Drilling & Well Completion

break tour (pronounced "tower")

Breaking Tour: A Crucial Step in the 24/7 Drilling Rhythm

In the demanding world of drilling and well completion, time is money. To maximize efficiency and ensure continuous operations, crews often work around the clock, operating on a 24-hour schedule. However, moving a drilling rig and preparing it for operation at a new location is a complex process that typically requires daylight hours for safety and visibility. This is where the term "break tour" comes in.

What is "Break Tour"?

"Break tour," pronounced "tower," refers to the moment when a drilling rig is ready to commence operations after being relocated and rigged up. It marks the transition from a period of preparation and setup to a full-fledged 24-hour drilling schedule.

The Process of Breaking Tour:

  1. Rig Move: The drilling rig is disassembled and transported to the new location. This typically involves heavy equipment and specialized trailers.
  2. Rigging Up: Once at the new location, the rig is reassembled and positioned for drilling. This includes setting up the derrick, installing the drilling equipment, and connecting the power source.
  3. Pre-Drilling Checks: Before operations can begin, a comprehensive inspection and testing process is conducted to ensure all systems are functioning correctly and safely.
  4. Breaking Tour: The moment when the final checks are completed, the rig is declared ready for operation, and drilling activities can begin on a 24/7 basis.

Why is Breaking Tour Important?

  • Maximizing Efficiency: By breaking tour and starting continuous drilling operations, companies can significantly reduce downtime and increase productivity.
  • Meeting Production Targets: 24-hour operations allow for faster completion of drilling programs, helping companies meet their production targets and achieve their revenue goals.
  • Cost Optimization: Continuous operations can lead to lower overall costs per well, as equipment and personnel are utilized more effectively.

Challenges and Considerations:

  • Safety: While breaking tour aims to maximize drilling time, safety is paramount. Rigging up and pre-drilling checks must be conducted thoroughly to minimize risks.
  • Weather: Adverse weather conditions can significantly impact the timing of breaking tour, potentially delaying operations.
  • Logistics: Coordinating the transportation and assembly of the rig, as well as procuring necessary equipment and materials, requires meticulous planning and logistics expertise.

Conclusion:

Breaking tour is a critical milestone in the drilling process, marking the transition to continuous 24-hour operations. It requires careful planning, skilled execution, and a commitment to safety. By efficiently managing this process, drilling companies can maximize productivity, optimize costs, and achieve their production targets.

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: Breaking Tour

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What does "Break Tour" refer to in the context of drilling operations? a) A period of time when drilling operations are paused. b) The process of disassembling and transporting a drilling rig. c) The moment when a drilling rig is ready to commence 24/7 operations. d) The final inspection and testing before drilling begins.

Answer

c) The moment when a drilling rig is ready to commence 24/7 operations.

2. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of breaking tour? a) Maximizing efficiency. b) Meeting production targets. c) Reducing the number of skilled personnel required. d) Cost optimization.

Answer

c) Reducing the number of skilled personnel required.

3. What is a crucial consideration during the breaking tour process? a) Ensuring the availability of spare parts. b) Maintaining a constant drilling rate. c) Prioritizing cost-effectiveness over safety. d) Conducting thorough inspections and tests.

Answer

d) Conducting thorough inspections and tests.

4. Which of these factors can potentially impact the timing of breaking tour? a) Availability of drilling fluid. b) Weather conditions. c) The number of wellbores to be drilled. d) The type of drilling equipment used.

Answer

b) Weather conditions.

5. What is the primary goal of breaking tour? a) To minimize downtime and maximize drilling time. b) To transport the drilling rig to a new location. c) To prepare the drilling rig for specific geological formations. d) To ensure the safety of the drilling crew.

Answer

a) To minimize downtime and maximize drilling time.

Exercise: Breaking Tour Planning

Scenario: You are the drilling supervisor responsible for planning the breaking tour of a drilling rig. You have just received a new location assignment and are tasked with ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to 24/7 operations.

Task: Create a checklist outlining the key steps and considerations for a successful breaking tour. Include at least 5 steps covering aspects like safety, logistics, and equipment preparation.

