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Advances in downhole tool technology have improved operators' ability to extend the limits of existing rig capabilities in modern extended reach (ER) and complex well environments. However, the maximum benefit [...]

A computer simulation program can optimize the dynamic flow conditions to maintain a successful underbalanced drilling operation. Norske Shell, Norsk Agip and other companies developed a simulation program that models multiphase flow, gas/oil solubility, and well-reservoir interaction using a finite-difference mathematical models. The software program runs on UNIX workstations and will eventually be available for PC systems., Underbalanced drilling simulators (UBD) can optimize dynamic flow conditions to maintain underbalanced well bore conditions. This conclusion in a series of two articles that began June 16, 1997, describes how [...]

A study of horizontal oil well drilling focused on predicting drill pipe fatigue damage caused by the rotation of drill pipe in a short radius, between 30 and 50 ft. A computer program called Drill Pipe Fatigue Life predicts time of failure by analyzing factors affecting drill pipe fatigue. These factors include load conditions, bending stresses and the weight of the pipe., A computer model helps predict the endurance limit of drill pipe used in medium and short radius horizontal wells. Drill pipe fatigue, and subsequent failure, can be a major problem [...]

A new computer model enables users to determine the optimum hydraulics that should be used in a petroleum drilling operation. This new program, which is used to analyze underbalanced drilling, varies from other models because it takes into account varying Fanning friction factors. The model is able to help determine optimum hydraulics because it calculates the equations describing a compressible foam flow's mechanical energy balance., A new mechanistic model attempts to overcome many of the problems associated with existing foam flow analyses. The model calculates varying Fanning friction factors, rather than assumed constant factors, along [...]

Models have been designed to help offshore petroleum drillers understand the dynamics of condensate and gas kicks. Such models assume that kick detection is prompt and that choke handling is performed in a competent manner. Such kicks are important to understand because they can lead to an uncontrolled release of reservoir fluids. Some of the key observations derived from a study of the effectiveness of such models is also detailed., Modeling condensate and gas kicks in a deep North Sea well helps drillers understand what to expect after prompt kick detection in a straightforward kick circulation program with competent choke [...]

Friction loads on downhole tubular strings can be determined using a simplified calculation method. The method develops simplified equations that assume certain factors, such as the hole's geometry or how the borehole is constructed. These equations can be solved using a pocket calculator. A description of how these equations were developed is included., A simplified calculation method of estimating friction loads on down-hole tubular strings can help in planning wells, in designing casing and tubing strings, and in specifying drillstring and hoisting requirements. [...]

Analytical and statistical models were used to develop a method to predict changes in the inclination rates of a deviated well bore. The ability to make this prediction, especially as such information can help lead to better control over the incidence of doglegs, which are big problems associated with directional oil well drilling. The development of the mathematical model is discussed., Theoretical investigations and field data analyses helped develop a new method of predicting the rate of inclination change in a deviated well bore to help reduce the frequency and magnitude [...]

Interdiscipline teams within Phillips Petroleum Co.'s operations worldwide find and develop hydrocarbon reserves profitably using state of the art computing and communications. New developments in computer technologies have allowed management [...]

Oil well drilling efficiency can be analyzed using a model to determine the type of drill bit and downhole motor best suited to work together. Equations are developed to analyze bit performance, calculate rate of penetration and bit pressure drop. Also analyzed are hydraulic lift, total flow area, motor performance, hydraulics and downhole pressure. Drillers should study the changes in downhole motor performance caused by hydraulic and mechanical design variables of a bit., A system analysis of the bit, positive-displacement motor, and hydraulics helps improve the efficiency of downhole-motor guidance systems, even for routine drilling applications. The bit and motor system must operate [...]

A single equation can simplify the design of oblique oil wells by representing well bore trajectories two dimensionally. The equation eliminates the need for tedious buildup charts, and it can be modified to account for both directional and horizontal wells. Variables for both well bore classes are defined, and modifications of the equation for different types of wells are provided., The development of a single equation has simplified the planning of a two-dimensional well bore trajectory. The basic relationship can be modified easily for the various types of directional and [...]

This article presents a method for generating synthetic capillary pressure curves for reservoir description when no actual capillary pressure data is available. An example shows how the water contact down [...]

High sand-concentration fracturing treatments Part 3 - Vertical fracture propagation, though depending on several factors, is mostly associated with high sand concentrations, which completely arrest fracture height growth, thereby maximizing [...]

Byline: Staff Writers Washington DC (SPX) Aug 26, 2011, 2011 The main challenge presented in many of these models is the precise prediction of the pressure profile in addition to [...]

How to determine minimum flowrate for liquids removal IN MOST CASES, liquid is present in a gas well, and its accumulation causes a fluid column that can significantly affect a [...]