Drilling & Well Completion

POH

POH & POOH: Drilling Terms Explained

In the world of oil and gas drilling, concise communication is paramount. This often involves using acronyms and shorthand, which can be confusing to newcomers. Two such terms are POH and POOH, which stand for "Pull Out of Hole" and "Pull Out of Hole" respectively.

POH (Pull Out of Hole)

  • Definition: POH is a drilling operation where the drillstring (the entire assembly of drill pipes, drill collars, and the drill bit) is lifted out of the wellbore.
  • Why is it done? There are several reasons to POH, including:
    • Changing Drill Bits: When the drill bit becomes worn or damaged, it needs to be replaced.
    • Running Casing: Casing is a strong steel pipe that is used to line the wellbore, providing structural support and preventing the well from collapsing.
    • Performing Well Tests: To evaluate the well's potential, it may be necessary to run various tests, which require removing the drillstring.
    • Troubleshooting: If drilling problems occur, POH may be necessary to investigate the issue.

POOH (Pull Out of Hole)

  • Definition: POOH is the same operation as POH. It simply represents a different way of writing the term.
  • Use: While "POH" is more commonly used, "POOH" is sometimes employed for emphasis or as a way to add humor to the terminology.

The Process of POH/POOH

Pulling the drillstring out of the hole is a complex and potentially dangerous operation. It typically involves these steps:

  1. Break Circulation: The drilling fluid is stopped, and the drillstring is disconnected from the downhole tools.
  2. Lifting: The drillstring is lifted using a hoist system, known as the drawworks.
  3. Stacking: As the drillstring is pulled up, the individual drill pipes are stacked on the rig floor.
  4. Inspection: Each pipe is inspected for damage before being stacked.
  5. Disconnect: Once the drillstring is completely out of the hole, the drill pipe sections are disconnected from each other.
  6. Cleaning: The drillstring and the wellbore are cleaned before the next drilling operation.

Importance of POH/POOH

POH/POOH operations are essential for the efficient and safe operation of a drilling rig. By carefully planning and executing these operations, drilling teams can ensure that the well is drilled efficiently and safely.

Understanding POH/POOH in the Context of Oil & Gas

These terms are essential for anyone working in the oil and gas industry, particularly those involved in drilling operations. By understanding the process and the reasons for conducting POH/POOH operations, individuals can better appreciate the complexity and importance of drilling operations.

Test Your Knowledge

POH & POOH Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What does the acronym "POH" stand for in drilling operations?

a) Push On Hole b) Pull Out of Hole c) Pump Oil Hydraulically d) Prepare Oil for Handling

Answer

b) Pull Out of Hole

2. Why might a drilling team perform a POH operation?

a) To increase drilling fluid density b) To add more drill pipe to the string c) To change the drill bit d) To measure the depth of the well

Answer

c) To change the drill bit

3. Which of the following is NOT a typical step involved in a POH operation?

a) Breaking circulation b) Running casing c) Lifting the drillstring d) Inspecting the drill pipe

Answer

b) Running casing

4. What is the main difference between POH and POOH?

a) POH is used for onshore drilling, while POOH is used for offshore drilling b) POH is used for shallow wells, while POOH is used for deep wells c) POH and POOH are essentially the same operation, with the latter being a more playful or emphasized way of writing it d) POH is performed before drilling, while POOH is performed after drilling

Answer

c) POH and POOH are essentially the same operation, with the latter being a more playful or emphasized way of writing it

5. What is the primary reason for conducting POH/POOH operations?

a) To ensure the safety and efficiency of drilling operations b) To monitor the pressure of the wellbore c) To determine the composition of the rock formations d) To measure the volume of oil and gas reserves

Answer

a) To ensure the safety and efficiency of drilling operations

POH & POOH Exercise

Scenario: A drilling team is in the process of drilling a well. They have encountered a problem where the drill bit is no longer functioning properly. The team decides to perform a POH operation to replace the bit.

Task: List the steps involved in the POH operation, describing the purpose of each step.

Exercice Correction

1. **Break Circulation:** The drilling fluid is stopped to prevent further damage to the wellbore and to disconnect the drillstring from the downhole tools.

2. **Lifting:** The drillstring is lifted using the hoist system (drawworks). This slowly brings the drillstring out of the wellbore.

3. **Stacking:** As the drillstring is pulled up, the individual drill pipe sections are stacked on the rig floor. Each pipe is inspected for damage.

4. **Disconnect:** Once the drillstring is fully out of the hole, the individual drill pipe sections are disconnected from each other.