Exercise Correction

Here's a possible checklist for a successful breaking tour:

Breaking Tour Checklist

1. Safety and Risk Assessment: - Conduct a thorough safety assessment of the new location. - Identify potential hazards and develop mitigation plans. - Ensure all personnel are trained and equipped with appropriate safety gear.

2. Rig Move and Rigging Up: - Coordinate the transportation of the drilling rig and associated equipment. - Plan the sequence of assembly and positioning of the rig at the new location. - Ensure proper lifting and rigging procedures are followed.

3. Equipment Preparation: - Inspect and test all drilling equipment (derrick, drilling system, pumps, etc.). - Verify the availability and functionality of essential spare parts. - Ensure all equipment is properly lubricated and maintained.

4. Logistics and Supplies: - Secure necessary permits and authorizations for the new location. - Coordinate the delivery of drilling fluids, cement, casing, and other supplies. - Establish communication channels and emergency response plans.

5. Pre-Drilling Checks: - Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the wellhead and surrounding area. - Test all systems and instruments, including pressure gauges, flow meters, and alarms. - Ensure the drilling fluid system is properly prepared and operational.

6. Final Checks and Documentation: - Review and confirm all safety procedures and emergency response plans. - Conduct a final walk-through of the rig and wellsite. - Document the completion of all tasks and obtain necessary approvals.

7. Breaking Tour Commencement: - Once all checks and preparations are completed, announce the official "Break Tour" and commence drilling operations.

Books

  • Drilling Engineering: Principles and Practices by Robert C. Earlougher, Jr. and John K. Jensen. This comprehensive book covers various aspects of drilling operations, including rig moves and breaking tour.
  • Well Completion Engineering by Michael J. Economides and Kenneth G. Nolte. This book delves into the well completion process, which often involves breaking tour for rig relocation and drilling resumption.
  • Drilling and Well Service Operations by William C. Lyons. This book provides an overview of drilling operations, including the role of breaking tour in maximizing efficiency and productivity.

Articles

  • "Optimizing Rig Moves and Breaking Tour for Enhanced Drilling Efficiency" by [Author Name]. This article could focus on strategies for streamlining the break tour process, minimizing downtime, and improving safety.
  • "The Impact of Weather on Breaking Tour and Drilling Operations" by [Author Name]. This article could discuss the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions on break tour timing and the importance of weather forecasting for efficient operations.
  • "Breaking Tour: A Case Study of a Successful Rig Move and Operational Startup" by [Author Name]. This article could provide a real-world example of a well-executed break tour process, highlighting best practices and lessons learned.

Online Resources

  • Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE): This organization offers a vast library of technical publications, conference proceedings, and online resources related to drilling operations, including rig moves and break tour.
  • Oil & Gas Journal (OGJ): This industry publication often features articles and reports on drilling technology, including the latest trends in rig moves and break tour optimization.
  • DrillingInfo: This company provides data and analytics services to the oil and gas industry, including information on drilling operations, rig moves, and break tour scheduling.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords: "break tour drilling", "rig move optimization", "24/7 drilling operations", "drilling efficiency".
  • Combine keywords with industry terms: "break tour rig relocation", "break tour safety", "break tour cost analysis".
  • Explore related terms: "drilling rig breakdown", "drilling downtime", "rig move logistics", "drilling schedule optimization".
  • Use quotation marks: "break tour" to find exact matches of the phrase in online resources.

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques for Breaking Tour

This chapter delves into the specific techniques employed to ensure a smooth and efficient break tour, focusing on the key aspects of rig move, rigging up, and pre-drilling checks.

1.1 Rig Move: Minimizing Downtime and Optimizing Logistics

  • Optimized Rig Disassembly and Transportation: Discussing techniques for swift and safe rig disassembly, utilizing specialized trailers and heavy equipment, as well as efficient load planning to minimize road travel time.
  • Pre-Planning and Route Optimization: Highlighting the importance of thorough route planning, considering road conditions, bridge limitations, and potential weather impacts.
  • Efficient Transportation Management: Exploring strategies for coordinating transportation schedules, securing necessary permits, and minimizing delays due to unforeseen circumstances.

