stand

The Stand: A Building Block in Drilling and Well Completion

In the world of oil and gas drilling, the "stand" plays a crucial role. It's not a single piece of equipment, but rather a fundamental unit of the drilling process, representing a specific length of drill pipe ready for deployment.

The Stand Defined:

A stand refers to a series of connected joints of drill pipe that are racked in the derrick or mast when making a "trip" – that is, pulling the drill string out of the well or lowering it back in. On most drilling rigs, a stand typically consists of three lengths of drill pipe screwed together, resulting in a total length of approximately 90 feet (27 meters).

Why Stands Matter:

The stand concept is critical for several reasons:

Efficiency: By organizing the drill pipe into manageable stands, drilling operations become more efficient. Crew members can quickly assemble and disassemble stands, minimizing downtime and maximizing drilling progress.
Safety: Standardized lengths of drill pipe within a stand ensure consistency and reduce the risk of accidents. The controlled handling of stands prevents potentially hazardous situations, such as pipe misalignment or falling pipe.
Logistics: Stands are easily transported and stored, simplifying logistics on the rig.
Drilling Depth Management: The use of stands allows for the precise tracking of drilling depth.

Variations in Stand Length:

While the typical stand length is 90 feet, variations exist depending on the specific drilling operation. For instance, some rigs might use stands with two or four joints of pipe, and the overall length can change depending on the size and type of drill pipe being used.

Stand Handling:

Handling stands involves various procedures:

Making a Trip: When pulling the drill string out of the well, the drill pipe is disconnected in stands. Each stand is then lifted by the traveling block and swung into the derrick, where it is stored until the next trip.
Running a Trip: When lowering the drill string back into the well, stands are assembled on the rig floor and then connected to the drill string, one stand at a time.

The Stand's Role Beyond Drilling:

The concept of stands extends beyond just drilling. In well completion operations, stands of casing (steel pipe used to line the wellbore) or tubing (pipe used to transport oil or gas) are also utilized.

Conclusion:

The stand is an essential element of drilling and well completion operations. It simplifies logistics, increases safety, and contributes to the efficient and precise execution of these complex processes. By understanding the role of the stand, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies involved in bringing oil and gas resources to the surface.

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: The Stand in Drilling and Well Completion

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is a "stand" in the context of drilling operations?

a) A single piece of drill pipe. b) A specific length of drill pipe consisting of multiple connected joints. c) A type of drilling rig used for deep wells. d) A tool used to measure drilling depth.

Answer

b) A specific length of drill pipe consisting of multiple connected joints.

2. What is the typical length of a stand on most drilling rigs?

a) 30 feet b) 60 feet c) 90 feet d) 120 feet

Answer

c) 90 feet

3. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of using stands in drilling operations?

a) Increased efficiency. b) Improved safety. c) Reduced drilling depth accuracy. d) Simplified logistics.

Answer

c) Reduced drilling depth accuracy.

4. When is a "trip" made in drilling operations?

a) When the drill string is being lowered into the well. b) When the drill string is being pulled out of the well. c) When the drilling fluid is being circulated. d) When the well is being completed.

Answer

b) When the drill string is being pulled out of the well.

5. The concept of stands is also used in which of the following operations?

a) Well completion b) Oil refining c) Pipeline construction d) Seismic surveying

Answer

a) Well completion

Exercise: Stand Calculations

Scenario:

You are working on a drilling rig where the typical stand length is 90 feet. Your current drilling depth is 10,000 feet. The rig is about to make a trip to change the drill bit.

Task:

Calculate the number of stands that need to be pulled out of the well to reach the surface.
If the drill string is made up of 30-foot drill pipe joints, how many joints will be in each stand?
How many total joints of drill pipe need to be pulled out of the well?

Exercice Correction

1. Number of stands: 10,000 feet / 90 feet/stand = 111.11 stands. Since you can't have a fraction of a stand, you'll need to pull out 112 stands.

2. Joints per stand: 90 feet/stand / 30 feet/joint = 3 joints per stand.

3. Total joints: 112 stands * 3 joints/stand = 336 joints of drill pipe need to be pulled out.

Books

"Petroleum Engineering: Drilling and Well Completion" by William C. Lyons: This comprehensive textbook covers all aspects of drilling and well completion, including a detailed explanation of stands and their role in drilling operations.
"Drilling Engineering: A Complete Well Construction Guide" by Bradley J. Foulger: This book provides a thorough analysis of the entire drilling process, focusing on the engineering principles behind various drilling equipment and techniques, including the use of stands.
"The Oil and Gas Production Handbook" by John A. Logan: This book covers a wide range of topics in oil and gas production, including the operations of drilling, completion, and production. It offers a practical approach to the subject, including information on stands and other key elements of the drilling process.

Articles

"Understanding the Basics of Drilling Operations" by Schlumberger: This article from a leading oilfield service company provides a concise overview of the drilling process, emphasizing the importance of stands in efficient and safe operations.
"Drilling Fluid Technology: A Comprehensive Review" by SPE Journal: This article explores the crucial role of drilling fluids in the drilling process, specifically addressing their impact on stand handling and wellbore stability.
"The Role of Well Completion in Maximizing Oil and Gas Recovery" by SPE Journal: This article delves into the importance of well completion, highlighting how stands of casing and tubing are used to ensure safe and efficient production from wells.

Online Resources

Oil and Gas IQ: This website offers a wide range of articles, videos, and resources on various aspects of the oil and gas industry, including detailed information on drilling and well completion, including the use of stands.
SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers): The SPE website provides a vast library of publications, technical papers, and industry news related to the oil and gas sector. Search for "stand" or "drilling" to find relevant content.
Schlumberger's Oilfield Glossary: This online glossary defines key terms used in the oil and gas industry, including a comprehensive definition of "stand" in the context of drilling and completion.

