Schlumberger

Sedco Forex
Engineering Department

Author:
M. Andrea
Reviewed by:

Ref.:
Page: 1 of 23

Engineering Recommendations

Issued:

Approved by:
Revision: 00

Drill String Design Recommendations

Summary
This document provides the principals utilized for drill string design in the oil well drilling industry.
These specifications can be used whenever designing a drill string, with agreement from the
Regional Technical/Operations Managers

This uncontrolled document has been issued using Microsoft WORD 7.0 for Windows 95. Copies are
available from Drilling Engineering in Montrouge.

00
Revision
Number

First Issue
Description of amendments / page changes/comments

20/04/98
Date
dd/mm/yy

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DRILL STRING DESIGN

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Table of Contents
1. Purpose ............................................................................................................................................. 3
2. Scope ................................................................................................................................................. 3
3. Responsibility.................................................................................................................................... 3
4. References......................................................................................................................................... 3
5. Distribution, filing and storage of this document............................................................................. 3
6. Abbreviations and Definitions used.................................................................................................. 3
6.1. Abbreviations............................................................................................................................. 3
6.2. Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 4
7. Drill Pipe Properties......................................................................................................................... 4
7.1 Drill Pipe Grade.......................................................................................................................... 4
7.2 Drill Pipe Class........................................................................................................................... 4
7.3 Tool Joints .................................................................................................................................. 4
7.4 Thread Form ............................................................................................................................... 5
8. Drill Collars ...................................................................................................................................... 5
8.1 Drill Collar Selection .................................................................................................................. 5
8.2 Size Criteria................................................................................................................................ 6
8.3 Drill Collar Connections ............................................................................................................. 7
9. Allowable Weight on Bit .................................................................................................................. 8
9.1. Discussion Vertical Holes........................................................................................................... 8
9.2. Discussion Inclined Holes .......................................................................................................... 9
9.3 Vertical Hole Calculation Procedure.......................................................................................... 10
9.4 Inclined Hole Calculation Procedure ........................................................................................ 11
9.5 Weight of BHA Required ......................................................................................................... 12
10. Tension.......................................................................................................................................... 12
10.1 Static Load.............................................................................................................................. 12
10.2 Margin of Over Pull ................................................................................................................ 12
11.Burst............................................................................................................................................... 13
11.1 Pipe Burst Calculation............................................................................................................. 14
12. Collapse......................................................................................................................................... 14
12.1 Drill pipe collapse ................................................................................................................... 14
12.2 Effect of tensile load on collapse.............................................................................................. 14
12.3 Slip crushing........................................................................................................................... 16
13. Pipe Torsion.................................................................................................................................. 17
13.1 Torsion Only........................................................................................................................... 17
13.2 Torsion and Tension ............................................................................................................... 17
14. Fatigue .......................................................................................................................................... 18
14.1 Limits ..................................................................................................................................... 18
14.2 Fraction of Drill Pipe Life Expended in Dogleg....................................................................... 19
15. Tool Joint Performance ................................................................................................................ 20
15.1 Make-up and Yield Torque...................................................................................................... 20
15.2 Combined Torsion and Tension to Yield a Rotary Shouldered connection ............................... 21
16. Combination Tube and Connection Performance........................................................................ 22
17. Critical Rotary Speeds ................................................................................................................. 23
17.1 Transverse Vibration............................................................................................................... 23
17.2 Axial Vibration ....................................................................................................................... 23
17.3 Harmonic Vibrations............................................................................................................... 23

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DRILL STRING DESIGN

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1.

Issued:
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Purpose

These procedures shall be used whenever designing a drillstring, unless otherwise decided with the
Region Technical/Operations Managers.

2.

Scope

The manual gives the theory, guidelines and design factors for proper drillstring design. The following
design factors shall apply when designing a drillstring:
Tension
Margin of over pull
Excess BHA weight
Torsion
Collapse
Burst

1.1
50,000 to 100,000 lbs
1.15
1.0 (based on lesser of pipe body or connection strength)
1.1. to 1.15
1.2

The design process shall address the following items:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

3.

Selection of drill collar diameter

Selection of BHA connections
Determination of drill collar and or HWDP length
Tool joint torsional capacity check
Tension design limitations
Burst pressure determination
Collapse pressure determination
Slip crushing load
Fatigue limits
Combined tension and torsional load limits

Responsibility

The Region Technical/Operations Managers are responsible of the enforcement of this standard
throughout the SF organization

4.