5. **Cleaning:** The drillstring and the wellbore are cleaned to prepare for the next drilling operation.

6. **Replace Drill Bit:** The worn or damaged bit is replaced with a new one. This is done on the surface of the rig.

7. **Lowering Drillstring:** The drillstring, now with the new bit, is lowered back into the wellbore, and drilling operations resume.

Books

  • "Drilling Engineering" by Robert C. Earlougher Jr. and Thomas K. F. Klett: A comprehensive text covering various aspects of drilling engineering, including well planning, drilling fluid technology, and wellbore stability.
  • "Petroleum Engineering Handbook" edited by William D. Lacroix: A multi-volume handbook containing detailed information about various aspects of petroleum engineering, including drilling operations and well completion.
  • "The Complete Guide to Drilling Operations" by R. M. Haines: A practical guide focusing on the technical aspects of drilling operations, including wellbore design, drilling fluid selection, and drilling equipment.

Articles

  • "Drilling 101: Understanding the Basics of Drilling Operations" by SPE: A good introductory article explaining the fundamental concepts of drilling operations.
  • "Drilling Rig Components and Operations" by Offshore Technology: This article provides a detailed overview of the various components of a drilling rig and their roles in drilling operations.
  • "A Comprehensive Guide to Drilling Fluids" by DrillingInfo: An in-depth article exploring the different types of drilling fluids and their applications.
  • "Casing and Cementing Operations" by Schlumberger: A technical paper focusing on the crucial role of casing and cementing in well construction.

Online Resources

  • Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Website: The SPE website provides a wealth of resources for petroleum professionals, including technical papers, industry news, and educational materials.
  • DrillingInfo: This website offers a vast collection of data and analytics related to drilling operations and the oil and gas industry.
  • Schlumberger: Schlumberger, a major oilfield services company, provides technical information about drilling operations and related technologies on its website.
  • Baker Hughes: Another leading oilfield services company, Baker Hughes offers technical resources related to drilling operations, including drilling fluids, well completion, and production optimization.

Search Tips

  • Use specific keywords: For example, "POH drilling," "POOH operation," "pull out of hole process."
  • Include relevant industry terms: Combine "POH" or "POOH" with other terms like "drilling rig," "drillstring," "casing," or "wellbore."
  • Specify the type of content: Use search operators like "filetype:pdf" or "filetype:doc" to find technical papers or documents.
  • Utilize advanced search operators: Use operators like "site:spe.org" to restrict searches to specific websites.

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques for POH/POOH Operations

1.1 Lifting Methods:

  • Drawworks: The most common lifting mechanism used for POH/POOH operations. This powerful system uses a winch and a hoisting cable to lift the drillstring out of the hole.
  • Top Drive: Used in modern rigs, the top drive system combines the lifting function with the rotation of the drillstring. It provides greater control and efficiency during the POH process.
  • Hydraulic Lifting Systems: In certain situations, hydraulic jacks can be used for lifting the drillstring, especially when working with shorter sections or in confined spaces.

1.2 Drilling Fluid Management:

  • Break Circulation: Stopping the flow of drilling fluid before lifting the drillstring is crucial to avoid pressure surges and potential wellbore instability.
  • Fluid Return: Managing the return flow of drilling fluid back to the surface is essential to prevent spills and maintain proper wellbore pressure.
  • Cleaning and Treatment: The drilling fluid must be cleaned and treated before the next drilling operation to ensure optimal performance.

1.3 Safety Considerations:

  • Personnel Safety: Ensuring proper safety procedures, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and training personnel are essential during POH/POOH operations.
  • Equipment Safety: Regular inspection and maintenance of lifting equipment, drillstring components, and associated systems is vital to prevent accidents.
  • Environmental Protection: Implementing measures to minimize environmental impact, such as preventing spills and using appropriate containment techniques, is crucial.

1.4 Troubleshooting:

  • Stuck Pipe: If the drillstring becomes stuck during the POH process, specialized techniques and equipment are required to free it.
  • Pipe Damage: Inspecting the drillstring for any damage during the POH process is vital to ensure the integrity of the wellbore.
  • Wellbore Instability: Addressing any signs of wellbore instability during POH/POOH operations is essential to prevent potential complications.

Chapter 2: Models Used in POH/POOH Operations

2.1 Drillstring Modelling:

  • Stress Analysis: Using software simulations to understand the stresses and strains on the drillstring during POH operations is essential for optimizing lifting procedures and preventing pipe damage.
  • Torque and Drag Modelling: Predicting the torque and drag forces encountered while lifting the drillstring helps to ensure proper lifting capacity and prevent stuck pipe scenarios.

