04.00.

00 SPERRY SUN CASING DRILL PRESENTATION prepared by Don Hodges

CASING DRILL PRESENTATION (pages)

04.01.01 Casing Drill Introduction (4)
04.02.01 Casing Drill Preparation (2)
04.03.01 Rig Up Overview (3)
04.04.01 Jetting Overview (4)
04.05.01 Bit Recommendations (5)
04.06.01 Motor Selection (3)
04.07.01 Running Tools (3)
04.08.01 Drive Pipe (2)
04.09.01 Stabilization (1)
04.10.01 Bulls-Eye (2)
04.11.01 Drill String Stretch (2)
SETTING 04.12.01 Calculating Applied Weight (3)’
DRIVE 04.13.01 General Procedures (5)
04.14.01 Surface Formation Support (6)
PIPE 04.15.01 Reciprocating the String (7)
or 04.16.01 Broaching (3)
STRUCTURAL 04.17.01 Turning the Drive Pipe (2)
04.18.01 Drilling Ahead (4)
CASING 04.19.01 Erosion of Shoe (1)
from 04.20.01 Shallow Water Flows (2)
04.21.01 Diverting Excess Volume (5)
FLOATING 04.22.01 Annular Flow Table (2)
RIGS
EXIT
04.01.01 CASING DRILL INTRODUCTION ( page 1 of 4 )

The Casing-Drill technique is a means of setting Structural Casing or Drive

RETURNS Pipe from a floating rig. It is primarily used to eliminate the risk of “loosing
the hole” when the drilling assembly is pulled from soft, unconsolidated,
alluvial deposits such as those found in the Gulf of Mexico.

With the Positive Displacement Motor, operators can simultaneously drill in

SOFT
UNCONSOLIDATED and set the structural casing with considerable savings in time and money.
SURFACE
FORMATIONS
The use of the hydraulically actuated motor and bit which is slightly under
gage relative to the casing ID helps assure the predetermined casing point
is reached by elimination of internal formation and its associated friction.
DRIVE PIPE The remaining external friction holds the casing in place.
IS FORCED
INTO THE
SOIL BY Subsequent to the casing drill operation, additional time and money can be
ITS OWN
WEIGHT saved by the Drill-Ahead operation as trip time to pick up the next bottom
AS THE hole assembly is not required.
INTERNAL
FORMATION
AND ITS The Casing-Drill operation was first performed in 1978 and has since been
FRICTION
IS DRILLED
used from the Gulf of Mexico to the South China Seas. It has been utilized
OUT AND in water depths from 200 to the 9,700 feet achieved in 2001. Setting depths
ELIMINATED. have varied from 210 feet to slightly over 400 feet with the most common
being approximately 280 feet.

The Casing-Drill operation has become the standard method used to set
structural casing or drive pipe from a floating rig in areas that have soft
formations. Many customers employ this method, including major operators,
independents, and turnkey operators.
04.01.02 CASING DRILL INTRODUCTION ( page 2 of 4 )

In the Casing-Drill operation, Drive Pipe is simultaneously jetted in and run

RETURNS using sea water with returns going to the sea floor. The weight of the casing
and the internal bottom hole assembly is used to force the drive pipe into the
soil forming its own hole as the internal formation is drilled out.
Set drive pipe initially serves as a temporary dam, keeping the upper soft
SOFT formations back while the next section is drilled, again using sea water with
UNCONSOLIDATED
SURFACE
returns to the sea floor.
FORMATIONS
Once the next section is drilled to proper depth, surface casing is run and
cemented into place along with the drive pipe. BOP equipment and riser
are then run with the surface casing providing load support while the
drive pipe lends structural side support.
OVER BURDEN
PRESSURE
Note. Only external friction between the drive pipe and soil is initially used
REMOLDS to hold it in place until the next casing string is run and cemented into place.
SOIL Friction is allowed to increase after setting the pipe by soaking or allowing
AROUND
THE CASING
the soil to heal itself around the casing as over-burden pressures squeeze
AS WATER the water from the formation. Some additional vertical or load support may
IS
SQUEEZED
be added by use of a mud mat.
OUT
It is important that the formation damage be kept to a minimum while drive
pipe is jetted in to maximize the friction of the soil within its holding ability.
Washout of formation areas should be prevented.
Excessive weight placed on set drive pipe should also be avoided until the
surface casing is cemented into place. It must be remembered that only
friction between the soil and the drive pipe holds it in place and that this
may vary with soils having differing frictional factors. It should also be
remembered that the weight of surface casing strings vary and that the
realized weight at landing varies with hole quality.
04.01.03 CASING DRILL INTRODUCTION ( page 3 of 4 )

KEY TOOLS TO CASING DRILL OPERATION

RUNNING
TOOL Running Tool: joins the drive pipe and drill string allowing casing to be drilled in and set
at one time. Depending on the running tool type, it is then released for either pulling out
of the hole or for drilling ahead.

DRILL Bulls-Eye: level indicator mounted to guide base or casing measuring verticality of the
COLLARS
drive pipe. Typically a 2 or 5 degree model with 2 degrees being preferred.

Drill Collars: 9-1/2” and/or 8” drill collars provide weight.

Other BHA components: Cross-over subs, float subs, pony collars, and other subs are used
as needed. Bit space out dictates selection of individual pieces.

Stabilizer(s): centralize the string. Optional on casing drill only jobs but needed on drill ahead
MWD
jobs in a pendulum assembly.

MWD Tools: are optional. They are normally used on drill ahead jobs for surveys and ECD
readings.
STAB
Positive Displacement Motor: provides rotational torque to the bit as the drilling fluid is
pumped through the motor’s progressive cavities. This allows the cutting of a pilot hole
at the shoe for the casing to then force itself into the formation.

MOTOR Soft Formation Rock Bit: slightly under-gage bit with respect to the casing ID drills a
pilot hole just prior to the casing shoe and cleans out the internal formation. Rock bits are
recommended as they transmit less torque than other bits might.

BIT
04.01.04 CASING DRILL INTRODUCTION ( page 4 of 4 )

“ Cookie Cutter “ Effect

The Positive Displacement Motor allows drilling out internal formation within drive pipe, eliminating its associated
friction. Drive pipe uses its own weight along with the weight of the internal bottom hole assembly to force itself into
the formation around the pilot hole cut by the undersized bit. The close fit hole formed allows minimum soak time for
the soil to heal around the casing. Premature build up of external friction during jetting is reduced as needed by the
reciprocation of the string, “liquefying” the soil immediately surrounding the casing thereby allowing it to reach the
predetermined depth.

There are multiple, simultaneous events occurring at the bit and drive pipe shoe during the
casing drill operation. These play an especially important role in the start up at volumes that
achieve immediate hole cleaning yet do not broach. These are separated in illustrations
NO INTERNAL FORMATION OR FRICTION

below even though they occur together in unison.

CASING
EXTERNAL FRICTION

FORMS
CONTINOUS
SEAL
WHILE
FORCING
ITSELF
INTO
FORMAION INTERNAL
BIT CUTS FORMATION
PILOT HOLE DRILLED OUT

Downward travel of The Drive Pipe Shoe

A Pilot Hole smaller than Drive Pipe continually wedges sides of pilot hole
the drive pipe is drilled
forms it own seal and into the bit to be drilled up
by the bit and motor
forms its own closely and discharged up the
aiding penetration into
fitting hole around drive pipe annulus with
the formation.
FORMATION the drive pipe. other bit cuttings.
04.02.01 CASING DRILL PREPARATION OVERVIEW ( page 1 of 2 )

5 ADD TO
OVERALL
STRING LENGTH
10

15

ADD TO
20
INTERNAL
BHA
LENGTH
25

30

35
USE RUNNING TOOL
APPLICABLE TO JOB
40

CADA
45
Cam Actuated Drill Ahead
10
CART
Cam Actuated [Link]

• Measure Casing. • Measure Drill Collars. • Measure & mark all • Measure Running Tool.
- Assembled length - Measure more than potential BHA - Bottom Effective
determines length needed for bit space components. Length
of internal BHA out options • Assure connection - Top Length above
• Mark for visibility & • Mark each length compatibility. casing
aid in jetting. • Compile list of pieces • Verify tools to be run
• Note: 9-1/2” and 8” • See Wellhead Srv. Rep.
• Determine walls & from other companies For measurements.
weights drill collars common • Compile list of tools
04.02.02 CASING DRILL PREPARATION OVERVIEW ( page 2 of 2 )

• Hevi-wate is optional with

SOFT FORMATION MWD TOOLS 2 - 10 stands common
ROCK BIT
PUMPS
• Drill Pipe is sized for load
as well as hydraulics
• Volume
BIT • Pressure
LENGTH
• Common Drill Pipe Sizes
5” Drill Pipe
5-1/2” D. P.
6-5/8” D. P.
BIT
STICK
OUT

Drilling Jar not typically

Typical. 6” ±3” run in this section

Measure & record Bit length. Determine pump information. Drill Pipe adequate for volume and
• pump make and type pressure
Determine Bit extension for job. • number of pumps
Drill Pipe adequate for loads plus
Paint Bit white for visibility. • liner sizes of pumps
over-pull required
• output per stroke
Ensure bit nozzles are correctly • maximum strokes allowed Drill Pipe total length sufficient to
sized for planned volume & job. • maximum pump pressure drill at least first section.
• Bit Pressure maximized at the
max volume to be used within Determine that system pressure Drill Pipe stretch calculated based
motor’s operating specs and within operational limits of pumps at on depth, weight of drive pipe.
• Requirements of other tools volume adequate for tools and
Hevi-wate is optional.
such as MWD met. the job.
04.03.01 CASING DRILL RIG-UP OVERVIEW ( page 1 of 3 )

Bit painted white

for visibility

All tools readied and verified

adequate for the job.
All handling equipment readied
and adequate for job
Minimize time suspended drive
pipe exposed to weather

• Guide Base, etc. rigged up • Shoe Joint painted for 10 feet for • Joints assembled in running order
• BHA stood back visibility under water • Handling ears (if present) removed
• Running tool stood back. • Shoe Joint picked up and hung in • Assembled joint lowered
• Casing handling& make-up rotary. • Sequence repeated through the
tools readied • Next joint picked up and made-up well head joint.
04.03.02 CASING DRILL RIG-UP OVERVIEW ( page 2 of 3 )

RECORD RECORD
TOTAL TOTAL
WEIGHT OF WEIGHT OF
DRIVE PIPE BHA

NOTE:
CASING
SUSPENDED
IN
ROTARY
ON
SOME
JOBS

• Drive Pipe assembly completed. • Well Head Housing Joint lowered • Bottom Hole Assembly is run in
• Top wellhead housing joint hung with running tool. suspended drive pipe.
in rotary • Suspended in Moon Pool. • Running tool is added as top
• Running tool picked up and • Running tool retracted and stood member of internal BHA.
engaged in housing joint. back to run BHA
04.03.03 CASING DRILL RIG-UP OVERVIEW ( page 3 of 3 )

CHECKS:
GUIDE BASE
RUNNING TOOL
BULLS EYE
ROTATION

CAUTION
SUDDEN TURN OF STRING
RECORD COULD AFFECT RUNNING
RECORD WEIGHT
BULLS EYE TOOL. USE CAUTION WHEN
OF TOTAL
READING MAKING UP STANDS
ASSEMBLY

CAUTION
DO NOT MUD MATS, ETC HAVING
DELAY IN LARGE “SAIL AREAS” MAY
TURBULENT BE CAUSE FOR RESTRICTING
SPLASH ZONE TRIP SPEED SLIGHTLY

RECOMMEND
OPERATIONS THAT COULD
MOVE RIG OFF LOCATION
DURING SPUD-IN BE
COMPLETED OR
SUSPENDED
CHECK BIT
FOR FIRST 150 FEET OF
EXTENSION PENETRATION
ie. BOATS, ETC.
TEST MOTOR

• Running tool engaged into well • Tie-downs released and moon • Trip to mud line
head housing pool support retracted • Fill drill pipe as needed
• ROV verifies bit extension • Record weight of string • Ready pumps, seawater, gel
• Final rigging of guide base, etc • Record bulls eye reading sweeps, etc.
• Bulls-eye set as near zero • Trip in hole - do not delay in • Monitor approach to mud line
as possible. splash zone with ROV
04.04.01 CASING DRILL JETTING OVERVIEW ( page 1 of 4 )

AVOID BROACHING
START PUMPS AT RATE THAT
NOTE: ASSURES MOTOR START AND
SPUD TO 10 FT: ANNULUS BEING CLEANED
Excessive penetration without pumps AND MAINTAINED AS PATH OF
could cause LEAST RESISTANCE FOR THE
internal pack off resulting in HYDRAULIC FLOW.
2.
ROV CHECK: broaching
2. and/or
GUIDE BASE ROV CHECK:
running tool release problem AVOID BROACHING
RUNNING TOOL GUIDE BASE or MAINTAIN 5k TO 10k INITIAL
NOTE: RUNNING TOOL
BULLS EYE could plug bit nozzles APPLIED WEIGHT AND
CALCULATE TRAVEL BULLS EYE
ROTATION OF LAST STAND
CONSTANT DOWNWARD
ROTATION TRAVEL OF DRIVE PIPE
TO T.D. ROV MONITORS PENETRATION
ADJUST AND POTENTIAL BROACHING FOR EFFECTIVE SHOE SEAL
IF LESS WHEN PUMPS
1. START
THAN 30 FEET
RECORD MUD
LINE DEPTH
ROV TO WELLHEAD
WITHOUT PUMPS SPUD IN AFTER NO BROACHING ASSURED.
TO 10 FEET OR 10K ( ± 40 FEET )

PICK UP BIT OFF BOTTOM SHUT DOWN IMMEDIATELY IN

1. 3. PRIOR TO STARING MOTOR UPPER SECTION OF HOLE FOR
RECORD WATER ROV REPOSITION ANY PUMP PROBLEMS
DEPTH AT BOTTOM START AT PUMP RATE THAT WILL START PILOT HOLE CUT BY BIT IS
FACTOR IN STRETCH
FOR TRUE DEPTH
FOR SPUD IN MOTOR AND CLEAN THE ANNULUS. CONTINUALLY SEALED BY
Do not create a packed off area which DOWNWARD MOVEMENT
will encourage broaching. Clean hole. SHOE.

