Our Services

Glossary of Technical Terms Used in Oil & Gas Processing: break out

Ask Question

break out

Break Out: A Crucial Operation in Drilling and Well Completion

The term "break out" in drilling and well completion encompasses two distinct yet important processes:

1. Breaking out drill pipe:

This refers to the act of unscrewing one section of drill pipe from another while the pipe is being withdrawn from the wellbore. It is a crucial step in the drilling process, allowing for the removal of the drill string, which is composed of multiple sections of pipe connected by threaded couplings.

Here's how it works:

  • Tongs are the key: Specialized tools called tongs are used to grip the pipe and initiate the unscrewing operation. These tongs are hydraulically powered, providing the necessary force to loosen the tightly coupled pipe sections.
  • Rotation is vital: The tongs rotate the pipe, breaking the connection between the two sections. The process requires careful control to ensure smooth disengagement and avoid damage to the pipe or equipment.
  • Safe and efficient: The break-out operation must be conducted with utmost precision and safety. Experienced drillers utilize specialized equipment and techniques to ensure a smooth and efficient disconnection, minimizing the risk of pipe damage, accidents, and delays.

2. Breaking out fluids:

This refers to the process of separating one fluid from another, often involving gas separation from a liquid or water from an emulsion. This is essential in various stages of well completion, ensuring that fluids are processed and handled efficiently.

Here's how it works:

  • Separators are the key: Specialized equipment called separators are used to facilitate the separation process. These separators utilize various principles, such as gravity, pressure differences, or centrifugal force, to achieve the desired separation.
  • Efficient and accurate: The break-out process must be accurate and efficient to achieve the required fluid quality and avoid contamination. This is critical for downstream processes such as gas processing, oil refining, and water treatment.
  • Various applications: Fluid break-out is utilized in various well completion operations, including:
    • Gas-liquid separation: This is critical for processing natural gas and oil, removing unwanted water or condensate.
    • Emulsion breaking: This involves separating water from oil or gas mixtures, ensuring efficient oil production and preventing corrosion in pipelines.

In conclusion, the "break out" term signifies crucial operations in drilling and well completion, enabling the efficient disconnection of drill pipe sections and the separation of fluids. Both these processes demand expertise, precision, and specialized equipment to ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal well performance.

Test Your Knowledge

Break Out: Drilling & Well Completion Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary tool used to break out drill pipe sections?

a) Hydraulic jack b) Torque wrench c) Tongs d) Wireline

Answer

c) Tongs

2. What is the main purpose of breaking out fluids?

a) To increase well pressure b) To mix different fluids together c) To separate fluids for processing d) To prevent corrosion

Answer

c) To separate fluids for processing

3. What is NOT a common application of fluid break-out in well completion?

a) Separating gas from liquid b) Separating water from oil c) Separating sand from water d) Separating oil from gas

Answer

c) Separating sand from water

4. Which of the following is NOT essential for a safe and efficient break-out of drill pipe?

a) Experienced drillers b) Specialized equipment c) High-speed rotation of the pipe d) Careful control of the process

Answer

c) High-speed rotation of the pipe

5. What type of equipment is primarily used for breaking out fluids?

a) Pumps b) Separators c) Compressors d) Filters

Answer

b) Separators

Break Out: Drilling & Well Completion Exercise

Scenario:

You are working on a drilling rig and need to break out a section of drill pipe. The pipe is stuck and won't budge.

Task:

List at least 3 possible reasons why the drill pipe might be stuck and propose a solution for each problem.

Exercice Correction

Here are some possible reasons for the drill pipe being stuck and potential solutions:

1. Stuck Threads:

  • Reason: The threads of the drill pipe coupling may be cross-threaded or damaged, causing a tight fit.
  • Solution: Use a thread-cleaning tool or specialized tongs designed for stuck pipe. If necessary, a hydraulic wrench can provide additional torque.

2. Pipe Gall:

  • Reason: Corrosion or buildup of debris within the pipe joint can create a tight seal, making it difficult to break out.
  • Solution: Attempt to break the pipe with a jarring action, using a jarring tool or hammer. If necessary, a specialized chemical lubricant may be injected into the joint to loosen it.

3. Drill Pipe Deformation:

  • Reason: The drill pipe may have bent or become oval due to excessive torque or pressure during drilling.
  • Solution: Attempt to straighten the pipe using a pipe straightener or a specialized hydraulic tool. If the deformation is severe, the pipe may need to be replaced.

4. Differential Pressure:

  • Reason: A pressure difference between the inside and outside of the drill pipe may create a strong force holding the pipe in place.
  • Solution: Ensure proper circulation of drilling fluid to equalize the pressure. If necessary, use a pressure relief valve or a "snubbing" system to manage the pressure difference.

Books

  • "Drilling Engineering" by John A. Dotson: Covers various aspects of drilling operations, including drill pipe handling and break-out procedures.
  • "Well Completion Engineering" by William C. Lyons: Discusses the principles and practices of well completion, including fluid separation techniques.
  • "Petroleum Production Systems" by Donald E. Menzie: Provides a comprehensive overview of oil and gas production, including well completion and fluid handling.

Articles

  • "Drill Pipe Handling and Break-out Operations" by Society of Petroleum Engineers: A detailed article discussing the process of breaking out drill pipe, safety protocols, and equipment involved.
  • "Fluid Separation Techniques in Well Completion" by Oil & Gas Journal: Explores various methods used for separating fluids during well completion, including gas-liquid separation and emulsion breaking.
  • "Breakout Operations: A Crucial Part of Drilling" by SPE Magazine: An article highlighting the importance of break-out operations in drilling and their impact on well performance.

Online Resources

  • SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers): This website offers numerous articles, technical papers, and resources related to drilling and well completion.
  • Oil & Gas Journal: This industry journal publishes articles covering all aspects of the oil and gas industry, including drilling and completion technologies.
  • Schlumberger: This company offers a wide range of drilling and completion services and provides information about its technologies and expertise on their website.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords: Use keywords like "break out drill pipe", "fluid separation well completion", "drilling operations", and "well completion techniques".
  • Combine keywords with specific terms: Combine keywords with terms like "safety", "equipment", "procedures", or "best practices" for more targeted results.
  • Use quotation marks: Use quotation marks around exact phrases, like "break out operation", to find specific information.
  • Filter your results: Use Google's advanced search options to filter results by file type, language, or website.
Similar Terms
Drilling & Well Completion
Quality Control & Inspection
Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA/QC)
Safety Training & Awareness
Incident Investigation & Reporting
  • Blowout Blowout: When Wells Run Amok …
Lifting & Rigging
Oil & Gas Processing
Emergency Response Planning
Most Viewed

Comments

No Comments
POST COMMENT
captcha
Back