Petroleum Department Third Stage Drilling Engineering I

Lecture- / /2019

Casing and Tubing Design

Content:

1- Introduction
2- Functions of
casing 3- Casing
types
4- Casing properties
5- Casing specifications
6- Casing design
7- Drillstring design

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� Introduction
Casing is defined as a heavy large diameter steel pipe which can be lowered into the
well for some specific functions. Casing is strong steel pipe used in an oil or gas well
to ensure a pressure-tight connection from the surface to the oil or gas reservoir. It is
a steel pipe of approximately 40 ft in length that starts from the surface and goes
down to the bottom of the borehole. It is rigidly connected to the rocky formation
using cement slurry, which also guarantees hydraulic insulation. The space between
the casing string and the borehole is then filled with cement slurry before drilling the
subsequent hole section. The final depth of the well is completed by drilling holes of
decreasing diameter and uses the same diameter protective casings in order to
guarantee the borehole stability.
Or
Casing: A heavy steel pipe with rang of OD of 4 ½ - 20 in.
Casing String: Is the total length of casing of uniform out diameter which is run in the
well single operation. All wells drilled for the purpose of oil or gas production (or
injecting materials into underground formations) must be cased with material with
sufficient strength and functionality.
� Functions of Casing
1) To prevent the hole from collapsing.
2) Onshore - to prevent contamination of fresh water sands
3) To prevent water migration to producing formation
4) To confine production to the wellbore
5) To control pressures during drilling
6) To provide an acceptable environment for subsurface equipment in producing
wells
Casing provides locations for the installation of:

 Blowout preventers
 Wellhead equipment
 Production packers
 Production tubing

The cost of casing is a major part of the overall well cost, so selection of casing size,
grade, connectors, and setting depth is a primary engineering and economic
consideration.

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� Types of Casing Strings
1. Stove Pipe
2. Conductor casing (20 inches diameter pipe) set b/w 20 – 100 ft
3. Surface casing set b/w 50 – 5000 ft. Geologist involved.
4. Intermediate casing
 HP areas in the formation
 Lost circulation
 Swelling
 Run tests to determine the HC in place, DST, Core analysis
5. Production casing to seal production formation:
 Set packer
 Set production liner
6. Liner casing

 Stove pipe
Stove pipe (or marine-conductor, or foundation-pile for offshore drilling) is run to
prevent washouts of near-surface unconsolidated formations, to provide a circulation
system for the drilling mud and to ensure the stability of the ground surface upon
which the rig is sited. This pipe does not usually carry any weight from the wellhead
equipment and can be driven into the ground or seabed with a pile driver. A typical
size for a stove pipe ranges from 26 in to 42 in.

 Conductor Casing
Conductor pipe is run from the surface to a shallow depth to protect near surface
unconsolidated formations, seal off shallow-water zones, provide protection against
shallow gas flows, and provide a conduit for the drilling mud and to protect the
foundation of the platform in offshore operations. One or more BOPs may be
mounted on this casing or a diverter system if the setting depth of the conductor pipe
is shallow. In the Middle East, a typical size for a conductor pipe is either 18 5/8 in (473
mm) or 20 in (508 mm). In North Sea exploration wells the size of the conductor pipe
is usually 26 or 30 in. Conductor pipe is always cemented to surface. It is used to
support subsequent casing strings and wellhead equipment or alternatively the pipe
is cut off at the surface after setting the surface casing.

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 Surface Casing
Surface casing is run to prevent caving of weak formations that are encountered at
shallow depths. This casing should be set in competent rocks such as hard limestone.
This will ensure that formations at the casing shoe will not fracture at the high
hydrostatic pressures which may be encountered later. The surface casing also serves
to provide protection against shallow blowouts; hence BOPs are connected to the top
of this string. The setting depth of this casing string is chosen so that troublesome
formations, thief zones, water sands, shallow hydrocarbon zones and build-up
sections of deviated wells may be protected. A typical size of this casing is 13 3/8 in.
(240 mm) in the Middle East and 18 5/8 in. or 20 in. in North Sea operations.

 Intermediate Casing
Intermediate casing is usually set in the transition zone below or above an over-
pressured zone, to seal off a severe-loss zone or to protect against problem
formations such as mobile salt zones or caving shales. Good cementation of this
casing must be ensured to prevent communication behind the casing between the
lower hydrocarbon zones and upper water formations. Multistage cementing may be
used to cement this string of casing in order to prevent weak formations from being
subjected to high hydrostatic pressure from a continuous, long column of cement. The
most common size of this casing is 9 5/8 or 10 3/4 in.

 Production Casing
Production casing is the last casing string. It is run to isolate producing zones, to
provide reservoir fluid control and to permit selective production in multizone
production. This is the string through which the well will be completed. The usual sizes
of this string are 4 ½ , 5 and 7 in.

 Liners
A liner is a string of casing that does not reach the surface. Liners are hung on the
intermediate casing by use of a liner-hanger. In liner completions both the liner and
the intermediate casing act as the production string. Because a liner is set at the
bottom and hung from the intermediate casing, the major design criterion for a liner is
usually the ability to withstand the maximum expected collapse pressure.
Liners are used instead of full casing strings to:

 Reduce cost
 Improve hydraulic performance when drilling deeper

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 Allow the use of larger tubing above the liner top
 Not represent a tension limitation for a rig

Fig. (2-1 a): Normally pressured Fig. (2-1 b): Abnormally pressured

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Fig. (2-2): Casing string sizes

� Types of Liners
Basic liner systems are shown in Figure (2-3).
1. Drilling liners are used to isolate lost circulation or abnormally pressured zones
to permit deeper drilling.
2. Production liners are run instead of a full casing to provide isolation across the
production or injection zones.
3. The tie-back liner is a section of casing extending upwards from the top of an
existing liner to the surface. It may or may not, be cemented in place.
4. The scab liner is a section of casing that does not reach the surface. It is used to
repair existing damaged casing. It is normally sealed with packers at top and
bottom and, in some cases, is also cemented.
5. The scab tie-back liner is a section of casing extending from the top of an
existing liner but does reach the surface. The scab tie-back liner is normally
cemented in place.