• Brush bottom. Record depth • Position ROV at mud line • Start pumps at 75 to 80% of
• Factor in stretch for true depth • Spud to 10 ft without pumps planned volume.
• Record total weight hanging • Pick up bit 1 to 2 feet off bottom • Start penetration upon first
• ROV check guide base, • Assure all valves positioned o.k. significant pressure increase.
bulls eye, running tool • ROV to monitor for broaching on • Maintain ROP with 5k to 10k
• ROV return to bottom start-up. ( usually first 40 feet ) weight applied initially
04.04.02 CASING DRILL JETTING OVERVIEW ( page 2 of 4 )

DO NOT PLUG OFF RECIPROCATION FREQUENCY

RUNNING TOOL PORTS RETURN TO JETTING
WORKING OF DRIVE PIPE AFTER WORKING
PUMP RATES MUST ALWAYS DEPENDS ON INTERACTION OF
BE AT LEVELS THAT HAS REDUCED
SOIL AND PIPE AND CANNOT FRICTION
CLEAN ANNULUS WHEN BE PRECICTED AS TO EITHER
PENETRATING. TO ACCEPTABLE
ITS FREQUENCY OR TO LEVEL FOR THE
NECESSARY STROKE LENGTH CURRENT DEPTH.
TO REDUCE FRICTION TO
DO NOT WASH OUT ACCEPTABLE LEVEL. • Near zero in upper hole sections
FOMATION AREAS and before each connection
KEEP DRIVE PIPE MOVING RECIPROCATE DRIVE PIPE • Allow increase near full depth
AVOID PROLONGED WASHING
WORK PIPE ……..
AT ANY DEPTH
• IF ROP SLOWS SIGNIFICANTLY
WITH PROPER WEIGHT APPLIED CONTROL MOTOR DIFFENTIAL
• BEFORE CONNECTIONS MOTOR DIFFERENTIAL REFLECTS
DO NOT STICK
TORQUE THAT COULD BE
THE DRIVE PIPE • DURING DELAYS TRANSMITTED TO RUNNING
KEEP DRIVE PIPE MOVING TOOL. KEEP BELOW 100 PSI.
OR IF PROBLEM - PULL UP RECIPROCATION SPEED: • MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR
TO A SHALLOW DEPTH
• QUICK RATE TO LIQUIFY AFTER WORKING.
FORMATION AROUND CASING • EASE INTO BOTTOM
& REDUCE SKIN FRICTION
• RETURN TO WOB
• Maintain ”5 foot” drill pipe • CONSISTENT RATE FOR SCHEDULE FOR DEPTH
marks at rotary to OVER-PULL & DRAG AS POSSIBLE - LIMITED
drive pipe depth COMPARISON S BY 100 PSI MAXIMUM
AT VARIOUS DEPTHS MOTOR DIFFERENTIAL.
• WITHIN DRILL PIPE
OVERPULL LIMITS

Jet in drive pipe per procedures Work drive pipe only as needed. Return to bottom after working
• Apply weight per WOB rules • Reduce friction to levels • Slow descent nearing bottom
• Pump at rates to clean hole appropriate to current depth • Return to planned WOB for
• Keep drive pipe moving • Work pipe at constant rate current depth as possible
• Pump sweeps as required • Monitor and record over-pull & limiting motor differential
• Work only as needed drag to 100 psi or less
04.04.03 CASING DRILL JETTING OVERVIEW ( page 3 of 4 )
CALIBRATE DISTANCE
AT CONNECTIONS: PICKUP ABOVE CUTTINGS
NEAR TD:
ROV CHECKS: STOP PUMPS IF NECESSARY
• LET DRAG INCREASE
• BULLS EYE VIEW MUD RING ON CASING
• GUIDE BASE BASED UPON PREVIOUS
• RUNNING TOOL OBSERVATIONS OF SOIL’S RETURN TO JETTING
• ROTATION DRAG, ETC. • LAND WITH SAME WEIGHT
THAT WAS APPLIED BEFORE
PICKUP
Note: Coat hole walls with gel AVAILABLE WEIGHT
sweep if friction excessive and DO NOT EXCEED
cannot be reduced. Do not coat WEIGHT OF CASING ROV
unless formation requires AND BHA
USE 20% SAFETY
FACTOR

MONITOR WEIGHT
INDICATOR CLOSELY

• Reduce over-pull & drag before Minimize soak time needed Calibrate remaining travel when
connections • Allow more friction to remain as nearing drive pipe TD
• Return to bottom before conn. final depth is approached by • Slow or stop pumps while picking
• Perform ROV checks at conn. leaving more drag based upon up above cuttings cloud
• Optional: Pump sweep after observations of previous drag.
• ROV views mud coating around
connection • Attempt to use maximum weight
available to land drive pipe while the drive pipe for remaining travel
Note. Should drag increase to
unacceptable levels above the being cautious of bending pipe • Drill remaining feet stopping at
current stroke area. Set back • Do not make connection in last target depth with same weight
stand and coat hole with gel 30 feet. used just prior to pickup.
04.04.04 CASING DRILL JETTING OVERVIEW ( page 4 of 4 )

AT DRIVE PIPE SOAK TIME MUD MAT GUIDE LINES

ROV LANDING 2 HOURS IS
used for additional typically used
ROV CHECKS MOST COMMON
• STICKUP support in waters of
shorter or longer or 2,500 ft or less
• BULLS-EYE
depends on hydrate deflection
jetting observations

CONFIRM STICKUP SOAK TIME LANDING A MUD MAT GUIDE LINES

• Soil may set up and prevent Proper soak time is dependant If a mud mat is used Guide bases and their guide
correction if not done in short on the soil’s friction factor and • Keep drag slightly lower lines should not be turned to
time frame. ability to remold itself around than usual approaching such an extent equipment
• Common to have no visual for the drive pipe as overburden landing to have weight cannot travel down them.
1 hour or more if current is too squeezes water out of this area. available as the mud mat
weak to clear cuttings cloud. lands. Reasons guide bases turn
Alternative: ROV off-bottom • The weight required to reach A rapid 20k to 30k weight • Reactive torque of motor
reading at reference point on full depth and the over-pull, increase is easier to read turning bit to right may
guide base for approximate drag, and speed with which and be certain that the generate turn to left.
immediate stick-up. Also these increased in the above mud mat is completely • Small turns induced during
for checks drilling ahead. sections indicate the soak landed. connections may be worked
time needed. into the string either to the
CHECK BULLS EYE ie. Jetting “too easily” Notes: right or left.
• Bulls Eye change from that requires more soak time. The 20k to 30k weight • Formations can induce a
prior to spud indicates the lessens reacting to string to turn either to the
verticality of the drive pipe. • Drill ahead may require more false readings as mat right or left.
soak time. hits uneven seafloor.
SOAK ON COMPENSATOR A rapid increase lessens Note: turns to 45 degrees are
• String to remain motionless • Tripping out after casing drill the possibility of mat generally acceptable. More
to allow soil to heal around requires minimum soak time “working” its way into severe turns may need to be
around the drive pipe as soil will cure during trip. soft seafloor. corrected.
04.05.01 CASING DRILL BIT RECOMMENDATIONS ( page 1 of 5 )

SOFT FORMATION RECOMMENDED BIT IS SOFT FORMATION ROCK BIT.

NOTE:
ROCK BIT • Transmits less torque than fixed bladed bits. Readily available.
NOZZLES
TYPICALLY
12” TO 14”
RECOMMENDED BIT SIZE IS 24” OR LARGER
24” OR
LARGER
ABOVE BIT • Typically the size of next hole section is used. See bit exception.
BOTTOM
• Sizes include 24”, 26”, 28”, 30”, 31-1/2”. Limit is ID restriction.
• Note. Large sizes may have 8-5/8 Reg pin. Verify.
NOZZLE RECOMMENDED BIT EXTENSION IS 6” BELOW SHOE. ± 3”
LOCATION
• Bit able to drill hard formations if encountered. Coral, wood, etc.
• Nozzles located inside casing 6” to 8”. Only bit teeth are outside.
BIT
EXTENSION • Hydraulic forces directed to the shoe for effective jetting.
• Recommendation applies to all bits 24” or larger.
RECOMMENDATION: 6” OUTSIDE ± 3” • Recommended range of bit location is 3” to 9” outside. Acceptable
ACCEPTABLE BIT LOCATION RANGE: - 6” to + 9” range is 6” inside to 9” outside. Customer preference.

BIT SIZE EXCEPTION: Bits smaller than 24” OD are not recommended but are used to meet unique customer needs
where casing ID is restricted. 17-1/2” and 20” bits have been run successfully but with some difficulty due to broaching.
These bits tend to be trapped on one side of the casing by the formation with broaching occurring due to the bit hydraulic
forces being concentrated in this small area. We recommend the bit be located 6” to 9” inside the shoe to “cushion” this
effect. The first job done using a 17-1/2” broached with a 6” stick-out and was only completed after repositioning the bit
to 9” inside the shoe. Other jobs have since been completed successfully with bit positioned inside. See Broaching.
BIT TYPE: Soft formation rock bits are recommended as they transmit less torque to the running tool. Two jobs were
done in the past using fixed bladed bits with reactive torque locking up the running tool (Shell/Mars). Two other jobs
have been done using a PDC bit (Unocal). The bit was positioned with the wear area at the shoe and hydraulics were
maximized to ensure most of the cutting action was due to jetting and not by the bit. Reactive torque was kept within
acceptable limits and jobs were completed but is still not recommended for the casing drill portion.
04.05.02 CASING DRILL BIT RECOMMENDATIONS ( page 2 of 5 )

Why is it recommended that the bit be stuck out below the casing in most cases?
Some customers believe it should stick in. .

Our recommendation that the bit be positioned slightly outside the casing is based on the
possibility of encountering some hard formations or other substance that is not expected.
8” Casing drill jobs have been done through dead coral reefs, cement that has migrated from
6” another nearby well, and as recently as early 2000 through a wood pile or submerged forest
more than 200 feet thick in 6700 feet of water. It is felt that without the bit to help in these
situations that the targeted depth may not be reached.
It is possible that having the bit stick 6” inside the casing originated with the jetting in
6” of drive pipe without a motor. It was a practice to saw off a bit and position it where sea-
water was directed to the shoe bottom. It is also felt by some that this prevents excess
washing around the shoe area. If one looks at both scenarios, one sees that on the bit where
the bit has been positioned outside the casing that the nozzles are approximately the same
distance inside the casing as with sawed off bits .
The final decision as to bit position rests with the customer. Either way can be done so long
22” as neither are carried to the extremes of the third and fourth illustrations.
On one job a few years ago the bit was positioned inside the casing 22 inches. Our operator
was instructed to not make corrections and to proceed. The targeted depth was not reached.
The string had to be pulled and the bit re-positioned.
On a recent job an untrained directional operator spaced the bit out 36” below the casing and
proceeded with the job. The casing drill job took 8-1/2 hours to reach depth. The casing fell
when drilling ahead. As can be seen in illustration, the bit can extend beyond the casing,
cutting an enlarged hole especially given the time to do so.
36”
( note: not our company, related by customer ).
04.05.03 CASING DRILL BIT RECOMMENDATIONS ( page 3 of 5 )

RECOMMENDED NOZZLE SIZES

Proper nozzle selection plays a vital role in a successful casing drill operation
and even more so when drilling ahead. Volumes pumped should be 1000 gpm
or more for adequate annular flow to clean the hole. Some older rigs struggle to
meet this volume and associated system pressures. Newer pumps produce much
higher volumes and pressures. Drilling rates may vary from as low as 50 feet
per hour controlled drilling to more than 500 feet per hour. Water flow hazards
or their potential, create the need to drill part of the hole with seawater, at a
Size nozzle for maximum bit pressure certain flow rate and the other part with mud at a reduced flow rate. Tools may
within limitations of all variables.
have volume or pressure requirements and/or limitations. These variables mean
• Effective drilling
• Expanded drilling range that there is no “one size fits all”. Each job must be looked at individually to
size nozzles for the best possible results.
Generally, nozzles should be sized to produce the highest bit pressure drop possible when pumping the highest planned
volume within the limitations of the drilling tools, rig pumps, and system pressure. It is especially true when aggressive
drilling rates are required for the drill ahead section. Inadequate or weak bit hydraulics can prevent the desired drilling
rate from being achieved or encourage excessive weight application which can cause hole angle problems.
The flow rate range at which effective drilling can continue is expanded downward by maximizing the bit pressure drop.
Planned volume may not be achieved due to a wide variety of reasons ranging from overly optimistic projections to a
variety of rig problems. Flow rates are rarely more than projected but may be less.
An example requiring a maximum range of bit pressure drop occurs when drilling part of a section with seawater and
part with mud to control potential water flow. Desired flow rates may vary from 1700 gpm using seawater to as low as
1000 gpm using mud. Drill rates must be maintained which will assure target depth is reached while using a limited
supply of mud, while the bit hydraulics are at their weakest. Increasing mud flow rate with a corresponding increase in
drilling rate may not be an option as flow rates may be limited by supply of mud. Concentrated mud is frequently cut on
the fly with a vortex mixer, some of which only produce slightly over 1000 gpm. Nozzles must be sized to maximum bit
pressure drop at maximum seawater flow rates in order to have acceptable bit pressure drops with lower mud flow rates.
Adjustments in the planned seawater flow rate may be required.
04.05.04 CASING DRILL BIT RECOMMENDATIONS ( page 4 of 5 )

RECOMMENDED NOZZLE SIZES ( continued )

The hydraulics of a casing drill job should be considered prior to beginning, even prior to sending tools to the rig. It should
be done by the operating company in their well planning and Sperry-Sun is more than willing to assist. This is an area that
problems frequently occur. Nozzles may not be available to make last minute corrections. Newer rigs tend to not have the
stockpile of nozzles that was common on the older rigs.
It should not be assumed that nozzle sizes are correctly sized. The operating parameters and hydraulics should be verified.
Unrealistic expectations of rig capabilities or emphasis on only one parameter such as annular flow may lead to overly
optimistic flow rate projections. Drilling programs may dictate a certain sized nozzle which may have been “cut & pasted”
from a previous one that was not updated as changes were made. Errors in a “prog” can have an extremely long life.
It is important that the volumes for which the bit nozzles are set up be the volumes achieved. Planned volume may not be
realized due to a variety of reasons which in the past have included:
• Overly optimistic projections. Should get rig’s parameters and commitment to the planned volume rates.
- Rig simply does not have the capacity to produce the flow rate required at the pressures that will be generated.
- Insufficient seawater supply. Sufficient pumps but small charging pumps &/or lines.
- Rig power. Lack of enough power to run pumps as designed. One rig worked on engines every location move.
- Poor pump condition & maintenance on one or all pumps. Small liner sizes. Pop-off valves defective.
• Drill pipe undersized for drilling depth. I.D. dimensions are one of largest factors of total system pressure.
• Under-estimated pressure imposed by of some tools such as MWD. Flow rate restrictions of some tools.
• Flow rate limited during “pump & dump” operations due to slow transfer of mud from supply boat to rig or by
an undersized inline vortex machine which cannot cut or mix the mud at desired rate.
Properly sized nozzles are an important factor in doing a good job for a customer. Because flow rates are rarely more than
planned and are frequently less, it is wise to consider bit hydraulics in a range as opposed to one specific rate. The sizing
of nozzles for maximum bit pressure drop at maximum flow rate allows for the largest effective range.

Formula: Bit Pressure Drop Recommended

RecommendedMinimum MinimumJet Jetvelocities
velocitiesofof Formula: Bit Jet Velocity
Formula: Bit Pressure Drop Formula: Bit Jet Velocity
Mud Weight (ppg) xx GPM 2 2 250
250ft/sec
ft/secare
arefairly
fairlystandard.
[Link]
Lessthan
than 0.32 xx GPM
Mud Weight (ppg) GPM 200 0.32 GPM
10858 x TFA2 2 200ft/sec
ft/secmay
mayprevent
preventdrilling
drillingeven
eveninin TFA
10858 x TFA soft
softsurface
surfaceformations..
formations.. TFA
04.05.05 CASING DRILL BIT RECOMMENDATIONS ( page 5 of 5 )

EXAMPLES OF BIT HYDRAULICS RANGES WITH VARIOUS NOZZLE SIZES

USING SEAWATER WITH MUD MOTOR HAVING 5% BEARING ASSEMBLY LOSS

VOLUME 3 • 20, 1 • 18 1.169 TFA 3 • 20, 1 • 20 1.227 TFA 3 • 22, 1 • 20 1.420 TFA
TOTAL BIT BIT JET IMPACT HYD BIT JET IMPACT HYD BIT JET IMPACT HYD
GPM GPM PRESS VEL. FORCE HP PRESS VEL. FORCE HP PRESS VEL. FORCE HP
1000 950 529 247 419 293 480 235 409 266 358 203 381 145
1100 1045 640 271 507 391 581 259 495 354 434 224 460 199
1200 1140 762 297 603 507 691 282 589 460 516 244 548 343
1300 1235 894 321 709 645 812 306 692 585 606 264 643 437
1400 1330 1037 346 822 805 941 330 802 731 702 285 746 545
1500 1425 1191 371 944 990 1080 353 921 898 806 305 856 670

VOLUME 3 • 22, 1 • 22 1.485 TFA 3 • 24, 1 • 20 1.632 TFA 3 • 24, 1 • 24 1.767 TFA
TOTAL BIT BIT JET IMPACT HYD BIT JET IMPACT HYD BIT JET IMPACT HYD
GPM GPM PRESS VEL. FORCE HP PRESS VEL. FORCE HP PRESS VEL. FORCE HP
1000 950 328 195 372 182 271 177 355 151 231 163 341 128
1100 1045 397 214 450 242 329 195 430 200 280 180 413 171
1200 1140 472 233 536 314 391 212 511 260 336 196 491 222
1300 1235 554 253 629 400 459 230 600 331 391 213 577 282
1400 1330 643 272 729 498 532 248 696 423 454 229 669 352
1500 1425 738 292 837 614 611 265 799 508 521 245 768 433

ABOVE EXAMPLES DEMONSTRATE VIEWING BIT HYDRAULICS AS A RANGE RATHER THAN ONE SPECIFIC PUMP VOLUME.
SETTING BIT HYDRAULICS TO NEAR MAXIMUM AT THE PROJECTED VOLUMES ALLOWS LARGEST OPERATING RANGE.
ESPECIALLY CRITICAL DURING RISERLESS DRILLING OR OTHER POTENTIAL REDUCTIONS IN PLANNED VOLUME.

• MINIMUM FOR CASING DRILL IS APPROXIMATELY 200 FPS JET VELOCITY

• MINIMUM FOR DRILL AHEAD IS GENERALLY CONSIDERED TO BE 250 FPS

THE OVERALL SYSTEM HYDRAULICS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS WELL.