References

Engineering Standard RE-ST-516-01 issued November 1992

API specification 5D (SPEC 5D), 3 rd edition, August 1, 1992 or latest edition
API specification 7 (SPEC 7), 38 th edition, April 1994, or latest edition
API Recommended Practice 7G (RP 7G), 15 th edition, January 1, 1995, or latest edition

5.

Distribution, filing and storage of this document

In accordance with Procedure RE-PR-M&M-02, this document shall be inserted in:

- MPP manual volume 4, PSS Family Number: 516

6.

Abbreviations and Definitions used

6.1.

Abbreviations

SF:
HQS :
Eng:
M & M:
PSS:
MPP:
API:

Sedco Forex
the Headquarters of SF located in Montrouge France
the Engineering Department of SF located in Montrouge.
Materials & Maintenance department within R & E
Property Symbolization System used within Sedco Forex.
Maintenance Policies and Procedures
American Petroleum Institute

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6.2.

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Definitions

Bench mark: reference mark machined on the pin and box areas adjacent to the shoulder.

7.

Drill Pipe Properties

7.1

Drill Pipe Grade

Each joint of drill pipe includes the tube body and the tool joint, which connects the sections of drill pipe.
Drill pipe is available in several sizes and weights. The grade of drill pipe describes the minimum yield
strength of the pipe. This value is important because it is used in burst, collapse, and tension
calculations. Common grades are as follows:
Grade
Letter Designation
D-55
E-75
X-95
G-105
S-135
7.2

Assumed Average Yield

Strength (psi)
(used for collapse)
65,000
85,000
110,000
120,000
145,000

Minimum Yield Strength

(psi)
55,000
75,000
95,000
105,000
135,000

Drill Pipe Class

Drill pipe is unlike most other oil-field tubulars, such as casing and tubing, because it is used in a worn
condition. Casing and tubing are usually new when installed in a well. As a result, classes are given
to drill pipe to account for wear. Therefore, drill pipe must be defined according to its nominal weight,
grade, and class. The API has established guidelines for pipe classes in API Recommended Practice
7G. Although the class definitions can be extensive, they are summarized as follows:
New
Premium Class 2 -

Class 3
7.3

No wear and has never been used.

Uniform wear and minimum wall thickness of 80%.
Allows drill pipe with a minimum wall thickness of 65% with all wear on one side so
long as the cross-sectional area is the same as premium class; that is to say, based
on not more than 20% uniform wall reduction.
Allows drill pipe with a minimum wall thickness of 55% with all wear on one side.

Tool Joints

Tool joints are screw-type connectors that join individual joints of drill pipe. Most tool joints, regardless
of the drill pipe tube grade on which they are installed, are made of 120,000 psi yield strength material.
Several types are widely used:
IEU (internal-external upset)

IF (internal flush)
IU (internal upset)

Tool joint is larger than the pipe such that the tool joint ID is less than
the drill pipe. The tool joint OD is larger than the drill pipe. Generally
IEU connections are the strongest available couplings.
Tool joints ID is approximately the same as the pipe. The OD is
upset.
Tool joint ID is less than the pipe. Tool joint OD is approximately the
same as the pipe. This type is often termed slim-hole pipe because
of the reduced outer clearance.

An important note about tool joints is that they are designed to be run in tension.
Hardfacing, of hardbanding, tool joints has become a common practice in the drilling industry. To
minimize tool joint wear while rotating on abrasive rock, a band of abrasion-resistant material is applied
to the outside of the box tool joint. This material is usually sintered tungsten carbide particles in a
welded metal matrix. The problem that often arises from the use of hardfaced tool joints is excessive
wear on the internal diameter on the casing.

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7.4

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Thread Form

The term rotary shouldered connection refers to the threads of the pin or box of drill pipe or drill
collars. The threads of the pin of one joint engage with the threads of the box of another joint during
make-up . The actual seal is provided by the metal contact of the shoulders of the tool joints. The
engaged threads are not made to provide a seal and open channels between the threads exist, even
when the joint is torqued.
Besides thread form and number of threads per inch, a connection can also be distinguished by
dimensional data relating to the small and large diameters of pin, box bore, length of pin and box, etc.
API suggests the use of the term number connection (NC) to distinguish the various sizes and styles
of rotary connections. The NC refers to the pitch diameter of the pin thread at gauge point when
rounded to units and tenths of inches, Thus if the pitch diameter is 1.063 in, the first two figures are
used, i.e. 10, to provide a description of the connection as NC10.

8.