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Fig. (2-3): Types of liners

� Casing
Specifications
A range of casings are manufactured to suit the wide variety of conditions
encountered. This vast range can be classified according to various specifications such
as:
1. Outside diameter
2. Wall thickness
3. Grade of material of construction
4. Length range
5. Type of joint

 Outside Diameter (OD)

The actual diameter of each casing would be determined by factors such as the flow
rate of the well. This would determine the size of the tubing required. A typical
offshore well may have the following configuration
 Conductor – 30 ins diameter
 Surface string – 20 ins diameter
 Intermediate string - 13⅜ ins diameter
 Production string – 9⅝ ins diameter
If a liner was used in this well it would probably be 7 in.

 Wall Thickness

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Each size is manufactured in a number of pipe thicknesses. The thicker the pipe the
stronger it is. If the wall thickness increases, the inside diameter decreases. A pipe
with a thicker wall will be heavier. This specification is quoted as the casing weight per
foot. For example, a 9⅝ ins OD casing may be manufactured with the following
dimensions:
Weight (Ibm/ft) ID (ins) Wall Thickness (ins)
36 8.921 0.352
40 8.835 0.395
43.5 8.755 0.435
47 8.681 0.472
53.5 8.535 0.545
Nominal weight, Wn, is calculated using the following formula:
Wn =10.68(D-t) t + 0.0722 D lbm/ft
Where:
D = outside diameter (in.), t = wall thickness (in.)
 Length Range
Casing joints are not manufactured in exact lengths. This is due mainly to the costs
involved. They are manufactured in three length ranges:
Average Length
Range Length (ft)
(ft)
1 16 – 25 22
2 25 – 34 31
3 Over 34 42
 Material Grade
The specification relates to the tensile strength of the steel from which the casing is
made. The different grades are distinguished by a letter and number combination:
H – 40; K – 55; C – 75; N – 80; P – 110
The number represents the minimum yield strength of the steel (in thousands of
pounds per sq inch) while the letters refer to the different types of steels used.

API casing grades

Yield Strength (psi) Minimum Tensile
Grade
Minimum Maximum Strength (psi)
H40 40000 80000 60000
J55 55000 80000 70 – 95000
K55 55000 80000 70 – 95000
N80 80000 11000 100000

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L80 80000 95000 100000
C90 90000 105000 100000
C95 95000 110000 105000
P110 11000 140000 125000
Q125 12500 150000 135000

� Description of Most Commonly Used Casing Grades

Table below gives a description of most commonly used casing grades in the oil
industry.
Description of most commonly used casing grades in the oil industry.

Grade Brief Description

Lowest casing and tubing grade. Has a maximum yield of 80000 psi which makes it suitable
H40
for H2S.
J55 Both casing and tubing grade. Max. yield is 80000 psi. Good for H2S.
This is a casing grade only. Classified as carbon type steel. Has a higher tensile strength than
J55; 95000 psi compared to 75000 psi. Collapse and burst of K55 and J55 are the same: only
K55
joint strength is different as it is based on tensile strength rather than yield strength. Good
for H2S at all temperatures (Yield Strength = 80000 psi)
It has a high toughness and is suitable for H2S. Yield strength range: 65-80000 psi. Min.
M65 tensile strength is 85000 psi. Coupling is either L80 or K55 depending on wall thickness.
Burst and collapse values exceed those of J55 and K55. Joint strength exceeds that of J55.
This is the most widely used grade in the industry and is also suitable for H2S. Maximum
L80 yield is 95000 psi and minimum tensile strength is 95000 psi. Maximum Rockwell hardness is
C23. Both casing and tubing grade.
This grade has a maximum yield of 110000 psi and minimum tensile strength of 100000 psi.
N80
N80 is an alloy type steel. Due to its high yield, it is not suitable for H2S at all temperatures
This grade is used mostly in high pressure wells containing H2S. Both casing and tubing.
Maximum yield is restricted to 105000 psi and minimum tensile strength is 100000 psi. This is
C90
an alloy steel containing chromium and molybdenum and is made by seamless method.
Max. Rockwell is C25.
This grade has a maximum yield of 110000 psi and minimum tensile strength of 105000 psi.
C95
This is a casing grade only and was placed in the Specs to replace grade C75.
This grade solves the problems with C95. It is both casing and tubing grade. Minimum
T95 tensile strength is 105000 psi and maximum yield strength is 110000 psi. This is an alloy steel
made by seamless method. Max. Rockwell hardness is C25.
This is a casing and tubing grade. Max Yield is 140000 psi and min. tensile strength of 125000
P110
psi.
This grade is used mostly in deep wells with high pressures, especially high collapse
Q125
pressures.
This is not an API grade. Yield range is 150-180000 psi. Min. tensile strength is 160000 psi.
V150
Cannot be used for H2S at any temperature.

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� Types of Joint
The individual joints of casing are screwed together and then lowered into the hole.
Screw thread designs available are:
 Threaded and coupled connection
 Integral connections
In the coupled connection, both ends have male threads. They are screwed together
using female threaded coupling.
The integral connection does not use coupling. One end of the casing is male threaded
(pin end) while the other is female (box end).

Fig. (2- 4): Externally and internally upset casing connection

Fig. (2-5): Threaded and coupled connection

� Casing Accessories

Casing would tend to dig into the formation or tend to lie to one side of the hole or
the other particularly if the hole was not vertical.

To overcome these problems and to assist in the placement of cement a number of

equipment are used. These pieces of equipment are known as casing accessories.

Guide Shoe

A guide shoe is attached to the bottom of the first joint of casing to be lowered into
the hole. It guides the casing into the hole. It consists of a short piece of pipe with

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casing threads at the top. The end of the shoe is a guide nose. The guide nose directs
the casing away from the side of the hole. It is made of concrete and rubber for easy
drill out.

Float Collar

This is a non-return valve. It is made up as part of the casing string, usually a joint or so
above the guide shoe.

It consists of a short piece of pipe the same diameter as the casing and has casing
threads top and bottom. The valve and seat are made of runner and plastic for easy
drill out.

The three functions of float collar:

1. It allows the casing to be floated into the hole. When the casing is lowered into
the hole, it prevents the drilling fluid from the hole from entering the casing.
This reduces the effective weight of the casing string. This in turn reduces the
tension on the casing.
2. It prevents the backflow of cement slurry after it has been pumped round the
outside of the casing.
3. It stops the cement plug which is used during the actual placement of the
cement.
4. Sometimes when the guide shoe incorporates a non-return valve – it is called
float shoe.

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5. The guide shoe and float collar are collectively called floating equipment.

NOTE: The casing does not reach its total depth completely empty.

Centralizers

The objectives of a cementing job are to obtain a reasonably evenly distributed

cement around the casing. No hole is completely vertical.