04.06.01 CASING DRILL MOTOR SELECTION ( page 1 of 3 )

DUMP POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT MOTOR (PDM))

VALVE Positive Displacement Motors are activated by drilling fluid pumped down the drill
(NOT USED) string and into the down hole motor’s progressive cavities. The pressure of fluid
flow through the motor causes the rotor to rotate with the rotational torque being
transmitted to the bit.

POWER BASIC COMPONENTS OF FOUR THE MUD MOTOR

SECTION
ROTOR Dump Valve Sub (optional / frequently omitted)
STATOR
Avoids wet trips, bypassing or directing fluid though motor automatically. The dump
valve is deactivated when used with a jet sub on casing drill operations.

POWER SECTION ASSEMBLY

Converts hydraulic horsepower to mechanical horsepower providing torque.
COUPLING ASSEMBLY
COUPLING Transmits torque, converting eccentric motion of power section to concentric rotation
ASSEMBLY of the driveshaft and on to the bit.
BEARING ASSEMBLY
Supports the driveshaft that transmits torque to the bit. In the casing drill operation, it
BEARING
ASSEMBLY may also have stabilizer blades which act as centralizers.
Stabilizer Blades on Bearing Housings ( if used ) are sized to the bit used. Both must
be slightly under gage with respect to the smallest I.D. of the casing.
ROCK
BIT
04.06.02 CASING DRILL MOTOR SELECTION ( page 2 of 3 )

Casing Drill History

Historically, the most commonly used motor has been a 9-5/8 High-Speed, Low-Torque
Motor with attached stabilizer blades on the bearing housing of the same O.D. as the bit
being used. A jet sub above the motor diverted that portion of the volume pumped which
exceeded the motor’s capacity of 700 gallons per minute.
The Low-Torque motor was primarily chosen because it stalled easily, limiting potential
reactive torque transmission to the running tool by acting as a ”safety valve “. Excess
torque transmission could cause a running tool to jam as was done on two 1994 jobs of
a batch set when a customer opted to run a spade bit with poor bit hydraulics. Although
a low torque motor was used on this job, the running tools could not be released and
were only removed by rapid, excessive over-pull.
This motor performed well on “casing drill only“ jobs but was limited when drilling ahead.
The motor’s maximum operating parameters of 700 gallons per minute and 375 pounds
per square inch bit pressure drop resulted in minimal bit hydraulics at best. The effective
hydraulics range was narrow with a severe penalty for slowing pumps down.
With increasing rig rates, operational costs, and drilling in deeper waters came an effort to
drill faster and more cost effectively. The number of drill ahead jobs associated with casing
300+
drill no longer was the exception. It became the rule. Along with this change, drilling rates
GPM
became more aggressive. The low torque, high speed motor had been acceptable at the
7 “control drilling” rates but struggled at these faster rates.
0
It was obvious that there were motors better suited to drilling ahead than was the high speed,
0
low torque motor we were using. It was decided to try these motors despite the long held fear
G of torque transmission to the running tool.
P
M
04.06.03 CASING DRILL MOTOR SELECTION ( page 3 of 3 )

Beginning in 1998, we began running medium speed motors on certain drill

ROTOR / STATOR ahead jobs where the customers wanted higher volumes and improved bit
hydraulics to drill more aggressively. We experienced no motor generated
1- 2 release problems with running tools of any make and in fact, less problems.
Use of medium speed ( 3-4 ) motors on drill ahead jobs proved successful.
By simply keeping the motor differential pressure below 100 psi, any motor’s
reactive torque is held to an acceptable level. This was easier than expected
due to improved bit hydraulics which increased the jetting factor and lessened
the bit interaction with the soil. Stabilizer blades were moved from the bearing
housing on the motor to the string above in pendulum assembly positions for
emphasis on drilling ahead with no associated problems.
3- 4
It was initially believed that we would continue recommending low torque,
high speed (1/2) motors on casing drill only jobs and medium speed motors
on drill ahead jobs. But that became a mute point with no release problems.
We now consider the 9-5/8 Medium Speed, Medium Torque motor to be the
standard casing drill and drill ahead motor. Its operational parameters allow
1200 gpm and up to 1000 bit pressure drop. We have also ran low speed,
high torque motors and the larger 11-1/4 motors with no release associated
problems.
5- 6
Recommendations for casing drill and drill ahead jobs are now made with an
emphasis on proper setup for the drill ahead portion. Recommendations for
bit nozzle sizes are based upon the customer’s expected flow rate ranges.
Stabilizers are positioned in a pendulum assembly for the drill ahead.
See your Sperry Representative for motor options as well as hydraulic and
bottom hole assembly recommendations.
04.07.01 CASING DRILL RUNNING TOOLS (CART) ( page 1 of 3 )

CART Space Out Measurements

TOP VIEW EXHAUST PORTS
Cam Actuated Running Tool as tool fits in wellhead housing
ADD TO
OVERALL
STRING LENGTH

There are two types of running tools:

• CART - does not allow drilling ADD TO
INTERNAL
ahead. Shown on this page. BHA
• CADA - does allow drilling ahead. LENGTH
Shown on next page.

Running tools become part of the bottom hole assembly with the lower section that fits inside the casing being measured
as part of the internal BHA for bit space out purposes. The remaining upper section length is added to the upper drill
string. The running tool seats and locks into the wellhead housing connecting the casing to the drill string by dogs which
extend into profiles inside the wellhead housing. A cam extends the dogs when the string is turned to the left and allows
them to retract when it is repositioned by turning the string to the right.
Running tools resist turning unless its dogs and internal mechanisms are free of downward or upward forces exerted on
them. This is referred to as its neutral point. This point is reached down hole when all of the casing assembly weight is
supported by the soil leaving the rig supporting the drill pipe and BHA. This is the point that is to be reached to release
the tool. It is also the point or weight to avoid for extended periods of time while jetting. This is true of the CART and
the CADA tool shown on next page.
CART running tool connections are 4-1/2 IF pin down and 6-5/8 Reg box up unless special ordered.
CADA running tool connections are 6-5/8 Reg pin down and 6-5/8 Reg box up unless special ordered.
04.07.02 CASING DRILL RUNNING TOOLS (CADA) ( page 2 of 3 )

TOP
VIEW
Cam Actuated Drill Ahead ( CADA ) Running Tool

The CADA tool allows drilling ahead without a costly trip being
made. The string is first turned to the right to retract the dogs and
free the body. At this point the running tool could be pulled and is
frequently picked up a few inches to show it is free. Additional
actions which vary by the make of the tool are done which free
the stem. Drill ahead then proceeds.
• Running Tool stem is freed after retraction of dogs by shearing
pins or by manipulating a J-slot arrangement. This depends on
running tool make.
• Many CADA tool stems travel approximately 3 inches during
engagement. Adjust BHA space out measurements. See the
wellhead service representative for made up lengths.

• Some CADA tools have safety devices to prevent premature

EXTERIOR VIEW
release when using as a handling tool. These must be removed
Illustration only. For
CUT
more information refer
prior to tripping in. Other tools have shear pins and the CART
AWAY
VIEW to wellhead company. tool is used to do most of the handling. Required running tools
are stood back prior to running casing.

CAM EXTENDS OR • Remove Plugs in top of Running Tool prior to running.

RETRACTS DOGS
AS STEM IS TURNED • One wellhead service company occasionally attempts to
restrict the RPM of the string to 50 or less to reduce wear on a
wear bushing inside the tool. Normally this is over-ruled in the
interest of good drilling practices.
04.07.03 CASING DRILL RUNNING TOOLS (AVOID RELEASE PROBLEMS) ( page 3 of 3 )

• Control motor differential pressure. Keep differential below 100

psi to keep transmission of reactive torque to the running tool low.
Similar to the illustration on right, there is no difference in reactive
torque between a low torque and high torque motor when neither There is no difference in power of a large
tractor and a weaker car when their drive
has its bit engaged with the formation. The casing drill operation wheels are not engaged with a surface.
generally has light bit engagement as applied weight is absorbed Neither transmit reactive drive torque.
through out the length of the casing.
• Excess differential is most likely to occur on return to bottom after working and abruptly returning to the same
applied weight that was used prior to reciprocation. Return to appropriate weight as differential allows.
• Improved bit hydraulics of the medium speed motors versus high speed motors reduce motor differential and torque
by less bit mechanical engagement with formation as a greater percentage is done by “jetting”.
• Don’t spud too deep without pumps. The resulting pack-off may remain, simply being channeled. This drag increases
running tool release problems. This has often been misidentified as “settlings”.
• Stabilizer blades on bearing housings are a source of drag should any packing occur. Initially eliminated on
drill ahead jobs to create a pendulum assembly. As there were no problems, they are commonly omitted.
• Monitor connection make-up. Potential source of torque transmission to running tool and/or turning string.
• Assure top drive brake is on before starting pumps & motor. Easy to overlook on connection make-up.
• Avoid Applied Weight that places running tool at its neutral point for long periods where it is most subject to the stem
turning. Use either less or more to reduce potential turning of the casing and release problems.
• Assist in determining “neutral point” of running tools. Keep accurate weights on Casing, BHA, & Total String Weight
just prior to spud. Tools are difficult to release at any other weight.
• Recommend that when running tool not be backed up slightly when it is made up. This is done to make it
easier to release but the opposite may occur as momentum can develop ( similar to connection make-up ).
04.08.01 CASING DRILL DRIVE PIPE MEASUREMENT & PREPARATION ( page 1 of 2 )

PIN END PIN END

10

BOX END BOX END

15

20 • Drive Pipe is measured to determine the overall assembled

length when it is made-up. Some pin ends differ in the points
25
at which they are properly measured for the correct lengths.
See the connection service representative for these points.
Mark each joint with measurement and total for overall length.
30

• The assembled length of the drive pipe determine the BHA’s

length for the bit to be properly located in relation to the shoe.
52.89

35

• Paint the shoe joint white for first 10 feet for visibility by the
40
ROV at spud in.
5 4 3 2 1
• Paint the wellhead housing joint with 5 foot bands starting
52.93

52.85

52.75
53.32

the top of the housing. Paint 1 foot dashes in between these

10’
bands. Marks will be used to land casing with proper stickup.
36” 36” 36” 36” 36”
1-1/2” 1-1/2” 1” 1” 1” • Determine wall thickness and running order of joints. Mark
554# 554# 374# 374# 374#
this on joints for crane operator.
• Determine total calculated air weight of assembly. Compare
HOUSING MID X-O MID SHOE this to block weight when assembly is picked up.
JOINT JOINT JOINT JOINT JOINT
04.08.02 CASING DRILL DRIVE PIPE MEASUREMENT & PREPARATION ( page 2 of 2 )

EXAMPLE OF DRIVE PIPE DATA ON A JOB

JOINTS DRIVE PIPE DATA WEIGHTS

SEQUENCE OD SIZE LENGTH WALL WT/FT AIR WT BUOYED

SHOE 36.0 38.54 1.00 374 14420 12531

MID 36.0 39.98 1.00 374 14959 12999
MID 36.0 39.36 1.00 374 14727 12797
MID 36.0 39.32 1.00 374 14712 12784
X-O 36.0 40.32 1.00 374 15086 13109
MID 36.0 39.01 1.00 374 21581 18754
WHH 36.0 42.01 1.00 374 23240 20196

VARIOUS DRIVE PIPE SIZES AND WEIGHTS

EXAMPLE OF COMMON DRIVE PIPE SIZES
DRIVE PIPE DATA WEIGHTS PER FOOT
OD SIZE ID SIZE WALL AIR WT PER FOOT BUOYED WT PER FOOT

30.0 28.00 1.000 310 269

30.0 27.00 1.500 457 397
36.0 34.00 1.000 374 325
36.0 33.50 1.250 464 404
36.0 33.00 1.500 553 481
36.0 32.00 2.000 727 632
38.0 34.00 2.000 770 669
38.0 33.50 2.250 860 747
04.09.01 CASING DRILL STABILIZATION ( page 1of 1 )

Another option to be considered is the position of stabilizers. Many casing drill jobs have now been ran
with no stabilizer blades around the Bearing Housing as in the past with no problem. The bottom hole
assembly design and stabilizer positions are recommended to maximize the drill ahead section.

A. Original configuration for Casing Drill Only. Use for drill

ahead only with ROP restricted and light weight on bit.
B. Acceptable alternative to blades on Bearing Housing. Use
for drill ahead if ROP controlled and light weights used.
C. Slick BHA is acceptable for casing drill only. It is not
recommended for drill ahead.
D. Original drill ahead configuration. Difficult to drop angle
once gained. OK for controlled ROP and light weights.
E. Recommended BHA Pendulum for drill ahead. Use for
soft formation and light weights to be applied.
F. Preferred BHA Pendulum for drill ahead. Use for
medium formation and medium weights to be applied.
G. Preferred BHA Pendulum for drill ahead. Use for firmer
A B C D E F G formation and heavier weights to be applied.
Note. One stabilizer is adequate while two provides more
stiffness and hole wiping.
04.10.01 CASING DRILL BULLS-EYE ( MEASURING INCLINATION ) ( page 1of 2 )

A bulls eye is the main method used to determine drive pipe

BULLS-EYE TYPES
verticality. There are two kinds used. One has 5 lines with
each measuring 1 degree. The other is a 2 degree with each
of its 4 lines being 1/2 degree. The 2 degree bulls eye is the
most sensitive and is therefore recommended.

Bulls eyes may be mounted on guide bases or mud mats,

clasped to the upper part of a running tool, or mounted to
the side of the casing. Casing mounted bulls eyes have the
benefit of being the most rigid as well as being closely tied
to the actual casing itself. These can be more difficult to 5 DEGREES 2 DEGREES
10 PER LINE 1/20 PER LINE
view as the ROV may not be able to focus on it from directly
overhead. The other locations may be more susceptible to
error in that they could move independent of the casing.

It is difficult to get the bulls eye mounted exactly as it should

SHOP PREPARED
be, in fact it is rare to have the ball at zero when it is time to
MOUNT & BRACKET
spud. Bulls eyes mounted on the casing on a shop prepared
surface and mount tend to be “zeroed” out the best.

Care must be taken when viewing the bulls eye as the view
angle can be deceiving. A bulls eye that appears to have a
certain reading from an angle can be totally different when
read from the top.

As it is assumed the heavy casing hangs vertically in the

water, the bulls eye reading while hanging is assumed to
equal zero and for drive pipe to be jetted in vertically, the
reading should not change. Change is what is measured.
04.10.02 CASING DRILL BULLS-EYE ( MEASURING INCLINATION ) ( page 2 of 2 )

There are potential problems with all methods used to determine verticality of drivepipe. MWD tools cannot be
centralized properly, other highly accurate tools must be “zeroed out” ( like the bulls-eye ) assuming that the casing
is hanging vertical, unaffected by ocean currents. This is normally true and only comes into doubt when fast, deep
currents exist such as loop currents which occur in the Gulf of Mexico. Shallow currents have little effect acting only
on smaller area of the drill pipe.
Experience has shown that if the currents are such that they do not hinder ROV operations, the drive pipe can be
assumed to hang vertically and that the bulls-eye reading equates to vertical (zero). The measure of change of this
reading is the measure of inclination off vertical.

Example 1 Example 2 If it is suspected that current has deflected the casing, the string can be slowly
A. 06:00 A. 06:00 rotated at 900 increments. If vertical, the bulls-eye ball will read the same at the
same relative clock position. If not vertical, it will roll to opposite clock positions
at 1800. On one 2002 job with the shoe in a template, the rig was moved bringing
a 3/40 reading to 00, the 900 readings were 0, 3/4, 1-1/2, 3/4. The rig was moved
back with the readings at 900 being 3/4, 3/4, 3/4, 3/4 showing verticality. The
job was completed with a final reading of 1/2 indicating 1/40 off vertical.
The rotation procedure has also saved a job where a bulls-eye bracket loosened
during jetting indicating excessive inclination. The string was pulled to a shallow
depth where rotation at 900 showed no reading changes. The string was returned
to bottom and the job completed successfully.
• Example 1 illustrates a ball which stays at 6 o’clock relative to the casing through
180 degrees turn. This is indicative of vertical casing with the one degree reading
being due to mounting.
B. 06:00 B. 12:00 • Example 2 illustrates a ball which moves from the 6 o’clock position to 12 o’clock.
This indicates the casing is not hanging straight.
04.11.01 CASING DRILL DRILL STRING STRETCH ( page 1 of 2 )

The stretch of the string above the running tool should be considered when calculating water depth. This is often
misunderstood on rigs and frequently discounted as being insignificant. This could be a problem as stretch in the
deeper waters is substantial, reaching 7 feet on a 9,700 foot water depth job with heavy casing. One customer felt
that drive pipe slipped three feet on a job when if had not. Stretch had not been taken into account originally and
cuttings piled around the drive pipe on sea floor covering markings.
Stretch occurs in every drill string from the weight of the string alone. This stretch can be ignored. The stretch due
to the weight of the drive pipe, guide base, and mud mat (if used) is a variable that stretches the string until it is set
and supported by the formation. As the weight is relieved, the stretch contracts, causing water depth to always be
deeper than the drill pipe figures indicate when first spudding in.