2.2 Wellbore Modelling:

  • Wellbore Stability Analysis: Simulating wellbore conditions, including formation pressure and fluid flow, helps to predict potential risks and optimize POH/POOH operations.
  • Casing and Cementing Modelling: Modeling the behavior of casing and cement during POH/POOH operations helps to ensure wellbore integrity and prevent leaks.

2.3 Lifting System Modelling:

  • Hoist System Capacity: Modeling the capacity of the drawworks and other lifting equipment is essential to ensure safe and efficient POH/POOH operations.
  • Cable Dynamics: Simulating the behavior of the hoisting cable during lifting helps to predict potential issues and optimize lifting parameters.

Chapter 3: Software Used in POH/POOH Operations

3.1 Drilling Optimization Software:

  • Well Plan Software: Helps plan and optimize drilling operations, including POH/POOH sequences.
  • Drilling Simulation Software: Simulates various drilling scenarios, including POH/POOH operations, to evaluate potential risks and optimize procedures.

3.2 Drillstring Analysis Software:

  • Stress and Strain Analysis Software: Calculates the stresses and strains on the drillstring during POH operations, providing insights for safety and optimization.
  • Torque and Drag Prediction Software: Estimates the torque and drag forces encountered during POH/POOH operations, informing lifting strategies.

3.3 Wellbore Analysis Software:

  • Wellbore Stability Analysis Software: Predicts wellbore stability during POH/POOH operations, aiding in preventing potential complications.
  • Casing and Cementing Analysis Software: Evaluates the integrity of casing and cement during POH/POOH operations, ensuring wellbore safety.

Chapter 4: Best Practices for POH/POOH Operations

4.1 Planning and Preparation:

  • Detailed POH/POOH Plan: Developing a thorough plan outlining the steps, procedures, and safety measures is crucial for efficient and safe operations.
  • Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: Ensuring all equipment is properly inspected, maintained, and in good working order before and during POH/POOH operations is essential.
  • Communication and Coordination: Clear and effective communication among the drilling team, rig crew, and other personnel is vital for seamless execution.

4.2 Execution and Monitoring:

  • Controlled Lifting and Lowering: Maintaining steady lifting and lowering rates and adhering to established procedures is important to prevent pipe damage and wellbore instability.
  • Constant Monitoring of Parameters: Closely monitoring drilling fluid pressure, hoisting cable tension, and other critical parameters during POH/POOH operations ensures safety and efficiency.
  • Immediate Addressing of Issues: Promptly identifying and resolving any problems or anomalies that arise during operations is critical for preventing further complications.

4.3 Post-Operation Procedures:

  • Inspection and Documentation: Thoroughly inspecting the drillstring and wellbore for any damage or abnormalities after POH/POOH operations and documenting findings is essential for safety and future planning.
  • Cleaning and Preparation: Properly cleaning the drillstring, equipment, and wellbore after POH/POOH operations helps to prevent contamination and prepare for the next drilling phase.

Chapter 5: Case Studies of POH/POOH Operations

5.1 Case Study: Stuck Pipe During POH

  • Scenario: A drillstring became stuck during a POH operation due to a combination of factors, including high torque and drag and wellbore instability.
  • Resolution: The drilling team successfully freed the stuck pipe by implementing a combination of techniques, including using specialized tools and carefully adjusting lifting parameters.
  • Lessons Learned: The case highlighted the importance of accurate wellbore modeling, appropriate lifting techniques, and timely intervention to prevent stuck pipe situations.

5.2 Case Study: Optimizing POH for Wellbore Stability

  • Scenario: A wellbore exhibited signs of instability during POH/POOH operations, leading to concerns about potential wellbore collapse.
  • Resolution: By conducting a thorough analysis of the wellbore conditions and implementing optimized POH procedures, the drilling team managed to successfully complete the operation without compromising wellbore integrity.
  • Lessons Learned: The case demonstrated the importance of proactive wellbore stability analysis and the value of adjusting POH/POOH operations based on real-time data and observations.

5.3 Case Study: Using Technology to Enhance POH Efficiency

  • Scenario: A drilling team implemented advanced software and technology to optimize their POH/POOH procedures, aiming for improved efficiency and reduced operational time.
  • Resolution: The use of drilling optimization software, drillstring analysis tools, and real-time data monitoring enabled the team to streamline POH operations, significantly reducing operational time and costs.
  • Lessons Learned: The case illustrated the growing role of technology in enhancing POH/POOH operations, enabling more efficient and safer drilling practices.

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