Casing would tend to lie on the low side of the hole in non-vertical wells. This means
that as the cement flows up the annulus it would tend to follow the path of least
resistance, hence by-passing the point where the casing touches the side of the hole
giving an uneven cement sheath.

Centralizers are used to position the casing in the center of the hole. This helps to
prevent cement channeling and assists in obtaining a uniform cement sheath.

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Centralizers are positioned in the middle of a joint of casing. Stop collars are used to
prevent the centralizers from sliding along the casing.

Wall Cleaners (Scratchers)

These are used to remove the mud cake from the wall of the hole for the cement to
securely bond to the formation. It is attached to the outside of the casing. When the
casing is lowered into the hole it is rotated. This movement causes the scratchers to
remove the mud cake from the surface of the hole for bonding.

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� Selection of Casing Sizes

The controlling factor in the selection of casing size is the outside diameter of the
production string. According to Blum, considerations in the determination of this
factor are as follows:

1) Drilling cost – as hole diameter increases, so will the cost of drilling and
completion. The cost of large diameter holes should be balanced against
expected economic advantages.
2) Method of production – a well may flow naturally in its early history but later
may require pumping. The hole should be large enough to accommodate
necessary production equipment.
3) Production rate – rate is an important factor only where it is high enough to
cause appreciable pressure drop in the production tubing.
4) Possibilities of multizone completion - hole sizes should be large enough to
handle equipment for multizone completion.
5) Number of intermediate strings – if the expected drilling conditions
necessitate one or more intermediate strings, the maximum size of the
production string will be limited.
6) Nature of the fluids produced – this factor affects the choice of production
equipment and downhole accessories.
7) Rig limitations – the selection of rig depends on the size and depth of the
hole to be drilled. However, when rig selection is limited in a given area, sizes
of hole and casing are determined by rig capabilities.
8) Workovers – if experience indicates that remedial work is needed, hole size
should be large enough to accommodate the necessary equipment.
9) Type of well – in an exploratory well, the purpose of drilling is to “prove up”.
It is necessary to set casing. Slim-hole drilling and completion may be used to
extend exploratory budget. This type of operation should be weighed
against possible production problems at later date.
10)Common practice – even after careful consideration of the above factors, the
experiences of others in given areas and situations should be studied before
final determination of the casing size.

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� Running the Casing

A pick-up line attached to the drilling hook is used to lift the casing joints up to the rig
floor.

Using the casing elevator, the casing is lowered through the rotary table and then
suspended in the table using special casing slips.

The casing accessories are attached at appropriate place. The casing is then run into
the hole until the guide shoe is just a short distance from the bottom of the hole.

Unless automatic fill-up floating equipment is used, the crew intermittently fill up the
casing with mud to prevent too high mud pressure on the outer casing.

� Basic Casing String Design

Each casing string in a well is subjected to a number of forces and stresses. These
occur from the first time it is lowered into the well, throughout the life of the well. The
casing must be strong enough to withstand the worst conditions imposed on it, so
that it will:

 Not burst under internal pressure

 Not collapse under external pressure
 Not break apart under tension
 Resist corrosion

When casing is set in hole it is subjected to three significant forces which are: External
pressure (Collapse), internal pressure (Burst) and axial loading (Tension).

1) Collapse Pressure

The casing will experience a net collapse loading if the external radial load exceeds
the internal radial load. The greatest collapse load on the casing will occur if the
casing is evacuated (empty) for any reason. Mathematically, it can be expressed as
given by;

∆p= External pressure - Internal pressure

If external pressure exceeds internal pressure, the casing is subjected to collapse.

Such conditions may exist during cementing operations or well evacuation. Collapse

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strength is primarily function of the material’s yield strength and its slenderness
ratio, dn/t.

� Collapse Pressure Regimes

The collapse strength criteria consist of four collapse regimes determined by yield
𝐝𝐧
strength and .
�

A. Yield strength collapse pressure

B. Plastic collapse pressure

C. Transition collapse pressure

D. Elastic collapse pressure

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Collapse modes

A. Yield Strength Collapse Pressure

The yield-strength collapse-pressure formula calculates the external pressure that

generates the minimum yield stress on the inside wall of a tube and can be derived
theoretically using the Lamé equation. He formulated this equation for the thickest-
walled tubulars used in oil wells. The Equation can be written as:

(𝐝𝐧)−𝟏
𝐏𝐜𝐫 = 𝟐 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 [ (𝐝𝐧
𝐭
)𝟐 ]
𝐭
𝐝𝐧 𝐝𝐧
This equation is applicable for values up to the value of the ratio where the plastic
𝐭 𝐭
𝐝𝐧
collapse formula becomes applicable. The ratio for this changeover point can be
�
calculated as:
√(𝐅𝟏−𝟐)𝟐+𝟖[𝐅𝟐+( 𝐅𝟑 )]+(𝐅𝟏−𝟐)
𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝
𝐝𝐧 =
𝐭 𝟐[𝐅𝟐+( 𝐅𝟑 )]
𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝

Where:
dn: nominal OD of pipe, in
t: thickness, in
Pcr: collapse pressure rating, psi
σyield: yield the minimum yield stress, psi

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B. Plastic Collapse Pressure Formula

The equation is based on 2488 physical-collapse tests of K-55, N-80, and P-110 casings
(API TR 5C3 2800). Statistical methods were used to analyze the results of the physical
tests, and a plastic-collapse formula was developed to calculate a collapse value with a
95% probability that the actual collapse pressure will exceed the minimum stated with
no more than a 0.5% failure rate:

𝟏 𝐅
𝐏𝐜𝐫 = 𝛔 𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 [−
𝐝𝐧 𝐅 ] −
𝟐 𝐅 𝟑
𝐭

The
𝐝𝐧 ratio where the changeover from the plastic collapse formula to the transition
�

formula can be calculated as:

𝐅𝟐
𝟐+
𝐅𝟏
𝐧
𝐭
= 𝟑𝐅𝟑
𝐅𝟏

C. Transition Collapse Pressure Formula

The transition collapse region between the plastic collapse and elastic collapse region
is defined by use of:

𝐅
𝐏𝐜𝐫 = 𝛔 𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 [ 𝐝𝐧𝟒 − 𝐅𝟓 ]
𝐭

The
𝐝𝐧 ratio where the changeover from the transition collapse formula to the elastic-
�

collapse equation can be calculated as:

𝐝𝐧 = 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝(𝐅𝟏−𝐅𝟒)
𝐭 𝐅𝟑+𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝(𝐅𝟐−𝐅𝟓)