Casing Assy Wt in Lbs x Length in Feet

Stretch in feet =
30,000,000 x String Cross Sectional Area

Calculations. October, 2000 example. 335.85 ft 38” & 36” set at 8909 ft having 7.1 ft stretch
Drive Pipe Assembly Wts. Steel ( lbs per gal ) = 65.5 Sea Water (lbs per gal ) = 8.6
OD x Wall Length Wt (lbs)
Buoyancy Factor ( Sea Water ) = ( 65.5 - 8.6 ) / 65.5 = .869
36” x 1.00” 205.65 76988 Buoyed Wt. ( Drive Pipe ) = 197015 x 0.869 = 171,206 lbs.
36” x 1.50” 41.74 23124
6-5/8 Drill Pipe Cross Sectional Area
38” x 2.25” 88.26 75904 = ( 6.6252 - 5.9012 ) x 0.7854 = 7.123 sq. inches
Drive Pipe Weight 176015 Rotary to Mud Line ( Ft ) = 8909
Guide Base Wt 21000 Stretch of 8909 ft of 6-5/8” drill pipe due to 171,206 lbs.
Total Assembly Wt 197015 = ( 8909 x 171206 ) / ( 30,000,000 x 7.123 ) = 7.14 feet

Drill Pipe measurements taken when at neutral weight for release of running tool duplicate these calculations as the
casing assembly weight is no longer supported by the drill string.
04.11.02 CASING DRILL DRILL STRING STRETCH ( page 2 of 2 )
Examples of Stretch with various Drill Pipe Sizes

Drill String Tubular Tubular Cross String Hanging Stretch

Tubular OD Area Section Length Weight Feet
6-5/8 Hevi-Wate 6.625 4.500 18.57 1,000 100,000 0.187
5-1/2 Hevi-Wate 5.500 3.375 14.81 1,000 100,000 0.225
5.0” Hevi-Wate 5.000 3.000 12.57 1,000 100,000 0.265
6-5/8 Drill Pipe, 25.20# 6.625 5.965 6.53 1,000 100,000 0.511
5-1/2 Drill Pipe, 24.70# 5.500 4.670 6.63 1,000 100,000 0.503
5-1/2 Drill Pipe, 21.90# 5.500 4.778 5.83 1,000 100,000 0.572
5-1/2 Drill Pipe, 19.20# 5.500 4.892 4.96 1,000 100,000 0.672
5.0” Drill Pipe, 25.60# 5.000 4.000 7.07 1,000 100,000 0.472
5.0” Drill Pipe, 19.50# 5.000 4.276 5.27 1,000 100,000 0.632
5.0” Drill Pipe, 16.25# 5.000 4.408 4.37 1,000 100,000 0.762

100,000 pounds and 1,000 feet used to facilitate transferring stretch to actual weight and depth.
Example 1. 4,000 ft water with 150,000 casing weight using 5-1/2” 24.70# drill dipe. Total Stretch = 0.503 x 4 x 1.5 = 3.18 feet
Example 2. 4,000 ft water with 1,000 pounds weight using 5-1/2” 24.70# drill pipe. Stretch (1000) = 0.503 x 4 / 100 = 0.0212
Note: The 1,000 lb. stretch factor is useful when landing string with proper amount of stickup. The footage to go to proper stickup can
be calibrated by using a “dipstick method”.
• note exact slacked off weight at a certain penetration mark on the drill pipe when within approximately 20 to 30 feet of landing.
• picking up the drill string so that the ROV may observe the “distance to go” by the mud coating around the casing string.
• returning to bottom, jetting in the “calibrated distance” and attempting to reach the same slacked off weight.
Note. If this same weight is not achieved the amount of retraction of stretch will not be realized. The string should be stopped early
by the amount of weight (1000 lb. increments) not achieved times the 1,000 pound factor. As an example, 20,000 lbs less weight on
landing versus that when string was picked up to view mud coating would require stopping 0.4 feet early in above examples.
04.12.01 Casing Drill Applied Weights ( page 1 of 4 )
The casing drill operation utilizes a pendulum effect to jet in drive pipe. Control of applied weight is a major factor in keeping the casing
drill vertical while maintaining an effective rate of penetration . Application of too much weight at any given depth could lead to building
angle off vertical while too little weight could slow penetration and promote soil erosion or overworking the string.
An initial starting weight of 5,000 to 10,000 lbs. is used to keep the shoe forming a moving seal against the formation as the pumps and
penetration is started. Slacked off weight is then gradually increased with depth per the guidelines applicable to the drive pipe assembly
(wall thickness and weight per foot) being run. See Example below.

EXAMPLE CHART OF DRIVE PIPE STRING 240 feet of 36” Drive Pipe Assembly
120
USE EXTREME CAUTION IF USING 36.0” x 1.00” wall x 374 ppf x 160 feet
110 MORE THAN 80% OF TOTAL WEIGHT 36.0” x 1.50” wall x 553 ppf x 80 feet
80 % OF AVAILABLE WEIGHT 9.50” x 3.00” i.d. x 208 ppf x 120 feet
100
8.00” x 2.81” i.d. x 156 ppf x 120 feet
WEIGHT IN 1000 POUNDS

90 SLACKED OFF WEIGHT AT NEUTRAL POINT Seawater buoyancy factor = 0.869

80 Minimum weight at any depth equals buoyed weight
of casing below mud line.
70
Maximum weight at any depth equals weight of casing
60 plus BHA below the mud line.
50 500 pounds per foot (ppf) approximates the average
weight per foot of the drive pipe assembly. Experience
40 has shown this to be a convenient working number
30 which allows good penetration rates while keeping the
RED LINE = CASING & BHA WT. assembly vertical. It is typical to stay slightly below the
20 GOLD LINE = CASING ONLY WT. weights at shallow depths (400 ppf) to assure verticality
10 BLUE LINE = 500 LBS PER FOOT and then increase to these maximum weights as target
depth nears.
PENETRATION ( FEET )
0 Maximum weight of a 30” string is usually 400 ppf.
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240

A simple method to arrive at the weight per foot is to divide total weight of casing by its length to establish minimum weight
per foot and to do the same with the total assembly weight to establish the maximum weight per foot. These numbers can
be rounded downward to a convenient working number that is easily multiplied by the depth to arrive at the applicable
weights for the current penetration depth.
04.12.02 Casing Drill Applied Weights ( page 2 of 4 )
The applied weight per foot (ppf) guidelines limit bending forces in the casing by assuring the majority of compression in the casing string
is below the mud line where the formation lends support. The guidelines also establish weights that should be reached before reciprocation
is considered which prevents overworking the soil.
The maximum weight to be applied at any depth is found by simply multiplying the weight per foot factor by the current penetration depth
marked on the drill pipe. This method allows the driller and the casing drill operator to stay focused on the job, monitoring applied weight,
pump rate & pressure, penetration rate, etc as opposed to trying to read from a prepared chart.
The indicator weights of the drive pipe and the BHA should be noted individually and collectively when they are picked up. These can be
compared to calculated weights. In addition, the total indicator weight should be noted just prior to spudding in.
• Slacked off weight must never exceed the total drive pipe assembly weight which includes the BHA and any guidebase or mud mat used.
• The approximate neutral weight of the running tool can be found by subtracting the casing weight from this total weight.
• Dividing casing weight only by its length equals average weight per foot which is rounded down to convenient number for minimum ppf.
• Dividing assembly weight by its length equals average weight per foot which rounded down to convenient number for maximum ppf.
Commonly used applied weights per foot
30” Casing Drill 400 pounds per foot assuming typical casing string of 1” and 1-1/2” walls.
36” Casing Drill 500 pounds per foot assuming typical casing string of 1” and 1-1/2” walls.
* often use 400 ppf for first 100 feet before applying 500 ppf.
Application of the appropriate weight for a certain depth combined with a significant slowing of the penetration rate signals the time that
the drill string should be worked. Do not immediately return to the previous weight to prevent torque transmission as indicated by motor
differential pressure and to avoid concentration of too much compressive force in the lower portions of the casing.
Applied weight must never exceed the total available weight of the drive pipe, BHA, and guidebase/mud mat as the drillstring above will
be put into compression and quickly bend. A 20 % safety factor is recommended under normal conditions. Caution: when near maximum
and ROP suddenly increases with no changes in slacked off weight, it is likely that the drill pipe is bowing. Picking the string up should
show an immediate change in the weight indicator if the pipe was not bowing. Also note that heavy-weight drill pipe will bow less before
bending than will drill pipe.
The running tool is at its neutral point when the slacked off weight equals the buoyed weight of the casing. This is the weight at which the
running tool is most easily turned and at which it should be set for releasing after job completion. As such, prolonged applications of this
weight should be avoided as any transmitted torque could negatively impact the running tool.
04.12.03 Casing Drill Applied Weights ( page 3 of 4 )

Example of 36” Casing Drill Weight Application Chart

PENTRATION W EIGHT CHART CALCULATION FOR CASING DRILL MudW t 8.6 ASSIGNED VALUES
DEPTH C ASING C ASING AIR WEIGHT B HA B HA AIR WEIGHT C sg + BHA C sg W t C sg + BHA @ 400 @ 500
FEET OD WALL C ASING PPM OD ID B HA PPM PPM M IN(K) B OUYED M AX( K) BOUYED PPF PPF
0 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
10 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 3.7 5.8 4.0 5.0
20 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 7.5 11.6 8.0 10.0
30 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 11.2 17.5 12.0 15.0
40 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 14.9 23.3 16.0 20.0
50 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 18.7 29.1 20.0 25.0
60 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 22.4 34.9 24.0 30.0
70 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 26.1 40.7 28.0 35.0
80 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 29.9 46.5 32.0 40.0
90 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 33.6 52.4 36.0 45.0
100 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 37.3 58.2 40.0 50.0
110 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 41.1 64.0 44.0 55.0
120 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 44.8 69.8 48.0 60.0
130 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 48.5 75.6 52.0 65.0
140 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 52.3 81.4 56.0 70.0
150 36.00 1.00 374.2 9.50 3.000 208.5 582.6 56.0 87.3 60.0 75.0
160 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 61.5 94.3 64.0 80.0
170 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 67.0 101.4 68.0 85.0
180 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 72.6 108.5 72.0 90.0
190 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 78.1 115.6 76.0 95.0
200 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 83.6 122.7 80.0 100.0
210 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 89.1 129.8 84.0 105.0
220 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 94.7 136.8 88.0 110.0
230 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 100.2 143.9 92.0 115.0
240 36.00 1.50 553.2 8.00 2.813 156.0 709.2 105.7 151.0 96.0 120.0

Values of 400 ppf and 500 ppf included to compare to actual buoyed weights below mud line.
04.12.04 Casing Drill Applied Weights ( page 4 of 4 )

Example of 30” Casing Drill Weight Application Chart

PENTRATION W EIGHT CHART CALCULATION FOR CASING DRILL MudW t 8.6 ASSIGNED VALUES
DEPTH C ASING C ASING AIR WEIGHT B HA B HA AIR WEIGHT C sg + BHA C sg W t C sg + BHA @ 400 @ 500
FEET OD WALL C ASING PPM OD ID B HA PPM PPM M IN(K) B OUYED M AX( K) BOUYED PPF PPF
0 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
10 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 3.1 5.2 4.0 5.0
20 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 6.2 10.4 8.0 10.0
30 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 9.3 15.5 12.0 15.0
40 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 12.4 20.7 16.0 20.0
50 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 15.5 25.9 20.0 25.0
60 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 18.5 31.1 24.0 30.0
70 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 21.6 36.2 28.0 35.0
80 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 24.7 41.4 32.0 40.0
90 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 27.8 46.6 36.0 45.0
100 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 30.9 51.8 40.0 50.0
110 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 34.0 56.9 44.0 55.0
120 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 37.1 62.1 48.0 60.0
130 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 40.2 67.3 52.0 65.0
140 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 43.3 72.5 56.0 70.0
150 30.00 1.00 310.0 9.50 3.000 208.5 518.5 46.4 77.6 60.0 75.0
160 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 50.9 83.8 64.0 80.0
170 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 55.5 89.9 68.0 85.0
180 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 60.1 96.0 72.0 90.0
190 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 64.6 102.1 76.0 95.0
200 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 69.2 108.2 80.0 100.0
210 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 73.7 114.4 84.0 105.0
220 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 78.3 120.5 88.0 110.0
230 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 82.9 126.6 92.0 115.0
240 30.00 1.50 457.0 8.00 2.813 156.0 613.0 87.4 132.7 96.0 120.0

Values of 400 ppf and 500 ppf included to compare to actual buoyed weights below mud line.
04.13.01 Casing Drill GENERAL PROCEDURES ( page 1 of 5 )

PRELIMINARY STEPS
Measure BHA Assure all needed components are available. Measure lengths on all potential BHA components. Mark lengths on pieces
with paint stick. Use list to calculate BHA. Keep list for unexpected changes. Get detail measurements of final components used to prepare
final BHA.
Check Casing Equipment Assure that proper slings and casing handling equipment is available. Verify casing assembly equipment is on
hand and ready.
Measure Casing Obtain an accurate, overall assembled length. Pin protectors may need to be removed to accomplish this. This length will
determine the BHA components needed to space out the bit to the required amount.
Paint Casing Paint bottom 10 foot of shoe joint white with a black band at 5 feet to use as visual aid when tagging mud line. Paint White
Bands every 5 feet from top of wellhead housing downward for 40 feet. Paint narrow stripes at one foot intervals between these bands. These
will aid in landing with proper stickup.
Measure Running Tool Lower section which will be effective length inside wellhead housing when made-up is applicable to the BHA length
and bit space out.
Pre-stage Guidebase Position and secure applicable guidebase and/or mud mat in moon pool.
Calculate Hydraulics Determine Pump make, type, quantity, liner size, output, and maximum strokes & pressures allowed. Determine drill
pipe size to be used. ( More critical in deeper waters. )
Size Bit Nozzles Size for volumes to be used. Consider rig’s capabilities, overall system pressure, and the range of the motor and operating
parameters as well as that of any MWD tool(s).
Stand Back BHA Reduces time casing hangs in moon pool subject to weather conditions. Often can be done during rig move or anchoring.
Stand Back Running Tool Have ready to handle casing when it has been assembled.
Prepare Gel Sweep To use 75 barrels per stand. Lined up as new stand being made up, return to seawater on fly. Have extra 200 to 300
barrels ready if hole conditions ( excess friction ) require.
Record weights Total weight of BHA. Total Weight of Assembled Casing. Total weight of both when assembled. Also record Total String
Weight just prior to spud. (Total weight less BHA weight equals neutral release point of running tool).
Calculate Stretch The drill string stretch to be calculated is based upon the drill pipe size and length and the drive pipe weight as that will
be lost once running tool is released. The stretch in deep waters can be significant, approaching 7 feet.
04.13.02 Casing Drill GENERAL PROCEDURES ( page 2 of 5 )

Assemble Drive Pipe Casing String.

