EXLOG/Whittaker - Böcker

The objectives of this book are (1) to serve as a reasonably comprehensive text on the subject of drilling hydraulics and (2) to provide the field geologist with a quick reference to drilling hydraulics calculations. Chapter 1 introduces the basic principles of fluid properties, and Chapter 2 presents the general principles of fluid hydraulics. Chapters 3 through 10 analyze specific hydraulic considerations of the drilling process, such as viscometric measurements, pressure losses, swab and surge pressures, cuttings transport and hydraulic optimization. References are presented at the end of each section. The units and nomenclature are consistent throughout the manual. Equations are given generally in consistent S.1. units; some common expressions are also given in oilfield units. Nomenclature is explained after every equation when necessary, and a comprehensive list of the nomenclature used is given in Appendix A. Units are listed in Appendix B. In Appendix C, all the important equations are given in both S.1. and oilfield units. Appendix D contains example hydraulics calculations. A glossary is included. THEORY AND APPLICATION OF DRILLING FLUID HYDRAULICS 1 INTRODUCTION To dri 11 a we 11 safely and succes sfull y depends upon a thorough unders tandi ng of drilling hydraulics principles. Thus, drilling hydraulics is a very impor­ tant subject with which all logging geologists should be familiar.

Petroleum Geology is a complex discipline, drawing upon data from many technologies. It is the function of Well site Geologists to integrate processed data produced prior to and dur­ ing the drilling operation With their own geological observations. For this reason, it is necessary that geologists appreciate some of the technology, theory of measurement, and processing of this data in order to better assess and use them. In the Field Geologists's Training Guide (Exlog, 1985) and Mud Logging: Principles and Interpretations (Exlog, 1985), an introduction is given to the scope of petroleum geology, and the techniques of hydrocarbon (oil and gas) logging as a reservoir evaluation tool. This handbook is intended to provide the Logging Geologist, and those training for a Consultant Wellsite Geologist position, with a review of geological techniques and classification systems. This will ensure the maximum development of communicable geological informa­ tion. Whether a geologist's work lies in this direction or in the more applied field of pressure evaluation, it is the application of geological insight to engineering problems that distinguishes the professional logging geologist in the field. This book will be of interest to and become a regular reference for all geologists. 1 INTRODUCTION CUTTINGS RECOVERY 1. 1 In an ideal borehole and mud system, cuttings would be transported to surface with the same order and composition as they were cut, as in Figure 1-1.

The objectives of this book are: (1) to educate the prospective Pressure Evaluation Geologist to a basic level of expertise; (2) to provide a reference tool for the experienced geologist; and (3) to foster constructuve thought and continued development of the field geologist. Despite the incorporation of many new ideas and concepts, elaboration of the more re­ cent concepts is limited due to space considerations. It is hoped that the geologist will follow up via the literature referenced at the end of each chapter. Easy reference is provided by the detailed table of contents and index. A glossary of terms, definitions, and formulae adds to the usefulness of this reference text. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS FOR FIGURES Figure 2-7 is reprinted by permission of the AAPG from Barker, 1972. Figure 4-21 is courtesy of Totco Figure 5-2 is reprinted by permission of the Oil and GasJournal from Matthews and Kelly, 1967. Figure 5-4 is reprinted by permission of the SPE-AIME from the Journal of Petroleum Technology from Eaton, © 1969. Figure 5-5 is reprinted by permission of the SPE-AIME from Hubbert and Willis, © 1957.