D. Elastic Collapse Pressure Formula

This equation was theoretically derived and was found to be an adequate upper
bound for collapse pressures as determined by testing. API adopted this equation in
1968.
𝟒𝟔.𝟗𝟓∗ 𝟏𝟎𝟔
𝐏𝐜𝐫 = (𝐝𝐧)(𝐝𝐧−𝟏)𝟐
𝐭𝐭

𝐝𝐧
The applicable ratios for each collapse are shown in Table below.
�

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� Collapse Pressure with Axial Stress
The current API formula accounts for the combined influence of tension and collapse
loading on a casing by modifying the minimum yield strength to the yield strength of
an axial-stress-equivalent grade. The equivalent yield-strength formula is:

𝟐
𝛔𝐩𝐚 = 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 [√𝟏 − 𝟎. 𝟕𝟓 ( 𝛔𝐚 ) − 𝟎. 𝟓 ( 𝛔𝐚 )]
𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝

Where:
σpa: Equivalent yield strength, psi
σa: Total axial stress, not included bending due to hole deviation, doglegs, or buckling

σyield: yield minimum yield strength of pipe, psi

Range of dn/t for various collapse pressure regions when axial stress is zero.

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Empirical coefficient used for collapse pressure determination.

Ex. (2-1): Compute the collapse pressure rating for 20’’, K-55 casing with a nominal wall
thickness of 0.635’’ and a nominal weight per foot of 133 lbf/ft.

Solution:

dn/t = 20/0.635 = 31.49

This is the transition collapse

F4
Pcr = σyield [ − F5]
d
t

F4 and F5 from table (2-5) for casing type K55

Pc 1.989
= 55000
r [31.49 – 0.036] = 1493 psi

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H.W.:

1) An engineer must calculate the collapse rating for the following section of pipe.
Using the API tables and equations, calculate the collapse pressure to the
nearest 10 psi.

Pipe diameter: 9.625 inch, Wall thickness: 0.472 inch, Grade: N-80, Weight: 47
lbf/ft.

2) Compute the API collapse-pressure rating for 18-in, K-55 casing with a nominal
wall thickness of 0.64 in. and a nominal weight per foot of 135 lb f/ft.

Ex. (2-2): Determine the collapse strength for a 5 1/2” O.D., 14Ib/ft, J-55 casing under
axial load of 100000 lbf

Solution:

σa = FA
= π
FA
= 24820 psi
A (5.52−5.0122)
4

2
σ =σ [√1 − 0.75 ( σa
) − 0.5 ( σa
)]
pa yield σyield σyield

2
σ = 55000 [√1 − 0.75 (24820 − 0.5 (24820)] = 38216 psi
pa )
55000 55000

� Burst Pressure

Barlow Model: API uses the Barlow model to determine the minimum internal yield
pressure for tubular (API TR 5C3). The Barlow equation which is sometimes called an

“API” burst as:

𝐏𝐛𝐫 = 𝒇 [𝟐× 𝛔𝒚𝟓𝒆𝟑𝒅×𝒕]

𝒅𝒏

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Where:
f: wall-thickness correction factor 0.875 for standard API tubulars when a 12.5% wall-
thickness tolerance is specified.
Pbr: burst pressure rating, psi
API recommends the use of equation above with wall thickness rounded to the
nearest
0.001 in and the results rounded to the nearest 10 psi.

According to Lame equations, the burst loading can be estimated as:

( 𝐝𝟐 − 𝐝𝟐 )
𝐏𝐛𝐫 = 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 [ 𝐧𝐦 ]
(𝐝𝐧𝟐 + 𝐝𝟐𝐦)

Where:
dn: Nominal OD of pipe, in

dm: Maximum pipe body ID based on minimum specific wall thickness, in

Ex. (2-3): Compute the burst-pressure rating for 20’’, K-55 casing with a nominal wall
thickness of 0.635’’ and a nominal weight per foot of 133 lbf/ft

Solution:

Pb = 0.875 2× σyield×t
r d𝚗

P = 0.875 2× 55000×0.635
= 3056 psi
b 20

Rounded to the nearest 10 psi:

Pbr = 3060 psi

Ex. (2-4): Compute the burst requirement if the pore pressure is 6000 psi if the factor
of safety is assumed as 1.1.
Solution:
Given data:
Pp pore pressure 6000 psi
Required data:
Pbr burst pressure in psi
The burst requirement based on the expected pore pressure can be calculated as:
Pbr= Pp*SF= 6000 *1.1= 6600 psi

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The whole casing string must be capable of withstanding this internal pressure
without failing in burst.

H.W.:
1) Calculate the internal yield (burst) pressure for 26.40 lb/ft, N-80, 7.625 inch pipe.
Assume it has a wall thickness (t) of 0.328 inch. Use the API minimum wall thickness
factor of 0.875. Recalculate the results and use 95 % wall thickness.
2) Compute the API burst resistance for 15-in, 120-lbf/ft, K-55 casing
with a nominal wall thickness of 0.64 in. Use Barlow model.

3) A drilling engineer must design a production casing string for sour gas service. The
maximum anticipated surface pressure for the 5.5 inch OD pipe is 20800 psi. The
engineer’s company dictates that pipe used in sour service will not have yield strength
greater than 90000 psi. After the engineer reviewed the available, commonly used
weights and grades of casing, he realized that the string must be specially rolled to
meet his requirements. Determine the wall thickness requirements for the pipe. Use
the yield strength of 90000 psi and assume that the API tolerance of 87.5 % wall
thickness. Round up the wall thickness to the nearest 1/8 inch.
� Yield Strength (Tension)
Yield strength can be expressed as the ability of a metal to tolerate gradual
progressive force without permanent deformation. It can be classified as tensile
loading (i.e., pressure) and compressive loading. Axial tension loading results
primarily from the weight of the casing string suspended below the joint of interest.
Pipe body yield strength is the tension force that causes the pipe body to exceed its
elastic limit. API defines the pipe body yield strength as the axial load in the tube,
which results in the stress being equal to the material’s minimum specific yield
strength. For tension design, assume no buoyancy effect and thus pipe-body tensile
strength can be expressed as:

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𝛑
𝐅𝐭𝐞𝐧 = 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝(𝐝𝟐 − 𝐝𝟐 )
𝟒 𝐧𝐨 𝐧𝐢

Where:
Ften: pipe-body tensile strength, psi
dno: nominal OD of pipe, in
dni: nominal ID of pipe, in

Equation above can be written in terms of cross-sectional area as:

𝐅𝐭𝐞𝐧 = ∗ 𝛔𝐲𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐀𝐬

Where:
𝛑
𝐀 = ∗ (𝐝 − 𝐝 )
𝟐
𝐧𝐨 𝟐
𝐬 𝐧𝐢
𝟒

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Ex. (2-5): Compute the body-yield strength for 20’’, K-55 casing with a nominal wall
thickness of 0.635’’ and a nominal weight per foot of133 lbf/ft.

