reeve (the line)

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: The Reeve - Backbone of Drilling Operations

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What does the term "reeve" refer to in drilling operations?

a) The type of wire rope used. b) The specific arrangement of the wire rope through the sheaves. c) The weight of the drill string. d) The speed of the hoisting drum.

2. What is one of the primary functions of the reeve in drilling operations?

a) Controlling the speed of the drill bit. b) Distributing the load evenly across the sheaves. c) Monitoring the pressure in the well. d) Drilling the wellbore.

3. Which of the following is NOT a step involved in stringing the wire rope drilling line (reeving the line)?

a) Starting from the hoisting drum. b) Threading the wire rope through the sheaves of the traveling block. c) Attaching the wire rope directly to the drill bit. d) Passing the wire rope through the sheaves of the crown block.

4. What is the main difference between a single-line reeve and a double-line reeve?

a) The number of times the wire rope passes through the sheaves. b) The type of wire rope used. c) The size of the hoisting drum. d) The speed of the drilling operation.

5. Why is the reeve considered crucial for safe drilling operations?

a) It helps to prevent the drill string from becoming stuck in the wellbore. b) It ensures the load is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of equipment failure. c) It helps to maintain the correct drilling fluid pressure. d) It allows for faster drilling speeds.

Exercise: Re-reeving the Line

Scenario: During a drilling operation, the wire rope on a single-line reeve drilling rig has become damaged and needs to be replaced. The new wire rope is on a spool, ready to be reeveed.

Task: Describe the step-by-step process of re-reeving the new wire rope onto the drilling rig, starting from the spool and ending with the wire rope wound on the hoisting drum. You should include the path of the wire rope through the sheaves of the traveling block, crown block, and hoisting drum, ensuring it follows a single-line reeve configuration.

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques for Reevving the Line

This chapter delves into the practical techniques used to reeve the drilling line, emphasizing safety and efficiency.

1.1 Understanding the Components:

Before reevving, it's crucial to be familiar with the key components involved:

• Wire Rope: The core of the drilling line, responsible for transmitting force and lifting the drill string.
• Sheaves: Grooved wheels that guide the wire rope, minimizing friction and wear.
• Traveling Block: A movable assembly of sheaves, attached to the drill string, facilitating vertical movement.
• Crown Block: A stationary assembly of sheaves, positioned at the top of the derrick, anchoring the drilling line.
• Hoisting Drum: The rotating drum that winds and unwinds the drilling line, providing the power for lifting and lowering.

1.2 The Steps of Reevving:

The following steps outline the process of reevving the drilling line:

1. Preparing the Line:

   • Ensure the wire rope is properly inspected for wear and damage.
   • Lubricate the wire rope and sheaves to minimize friction.
   • Remove any obstacles that might interfere with the line's path.

2. Starting from the Hoisting Drum:

   • Feed the wire rope from its storage drum or spool onto the hoisting drum.
   • Ensure the line is evenly wound and secured.

3. Traveling Block:

   • Guide the wire rope through the sheaves of the traveling block.
   • The number of passes through the block (single, double, or triple) depends on the reeve configuration.
   • Always ensure the line is correctly routed through the sheaves, avoiding any twists or kinks.

4. Crown Block:

   • Continue guiding the wire rope through the sheaves of the crown block.
   • The number of passes through the block matches the configuration of the traveling block.
   • Ensure the line is securely routed and secured.

5. Returning to the Hoisting Drum:

   • Direct the wire rope back to the hoisting drum.
   • Ensure the line is smoothly wound onto the drum, avoiding any overlaps or uneven winding.

6. Final Inspection:

   • Inspect the entire reevving process to ensure the line is correctly routed and secured.
   • Check for any potential snags, kinks, or wear on the wire rope or sheaves.

1.3 Safety Considerations:

• Never attempt reevving under load. Always ensure the load is fully lowered before any adjustments are made.
• Always use proper safety equipment. This includes gloves, eye protection, and safety harnesses when working at height.
• Communicate clearly with crew members. Ensure everyone is aware of the reevving process and potential hazards.
• Regularly inspect the line and equipment. Identify potential wear or damage before it becomes a hazard.

1.4 Reevving Variations:

• Single-line reeve: The simplest configuration, with the wire rope passing through each block once.
• Double-line reeve: The line passes through each block twice, doubling the pulling force.
• Three-line reeve: The line passes through each block three times, further increasing lifting capacity.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of reevving the drilling line is essential for any drilling operation. By following these techniques and prioritizing safety, crews can ensure efficient and reliable drilling operations.