1.2 Rigging Up: Precision and Speed in Assembly

  • Modular Rig Design: Explaining how modern rigs are designed with modular components for quicker assembly and disassembly, reducing downtime.
  • Utilizing Heavy Lifting Equipment: Describing the role of cranes and other heavy lifting machinery in efficient positioning and assembly of the rig components.
  • Streamlined Installation Processes: Emphasizing the importance of well-defined procedures and trained personnel for swift and accurate installation of drilling equipment, pumps, and other essential components.

1.3 Pre-Drilling Checks: Ensuring Safety and Functionality

  • Comprehensive Inspection and Testing: Detailing the thorough inspection process for drilling equipment, safety systems, and power sources, ensuring everything operates correctly before drilling commences.
  • Pressure Testing and Leak Detection: Explaining the importance of pressure testing pipelines, mud systems, and other critical components to identify potential leaks and ensure safe operation.
  • Documentation and Reporting: Highlighting the need for comprehensive documentation of all checks, inspections, and test results for future reference and accountability.

1.4 Tools and Technology: Enhancing Break Tour Efficiency

  • Remote Monitoring and Control Systems: Discussing the role of technology in real-time monitoring of rig systems, allowing for early detection of issues and proactive problem-solving.
  • Specialized Equipment for Rigging Up: Exploring the use of specialized tools and equipment designed for efficient and safe handling and installation of heavy components.
  • Automation and Robotics: Examining the potential for automation and robotic technology to further streamline the break tour process, reducing human error and improving speed.

Chapter 2: Models and Strategies for Break Tour Planning

This chapter explores different models and strategies used for planning and managing break tours, emphasizing the importance of optimization and continuous improvement.

2.1 Break Tour Planning Models: Aligning Resources and Timelines

  • Timeline-Based Models: Discussing the use of Gantt charts and other project management tools to visualize and schedule the different stages of the break tour.
  • Resource Allocation Models: Emphasizing the importance of allocating personnel, equipment, and materials effectively to meet deadlines and optimize resource utilization.
  • Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Introducing the concept of risk assessment for identifying potential challenges during the break tour and developing mitigation strategies.

2.2 Optimizing Break Tour Operations: Minimizing Downtime and Costs

  • Lean Manufacturing Principles: Exploring the application of lean principles to eliminate waste and improve efficiency in every stage of the break tour process.
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Utilizing historical data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and optimize break tour procedures.
  • Continuous Improvement Programs: Emphasizing the importance of ongoing feedback mechanisms, regular reviews, and a commitment to continuous improvement in break tour practices.

2.3 Best Practices for Break Tour Communication and Coordination

  • Effective Communication Channels: Discussing the importance of establishing clear communication channels between teams involved in the break tour, including drilling crews, transportation personnel, and logistics specialists.
  • Real-time Updates and Status Reporting: Highlighting the need for regular updates on the progress of the break tour, enabling informed decision-making and proactive problem-solving.
  • Collaborative Planning and Decision-Making: Emphasizing the value of collaborative planning and decision-making among all stakeholders involved in the break tour.

Chapter 3: Software Solutions for Break Tour Management

This chapter focuses on the role of specialized software tools in optimizing and managing break tours, streamlining communication, and providing valuable insights.

3.1 Break Tour Management Software: Features and Benefits

  • Rig Tracking and Monitoring Systems: Exploring software solutions that track rig location, movement, and status, providing real-time updates to stakeholders.
  • Equipment Management and Inventory Systems: Discussing software for managing equipment inventory, maintenance schedules, and procurement processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime.
  • Project Management and Collaboration Tools: Highlighting the use of software for task management, scheduling, and communication, enabling effective collaboration among teams involved in the break tour.

3.2 Integration with Existing Systems: Optimizing Data Flow

  • Integration with Drilling Data Management Systems: Examining the integration of break tour management software with drilling data systems, allowing for comprehensive analysis and informed decision-making.
  • Interfacing with Transportation Management Systems: Discussing the use of software to connect break tour planning with transportation logistics, optimizing route planning and resource allocation.
  • Data Security and Privacy: Highlighting the importance of choosing software solutions that ensure data security, regulatory compliance, and privacy protection.