Solution:

d = 20 – 2(0.635) = 18.73”
π
F = ×σ
(d2 − d2 )
ten yield no ni
4
π
F = × 55000 × (202 − 18.732) = 2125000 Ibf
4
a
Ex. (2-6)
Two types of 20” casing are available to be used in a certain well as can be seen in
Table below. Determine which one of them can be used in deeper operations, and
how deep the casing can be lowered. Assume tension safety design factor is 1.6 and
the hole is full of 9.1 ppg mud.
Solution:
Given data:
Data for the two casings
ρm: Mud weight of the fluid in the hole 9.1 ppg
SFten: Tension safety design factor 1.6.
Given data:
Casing type and difference in depth
To determine which one of the two casing types can be used in deep operations, we
can calculate the weight for each one that can carry the load. First buoyancy factor
can be calculated as follows:
𝐁𝐅 = 𝟏 − 𝛒𝐦
𝟔𝟒.𝟓

Minimum yield load can be calculated using

π
Ften = × σyield(d2 − d2 )
4 no ni

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Minimum yield for casing 1 equal 2127730 lbf, whereas for casing 2 is equal 2593549 lbf.
Thus casing 2 can be used in deeper operations because it can carry more weights
than casing 1. The difference in weight is 468818 lbf. We can use tension design factor
and buoyancy factor to change this weight into length as follows:
∆Fte𝚗
∆Fmax = S te𝚗
∆Fmax = 468818 = 293011 lbf
1
∆Fmax
L= BF ×W 293011 = 2093 ft
= 0.859×163
Thus casing 2 can be lowered around 2100 ft deeper than casing 1.

H.W.: A section of 10.75 inch, 55 lb/ft N-80 casing is to be run into a well. It has a wall
thickness of 0.495 inch. Determine the pipe body yield strength
� Biaxial Effects
Biaxial Effects: Burst and collapse resistances of casing are altered when the pipe is
under a tension (or compression) load. These changes may, but do not necessarily,
apply to connectors. Coupling manufacturers should be consulted in stringent
operating conditions. The qualitative changes for pipe are as follows:
Type of load Reqsult
Burst Increase
Tension
Collapse Decrease
Burst Decrease
Compression
Collapse Increase
The alterations in the burst and collapse resistances must be considered because:
1) Decreases in pipe pressure resistance may require upgrading some sections
2) Increases in pressure resistance may allow the use of lower-grade or -weight
casing.
3) All the pipe strength equations previously given are based on a zero axial stress
state.

Additional problems:
1) A production casing was running to a depth of 12000 ft. When casing was at
bottom, inside casing was partially full of water up to a depth of 6500 ft. Later, inside
casing was filled with water up to the surface. If the mud weight in annulus is 14.5 ppg,
calculate the collapse pressure at the casing shoe for both cases?
Solution:
Given data:
Dshoe= Depth of the casing shoe 12000 ft

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hwat= Height of water inside casing 6500 ft
MWwat= Mud weight of water 8.34 ppg
MWann= Mud weight in the annulus 14.5 ppg
Required data:
Pc= Collapse pressure

2) A production casing with a collapse rating of 9250 psi was planned to run in the
production hole of a well. When casing was run empty to a certain depth, collapse
pressure was measured to be half of the collapse rating. When the casing was at the
bottom of 17500 ft, safety factor of the collapse was calculated to be 1.3. If the mud
weight of the fluid in the annulus was 16.8 ppg, determine the mud weight of the fluid
inside the casing.

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� Casing Design

The casing design process involves three distinct operations:

1. The selection of the casing sizes and setting depths

2.The definition of the operational scenarios which will result in burst, collapse and
axial loads
3.The calculation of the magnitude of these loads and selection of an appropriate
weight and grade of casing.

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� Setting Depth Design Procedures
Casing seat depths are directly affected by geological conditions. In some cases, the
prime criterion for selecting casing seats is to cover exposed, severe lost circulation
zones. In others, the seat selection may be based on differential sticking problems,
perhaps resulting from pressure depletion in a field. In deep wells, however, the
primary consideration is usually based on controlling abnormal formation pressures
and preventing their exposure to weaker shallow zones. The design criteria of
controlling formation pressures generally apply to most drilling areas.
Selecting casing seats for pressure control purposes starts with knowing geological
conditions such as formation pressures and fracture gradients. This information is
generally available within an acceptable degree of accuracy. Prepared calculations and
the actual drilling conditions will determine the exact locations for each casing seat.
The initial step is to determine the formation pressures and fracture gradients that
will be penetrated in the well.
After these have been established, the operator must design a casing program based
on the assumption that he already knows the behavior of the well even before it is
drilled.
This principle is used extensively for infill drilling where the known conditions dictate
the casing program. Using these guidelines, the operator can select the most
effective casing program that will meet the necessary pressure requirements and
minimize the casing cost.

� Design Factors
Joint Strength, Fj is a measure of the resistance of casing to failure in tension at
the joints.
Tension Yield load, Fa is a measure of the resistance of casing to failure in
tension based on the minimum yield strength and the cross-sectional area of the
material of construction.
Collapse pressure, pcc is a measure of the resistance of casing to failure by
collapse under external pressure.
Internal yield pressure, pi is the measure of the resistance of casing to failure by
yielding or bursting from internal pressure.
These quantities indicate maximum allowable stresses to which casing can be
subjected without failure.
It is not desirable to subject any material to its maximum allowable stress. Hence the
concept of safety (design) factor. It is designated by N.
•
Joint load = Fj/Nj

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•
Axial load = Fa/Na
•
External pressure = pcc/Nc
•
Internal pressure = pi/Ni

Four basic considerations of the selection of design factor for any engineering design
are:
1) The reliability and accuracy of strength data used for design.
2) The degree of similarity between service conditions and the test conditions used
for determining strength data.
3) The reliability and accuracy of loading assumptions used for design.
4) The consequences of failure. As possibilities of hazard to personnel and
economic loss increase, larger design factors must be used.
Design factors for collapse vary from 1.000 to 1.500. (1.126 widely used).
Design factors for tension vary from 1.50 to 2.00. (1.60 & 1.80 widely used).
Design factors for internal yield vary from 1.00 to 1.75. (1.10 widely used).

