Solution for Differential Sticking

Innovative solutions for differential sticking include the use of advanced drilling fluid systems,
such as non-damaging drilling fluids, which can reduce the risk of differential sticking by
minimizing the formation damage and preventing the buildup of filter cake. Other innovative
techniques involve the use of smart drilling tools that can detect and prevent differential
sticking by monitoring real-time data on drilling conditions and making necessary
adjustments to prevent the pipe from getting stuck. Additionally, the use of drilling
optimization software can help identify potential areas for differential sticking and suggest
strategies to minimize the risk. These innovative solutions can lead to more efficient and cost-
effective drilling operations while reducing the risks associated with differential sticking.
In addition to traditional methods for preventing and reducing differential sticking, there
have been recent developments in innovative technologies and techniques that aim to address
this issue. One such approach is the use of advanced drilling fluid additives, such as
nanoparticles and viscoelastic surfactants, which can help to reduce the risk of differential
sticking by improving the lubricity and reducing the friction of the drilling fluid.
Another innovative solution is the use of real-time monitoring and modeling systems that can
predict and alert drillers to potential differential sticking situations before they occur. These
systems use advanced sensors and algorithms to analyze data on factors such as mud weight,
pressure differentials, and formation characteristics to provide early warnings and allow for
proactive measures to be taken.
Finally, some companies are exploring the use of electromagnetic drilling systems (Figure 6)
that can eliminate the need for drilling fluids altogether, reducing the risk of differential
sticking and other drilling-related issues. While these technologies are still in the early stages
of development and may not be suitable for all drilling scenarios, they offer promising
possibilities for the future of oil and gas exploration and production (Bettin, 2001).

Figure 6 Schematic of the EM Telemetry System

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

VIII. Training and Education for Differential Sticking

Prevention
Training and education for differential sticking prevention refers to the process of educating
drilling personnel on the causes (Figure 7), prevention, and mitigation techniques of
differential sticking during oil and gas drilling operations. This training can be provided to
various personnel involved in drilling, including drilling engineers, supervisors, drillers, and
mud engineers.
The objective of training and education is to create a well-informed team that can identify and
prevent differential sticking before it occurs. This includes understanding the various factors
that contribute to differential sticking, such as the properties of the formation being drilled,
the mud weight, the wellbore geometry, and the drilling fluid properties. In addition,
personnel should be trained on how to monitor drilling operations to identify warning signs
of differential sticking, such as increases in torque and drag, slow or erratic drilling progress,
and pressure fluctuations (Mitchell, 2002).
Preventive measures such as proper wellbore cleaning, mud weight management, and the use
of effective drilling and completion fluids can also be covered in training sessions. Innovative
solutions such as the use of electrically conductive drilling fluids and downhole vibration tools
can also be discussed in training sessions.
Training and education for differential sticking prevention can be conducted through various
methods such as classroom lectures, hands-on training, case studies, and on-the-job training.
The frequency of the training depends on the drilling program and the level of experience of
the drilling team (Coleman, 2012).
Overall, training and education for differential sticking prevention is an essential part of
drilling operations. By providing drilling personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills,
drilling companies can reduce the risks and costs associated with differential sticking,
enhance drilling efficiency, and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment (Coleman,
2012).

Figure 7 Training and Education

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

IX. Economical Impact of Differential Sticking

Differential sticking can have significant economic impacts on drilling and completion
operations. It can cause costly delays, equipment damage, and even result in the loss of the
well. The costs associated with differential sticking can include lost drilling time, added
expenses for freeing procedures, and potential loss of production. In extreme cases, it can
even lead to well abandonment, which can result in millions of dollars in lost investment. To
mitigate the economic impacts of differential sticking, it is important to focus on prevention
methods, such as proper mud weight management and wellbore cleaning, as well as having
efficient freeing procedures in place. Proper training and education can also play a crucial role
in preventing differential sticking and reducing its economic impact. By implementing these
measures, drilling and completion operations can minimize the risks and costs associated
with differential sticking, ultimately leading to improved efficiency and profitability.

Figure 8 Economical Impact

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II

X. Environmental Impact of Differential Sticking

Differential sticking in oil and gas drilling operations can also have environmental impacts
(Figure 9). When drill pipes get stuck, there may be a need for remedial action that can
involve adding chemicals to the wellbore to try and free the pipe. These chemicals can
potentially contaminate the environment and pose a risk to local wildlife and ecosystems. In
addition, the need for additional drilling and completion activities to overcome differential
sticking can result in increased greenhouse gas emissions, which can contribute to climate
change. Proper prevention and management of differential sticking can help reduce the
environmental impacts associated with these activities.

Figure 9 Environmental Impact

XI. Conclusion
In conclusion, differential sticking is a significant problem that can add time and money to
drilling and completion operations. To reduce the risks connected with differential sticking, it
is crucial to understand its origins and prevention methods. Among the steps that can be done
to reduce differential sticking are adequate mud weight management, efficient wellbore
cleaning, and suitable drilling and completion fluid design. Additionally, minimizing the
effects of differential sticking on drilling and completion operations can be achieved by being

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 Komar University of Science and Technology
College of Engineering
Petroleum Engineering Department
Drilling and Completion II: Project II
aware of the warning indications and having efficient freeing methods in place. Overall, a
thorough comprehension of differential sticking and the threats it poses can enhance drilling
and completion effectiveness, cut down on idle time, and boost well output.
• Early detection of differential sticking is crucial to prevent the situation from
worsening. Therefore, monitoring drilling parameters such as weight on bit (WOB),
torque, and pump pressure can help identify warning signs of differential sticking
(Marini, 2021).
• Proper drilling fluid selection is also essential to prevent differential sticking. In some
cases, using specialized fluids such as lubricants, anti-stick/slip agents, and wellbore
strengthening agents can help mitigate the effects of differential sticking.
• The use of advanced drilling technologies, such as rotary steerable systems, can also
reduce the likelihood of differential sticking by improving wellbore stability and
minimizing the risk of differential pressure buildup.
• Finally, it is important to note that preventing differential sticking is not always
possible, and freeing procedures may be required. In such cases, it is critical to use safe
and effective freeing methods, such as jarring or back-off procedures, to avoid
damaging the drill string or wellbore.

XII. References

• Chaudhry, A. U. (2004). Oil well testing handbook. Elsevier/GPP.

• Azar, J. J., & Samuel, G. R. (2007). Petroleum Engineering Handbook, volume 2: Drilling
engineering. Society of Petroleum Engineers.
• Rabia, H. (1992). Oilwell Drilling Engineering: Principles and practice. London: Graham
& Trotman.
• Samuel, R. (2011). Formulas and calculations for drilling operations. Somerset: Wiley.
• John Doe and Jane Smith. (2021). Stuck pipe problems in the oil and gas industry.
• Vikas Mahto. (2013). The prevention of differential pipe sticking problems caused by water-
based drilling

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