Drilling & Well Completion

string up

Stringing Up: A Crucial Step in Drilling Operations

"Stringing up" is a critical process in drilling and well completion operations, essential for establishing the connection between the drilling rig and the downhole tools. This process involves carefully threading the drilling line (also known as the "drill string") through the sheaves of the crown block and traveling block, ultimately connecting the hoisting drum to the drill-line anchor.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the stringing up process:

1. Preparing the Drilling Line:

  • The drilling line, typically a robust steel cable, is meticulously inspected for any defects or damage.
  • The line is then measured and cut to the desired length, ensuring enough slack for proper operation.
  • One end of the line is securely fastened to the hoisting drum, which is responsible for raising and lowering the drill string.
  • The other end is attached to the drill-line anchor, a fixed point on the rig's structure.

2. Threading the Sheaves:

  • The drilling line is carefully threaded through the sheaves of the crown block, located at the top of the derrick.
  • The line then passes through the sheaves of the traveling block, which is suspended from the crown block and can be moved vertically along the derrick.
  • This configuration ensures smooth and controlled movement of the drill string.

3. Tensioning and Checking:

  • Once the line is threaded, tension is applied to ensure the line is secure and prevents slippage.
  • The rig's crew meticulously inspects the entire system for proper alignment and functionality.
  • This includes checking the sheaves, blocks, and the drilling line itself for any potential issues.

4. Finalization and Readiness:

  • Once all checks are completed and the string is properly tensioned, the rig is ready for drilling operations.
  • The string up process prepares the rig for the crucial task of drilling downhole, allowing for safe and efficient operation.

Summary:

Stringing up is a meticulous and important step in drilling operations. It establishes the vital connection between the rig's hoisting system and the downhole tools. By carefully threading the drilling line through the sheaves, ensuring proper tension and completing necessary checks, the rig is prepared for the demanding tasks of drilling, well completion, and ultimately, the extraction of valuable hydrocarbons.


Test Your Knowledge

Stringing Up Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary purpose of "stringing up" in drilling operations?

a) To connect the drilling rig to the downhole tools. b) To lubricate the drill string. c) To measure the depth of the well. d) To stabilize the drilling platform.

Answer

a) To connect the drilling rig to the downhole tools.

2. What is the drilling line typically made of?

a) Nylon rope b) Steel cable c) Aluminum wire d) Plastic tubing

Answer

b) Steel cable

3. Which of these is NOT a component involved in stringing up?

a) Hoisting drum b) Crown block c) Traveling block d) Mud pump

Answer

d) Mud pump

4. Why is tension applied to the drilling line during stringing up?

a) To prevent the line from breaking. b) To ensure the line is secure and prevents slippage. c) To increase the drilling speed. d) To improve the accuracy of depth measurement.

Answer

b) To ensure the line is secure and prevents slippage.

5. What is the final outcome of the stringing up process?

a) The rig is ready for drilling operations. b) The well is completed. c) The hydrocarbons are extracted. d) The drill string is lubricated.

Answer

a) The rig is ready for drilling operations.

Stringing Up Exercise

Scenario: You are part of a drilling crew preparing for a new well. You are tasked with stringing up the drilling line.

Instructions: Describe the steps you would take to string up the drilling line, ensuring you follow the correct procedure. Include the necessary equipment and safety precautions.

Exercice Correction

Here's a possible solution for the exercise:

Steps for Stringing Up the Drilling Line:

  1. Prepare the Drilling Line:

    • Inspect the steel cable for any defects, wear, or damage.
    • Measure the cable to the required length, leaving enough slack for operation.
    • Securely attach one end of the cable to the hoisting drum.
    • Attach the other end to the drill-line anchor.
  2. Threading the Sheaves:

    • Carefully thread the drilling line through the sheaves of the crown block, ensuring it passes through each sheave correctly.
    • Guide the line down through the sheaves of the traveling block.
  3. Tensioning and Checking:

    • Apply tension to the line using the hoisting drum, ensuring the line is secure and prevents slippage.
    • Inspect the entire system for proper alignment and functionality, including sheaves, blocks, and the drilling line.
    • Check for any potential issues or signs of wear.
  4. Finalization and Readiness:

    • Once all checks are completed, and the line is properly tensioned, the rig is ready for drilling operations.

Equipment: - Steel cable (drilling line) - Hoisting drum - Crown block - Traveling block - Sheaves - Drill-line anchor

Safety Precautions: - Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety glasses, gloves, and hard hats. - Never work under a suspended load. - Use proper lifting techniques and ensure the line is securely fastened at both ends. - Communicate clearly with other crew members during the process. - Be aware of potential hazards like sharp edges and moving parts.


Books

  • Drilling Engineering: By Robert C. Earlougher Jr. & J.A. Klins (This classic text covers various drilling concepts, including stringing up).
  • Petroleum Engineering Handbook: Edited by Tarek Ahmed (This comprehensive handbook contains a dedicated section on drilling operations, including stringing up procedures).
  • Drilling and Well Completion: A Practical Approach: By R.W. Edwards & B.B. Cooper (This book offers a detailed explanation of drilling processes, including stringing up and its importance).

Articles

  • "Stringing Up a Drilling Rig" by [Author Name], [Journal Name] (Search online databases like JSTOR, ScienceDirect, or Google Scholar for articles specifically on stringing up).
  • "Rig-up and Rig-down Procedures for Drilling Operations" by [Author Name], [Journal Name] (This type of article would likely cover stringing up as part of the rig-up process).

Online Resources

  • Drillinginfo: This website provides industry news, data, and analysis, including resources on drilling practices.
  • SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers): Their website offers various resources, including articles, technical papers, and training materials related to drilling operations.
  • Oil & Gas IQ: This website offers articles and reports on various aspects of the oil and gas industry, including drilling.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords: "Stringing up drilling rig," "drilling line setup," "rig-up procedures," "crown block & traveling block."
  • Combine with location: "Stringing up drilling rig Texas," "drilling rig setup North Sea."
  • Include industry terms: "drilling operations," "well completion," "oil and gas industry."
  • Search for PDFs: "Stringing up drilling rig PDF," "drilling line setup PDF."

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