Design of a Complete Casing String

A combination string (i.e., a casing string consisting of more than one section used in
order to obtain a string which will satisfy the desired design factors with the least
investment). Thus, the starting point for a design is a statement of the weights and
grades of casing available, together with the design factors to be employed. In
connection with the latter, it should be noted that the physical properties almost
universally considered are joint strength, collapse pressure, and internal yield. Many
authorities recommend, in addition, the consideration of longitudinal yielding,
although in most instances the design factor for longitudinal yielding will
automatically be satisfied if the design factor for Joint strength is satisfied.
Once the available casing and the design factors to be used have been determined, all
grades and weights of casing which will not meet the requirements for internal yield
are eliminated. It will be called that the worst possible conditions are used in
determining loading data. In line with this, the internal pressure (for design purposes)
is assumed to be full reservoir pressure, Pws, and the external pressure is assumed to
be zero. Thus the minimum allowable internal yield strength for the casing to be used
in the string is;
Pi = Pws
For casing which will meet the requirements for internal yield, the controlling factor in
the lower portions of the string is collapse pressure, and the controlling factor in the
upper portions of the string is joint strength (or, possibly, longitudinal yielding).

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For purposes of investigating the setting depth limitations imposed by collapse
resistance, it is assumed that the external pressure is that due to the external fluid
column, and that the internal pressure is zero. Accordingly, the lowest section of the
casing string will be composed of casing of the least expensive weight and grade
which will satisfy the equation;
Pc = 0.052 Nc ρ
Where:
Ls: is the setting depth for the casing
ρ: is the density (in ppg) of the external fluid column.
The factor 0.052ρ (0.433ρ / 8.33) is the pressure gradient of fluid column.
In determining setting depths for sections other than the lowest, the effect on
collapse pressure of longitudinal tension must be considered. This normally involves
the use of either trial-and-error or graphical solutions.
At some point up the hole, collapse resistance ceases to be the controlling factor in
casing string design. From this point to the top of the string, the primary
considerations are joint strength and longitudinal yielding. In this region the casing
must be designed to satisfy the equations:
Fj = W Nj
Ym Aj = W Na
Where:
W: is the weight of casing suspended below the casing under consideration.
Ex. (2-7): Design a 7 inch 8000 ft. combination casing string for a well where the mud
weight is 12 ppg and the expected formation pressure gradient is 0.5 psi/ft, using
worst possible loading assumptions. All weights of API casing in grades J-55 and N-80
are available. The design factors to be satisfied are 1.125 for collapse, 2for joint
strength, 1.25 for yield strength and 1for internal yield. The properties of casings are
given below.
Solution:
The available casings are listed below. In case the reservoir pressure is not known, it is
estimated by the use of a reasonable gradient:
Pws = 8000 ft x 0.5 psi/ft = 4000 psi
The minimum internal yield for any section of the string must be:
Pi = Pws x Ni

Pi = 4000 x 1 = 4000 psi

3
Petroleum Department Third Stage Drilling Engineering I
Lecture- / /2019
Grad Weigh Pi Pc K Fjl Fjs Ym A
e t j
J-55 20 3740 2500 747000 - 254000 55000 4.198

J-55 23 4360 3290 865000 344000 30000 55000 5.105

0
J-55 26 4980 406 981000 395000 345000 55000 5.998
0 0
N-80 23 6340 4300 1132000 40000 - 8000 5.105
0 0
N-80 26 7240 5320 1283000 46000 - 8000 5.998
0 0
N-80 29 8160 6370 1436000 520000 - 8000 6.899
0
N-80 32 9060 7400 1584000 578000 - 8000 7.766
0
N-80 35 9960 8420 1729000 635000 - 8000 8.622
0
N-80 38 1080 908 1863000 68800 - 8000 9.408
0 0 0 0
This requirement excludes the use of 20 lb, J-55 casing (that has an internal yield
pressure of 3740 psi) at any point in the string. Since all other weights and grades have
internal yield pressure greater than 4000 psi, they are retained for further
considerations. The lowest section of the string will consist of the least expensive
casing available with the collapse pressure is at least,
Pc = 0.052 Nc ρ Ls
Pc = 0.052 (1.125) (12) (8000) = 5620 psi
Therefore, the lowest section (which will hereafter be designated as Section-1) will
consist of 29 lb, - N-80 casing with long threads and coupling. The length of section-1 is
limited (physically) only by the axial load which can be sustained at the top of joint of
the section. Considering joint strength,
Wmax = Fj / Nj
Wmax = 520000 / 2 = 260000 lb
and considering yield strength,
Wmax = Ym Aj / Na
Wmax = 80000 (6.899) / 1.25 = 442000 lb
The maximum length of the section-1 is,
260000 / 29 lb/ft = 8970 ft

3
Which is greater than the setting depth. The next lowest section (hereafter called
Section-2) will consist of next lighter casing, namely, 26 lb, N-80 casing with long

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threads and coupling. Neglecting the effect of axial tension, (due to the weight of
Section-1 suspended below it) the setting depth of Section-2 is,

Ls = Pc / (0.052 Nc ρ)
Ls = 5320 / (0.052) (1.125) (12) = 7580 ft
This is the first assumed setting depth of Section-2. Under this assumption, the weight
of Section-1 is:
(8000 – 7580) ft x 29 lb/ft = 12180 lb
For this axial load, the collapse pressure of Section-2 is:
𝐏𝐜𝐜 = (𝐏𝐜) (√𝐊𝟐 − 𝟑𝐖𝟐 − 𝐖)
�
𝐏 =( 𝟓𝟑𝟐𝟎
) (√𝟏. 𝟔𝟒𝟔 × 𝟏𝟎𝟏𝟐 − 𝟎. 𝟒𝟒𝟓 × 𝟏𝟎𝟗 − 𝟏𝟐𝟏𝟖𝟎) = 𝟓𝟐𝟕𝟎 𝐩𝐬𝐢
� 𝟏𝟐𝟖𝟑𝟎𝟎𝟎

Pcc = Pc / K [(SQRT K2 – 3W2) – W]