3.3 Emerging Technologies: Enhancing Break Tour Management

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Exploring the potential of AI and ML for optimizing break tour scheduling, predicting potential delays, and improving risk assessment.
  • Internet of Things (IoT): Discussing the role of IoT sensors in real-time monitoring of rig equipment, providing valuable insights for proactive maintenance and problem-solving.
  • Cloud Computing and Big Data Analytics: Examining how cloud computing and big data analytics can enhance break tour data management, analysis, and decision-making.

Chapter 4: Best Practices for Safe and Efficient Break Tours

This chapter focuses on establishing best practices for conducting safe and efficient break tours, emphasizing the importance of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

4.1 Safety First: Prioritizing Personnel and Environment

  • Rigorous Safety Protocols: Discussing the implementation of comprehensive safety protocols during every stage of the break tour, from rig move to pre-drilling checks.
  • Hazard Identification and Risk Mitigation: Highlighting the importance of identifying potential hazards and developing strategies to mitigate risks to personnel and the environment.
  • Training and Education: Emphasizing the need for ongoing training and education for all personnel involved in the break tour, ensuring they are aware of safety procedures and best practices.

4.2 Quality Control and Inspection: Ensuring Functionality and Reliability

  • Thorough Inspections and Audits: Discussing the importance of conducting thorough inspections and audits at every stage of the break tour to ensure quality and compliance.
  • Quality Management Systems: Exploring the implementation of quality management systems to streamline inspection processes, document findings, and track performance.
  • Continuous Improvement through Feedback: Emphasizing the value of collecting feedback from personnel and using it to identify areas for improvement and optimize break tour procedures.

4.3 Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility: Minimizing Impact

  • Environmental Impact Assessment: Highlighting the need to conduct thorough environmental impact assessments before, during, and after the break tour.
  • Sustainable Practices: Encouraging the use of sustainable practices during the break tour, such as reducing waste, minimizing noise pollution, and conserving resources.
  • Environmental Compliance and Reporting: Emphasizing the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and reporting any potential impacts to relevant authorities.

Chapter 5: Case Studies in Successful Break Tour Management

This chapter presents real-world examples of successful break tour management practices, showcasing best practices, challenges overcome, and lessons learned.

5.1 Case Study 1: Optimizing Break Tour Logistics for a Remote Drilling Operation

  • Scenario: Discussing a challenging break tour in a remote location with limited infrastructure and access.
  • Challenges: Highlighting the challenges faced, such as transportation logistics, weather conditions, and availability of skilled personnel.
  • Solutions: Presenting the strategies employed to overcome the challenges, including efficient planning, optimized transportation routes, and proactive risk mitigation.
  • Outcome: Demonstrating the successful completion of the break tour, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations.

5.2 Case Study 2: Implementing Lean Principles for Break Tour Efficiency

  • Scenario: Describing a company's initiative to implement lean principles for optimizing break tour operations.
  • Challenges: Identifying the existing inefficiencies and areas for improvement in the break tour process.
  • Solutions: Explaining the application of lean principles, such as value stream mapping, waste elimination, and continuous improvement cycles.
  • Outcome: Quantifying the benefits achieved through lean implementation, including reduced downtime, improved productivity, and cost savings.

5.3 Case Study 3: Leveraging Technology for Break Tour Management

  • Scenario: Introducing a company that adopted advanced software and technology solutions for break tour management.
  • Challenges: Discussing the need to improve data management, communication, and real-time monitoring.
  • Solutions: Describing the implementation of software solutions, such as rig tracking systems, equipment management platforms, and collaborative project management tools.
  • Outcome: Highlighting the positive impact of technology adoption on break tour efficiency, safety, and overall operational performance.

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Drilling & Well CompletionOil & Gas ProcessingAsset Integrity ManagementEmergency Response PlanningProject Planning & SchedulingTraining & Competency DevelopmentRegulatory Compliance
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