• Have all handling and assembly tools on rig floor. Verify they are adequate for the job.
• Hold pre-assembly meeting with rig crew. Review assembly plan and method. Discuss safety issues.
• Remove master bushing from rotary and rig up elevators and/or slings for casing.
• Begin by lowering shoe joint through rotary first. Handling ears are torch cut slick to the body. Joint is then
secured at rotary. Next joint is then picked up and made up to the prior joint.
• Sequence is repeated until all joints are run, ending with the Well Head Joint made up and secured in rotary.
• After casing string has been assembled, the running tool stand is picked up and engaged in the wellhead
housing joint by 3 to 5 turns to the left depending on make and model of running tool.
• The casing string is lowered through the rotary and set in the guide base assembly secured in the moon
pool. Record weight of the casing string at this time.
• The running tool is then released by rotating the prescribed turns to the right. It is pulled back through the
rotary and stood back.
Run Internal BHA
• The master bushings are replaced and the internal bottom hole assembly is run through the rotary and into
the suspended casing.
• The running tool stand is then made up to the top member of the BHA and the assembly is lowered to the
wellhead housing joint where it is engaged for the final time. Record weight of BHA at this time.
• The motor is commonly tested at this time while the bit extension is checked by ROV .
Rig and Release GuideBase
• Final adjustments and rig ups are done to the guide base assembly, the bulls eye is leveled, and the running
tool is marked for release purposes. Note bulls eye position at this point, going in water and when hanging.
• After completion of all requirements, the guide base assembly tie downs are released and the complete
assembly is ready for the trip to the bottom. Record weight of complete assembly at this time.
04.13.03 Casing Drill GENERAL PROCEDURES ( page 3 of 5 )

Tripping in
• During the guide base assembly’s entry into the splash zone, there should be no delays.
• Connections should be made up carefully. A sudden turn in the string could affect the running tool.
• With a large mud mat or guide base trip speed should be controlled to avoid “skating”.
• In deeper waters, it may be necessary to fill drill pipe as required for the size run.
At the mud line.
• Record the water depth using drill pipe figures. Note. Depth will be off by stretch of casing weight.
• Assure footage on last stand to exceed 30 feet. Adjust by picking up or laying down single(s).
• Assure all is ready. Pumps, valves open, seawater and gel sweeps in pits, power assigned, etc.
• Recommend that boats be released prior to start as they may cause excess rig movement.
• ROV to check guide base, bulls eye, rotation, running tool, guidelines, etc.
• ROV to then position itself for spud in and start of jetting to monitor for broaching.
Begin Jetting Drive Pipe
• ROV positioned to monitor spud in and to watch for broaching on start up.
• Spud to approximately 10 foot depth or 10,000 pounds applied weight. Stop at whichever comes first.
• Pick up slightly to get bit off bottom to start motor and do so without excess torque occurring.
• Start pumps slowly until drill pipe is filled. Watch for pressure increase.
• At first sign of pressure slack off slowly while raising the pump rates to approximately 75% of full rate.
• Maintain ROP at such rate as to keep 5,000 to 10,000 lbs applied weight. ROP may reach 300 ft/hr briefly.
( this range will allow motor to operate while keeping the casing sealed at this shallow depth )
• Stop pumps immediately if any problems occur. Solve problems at shallow depths, not near full depth.
• At 30 to 40 feet have ROV return to top, check bulls eye, running tool, and standby to monitor returns.
04.13.04 Casing Drill GENERAL PROCEDURES ( page 4 of 5 )

Jet in Drive Pipe per procedures.

• After initial start, bring pumps up to full rate, keep constant monitoring of motor differential pressure.
• Increase applied weight with depth per applied weight guidelines for the appropriate depth.
( Weight of drive pipe assembly divided by its length and rounded to convenient number )
• Keep string moving, working as required to maintain an effective ROP.
• Maintain a log of time, depth, applied weight, drag and reciprocation lengths, and other notes.
• Monitor guide base, bulls eye, returns, etc. during jetting and at connections.
Reciprocate String as needed to control friction.
• Frequency of working is not pre-determined but dictated by formation and other conditions.
• Work drive pipe as needed to reduce external friction build-up with the soil to a level which enables
the weight of the casing to force itself into the soil at an effective rate of penetration.
• Work pipe when at maximum weight for depth and rate of penetration slows significantly.
• Work pipe before connections to zero drag as the casing will be stationary.
• Reduce drag to near zero in upper sections of hole. Any drag left never disappears, only accumulates.
Jet to target depth.
• Based upon previous observations, begin leaving some drag as the targeted depth is neared with the
goal of having casing nearly stuck upon reaching TD.
• With 10 to 20 feet to go calibrate footage to get to target depth. “DipStick Method”.
- have applied weight near planned maximum and note exact amount.
- observe exact drill pipe penetration depth per the 5 foot markings on drill pipe.
- have driller pickup up casing string at moderate speed while shutting down pumps.
- have ROV positioned to read paint markings on casing where mud coating ends.
- add the indicated distance to penetration depth at pick up point. Return to bottom.
- jet the required footage while arriving at TD with the same applied weight noted prior to pick up.
04.13.05 Casing Drill GENERAL PROCEDURES ( page 5 of 5 )

At Target Depth
• Shut down pumps upon reaching TD. Do not pump more than necessary.
• Set compensator on if there is any rig heave. The drive pipe must remain motionless as it soaks.
• Notify ROV and have ROV attempt to determine wellhead housing stickup and final bulls eye reading.
- normal time for visibility to clear is approximately an hour unless current carries cuttings away.
- it will most likely be too late to move casing, once visibility clears enough to verify depth.
- this demonstrates the importance of using the previous “dipstick” method to arrive at correct depth.
- If visibility poor have ROV use its depth meter to approximate stickup by touching on the wellhead.
• Soak per customer directions
- desired soak time varies by customer from 1/2 hour to 4 hours.
- actual decision is best made based upon observations of the jetting job itself.
- if casing drill only, soak time can be shortened as it will soak while tripping.
- if drill ahead, may need longer soak time as there will be no trip time.

At Release of Running Tool

• Assist wellhead service representative as needed.
• Running Tool will be released at or near neutral weight. Total weight of string at mud line prior to
spud less the weight of the drive pipe equals the weight at which there will be no downward or
upward force placed on the dogs of the running tool. This is the weight at which it turns freely.
• If casing drill only, once running tool is free, the string is tripped out of hole.
• If drill ahead, additional actions are made to free stem of running tool, enabling drill ahead.
04.14.01 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 1 of 7 )

SOIL FRICTION & DRIVE PIPE

Drive Pipe is held in place by soil friction with its exterior. Little to no support is provided by the
bottom of the casing shoe. Friction holding the casing must be stronger than the total downward
force that will be exerted on it, which includes its own weight and enough additional weight to
latch cementing tools into the wellhead housing joint.
Soils have various friction factors but they all must have a frictional advantage over the weight
of the drive pipe in order to support it. The soil must also have some degree of mobility which
allows this friction to be applied against the casing. Overburden pressures provide the force to
remold the disturbed soil around the casing as water is squeezed out and the formation’s grip on
the drive pipe is tightened.
SIDE FRICTION

The greater the surface area exposed to soil’s friction the greater the total support of the drive
pipe. Soft formations having a low frictional factor require more length to achieve the gripping
force needed versus those with high friction factors. Larger diameters can also increase surface
area. As an example, the area of 36” x 1” wall casing is 1.44 times greater than 30” x 1” wall
with only 1.21 times the weight.
Overburden pressures increase with depth. Pressures, being equal in all directions at any one
depth, exert horizontal force against the casing causing the friction per square inch to increase
with depth. Absent any other variables, soil’s grip tightens with penetration from both greater
friction and increased surface area.
As Drive Pipe dimensions and lengths must be predetermined, it is advisable to err on the side
of caution in the design of the casing string which will interact with the formation. The average
length used in the Gulf of Mexico is approximately 260 feet with the typical range being from
205 feet to 400 plus feet.
The designed length of drive pipe should also consideration the formation in which the shoe
will be set. While it provides little direct support to the casing, it does support the formations
LITTLE TO NO
UPWARD above which in turn hold the casing in place.
SUPPORT
04.14.02 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 2 of 7 )

EXAMPLE: UNDISTURBED SOIL STRENGTH A customer had soil studies done for a South China Seas 25
well batch set done in 1994 producing charts on the formation’s
0a
a a MINATURE VANE Undisturbed Soil Strength, Ultimate Capacity, and Soak Time.
a a  UU Triaxial I

a  DSS The Undisturbed Soil Strength Chart demonstrates that even in
P 
E
a the relatively short distance of a drive pipe job, a formation’s
40 =30° r<<=16° N’=q=20 fMAX-0.3KAf, qMAX-20KAf II characteristics may vary. These variables could potentially
N a  III
E  a impact the job.
T a

a
R a
A 80
 IV The chart indicates a hard spot near the surface In this case and
a
T a
+ INTERPRETED SHEAR a soft layer of soil just above the target depth. The hard area
I a
 a STRENGTH PROFILE required slightly more aggressive weight application with little
O a 
impact. Damage to the deeper soft area was avoided by making
N 120 a

a

sure there were no delays while drilling through it. Theplanned
a V
B +
a
depth assured that the shoe would reach into a firm formation
E providing support for the formation(s) above.

L
160
O a
VI
=25° r<
<=20° N’=q=12 fMAX-1.0KAf, qMAX-1.4KAf
W Just as the formations may vary over the course length of the

a
a
VII drive pipe they may vary from one area to another. Occasional
S  a
significant formation variables which have impacted jobs in
E 200
A the Gulf of Mexico include dead coral reefs, cement migration
F NOTE: DSS Shear strength baredon: from a nearby well, sands that react to working with increased
L Su = ( r / vc ) x Pc x (OCR) 0.8 rather than decreased friction, and submerged wood debris 300
O 240 SOUTH CHINA SEAS
O feet thick. The more troublesome formations may be those that
R are too soft. The bottom 150’ of a job in Mississippi Canyon
667 was so unstable that the next section could not be drilled
280 without the drive pipe being supported by a mud mat.
0 0.8 1.6 2.4 3.2 4.0
( KIPS / FT2 )
04.14.03 Casing Drill
EXAMPLE: SURFACE FORMATIONS
ULTIMATE CAPACITY & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 3 of 7 )

600 EXAMPLE: ULTIMATE CAPACITY

ULTIMATE CAPACITY
Casing drill operation cannot improve the soil’s
500 ability to hold drive pipe. Disturbance of the
UPPER formation can only be minimized. Casing drill
U.E.=.25 x q(ud) ESTIMATE
400 JETTING operations must be done on an individual basis
L.E.=.40 x q(rem) using sound principles and reading the indicators
available.
300
LOWER • WOB within applied weight guidelines
ESTIMATE
JETTING • Pump Rates adequate to clean hole
200
• ROP sufficient to avoid washouts
K • Working String as needed to control friction
100 I • Drag monitored to indicate actions to take.
P
S • Sweeps as needed to clean hole & coat hole.
PENETRATION PENETRATION
0 • Low Motor Differential to restrict torque
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200

450
EXAMPLE: SOAK TIME
400
The study indicates that while soil continues to cure
350
around drive pipe for more than a month a large
300 K percentage is healed in a short period of time, with
SOAK TIME over 50% of the total capacity of the soil being
250 I
SOUTH CHINA SEAS P reached in the first hour. While every location will
200
S differ in the mobility, friction factor, and ultimate
150 capacity of its soil, the time curve is a fairly accurate
100 description of soak time of the casing drill operation.
TIME - HOURS This study also agrees with field observations.
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
04.14.04 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 4 of 7 )

Formation Washout and Friction Loss

Washouts of formation are a potential loss of frictional area(s). In most cases these are a result of
improper casing drill technique and may be indicated by an excessive amount of time taken to jet
in. Reportedly some casing drill jobs have taken 16 to 20 hours.
NO
EXTERNAL
FRICTION
The chief cause of a self inflicted washout is an effort to avoid reciprocation with the drive pipe
remaining virtually stationary allowing hydraulic flow to erode the formation. In fact, progress
may only be made due to this erosion. It is preferable to have the disturbed soil kept to a thin layer
surrounding the casing by controlling friction through timely reciprocation. The soil can more
quickly and easily heal as opposed to washed out areas that may never heal and provide support.
The odd thing about trying to avoid reciprocation is that it may actually increase it as friction builds
more rapidly during slow movements of the casing. Reciprocation may not be reduced but actually
FORMATION
WASHOUT increased with its frequency simply spread out over a larger time frame.

Shoe Erosion and Friction Loss

The maximum holding capacity of the soil can be diminished by shoe erosion and/or formation
sloughing when drilling ahead. The immediate shoe area is not the concern but rather loss of its
support for above formations and their friction. The formations may be weak or erosion may
be encouraged by some drilling practices.
• Do not pump needlessly upon reaching setting depth of casing. It serves no good purpose.
• Expend the least amount of hydraulic energy as possible when starting drill ahead. Start at
a slightly reduced rate but one that will clean hole and bit and allow immediate drilling. This
allows the turbulent bit hydraulics to quickly be replaced by annular flow at the shoe.
• Eroding force of high annular flows can be significant. Restrict volume over that necessary
to maintain required rate of penetration and adequate hole cleaning.
Note: see example of formation problem at shoe on next page. Ref. Mud Mats.
04.14.05 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 5 of 7 )

Mud Mats and Support they provide.

Mud Mats are occasionally used for hydrate deflection or to provide support. Some state that
calculations show they cannot support the weight of all drive pipe and surface casing that could
be placed on them. While true, this ignores the support that a mat supplies is in addition to, not in
place of drive pipe friction and that this additional support could prevent a failure. The amount of
load support provided by a mud mat depends on its size and the firmness of the sea bed. It is
typical to see a 20,000 to 30,000 pound increase in slacked off weight when landing a mud mat.
This is not to advocate their use as that is probably a cost issue. It is simply to define their use as
possible support. See example below.

Sloughing-Mud Mat Support: 36” Casing Drill and 24” Drill Ahead Mississippi Canyon 667 March, 2001
36”x336’ drive pipe was jetted from 3020’ to 3343’ The first 140’ was firmer than average requiring working every 10’
beginning at 80’. The formation below 140’ did not require any working. The string was only picked up slightly to check
drag at the connections and near TD. Soak time was extended to 4 hours due the apparent softness of the soil with a
successful 100k over pull test done prior to release. 24” drill ahead then proceeded to 394’ below the 36” shoe when ECD
readings suddenly jumped with the drive pipe suddenly falling 7 feet below the mud line. The string was retrieved and the
drive was jetted in a second time.
The second time a 180k over pull was done with no movement, the drill string was pulled and the motor laid down. The
24” section was slowly rotary drilled with minimal flow rates. At 182 feet below the shoe, the 36” fell again. The string
was again retrieved. A closer look at well offsets in the area revealed that all of the wells had used mud mats and all had
fell a few feet but were still useable. The string we were attempting to jet in was much heavier with top joints weighing
860 pounds per foot and we had no mud mat.
The third attempt was done with 393 feet with 2 of the heavier joints replaced with lighter ones. A mud mat was used and
the bottom was cemented before the 24” section was drilled. This was completed with no additional problems. This is the
most obvious case of soft formation falling away from the drive pipe in our records. This was an “undrillable” formation
without a mud mat. Other formations may be slightly firmer but be subject to a similar problem should erosion at the shoe
be excessive.
04.14.06 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 6 of 7 )

Inadequate Surface Area ( Length ) Green Canyon 854 January, 1999

OVER OVER 36” x 180.35’ drive pipe was jetted in from 5467’ to 5640’, soaked 2.5 hours, with the 26” drill
BURDEN BURDEN
ahead proceeding to 6185’ at which point the drive pipe fell. A second string of 36” x 211.30’
drive pipe was jetted in, soaked, released, motor laid down, 26” section rotary drilled and
completed.
The 36” casing string was shortened to 180 feet from the customers normal 215 feet to reduce
the sting’s weight because he knew the surface formation to be extremely soft. Consideration
was not given to the other factor - reduced frictional area. Pre-job warnings that a longer string
was needed to gain the support needed were ignored until after the failure occurred.
Formations with a small frictional advantage over the weight of the casing need more surface
area ( length in this case ) to attain the total support needed. Note also that soil’s support in a
homogeneous formation becomes greater with depth as the increased overburden pressure
causes a tightening grip against the drive pipe .