Pcc = 5320 / 1283000 [(SQRT 1.646 x 1012 – 0.445 x 109) – 12180]
Pcc = 5270 psi
Ls = Pc / (0.052 Nc ρ)
Ls = 5270 / (0.052) (1.125) (12) = 7510 ft
This is the second assumed setting depth of Section-2. Under this assumption, the
weight of section-1 is:
(8000 – 7510) ft x 29 lb/ft = 14210 lb

and hence,

Pcc = 5320 / 1283000 [(SQRT 1.646 x 1012 – 0.606 x 109) – 14210]

Pcc = 5260 psi
for Section-2. The third assumed depth for section-2 is
Ls = 5260 / (0.052) (1.125) (12) = 7490 ft
The weight of Section-1 and the collapse pressure of Section-2 are, under this
assumption is 14790 lb and 5260 psi respectively. The resulting setting depth agrees
with the third assumed setting depth of 7490 ft, which is thus taken to be correct
setting depth for Section-2. Also, for Section-2 the maximum joint load is:
Fj / Nj = 460000 / 2= 230000 lb
and the maximum yield load is,
Wmax = Ym Aj / Na
Wmax = 80000 (9.998) / 1.25 = 384000 lb
Since the weight of casing suspended below section-2 is 14790 lb, the maximum length
of Section-2 is:

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(230000 – 14790) lb / 26 lb/ft = 8280 ft

Which is greater than the setting depth. Section-3 will consist of 23 lb N-80 casing with
long threads and couplings, which has an uncorrected collapse pressure of 4300 psi.
Again neglecting the effect of axial tension due to the weights of Sections 1 & 2, the
first assumed setting depth for Section-3 is:
Ls = Pc / (0.052 Nc ρ)
Ls = 4300 / (0.052) (1.125) (12) = 6130 ft
On the basis, the weight of Section-2,
(7490 – 6130) ft x 26 lb/ft = 35400 lb
and the total axial load below Section-3 is:
14790 + 35400 = 50200 lb
The corrected collapse pressure for Section-3 is:
Pcc = Pc / K [(SQRT K2 – 3W2) – W]
Pcc = 4300 / 1132000 [(SQRT 1.281 x 1012 – 0.008 x 1012) – 50200]
Pcc = 4090 psi
From which the second assumed setting depth for Section-3 is:
Ls = Pc / (0.052 Nc ρ)
Ls = 4090 / (0.052) (1.125) (12) = 5830 ft

By continuing trial and error procedure, the setting depth for Section-3 is calculated to
be 5780 ft. For this setting depth, the total weights of section 1 and 2 are 59200 lb and
the collapse pressure of Section-3 is 4060 psi.

The maximum allowable joint load for Section-3 is:

Fj / Nj = 400000 / 2 = 200000 lb
and the maximum yield load is:
(80000 x 5.105) / 1.25 = 327000 lb
The maximum length of Section-3 is:
(200000 – 59200) lb / 23 lb/ft = 6120 ft

Which is again greater than the setting depth? Thus, collapse pressure continues to be
the controlling factor, and will determine the setting depth of Section-4. The least
expensive of the remaining grades and weights is 26 lb, J-55 casing with short thread
and couplings, and this will constitute Section-4. The setting depth of Section-4 is
found by trial and error to be 5310 ft, and the total weight of Sections 1,2 and 3 is 71400
lb, and the collapse pressure of Section-4 is 3730 psi. The maximum allowable joint and
yield loads for Section-4 are, respectively:

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345000 / 2.00 = 172500 lb
(55000 x 5.998) / 1.25 = 264000 lb
The maximum length of Section-4 is:

(172500 – 71400) lb / 26 lb/ft = 3890 ft

Since 3890 ft is less than the allowable setting depth of Section-4, the setting depth
for Section-5 is governed not by collapse pressure but by joint strength. Section-5
composed of 26 lb, J-55 casing with long threads and couplings, has a setting depth
given by:
Ls = 5310 – 3890 ft = 1420 ft
For Section-5 maximum allowable joint and yield loads are, respectively.
395000 / 2.00 = 197500 lb
and,
(55000 x 5.998) / 1.25 = 264000 lb
The weight of all casing below Section-5 is:
71400 + (26 x 3890) = 172500 lb
The maximum length of Section-5 is:
(197500 – 172500) lb / 26 lb/ft = 960 ft
The maximum setting depth of Section-6 is:
1420 – 960 = 460 ft

It is obvious that Section-6 must consist of casing with a joint strength greater than
that of Section-5 (i.e. greater than 395000 lb). No weight of J-55 casing will satisfy this
requirement, and we therefore must use 23 lb, N-80 casing with long threads and
couplings. For section-6, allowable joint and yield loads are, respectively.

400000 / 2 = 200000 lb
(80000 x 5.105) / 1.25 = 327000 lb
The weight of all casings below Section-6 is,
172400 + (26 x 960) = 197500 lb
The maximum length of Section-6 is:
(200000 – 197500) lb / 23 lb/ft = 110 ft
and the setting depth of Section-7 is:
460 – 110 = 350 ft
Section-7 must consist of casing with a joint strength greater than 400000 lb. The
obvious choice is 26 lb, N-80 casing with long threads and couplings. For this casing

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the maximum joint and yield loads are 230000 lb and 384000 lb respectively. The
maximum length for Section-7 is therefore:
(230000 – 200000) lb / 26 lb/ft = 1150ft

Since this is greater than the allowable setting depth of Section-7, this section can
continue to the top of the hole. So:

Section Interval (ft) Length (ft) Grade Weight Coupling

1 7490-8000 510 N-80 29 Long

2 5780-7490 1710 N-80 26 Long

3 5310-5780 470 N-80 23 Long

4 1420-5310 3890 J-55 26 Short

5 460-1420 960 J-55 26 Long

6 350-460 110 N-80 23 Long

7 0-350 350 N-80 26 Long

The calculation involving design factors are tabulated below:

Section Ni Nc Nj Na

1 2.04 1.277 35.2 37.3

2 1.81 1.125 7.77 8.11

3 1.58 1.125 5.6 5.71

4 1.24 1.125 2 1.91

5 1.24 3.54 2 1.67

6 1.58 11.55 2 2.04

7 1.81 19.5 2 2.3

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� Determination Setting Depth on
Figure Ex. (2-8):
Considering Ex. (2-7) determine the setting of Section-2 of the combination string
using the collapse design chart for 7 inch casing?
Solution:
Section-1 consist of 29 lb, N-80 casing. Section-3 consist of 26 lb, N-80 casing.
Neglecting the effect of axial loading, ρLs for Section-2 is 91000 lb figure below.
Therefore:

Ls = 91000 / 12 = 7580 ft

This is the first assumed setting depth. On this assumption, the axial load on Section-2
is:
29 lb/ft x (8000 – 7580) ft = 12180 lb
From figure below, ρLs = 90000, and the second assuming setting depth is:
90000 / 12 = 7500 ft.
On this assumption the axial load is,
29 lb/ft x (8000 – 7500) ft = 14500 lb

and within the limits to which the chart can be read, ρLs , is again 90000. Thus the
maximum setting depth for Section-2 is taken to be 7500 ft.