Search Tips

Use specific keywords: For example, use terms like "stand drilling," "drilling stand," "stand length," "completion stand" in your search.
Combine keywords with operators: Use "AND" or "+" to combine keywords for more precise results. For example, "stand AND drilling AND completion."
Filter by website: Use "site:" to find relevant information on specific websites. For example, "site:spe.org stand drilling."
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Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques for Handling Drill Pipe Stands

This chapter details the practical techniques employed in handling drill pipe stands throughout the drilling and well completion process. Efficient and safe stand handling is paramount for optimizing drilling operations and minimizing risks.

1.1 Making a Trip (Pulling the Drill String):

The process of removing the drill string from the wellbore, systematically disconnecting and storing the drill pipe in stands. This involves:

Disconnecting the Drill Pipe: Carefully unscrewing the tool joints connecting individual lengths of drill pipe, forming a stand. Proper torque management and the use of appropriate equipment are crucial to prevent damage.
Lifting the Stand: Utilizing the traveling block and crown block system to lift the assembled stand from the wellhead. Careful coordination between the derrick hand and the driller is essential.
Swinging the Stand: Maneuvering the stand using the traveling block to position it correctly in the derrick or mast for safe and organized storage.
Racking the Stand: Storing the stand securely in the derrick, ensuring that the stands are properly aligned and supported to prevent damage and potential accidents.

1.2 Running a Trip (Lowering the Drill String):

The reverse process of making a trip, involving the assembly and lowering of drill pipe stands into the wellbore. This includes:

Retrieving Stands: Removing stands from the derrick in a systematic manner, ensuring proper alignment and readiness for connection.
Assembling Stands: Connecting individual lengths of drill pipe to form complete stands on the rig floor. This requires precise alignment and application of appropriate torque.
Connecting Stands: Attaching the assembled stands to the drill string, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection. Regular checks for proper torque are vital.
Lowering Stands: Carefully lowering the connected stands into the wellbore using the traveling block and crown block system. Constant monitoring of the depth and the condition of the drill string is necessary.

1.3 Special Considerations:

Heavy Weight Drill Pipe (HWDP): Handling HWDP requires specialized techniques and equipment due to its increased weight and potential for stress.
Emergency Situations: Procedures for handling stand operations during emergencies, such as stuck pipe or equipment failure, are essential for safety and efficiency.
Stand Variations: Adaptations to the techniques are needed for stands consisting of different numbers of pipe joints or varying pipe lengths.

Chapter 2: Models for Stand Management and Optimization

Effective stand management is crucial for optimizing drilling operations. This chapter explores various models and approaches.

2.1 Stand Counting and Tracking: Precise methods for tracking the number of stands in the wellbore and those stored on the rig. This often involves manual or automated logging systems.

2.2 Trip Time Optimization Models: Mathematical models that aim to minimize the time spent making and running trips. Factors considered might include stand length, hoisting speed, and connection time.

2.3 Stand Management Software Integration: Integration of stand management data into broader drilling optimization software for improved decision-making.

2.4 Predictive Modeling: Employing historical data and machine learning to predict potential issues and optimize stand handling procedures proactively.

Chapter 3: Software and Technology for Stand Management

This chapter examines the software and technological solutions enhancing stand management processes.

3.1 Drilling Data Management Systems: Software systems that collect and manage real-time drilling data, including stand count, trip times, and other relevant parameters. Examples include WellCAD, Landmark’s OpenWorks, and Petrel.

3.2 Rig Automation Systems: Automated systems that assist with stand handling, such as automated pipe handling equipment and automated racking systems.

3.3 Real-time Monitoring and Analytics: Software providing real-time visualization of the drilling process, allowing for immediate identification of potential problems related to stand handling.

3.4 Simulation and Optimization Software: Software allowing the simulation of different stand handling strategies to optimize the drilling process.

Chapter 4: Best Practices for Safe and Efficient Stand Handling

This chapter focuses on the best practices to maximize safety and efficiency in stand handling.

4.1 Safety Procedures: Detailed safety protocols for all aspects of stand handling, including pre-trip inspections, proper communication, and emergency response plans.

4.2 Standardization: Implementing standardized procedures for assembling, disassembling, and handling stands to reduce errors and improve consistency.

4.3 Training and Competency: Rig crew training programs focused on proper stand handling techniques and safety procedures.

4.4 Regular Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of all equipment used in stand handling to minimize the risk of equipment failure.

4.5 Continuous Improvement: Implementing a system for continuous improvement based on data analysis and feedback from rig crews.

Chapter 5: Case Studies in Stand Handling Optimization

This chapter presents real-world case studies illustrating the impact of improved stand handling techniques and technologies.

5.1 Case Study 1: Reducing Trip Time: A case study demonstrating how improved stand handling procedures and automation resulted in significant reductions in trip time, leading to cost savings and increased drilling efficiency.

5.2 Case Study 2: Enhancing Safety: A case study focusing on how the implementation of enhanced safety protocols and training programs reduced the incidence of accidents related to stand handling.

5.3 Case Study 3: Optimizing Stand Length: A case study showcasing the impact of optimizing stand length based on well conditions and drilling parameters.

5.4 Case Study 4: Technology Implementation: A case study demonstrating the positive effects of implementing new technologies, such as automated pipe handling systems, on overall efficiency and safety.

These chapters provide a comprehensive overview of the "stand" in drilling and well completion, covering various aspects from practical techniques to the application of advanced technologies. Each chapter focuses on a specific area, contributing to a complete understanding of this critical element in oil and gas operations.

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