Inadequate Surface Area ( Diameter ) South Marsh Island January,1997

30” x 200.21’ drive pipe was jetted in from 515’ to 705’ with 26” drill ahead being completed
to 1540’. The 20” was run and latched into wellhead before the drive pipe fell when an extra
40,000 pounds was set down to try to get a tool to function. The 30” string was pulled and
replaced by a 36” string of similar length which was run successfully.
The engineer stated that the well design prevented the use of a mud mat and that the soil study
indicated that 36” should be run as the formation was slightly too soft to support 30”. The
INADEQUATE decision to use 30” was made to save costs.
SURFACE
FRICTION If considering 30” casing versus 36” casing, it might be noted that with both having 1”walls,
AREAS
the 36” will have 1.44 times the surface area while it will only have 1.21 times the weight.
04.14.07 Casing Drill SURFACE FORMATIONS & THEIR SUPPORT ( page 7 of 7 )

Drive Pipe and Surface Casing

The drive pipe is temporarily supported by soil friction only. Final support comes when surface casing is
ran and cemented into place along with the drive pipe. Load support is then provided by the surface casing
while the drive pipe provides structural support resisting side flexing.
The surface casing and drive pipe assemblies are joined together prior to and during the cement operation
by a wellhead service company’s rigid lockdown tool(s). Up to 100,000 pounds may be required to lock the
tool(s) into the well head housing. Support from the rig can then be provided during the cement operation.
Once the cement has set sufficiently to assure support, the running string is released and pulled.
Caution should be used. Application of excessive weight on the drive pipe prior to the cement setting up
to the degree that it can support the surface casing weight could result in an unnecessary job failure. There
are many variables associated with these operations and their impact may not always be taken into
consideration.
• Effective weight of surface casing available at wellhead housing of the drive pipe can vary greatly. This
may be due to different grades and weight per foot of the casing or to the total length of the casing which
may vary from 600’ to 3,000’ as well as to the hole itself.
• A hole with high drag can absorb much of the casing weight while a hole with little drag may leave most
of the weight available at the drive pipe. Hole sizes for common 20” surface casing may be either 24” or
26” diameter with the 24” hole typically expected to have more drag. Other factors such as formation,
drilling rates, hole cleaning, and mud weights can impact a hole’s drag and resulting available weight.
One job having low available weight or high friction of drive pipe may enable early release of the running
string but this does not mean that circumstances of the next job will necessarily enable early release. Each
job may have different “available weight” of surface casing as well as different ability of drive pipe to
support weight.
04.15.01 Casing Drill RECIPROCATING THE STRING ( page 1 of 4)

One advantage of the casing drill operation is its speed. However, the primary goal in setting
drive pipe should be to set it in a timely manner, consistent with good practices that cause
minimal soil damage. This allows the soil to achieve the maximum holding capacity which
its frictional and mobility characteristics allow.
Failure to work the drive pipe in an effective, timely manner may be one of the chief causes of
improperly set casing. Excess weight application can cause the casing to deviate from vertical.
Jetting at one depth for long periods or jetting too slowly may encourage soil erosion or washed
out areas that do not properly heal as the overburden pressures attempt to squeeze water from
the disturbed soil in the process of remolding itself around the casing. This could result in less
frictional area to support the casing.
NO
EXTERNAL Drive pipe must be kept moving. It should be worked when, and only when, soil friction buildup
FRICTION along the pipe has slowed the rate of penetration to an unacceptable level while having the proper
weight applied for the present [Link] of reciprocation should be:
• Control soil friction so that the target depth may be reached while avoiding excessive weights.
• Prevent expenditure of too much hydraulic energy at any one depth causing washout(s)
which may not heal with the total surface friction area being reduced.
• Keep
. disturbed soil to a thin layer immediately surrounding the drive pipe to minimize
the soak time required for the soil to heal around the casing.
• Speed ROP by reducing friction, allowing completion in a timely manner.
• Note. Near setting depth allow friction build up. Don’t break drag down completely.
AVOID LOSS OF Soil healing is better facilitated by thin layers of disturbed soil from penetration and working
FRICTION
AREAS casing string as opposed to voids where excess washing occurred. Working frequency depends
FROM
WASHOUTS on the soil. This frequency has varied from zero to 50 or more times. A string which does not
KEEP STRING require working or jets in too easily may indicate that the soil will not hold the casing in place.
MOVING One that is properly done but still requires multiple working with high drag usually indicates
that it will hold the casing in place.
04.15.02 Casing Drill RECIPROCATING THE STRING ( page 2 of 4)

The same formation friction which will be relied on to hold drive pipe in place must be controlled during
jetting to have weight available to enable penetration. Friction increases as the soil continually attempts to
remold itself around the casing, as deeper penetration exposes more surface area of the drive pipe to the
formation.
Friction build-up along drive pipe’s length can absorb much or all of the applied weight, preventing it from
being available for an effective rate of penetration. When a significant slowing of penetration rate occurs
while having the proper weight applied, the string must be worked. Working liquefies the surrounding soil
and breaks friction thereby enabling futher penetration.
The frequency of working the string or the length of the working stroke cannot be predetermined. Soil
characteristics dictate reciprocation and vary with each well. In addition, soil continually attempts to
heal around the casing, especially when it is motionless such as during connections or other rig delays.
For example, slow connections can lead to a greater frequency of working.
Applied weight guidelines with rate of penetration indicate when a string should be worked. Overpull or
drag indicate the working stroke length. The proper use of these indicators prevent overworking or under-
working the drive pipe.
General Guidelines for Working Drive Pipe
• Work only when ROP slows significantly with proper weight applied relative to current depth.
• Work to zero drag before each connection. Last connection to be more than 30 feet from T.D.
• Monitor initial pickup for excess over-pull. Stay below drill string over-pull limits.
• Work at fast pace ( plus 1 foot per second ) to liquefy soil and reduce friction.
• Work at consistent pace as rate influences weight indicator readings.
• Work at established pace to enable comparisons to be made at differing depths.
• Work until over pull has been reduced to acceptable levels relative to hole depth.
- Drag in upper sections reduced to less than 10,000 lbs. Remaining drag never disappears.
- Drag is allowed to remain in lower sections as conditions warrant. Allow drag increase near T.D.
• Return to bottom, gradually returning to appropriate weight as motor differential allows. A sudden
increase in applied weight could generate excess motor differential and transmit torque.
• Work string slowly during any delays. A motionless string at depth could result in stuck pipe.
04.15.03 Casing Drill RECIPROCATING THE STRING ( page 3 of 4)

FORMATION INFLUENCES
Formations differ, having various frictional and mobility factors. Soil conditions influence penetration
rates, weight applied, and working frequency. Soft soils that require little to no working may be cause
for concern that there is not enough friction to support the drive pipe. Hard formations such as sands,
EXCESS
FRICTION coral reefs, and migrated cement from a nearby well may dictate exceeding weight application guide-
AREA lines and frequent working.
ABOVE
WORKING
AREA Occasionally a formation is penetrated easily only to later build up excessive drag. This may be above
the reach of the current stand being jetted as indicated by over pull remaining with the string worked at
its highest stroke. If repeated attempts fail to break this drag, it is best to pull and set back the stand(s)
until the problem area can be worked and to then coat the hole with a gel sweep, then replace stand(s)
and resume normal jetting. Experience has shown that this is more effective than fighting to make hole
and risking overworked or washed out areas. Note. Gel sweeps should only be used to clean the hole
unless a friction problem is known to exist as friction is desired once drive pipe is in place.
One job in 6700 feet of water had wood beginning at 40 feet which continued past the landing depth
of the drive pipe. This required application of 50,000 pounds over the appropriate weight while only
making 3 to 4 feet of penetration before reciprocation was again required. Overpull would break down
immediately with a 5 foot stroke. Bit torque could not be controlled as it broke through the wood. This
was so severe that the drill ahead tool’s shear pins prematurely sheared. This tool had to be pulled and
replaced by a regular running tool. Job was eventually completed successfully.
One job had cement in the soil which had migrated from a nearby well. This required 80,000 pounds
excess application of weight at 5 foot penetration depth to make any progress. The alternative was to
not make hole and to broach. Excess weight was required to a depth of 75 feet before conditions
returned to near normal. This job was similar to others such as jetting through dead coral reefs.
04.15.04 Casing Drill RECIPROCATING THE STRING ( page 4 of 4)

RIG INFLUENCES
Frequency of reciprocation is also influenced by the rig and its equipment. Delays or periods of non-movement promote
increased friction as the soil continually attempts to remold itself around the drive pipe. The string should be kept moving
during any equipment problems. If delay is expected to be of a long duration, pull stands and wait at a shallow depth that
cannot stick the pipe prematurely. Greater movement of drive pipe equates to less friction and less working.
Connection make-up time greatly influences reciprocation frequency. A slow connection not only looses time directly but
also looses the additional time spent working the drill string to break higher than necessary built up friction. A
phenomenon associated with the makeup of all connections is that the built up drag tends to slightly higher that the depth
at which the connection was made. Rigs with a high working stroke enable this area to be reached, making it easier to
break this friction. [Link] should only be done when it is certain that drag is at a level that will permit returning to the
normal working area.

VERTICAL EFFECT OF WORKING

Reciprocation of the drill string has a correcting effect on the verticality of drive pipe if the rig is directly above the well as
it should be. Drive pipe pulled directly upward tends to straighten any deviation from vertical that may have been induced
by application of excessive weight. The shoe then tends to trim any formation that is off-center as it returns to bottom with
light weight applied. This is the reason that hard formations where excess weights were applied can be set near vertical.
These formations not only required extra weight but also extra reciprocation. Avoid penetrating long distances with
excessive weight.
Note: the location of the rig should be as near over the well as is possible to promote drive pipe verticality. Boats should
not be tied up during the early stages of a casing drill job as they may pull the rig off location.
04.16.01 Casing Drill BROACHING AVOID BY PROPER SPUD IN METHOD ( page 1 of 3 )

Typical Casing Drill Spud In

Meet with driller prior to spud in to preview the casing drill job and its start up. The driller is the
key to a good start up. The first 30 to 40 feet are most important to avoid broaching..
Prior to start of jetting
• ROV to check bulls eye and running tool. Record bulls eye inclination.
• ROV monitors bottom of casing string upon approach to the mud line.
• Mark Drill Pipe at rotary as zero depth when at mud line. Calculate water depth.
• Penetrate to 10 feet with no pumps. Should take 10 k WOB or less.
• ROV positioned at bottom to monitor start up and potential broaching.
Start jetting
• Pick up string 1 to 2 feet to get bit off bottom for mud motor startup.
• Start pumps slowly to fill I.D. Once pressure is seen:
- Immediately bring pump rate to minimal hole cleaning. (900 - 1000 gpm).
- Immediately begin penetration, keeping 5,000 to 10,000 weight on bit.
- Keep eye on ROV monitor. Speed penetration on any sign of broaching.
• At 30 to 40 feet with no sign of broaching:
- Increase pump rate to planned volume ( 1,000 gpm or more ).
- ROV to top. Check bulls eye if possible before cuttings displace the seawater in casing I.D.
ROV to monitor returns and check bulls eye and running tool at connections.
- Start standard jetting practices keeping to planned WOB schedule.
Note. Any pump problems should be resolved early in the [Link] needs to be controllable.
Casing will not be stuck at shallow depths but could be at deeper depths.
Two methods that have appeared on drilling programs and that seem correct may actually create
a broaching problem they attempt to prevent. They are:
1) Spud in without pumps from 20 to 50 feet deep.
2) Pump slowly at beginning. Pump 600 gallons maximum to 100 feet.
04.16.02 Casing Drill BROACHING ( page 2 of 3)

Potential negative effects of spud in to 20 to 50 feet without pumps.

• Penetrating soil to deeply without pumps can plug the bit nozzles, but a more likely result is the possibility of creating a
packed-off area inside the casing which could resist internal flow and encourage external flow or broaching. Pumped
seawater will seek the path of least resistance. It is important that this path be inside, not outside the casing. Hole cleaning
should start early and be maintained throughout the jetting job.
• Release of a running tool can be made more difficult by an internal pack-off. This is especially true when stabilizer blades
are used on the motor’s bearing housing. A pack-off of the blades may not cause broaching as a channel may be cut through
this area. Instead, this area may create drag when the string is turned to release the running tool. This drag must be overcome
by increased torque which can cause the string to spin when the drag suddenly releases.

Note. This has often been mislabeled as cuttings settling during soaking. Penetration without flow was first recognized as a
source of occasional release problems on a batch set where a spud in was done but had to be pulled due to a buoy problem.
During the two hour delay, the casing was flushed with full pump rates only to see a perfect 20 foot long extrusion later come
out. Experience has shown that there are far fewer release problems with less initial spud depth without pumps.

Negative effects of too low a pump rate

Slow pump rates in the early stages of casing drill jobs have been advocated and used by some in an attempt to avoid broaching.
The opposite may occur as low pump rates for any substantial length of time could lead to packing off and subsequent
broaching. Flow rates should immediately begin breaking up the formation and be at minimal hole cleaning rates by 20 to 30
feet penetration. Hole cleaning flow rates should be maintained as long as penetration is being done. Broaching can occur
anytime a pack-off is pumped up to stabilizer blades or to the running tool which has relatively small ports.
A study was done on a 1992 job that broached at 160 feet. It was found that pump rates were inadequate to clean the hole
through this depth. A similar job was done on this same platform in 1999 using standard practices with no broaching occurring.
A related example is one on which pumps were slowed below adequate annular cleaning rate as jetting was proceeding “ too
quickly ”. The end result was packing off the casing to such an extent that the internal string could not be pulled. A better
approach would have been to slow pumps slightly while maintaining hole cleaning and increasing the soak time. The soils
ability to hold the casing in place cannot be increased, it can only be maintained by correct jetting procedures.
Packing off the running tool could also occur when drilling ahead especially if using a mud instead of seawater. Gumbo can be
generated and plug the running tool ports.
See the Drill Ahead Section.
04.16.03 Casing Drill BROACHING & SMALL BITS ( page 3 of 3)

Tendency of small diameter bit to broach

36”
A 24” diameter bit is the smallest bit recommended for a casing drill job. All larger bits
24” BIT
are also acceptable so long as they pass through any I.D. restrictions.
452 SQ IN
A large bit distributes the hydraulic forces to all sides of the casing shoe by its size
alone, by its closer size in relation to the casing size, and by its whir or tendency to
move in a circular path inside the casing.

HYDRAULIC FORCE DISTRIBUTED

WITH LARGE BIT & ITS WHIR PATH
A small bit concentrates flow over a smaller area and tends to get trapped by formation
on one side of the casing as it has less mechanical advantage than a larger diameter
bit. All of the hydraulic force of the flow is directed to a small area of the casing causing
that side to broach.

On the first job requiring a 17” bit, it was positioned 6” outside the casing as per our
standard recommendation. Broaching occurred immediately and continued to a depth
of 50 feet. The string was pulled and bit was repositioned to 9” inside the casing shoe
before successfully completing the job.

36” If a small bit must be used, it should be positioned 6” or more inside the casing. The
pumps should be started prior to spud in. The general idea is to clean the formation
908 SQ IN before it can trap the bit to one side.
17”
240 SQ IN At least 3 casing drills have been done using a 17” bit with 36” casing and 2 using a
17” bit with 30” casing. In addition, 2 jobs have been done using a 20” bit with 30”.
Obviously, the closer the bit was in relation to the casing, the easier was the job.

HYDRAULIC FORCE TO ONE While we have and can do these jobs if required, we cannot recommend them as
SIDE ONLY WITH SMALL BIT
TRAPPED BY FORMATION
a standard practice.
04.17.01 Casing Drill TURNING THE DRIVE PIPE ASSEMBLY ( page 1 of 2 )

Many wellhead systems use a guidebase with guidelines. The guidebase must not rotate to the point that
proper installation of subsea equipment is prevented. It is difficult to know if this occurs without a ROV.
The ROV uses its heading when sighting across two posts to determine rotation. Guidelines can be eyed
for straightness in the moon pool but this is only partially effective and only at shallow water depths.

Mud motors may impart reactive torque to the left as the bit turns to the right. Keeping motor differential
pressure to a minimum reduces this tendency. Although many casing strings may turn slightly to the left,
a substantial number also turn to the right which cannot be due to the motor. Other causes of rotation
include the formations and torque which is trapped in the string during connection makeup and which is
then worked into the string. Typically the rotation is not to the degree that it needs correcting. One well
head service company uses a swiveling guidebase assembly which also does not need correcting.

If necessary the guidebase rotation can be corrected. This was done on a 25 well batch set in the South
China Seas which had a unique need for the wellheads to be oriented to a 306.8º heading ( ± 2º ). This
was done successfully with few problems and very little lost time. A gyro was mounted on the guidebase
which provided constant updates with no delays. The corrections were done at 190’ to 200’ depth.

Turning the drive pipe works due to two factors. First, the running tool is difficult to turn when it is not at
neutral weight. Second, friction has a limited amount of force with which to hold the casing. When the
string is moved vertically the friction attempts to hold the casing ( tensional force ) in place, leaving little
if any to counteract the torque force. Torque virtually disappears when string is move vertically. For this
reason the string can be turned at or near full depth.

The turning of the drive pipe must be done cautiously in small increments with close monitoring or it should
not be done at all.
04.17.02 Casing Drill TURNING THE DRIVE PIPE ASSEMBLY ( page 2 of 2 )

METHOD TO TURN CASING STRING IF ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED.