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Collapse design chart for 7 inch casing

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Collapse design chart for 9 5/8 inch casing.

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Drillstring Design
The drillstring is an important part of the rotary drilling process. It is the connection
between the rig and the drill bit. Although the drillstring is often a source of problems
such as washouts, twistoffs, and collapse failures, it is seldom designed to prevent
these problems from occurring. In many cases, a few minutes of drillstring design
work could prevent most of the problems.
Purposes and Components
The drillstring serves several general purposes, including the following:
 Provide a fluid conduit from the rig to the bit
 Impart rotary motion to the drill bit
 Allow weight to be set on the bit
 Lower and raise the bit in the well
In addition, the drillstring may serve some of the following specialized services:
 Provide some stability to the bottom-hole assembly to minimize vibration and
bit jumping
 Allow formation fluid and pressure testing through the drillstring
 Permit through-pipe formation evaluation when logging tools cannot be run in
the open hole
The components of the drillstring are varied and serve many purposes.
Fig. below shows a typical drillstring assembly (drillstem assembly). It is important to
observe in Fig. 15-1 that all connections from the swivel through the upper section of
the kelly are left-hand threads. All connections between the lower section of the kelly
and the bit are right-hand threads. Torque imparted at the kelly tends to tighten
rather than back off each section. Tools above the drillpipe will not be considered in
this text.
The drillstring consists primarily of the drillpipe and the bottom-hole assembly (BHA).
The drillpipe section can contain conventional drillpipe, heavy weight pipe, and
occasionally a reamer. The BHA may contain the following items:
 Drill collars (several types and sizes) stabilizers
 Jars
 Reamers
 Shock subs
 Bit, bit sub
Special tools in the BHA or drillpipe may include monitor-while-drilling (MWD*) tools,
drillstem testing tools, and junk baskets.

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Typical drillstring assembly (Courtesy API).

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� Drillstring Design
Similar to the manner in which tubing and casing design concepts differ significantly,
the same can be stated for driIlstring design. The principles and the resultant design
logic for driIlpipe and collar selection are different than either tubing or casing design
and, as such, new foundations for the designs must be presented. In addition, the
design requirements for the drill collars differ from the drillpipe and must be
considered.

The packed pendulum assembly decreases hole angle, especially

when a packed-hole assembly will be required after hole angle is
reduced.

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Petroleum Third Drilling
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Additional string stabilizers are added to the packed-hole assembly

as deviation conditions increase from mild to medium and to severe.
The short drill collar size, located between zone I and 2, is
determined by hole size. The hole size in inches should approximate
the
short drill collar length in feet, plus or minus 2 ft.

� Drill-Collar Selection
The drill collars are the first section of the drillstring to be designed. The collars' length
and size affect the type of drillpipe that must be used.
Drill-collar selection is usually based on I) buckling considerations in the lower sections
of the drillstring when weight is set on the bit or 2) using a sufficient amount of drill
collars to avoid running the drillpipe in compression.
The design approaches that satisfy these design criteria are the buoyancy factor
method and the pressure-area method, respectively. The drilling engineer must
evaluate these approaches and make some design decisions since significantly
different amounts of drill collars are required with each method.
 Buovancy Factor Method. Drillstring buckling is a potential problem that must
be avoided. If buckling occurs, stresses in the pipe and tool joints will cause pipe
failure. The greatest potential for drillpipe buckling normally occurs when
weight is slacked off on the bit.

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Petroleum Third Drilling
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Lubinski et al. have studied buckling in oil-field tubing, casing, and drillstrings.
They proved that buckling will not occur if bit weights in excess of the buoyed collar
weight are not used. Most current industry practices adhere to this buoyed-weight
concept.
The buoyed weight of the drill collars is the amount of weight that must be supported
by the derrick when collars are run in the hole. This load is always less than the in-air
weight if mud is used in the well. For example, collars that weigh 147 Ib/ft while sitting
on the pipe racks may have a buoyed weight of 113 Ib/ft in 15.0-lb/gal mud.
Several methods are commonly used to determine the buoyed weight of the drill
collars:
 Lower the drill collars (bottom-hole assembly) into the hole and read the weight
indicator (less the hook weight)
 Calculate the weight of the displaced mud and subtract from the in-air collar
weight
 Multiply the in-air weight with a buoyancy factor that is dependent on mud
weight
The widely used buoyancy factor is calculated from Eq. below:

𝐁𝐅 = 𝟏 − 𝐌𝐖
𝟔𝟓.𝟔

Where:
BF = buoyancy factor, dimensionless
MW = mud weight, Ib/gal
65.5 = weight of a gallon of steel, Ib/gal
The available bit weight (ABW) with the buoyancy factor method is the buoyed weight
of the drill collars (bottom-hole assembly) in the mud to be used.
It is calculated as follows:
ABW = (in-air collar weight) X (buoyancy factor) (15.2)
The required collar length to achieve an arbitrary ABW can be calculated as:
𝐀𝐁𝐖
𝐋𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 = (𝐁𝐅)(𝐂𝐖)

Where:
ABW = desired available bit weight, Ib
BF = buoyancy factor, dimensionless
CW = collar weight (in-air), Ib/ft
length = required collar length, ft, to achieve the desired ABW

4
Petroleum Third Drilling
Stage / /
Operators usually. run 10-15% more collars than ABW would indicate.
This gives a safety margin and keeps the buoyancy neutral point within the collars
when unforeseen forces (bounce, hole friction, deviation) move the buckling point up
into the weaker drillpipe section.
Use the following data to determine the available bit weight with buoyancy factor
method.
Well depth = 13500ft
Mud weight = 14.8lb/gal
Drill collars = 8 in. (OD), 3 in. (ID), 540 ft (L)
Drillpipe = 5.0 in. (OD), 4.276 in. (ID), 19.50lb/ft