• Have ROV monitor each step closely. The ROV takes heading readings to determine orientation.
• Should a correction be required in the orientation of the drive pipe string, it is easiest to do it as high
as possible where frictional forces are less but can be done at deeper depths.
• Assure each step will be done with caution and closely monitored or don’t do it.
• Make sure running tool is not at, nor will it get to neutral weight during adjustment.
• Pre-load 2000 to 5000 pounds of torque in the top drive keeping below torque levels that would affect
the running tool or drill string connections.
• Have driller turn string in small increments of 45 degrees or less. Check that this has not rotated stem
of running tool both before and after working string.
• Work pipe upwards, allowing toque to work into casing string, turning the string. May require several
trips to obtain turn desired. Tendency is to over correct.
• If turn is achieved, release top drive brake to eliminate any trapped torque.
• Return to bottom, check turn achieved. May loose some of the turn on return.
• Repeat procedure until desired effects achieved. Monitor during entire operation.

The above is not a recommendation that the procedure be done. Only statement that it can be done.
There are two obstacles to doing this procedure. First is the natural opposition by many of the well
head service company personnel. Second is the fact that it seems to attract a committee of well
intended help but one which hinders getting it done. A certain degree of trial and error is involved
and the operation must be done with caution and patience.
04.18.01 Casing Drill DRILL AHEAD ( page 1 of 3 )

DRILL AHEAD PROS & CONS

The decision to drill ahead or to trip out,and change the bottom hole assembly before drilling
the next section is influenced by several factors. They include economic reasons, hole or
angle concerns, operational problems or a combination of these.
Economically, the Drill-Ahead operation is most justified when:
• Rig Rates are high magnifying value of trip time savings.
• Water depth is great, increasing trip time and associated costs.
• Rig is slow on trip or change over time, increasing costs.
• Next hole section is short maximizing cost savings of drill ahead.
Other reasons the Drill-Ahead method has been employed:
• Hole is to be control drilled and angle is important concern.
• Rotary revolutions must be lessened or controlled for guidelines, wellhead housing
wear, etc.
Reasons that Drill Ahead operation has not been employed.
• “Pump & Dump” operation where a mud is to be used to control a water flow and the
possibility of gumbo is high. The running tool with its relatively small ports runs a
substantial risk of packing off should gumbo be severe which can lead to the drive
pipe falling.
• Utilization of extra soak time required for soft formations or other hole problems.
• Future equipment or supplies to not be immediately available making time savings
irrelevant.
• Failure to release running tool for drilling ahead.
• Pump rates to be beyond a mud motor’s capabilities.
04.18.02 Casing Drill DRILL AHEAD ( page 2 of 3)

The CADA running tool is released by rotating the drill string prescribed number of turns to the right
which retracts dogs that have locked the body of the tool into the wellhead housing. The CADA tool
is free at this point to be pulled out of the hole. When drilling ahead and depending on tool design,
shear pins are either sheared by additional torque or the tool is picked up slightly and turned slightly
to right to align a J-slot. These additional actions release the stem along with the rest of the drill string
to pass through the tool body to allow drilling ahead.
Start Drill Ahead…………...
• Pickup bit off bottom. Lift string as high as possible leaving running tool seated in wellhead.
• Lock top drive brake. There is to be no string rotation until stem clears body ( 3 to 5 ft ).
• Pump at slightly reduced rate. Must be adequate to start motor and clean bit as less will not
allow drilling ahead and could lead to shoe formation erosion by extended stay(s) at shoe.
• Immediately start to drill, quickly changing the bit hydraulic turbulence to annular flow at shoe.
• Weight is monitored closely, any substantial increase indicates that stem is not free. Excess
weight cannot be used to force drilling as this will lead to bent pipe.
• Once stem has cleared body start string rotation at moderate RPM until stabilizers clear shoe.
• Keep initial applied weights relatively light to encourage verticality. A straight start allows a
higher average ROP to be achieved versus being forced to later drop angle.
• Increase pump rates as flow around shoe changes from bit turbulence to annular flow.
• Speed string rotation to desired rate when stabilizers clear casing. Begin normal drilling.
Note: faster revolutions ( near 100 ) usually promote a straighter, vertical hole.

Factors monitored while drilling ahead:

Rate of Penetration Weight on Bit Pump Rates System Pressure
Motor Differential Rotary Speed Torque Inclination
ECD Readings Returns at WHH Flow Checks
04.18.03 Casing Drill DRILL AHEAD ( page 3 of 3 )

FAILURE TO DRILL AHEAD

One of three reasons may make the start of drilling ahead difficult or in some rare cases cause it to
fail altogether:
• The CADA tool may not have released internally due to mechanical malfunction or sand getting
in the mechanisms.
- one type of tool must have “J-slots in proper positions. This has failed on rare occasions.
- one type of tool must get must rotate to proper position and then shear pins. This has failed on
RELEASE rare occasions. Once part of a shear pin wedged between the mandrel and sleeve.
FAILURE • The bit may be packed off and balled up. There must be sufficient hydraulic power and jet
velocity to adequately clean the bit.
• The mud motor may have stalled either because it got packed off in the release process and/or the
pumped volume is too low to start the motor.

BALLED BIT The bit is often packed off and balled up by the drop of the stem as it is released from the running
tool. This makes the motor more difficult to start and requires the bit be cleaned. Raising the string
slightly and increasing volume usually solves these conditions.
Pumping too slowly can prevent drilling ahead. Multiple attempts and extended stays at the shoe
not only loose time but can also lead to the shoe erosion that low volumes are intended to prevent.
Recommend adequate volume and immediate drilling away from shoe to expend the least amount
of turbulent hydraulic energy possible in this area. Bit turbulence is replaced by annular flow with
a few feet of penetration.
It is important to immediately recognize failure to drill ahead. There should be little slacked off
weight required to proceed. If any significant weight is taken - stop immediately.

STALLED See this and related concerns on next page (shoe erosion).
MOTOR
04.19.01 Casing Drill EROSION OF SHOE AREA ( page 1 of 1 )
SHOE EROSION

The maximum holding capacity of the soil and drive pipe can be reduced in the shoe area.
The reduction is not directly from loss of the bottom as the shoe itself provides little support
SURFACE
but in loss of side frictional surface area should sloughing occur. This could be the result of
NO FRICTION

SURFACE
FRICTION FRICTION the formation being weak and/or it could be encouraged by some drilling practices.
There are four drilling practices to consider to minimize this potential problem.
• Excess pumping on reaching drive pipe depth. Stop pumps quickly. Pumps can always be
started again if needed during release of running tool.
• Expend the least amount of turbulent bit hydraulic energy at the shoe as is possible when
starting drill ahead operation. Pump rates may be reduced slightly but not less than required
to start the motor and clean the bit. A stalled motor or a balled up bit could cause erosion by
increased time spent at the shoe. It is better to start pumps at a rate that assures drilling can
proceed, quickly moving away from this area so that bit hydraulic turbulence in
this area is quickly replaced by annular flow.
WEAK
FORMATION • Jet sub washout as it passes shoe. Reduce this concern by drilling past quickly without any
delays. Current use of medium speed motors have virtually eliminated need for jet subs.
• Eroding force of high annular flow rates can be significant in soft formations, including
the shoe area which is exposed to this flow for the complete drill ahead operation. While
high flow rates assist in drilling and cleaning the hole, volume simply for the sake of
volume alone, could be harmful to weak formations in the shoe area. Compromises may
be considered in known weak areas. Absent other factors, once a hole is clean enough, it
is clean enough and to pump more has potential to be harmful.

Balled Up Bit prevents Note: Annular flow rate should be restricted until the BHA is past the shoe but this is often
drill ahead. Must have overdone, especially when compared to the high volumes to be pumped around the drill pipe
adequate jet velocity to for extended periods of time. Quick calculation of these annular areas can establish a flow
clean the bit. rate around the BHA that has slightly less erosion potential than that around the drill pipe but
is significantly more than the “number picked out of the sky” so often used.
04.20.01 Casing Drill SHALLOW WATER FLOWS ( page 1 of 2 )

Shallow Water Flows

Some areas in the Gulf of Mexico have shallow water flow zones. There are various methods employed in drilling
through these zones. They include:
Slow, controlled drilling rate in an attempt to not fracture a weak zone and avoid the flow.
This had limited success and is costly in drilling time.
Simply drill through the zone and allowing it to flow while drilling continues.
This can result in huge areas being washed out with accompanied cement problems.
Drill at very fast rate where the cuttings act as a weighted mud thereby holding the flow back.
This has proven successful when it has been completely thought through and committed to. The one overriding
principal is to load the hole to a certain and consistent point meeting an pre-established ECD reading that equates to
a particular mud weight. All other parameters and drilling practices take a backseat to meeting this one goal. ie, back
reaming, pauses in drilling with pumps on, starting and stopping pumps slowly, surveys, hole inclination, gel sweeps,
etc. There must be penetration occurring any time pumps are on.
“Pump & Dump”. Drill with weighted mud to hold flow back with returns back to the sea.
Drilling through actual or suspected shallow water flow zones with weighted mud with returns to the sea floor is
currently the predominant method used. There are two styles employed:
• Drill with seawater until a flow in encountered and then switch to a weighted mud. This is to done
quickly to avoid large washed out areas in the hole. Advantage of this practice is that it may save
mud and it identifies whether or not there is a flow for future use.
• Switch to the weighted mud at a predetermined depth above the suspected or known water flow zone.
The advantage of this style is there is no formation damage. The disadvantage is that mud may have
been used that was not required as there was no actual flow. This not only applies to the current well
but to future wells as well.
Pump & dump continued next page
04.20.02 Casing Drill SHALLOW WATER FLOWS ( Pump & Dump continued ) ( page 2 of 2 )

“Pump & Dump” operations are usually drilled at a fast rate. There is a need to make the most hole using the least amount
of mud due to the expense of the mud and logistics. Mud is usually brought out in concentrated form and cut back on the rig.
“There are four concerns that should be considered when going to a pump & dump operation.
• Total available mud. The total mud required is often under estimated. Recommend checking how much
mud
it will take pumping and drilling at the operator’s stated rates and comparing this to the total available.
• It will be difficult to get surveys from an MWD tool due to the “U-tube effect” of the heavier mud falling
through the drill string. It is not held back by the lighter seawater.
• Gumbo has a high possibility of occurring using mud, especially fresh water gel mud which is very
reactive
with gumbo formations. Hi-salt muds tend to be less of a problem.
• If using a “vortex” machine to cut the mud weight on the fly, its real output when used with the rig pumps
must be
known. This is often overestimated to the point that it negatively impacts drilling rates.
Gumbo problems may be so severe that a drill ahead operation may not be feasible as the restricted
openings in the running tool are subject to completely packing off, creating the equivalent of a giant
hydraulic cylinder. The bond between the drive pipe and soil can be weakened with the casing
subsequently falling. One cannot count on the gumbo to push the running tool up. Although this has
occurred, there have also been instances where a “free” tool has taken 300,000 pounds of over-pull to pull
out of the wellhead housing.
If a gumbo attack is probable, it may be wiser to pull running tool before drilling ahead. If it is just possible
or if it is not known whether mud will be used, everyone that can contribute to recognizing this problem
when and if it occurs should be placed on a high alert status. This includes drillers, ROV personnel, and
MWD staff should PWD readings be available.
Wells in their early stages have been lost to gumbo. Drive pipe has fallen due to gumbo. Gumbo has
covered well head housings with 10 feet of stickup to the point that they were unusable.
04.21.01 Casing Drill DIVERTING FLOW AND CALCULATIONS ( page 1 of 5 )

A. Flow In DIVERTING EXCESS FLOW

Motor’s may be equipped with either a by-pass rotor or a jet sub to divert that portion of flow which
would exceed normal capacity of the rotor/stator. Flow will initially route itself through the diverting
path until the pressure of the flow through the nozzle(s) reaches the point needed to overcome the
frictional resistance of the motor to turn. Volume will then route itself between the rotor/stator and
the diverting path in the ratios needed to maintain a pressure equilibrium under varying flow rates
and motor resistance levels. Pressure equalizes within a conduit.
MOTOR FLOW WITH BY-PASS ROTOR
A motor with a by-pass rotor which diverts excess flow from the rotor/stator has the advantage
BY PASS ROTOR

of the flow reuniting before exiting from the bit. This makes bit hydraulic changes less severe
than the changes that occur when a jet sub is used. Uniform motor resistance pressure results
in a constant by-pass volume with increases in volume going through the stator. Flow through
the stator and by-pass vary as bit engagement with soil changes the motor differential pressure.
Higher differential pressures create greater resistance to the motor turning which generates
more by-pass and less stator volume to keep pressures equalized. Flow is greatest through the
rotor/stator when off-bottom and flow through the by-pass must only equalize with the motor
operational pressure.
MOTOR FLOW WITH JET SUB
A jet sub diverts a portion of flow prior to entry into the motor which does not exit through the bit
as it does with by-pass rotor. Flow volumes through the jet sub and the rotor/stator fluctuate from
both differential changes and volume changes with a much greater impact on the bit hydraulics.
Changes in nozzle sizes on both the jet sub and the bit have a greater impact on bit hydraulics
as well as the flow ratios through the rotor/stator and jet sub. As with the by-pass rotor, motor
operational pressure and differential pressure impact fluid flow ratios. Unlike the by-pass rotor,
bit pressure drop directly affects fluid diversion ratios.
B. Flow Out
04.21.02 Casing Drill DIVERTING FLOW AND CALCULATIONS ( page 2 of 5 )
Example: Hydraulic Worksheet for motor with By-Pass Rotor.
CASING DRILL HYDRAULIC WORKSHEET 01/01/2002 Bit Nozzles By-Pass Nz
Customer Info QTY SIZE QTY SIZE
Location and Lease Info input nozzle sizes on right 1 22 1 28
input m otor data in highlighted fields 1 22
input m ud properties. 1 22
input volume to be calculated. 1 22
TFA 1.485 TFA 0.601
Equivalent Bit TFA 1.563
9-5/8 SperryDrill R3/4 Slick Straight Motor with By-Pass Rotor Mud properties Motor Total
Motor Maximums Of f-Btm Ave. Max Motor [Link] Mud Plastic Yield By-Pass Drillng
Volume Bit Operate Mtr Dif f Mtr Dif f Max Loss Weight Viscosity Point Nozzle Volume
GPM Pressure ps i ps i ps i RPM % ppg pv yp tf a gpm
1200 750 100 200 400 375 5 8.6 3 2 0.601 1400
Mud Mtr Hydraulics Stator ByPas s Motor Motor System & Total BIT HYDRAULICS
(rotor) (rotor) Op. Dif ferential ByPass Volume [Link] Bit Bit [Link]. Impact Hyd. Motor
gpm gpm ps i ps i Press gpm gpm gpm Pres s . (ft/sec) Force H.P. RPM
StartGPM-OffBottom 0.0 213.7 100 0 114.8 213.7 10.7 203.0 14.8 43.7 39.6 1.8 0
MaxGPM@OffBtmMtrPsi 1200.0 213.7 100 0 747.9 1413.7 70.7 1343.0 647.9 289.4 1734.3 507.8 375
MaxGPM@AveMtrDiff 1200.0 370.1 100 200 1099.2 1570.1 78.5 1491.6 799.2 321.4 2139.3 695.6 375
MaxGPM@MaxMtrDiff. 1200.0 477.8 100 400 1412.6 1677.8 83.9 1593.9 912.6 343.5 2442.8 848.8 375
GpmOffBtm&MaxBitPsi 1307.3 213.7 100 0 850.0 1521.0 76.0 1444.9 750.0 311.4 2007.6 632.4 409
Hyd's Off-Bottom Calc 1029.9 370.1 100 0 935.4 1400.0 70.0 1330.0 635.4 286.6 1700.9 493.2 322

The example hydraulic worksheet above demonstrates the various paths and pressures of flow when using a by-pass rotor.
Nozzles sizes and volumes can be adjusted to achieve the best overall hydraulics for drilling.
Recommended calculations are threefold. At a certain volume, calculate flow ratios:
• Off-bottom. Highest flow through rotor/stator section. Check against motor maximum flow.
• Maximum motor differential. Use to assure minimum rotor/stator volume met. Do not use to calculate maximum motor volume.
• Drilling motor [Link] motor is most exposed to. Best to establish working range - not one volume.
Note: use of maximum differential to calculate the maximum allowable volume results in over-pumping motor should the
differential not be achieved and maintained. The more conservative method would be to use off-bottom motor pressure.
04.21.03 Casing Drill DIVERTING FLOW AND CALCULATIONS ( page 3 of 5 )
Example: Hydraulic Worksheet for motor with Jet Sub
CASING DRILL HYDRAULICs with Jet Sub 12/02/98 Bit Nozzles Other Nozzles
customer information This sheet is set up to calculate hydraulics: QTY SIZE QTY SIZE
Step1. Input Nozzle qty and sizes motor and bit hydraulics with jet sub above. 1 18 3 16
Step 2. Input Motor Operational Param eters. 1 18
Step 3. Input Mud Properties. Note: Set MWD length & ID to zero if there is none or if 1 18
Step 4. Input MWD length & ID. MWD is above jet sub. Only input data if MWD is between 1 16
Step 5. Set Volume to zero to reset interation fields. jet sub and motor. TFA 0.942 TFA 0.589
Step 6. Set Volume to desired calculation amount. Equivalent Bit TFA 0.991
9-5/8 SperryDrill R3/4 Slick Straight Motor with Jet Sub Mud properties below jet sub Total
Motor Operational Max.s Off-Btm Ave. Max Motor [Link] Mud Plastic Yield MWD MWD Drillng
Volum e Bit Operate Mtr Diff Mtr Diff Max Loss Weight Viscosity Point Length [Link] Volume
GPM Pressure psi psi psi RPM % ppg pv yp ft sq in gpm
1200 750 100 200 400 375 5 8.6 3 2 43.00 2.25 1400.0
Mud Mtr Hydraulics Motor MWD Total Jet Sub Total BIT HYDRAULICS
Section or Other Motor Pressure Volum e Volum e [Link] Bit Bit [Link]. Im pact Hyd. Motor
gpm psi psi psi gpm gpm gpm gpm Press. (ft/sec) Force H.P. RPM
StartGPM-OffBottom 0.0 0.0 100.0 100.0 209.3 209.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0
MaxGPM@OffBtm OpPress 1200.0 188.8 100.0 1449.1 796.8 1996.8 60.0 1140.0 1160.3 387.3 1970.1 771.9 375
MaxGPM@AveDrillDiff 1200.0 188.8 200.0 1549.1 823.8 2023.8 60.0 1140.0 1160.3 387.3 1970.1 771.9 375
MaxGPM@MaxDrillDiff. 1200.0 188.8 400.0 1749.1 875.4 2075.4 60.0 1140.0 1160.3 387.3 1970.1 771.9 375
Off Btm Hyd's at Selected Rate 827.7 96.0 100.0 748.0 572.5 1400.0 41.4 786.3 552.0 267.1 937.3 253.3 259

The example hydraulic worksheet above demonstrates the various paths and pressures of flow when using a jet sub to divert
excess flow. Nozzles sizes and volumes can be adjusted to achieve the best overall hydraulics for drilling.
The calculation of hydraulic flow is much more complicated than when using a by-pass rotor. The flow diverted through the jet
sub is such that the pressure of this flow equals the bit pressure, the motor operational pressure, and the motor differential
pressure. The solution to the flow paths and pressures are more easily solved by iterations. First, bit pressure at a certain
volume is calculated and added to the motor pressure. Then the volume discharged through the jet sub which would equal
the summed pressures is calculated. The cycle is repeated with the bit volume being increased incrementally until the bit
volume and sub volume equal the amount required.
The above example is from an excel spreadsheet having the bottom line set up for circular references and iterations with the
result of these iterations being 827.7 gpm through the motor plus 572.5 gpm diverted through the sub totaling the 1400 gpm
desired. Note that an MWD was included below the jet sub which also influenced the net ratio.
04.21.04 Casing Drill DIVERTING FLOW AND CALCULATIONS ( page 4 of 5 )

A. Flow In FORMULAS FOR MOTORS WITH BY-PASS ROTOR

• Nozzle flow & pressure relationship gpm2 x mw = 10858 x PTFA x tfa2
• Nozzle Flow Area ( NFA ) ( SqIn ) NFANZ = ( Nz size / 32 ) 2 x .7854
• Bit Total Flow Area ( TFA ) ( SqIn ) TFA BIT = nfa 1 + nfa 2 + nfa 3 + nfa 4 . . .
• Bit Equivalent Flow Area ( EFA ) EFA BIT = tfa BIT x ( 1-( BrgLoss% / 100 ))
• Bit Pressure Drop ( PSI ) P BIT = ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x efa BIT2 )
• Nozzle Pressure Drop ( PSI ) P NZ = ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x nfa NZ2 )
• Nozzle Volume ( GPM ) GPM = ( ( 10858 x P NZ x tfa NZ 2 ) / mw ) 0.5
• Nozzle TFA ( SqIn ) TFA = ( ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x P NZ ) ) 0.5
• Bit Jet Velocity ( Ft / Sec ) JVBIT = ( 0.32 x Bit GPM ) / TFA BIT
BY PASS ROTOR

Example. Given: 24” hole Drill Ahead at 1400 gpm using seawater at 8.6 ppg.
• Motor: Operation Pressure = 100 psi, Max Differential = 400 psi Max Bit Pressure = 750 psi
Max Volume = 1200 gpm, Bearing Assembly with 5% fluid loss.
• Motor having a 28 nozzle in by-pass rotor. Then Nz TFA = (28/32)2 x .7854 = 0.601 sq in
• Bit nozzles = 4 x 22. Then TFABIT = ( ( 22/32 ) 2 x .7854 ) x 4 = 1.485 sq in
• Equivalent Flow Area w/ 5% Brng Loss. Then EFABIT = 1.485 x ( 1 - ( 5/100)) = 1.563 sq in
• By-Pass flow off-bottom GPM = (( 10858 x 100 x 0.6012 ) / 8.6 )0.5 = 213.6 gpm
• Flow through rotor stator section = 1400 gpm - 213.6 gpm by-pass = 1186.4 gpm
• Bit Pressure Drop at rejoined gpm = ( 1400 2 x 8.6 ) / ( 10858 x 1.563 2 ) = 635 psi
• Bit jet velocity ( check to be over 200 ft/sec). JV BIT = ( 0.32 x 1400 ) / 1.563 = 248 fps

• this exercise demonstrates that volume through rotor/stator is near maximum. Bit pressure drop is near maximum.
Set-up is near optimum for motor hydraulics at the calculated volume. Nozzles are properly sized under conditions
as stated but should be adjusted should volume change due to other conditions. It is recommended that hydraulics
be viewed within a operating range as opposed to one specific volume. Bit hydraulics should be set near maximum
at the maximum anticipated volume as conditions are rarely better than expected but can be less than expected.
B. Flow Out
04.21.05 Casing Drill DIVERTING FLOW AND CALCULATIONS ( page 5 of 5 )

FORMULAS FOR MOTORS WITH JET SUB

• Nozzle flow & pressure relationship gpm2 x mw = 10858 x PTFA x tfa2
• Nozzle Flow Area ( NFA ) ( SqIn ) NFANZ = ( Nz size / 32 ) 2 x .7854
• Bit Total Flow Area ( TFA ) ( SqIn ) TFA BIT = nfa 1 + nfa 2 + nfa 3 + nfa 4 . . .
• Bit Equivalent Flow Area ( EFA ) EFA BIT = tfa BIT x ( 1-( BrgLoss% / 100 ))
• Bit Pressure Drop ( PSI ) P BIT = ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x efa BIT2 )
• Nozzle Pressure Drop ( PSI ) P NZ = ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x nfa NZ2 )
• Nozzle Volume ( GPM ) GPM = ( ( 10858 x P NZ x tfa NZ 2 ) / mw ) 0.5
• Nozzle TFA ( SqIn ) TFA = ( ( mw x gpm2 ) / ( 10858 x P NZ ) ) 0.5
• Bit Jet Velocity ( Ft / Sec ) JVBIT = ( 0.32 x Bit GPM ) / TFA BIT

Example. Given: 24” hole Drill Ahead at 1100 gpm using seawater at 8.6 ppg.
• Motor: Operation Pressure = 100 psi, Max Differential = 300 psi Max Bit Pressure = 375 psi
Max Volume = 1000 gpm, Bearing Assembly with 5% fluid loss.
• Jet Sub with 3 x 16 nozzles. Then Nz TFA = (16/32)2 x .7854 x 3 = 0.589 sq in
• Bit nozzles = 4 x 18. Then TFABIT = ( ( 18/32 ) 2 x .7854 ) x 4 = 0.994 sq in
• Equivalent Flow Area w/ 5% Brng Loss. Then EFABIT = 0.994 x ( 1 - ( 5/100)) = 1.046 sq in
• Bit Pressure Drop at iterated ( 669.1 gpm ) = ( 669.1 2 x 8.6 ) / ( 10858 x 1.046 2 ) = 323.9 psi
• Total Off-bottom pressure = 323.9 bit pressure + 100 motor pressure = 423.9 psi
• Total jet sub volume = (( 10858 x 423.9 x 0.589 2 ) / 8.6 ) 0.5 = 430.9 gpm
• Total volume = 669.1 gpm through motor & bit + 430.9 gpm through jet sub = 1100 gpm
• Bit jet velocity ( check to be over 200 ft/sec). JV BIT = ( 0.32 x 669.1 ) / 1.046 = 204.6 fps
• Note: iterations were necessary to arrive at the 669.1 gpm.

• This exercise demonstrates low bit hydraulics. These were typical with the older low-torque, hi-speed motors that
were predominantly used prior to 1998. These motors were adequate for casing drill jobs but the poor volume and
bit hydraulics were inadequate for aggressive drilling ahead. It was very important to properly set up these jobs as
there was little room for error having a small effective range in which to operate.
04.22.01 Casing Drill ANNULAR FLOW TABLES ( page 1 of 2)
COMMON DRIVE PIPE AND DRILL PIPE SIZES AT VARIOUS FLOW RATES
Annular Hydraulics & Info Mud Wt. 8.7 PV 3 YP 2 Seawater
Mud Properties Volume Drive Pipe Dimensional Data Tool w/ Tool critical Annular SLIP Section Annular Press
Size I.D. Wght Buoyed Capacity O.D. Capacity velocity velocity RATE Length Per 1000 ft
P.V. Y.P. M.W. GPM inch inch lbs/ft lbs/ft gal/ft inch gal/ft ft/min ft/min ft/min feet ps i
3 2 8.7 1000 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 21.66 19.35 1000.0 0.3074
3 2 8.7 1000 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 21.76 19.40 1000.0 0.3128
3 2 8.7 1000 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 22.03 19.54 1000.0 0.3257
3 2 8.7 1000 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 23.03 20.48 1000.0 0.3184
3 2 8.7 1000 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 23.14 20.53 1000.0 0.3243
3 2 8.7 1000 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 23.44 20.69 1000.0 0.3381
3 2 8.7 1000 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 37.63 32.10 1000.0 0.4261
3 2 8.7 1000 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 37.94 32.23 1000.0 0.4366
3 2 8.7 1000 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 38.76 32.59 1000.0 0.4622
3 2 8.7 1000 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 44.46 37.26 1000.0 0.4719
3 2 8.7 1000 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 44.89 37.42 1000.0 0.4849
3 2 8.7 1000 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 46.04 37.89 1000.0 0.5167
3 2 8.7 1100 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 23.83 21.28 1000.0 0.3075
3 2 8.7 1100 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 23.94 21.34 1000.0 0.3129
3 2 8.7 1100 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 24.23 21.49 1000.0 0.3258
3 2 8.7 1100 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 25.33 22.53 1000.0 0.3185
3 2 8.7 1100 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 25.45 22.59 1000.0 0.3244
3 2 8.7 1100 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 25.79 22.76 1000.0 0.3383
3 2 8.7 1100 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 41.40 35.32 1000.0 0.4264
3 2 8.7 1100 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 41.73 35.46 1000.0 0.4369
3 2 8.7 1100 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 42.64 35.85 1000.0 0.4626
3 2 8.7 1100 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 48.91 40.99 1000.0 0.4724
3 2 8.7 1100 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 49.38 41.17 1000.0 0.4853
3 2 8.7 1100 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 50.65 41.69 1000.0 0.5172
3 2 8.7 1200 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 25.99 23.22 1000.0 0.3075
3 2 8.7 1200 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 26.12 23.28 1000.0 0.3130
3 2 8.7 1200 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 26.44 23.45 1000.0 0.3259
3 2 8.7 1200 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 27.63 24.58 1000.0 0.3186
3 2 8.7 1200 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 27.77 24.64 1000.0 0.3245
3 2 8.7 1200 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 28.13 24.83 1000.0 0.3384
3 2 8.7 1200 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 45.16 38.53 1000.0 0.4267
3 2 8.7 1200 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 45.53 38.68 1000.0 0.4372
3 2 8.7 1200 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 46.51 39.12 1000.0 0.4629
3 2 8.7 1200 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 53.36 44.72 1000.0 0.4728
3 2 8.7 1200 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 53.87 44.92 1000.0 0.4857
3 2 8.7 1200 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 55.25 45.49 1000.0 0.5177
04.22.02 Casing Drill ANNULAR FLOW TABLES ( page 2 of 2)
COMMON DRIVE PIPE AND DRILL PIPE SIZES AT VARIOUS FLOW RATES
Annular Hydraulics & Info Mud Wt. 8.7 PV 3 YP 2 Seawater
Mud Properties Volume Drive Pipe Dimensional Data Tool w/ Tool critical Annular SLIP Section Annular Press
Size I.D. Wght Buoyed Capacity O.D. Capacity velocity velocity RATE Length Per 1000 ft
P.V. Y.P. M.W. GPM inch inch lbs/ft lbs/ft gal/ft inch gal/ft ft/min ft/min ft/min feet ps i
3 2 8.7 1300 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 28.16 25.15 1000.0 0.3076
3 2 8.7 1300 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 28.29 25.22 1000.0 0.3131
3 2 8.7 1300 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 28.64 25.40 1000.0 0.3260
3 2 8.7 1300 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 29.93 26.63 1000.0 0.3187
3 2 8.7 1300 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 30.08 26.70 1000.0 0.3246
3 2 8.7 1300 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 30.48 26.90 1000.0 0.3385
3 2 8.7 1300 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 48.92 41.75 1000.0 0.4270
3 2 8.7 1300 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 49.32 41.91 1000.0 0.4375
3 2 8.7 1300 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 50.39 42.38 1000.0 0.4633
3 2 8.7 1300 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 57.80 48.46 1000.0 0.4732
3 2 8.7 1300 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 58.36 48.67 1000.0 0.4862
3 2 8.7 1300 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 59.86 49.29 1000.0 0.5182
3 2 8.7 1400 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 30.33 27.09 1000.0 0.3077
3 2 8.7 1400 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 30.47 27.16 1000.0 0.3131
3 2 8.7 1400 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 30.84 27.36 1000.0 0.3261
3 2 8.7 1400 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 32.24 28.67 1000.0 0.3188
3 2 8.7 1400 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 32.40 28.75 1000.0 0.3247
3 2 8.7 1400 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 32.82 28.97 1000.0 0.3386
3 2 8.7 1400 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 52.69 44.96 1000.0 0.4273
3 2 8.7 1400 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 53.12 45.14 1000.0 0.4378
3 2 8.7 1400 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 54.26 45.65 1000.0 0.4636
3 2 8.7 1400 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 62.25 52.19 1000.0 0.4736
3 2 8.7 1400 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 62.85 52.42 1000.0 0.4866
3 2 8.7 1400 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 64.46 53.09 1000.0 0.5187
3 2 8.7 1500 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.000 46.14 95.52 32.49 29.03 1000.0 0.3078
3 2 8.7 1500 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 5.500 45.93 95.54 32.64 29.10 1000.0 0.3132
3 2 8.7 1500 36 34.000 374.2 324.5 47.16 6.625 45.37 95.57 33.05 29.31 1000.0 0.3262
3 2 8.7 1500 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.000 43.41 95.55 34.54 30.72 1000.0 0.3189
3 2 8.7 1500 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 5.500 43.20 95.56 34.71 30.81 1000.0 0.3248
3 2 8.7 1500 36 33.000 553.2 479.7 44.43 6.625 42.64 95.60 35.16 31.04 1000.0 0.3387
3 2 8.7 1500 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.000 26.56 95.82 56.45 48.18 1000.0 0.4275
3 2 8.7 1500 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 5.500 26.35 95.84 56.91 48.37 1000.0 0.4381
3 2 8.7 1500 0 26.000 0.0 0.0 27.58 6.625 25.79 95.91 58.14 48.92 1000.0 0.4639
3 2 8.7 1500 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.000 22.48 95.93 66.70 55.93 1000.0 0.4740
3 2 8.7 1500 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 5.500 22.27 95.96 67.34 56.18 1000.0 0.4870
3 2 8.7 1500 0 24.000 0.0 0.0 23.50 6.625 21.71 96.04 69.06 56.89 1000.0 0.5192