Drill Collars

8.1

Drill Collar Selection

Drill collars are the predominant components of the bottom-hole assembly. Some of the functions of
the drill collars are as follows:
Provide weight for the bit
Provide strength needed to run in compression
Minimize bit stability problems from vibrations, wobbling, and jumping
Minimize directional control problems by providing stiffness to the BHA

Proper selection of drill collars (and BHA ) can prevent many drilling problems. Drill collars are available
in many sizes and shapes, such as round, square, triangular, and spiral grooved. The most common
types are round (slick) and spiral grooved. Spiral-grooved collars reduce the surface contact area
between the pipe and well bore. The lower contact area reduces the probability of differential pressure
sticking. Table 8.1 (below) shows the API dimensions for collars of various outer diameters.
Drill Collar Number
NC23-31 (tentative)
NC26-35 (2 3/8 IF)
NC31-41 (2 7/8 IF)
NC35-47
NC38-50 (3 1/2 IF)
NC44-60
NC44-60
NC44-62
NC46-62 (4IF)
NC46-65 (4IF)
NC46-65 (4IF)
NC46-67 (4IF)
NC50-70 (4 IF)
NC50-70 (4 IF)
NC50-72 (4 IF)
NC56-77
NC56-80
6 5/8 REG
NC61-90
7 5/8 REG
NC70-97
NC70-100
NC77-110 (tentative)

OD, in.
3 1/8
3
4 1/8
4
5
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
7
7
8
8
9
9
9
10
11

Bore +1/16 -0, in.

1
1
2
2
2
2
2 13/26
2
2 13/26
2
2 13/16
2
2
2 13/16
2 13/16
2 13/16
2 13/16
2 13/16
2 13/16
3
3
3
3

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8.2

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Size Criteria

Selection of drill collar diameter for a slick or pendulum assembly is based on the required effective
minimum hole diameter. That is, the size of the bottom drill collar would be the limiting factor for lateral
movement of the bit.

Minimum effective hole dia. =

Bit size + Drill collar dia.

2

For Example:
Drilling a 12 hole would require 9 drill collars to result in a hole large enough to run 9 5/8 casing
with 10.625 OD couplings.

10.625" hole =

12.25" Bit dia. + 9" Drill collar dia.

2

More commonly drill collar size is selected based on stresses. Components subject to bending have
both tensile and compressive forces induced in them. When rotated under bending, individual metal
fibers are subject to rapidly alternating tension and compression, which may induce fatigue failure.
BHAs are subject to both bending and rotation. Fatigue failures commonly occur where stresses are
concentrated. Stresses are concentrated at connections and changes in pipe size. Stress
concentration is restricted by ensuring that changes in bending resistance are within tolerable ranges.
The bending resistance of a BHA component is dependent upon its section modulus, which is defined
as follows:

Z = 2 x I OD =
Where

(OD 4 ID 4 )
32 OD

Z = Section modulus, in 3
I

= Second moment of area, in 4

OD = Outside diameter, inches

ID = Inside diameter, inches

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Generally, the change in bending resistance

is expressed in terms of a bending resistance
ratio (BRR), which may be calculated as
follows:

OD2
ID2

(OD1 4 ID1 4 ) OD2

Z1
=
BRR =
Z2
(OD2 4 ID2 4 ) OD1
The terms are illustrated at right
ID2

The bending resistance ratio should be

checked at changes in pipe size. BRRs are
calculated using the pipe body dimensions
and should generally be below 5.5

OD1

EXAMPLE: bending resistance ratios

A proposed BHA consists of 9 X 3 drill collars. Is it acceptable to make this up directly to 5 X 3
HWDP?
BRR

= ([ 9.04 - 3.04 ] * 5.0) / ([ 5.04 - 3.04 ] * 9.0)

= 6.62 which is unacceptable (greater than 5.5)

Is it acceptable to make this up directly to 8 X 3 drill collars?

BRR

= ([ 9.04 - 3.04 ] * 8.0) / ([ 8.04 - 3.04 ] * 9.0)

= 1.44 which is acceptable (less than 5.5)

Is it acceptable to make the 8 collars to the 5 X 3 HWDP?

BRR

= ([ 8.04 - 3.04 ] * 5.0) / ([ 5.04 - 3.04 ] * 8.0)

= 4.61 which is acceptable (less than 5.5)

Therefore, if 9 X 3 drill collars are required on bottom, one acceptable BHA would include both 8 X 3
drill collars and 5 X 3 HWDP above them.
8.3

Drill Collar Connections

The bending resistance ratio of drill collar connections is defined as the section modulus of the box
(measured 4 from the end) divided by the section modulus of the pin (measured 3 from the end).
The inside diameter of the box and outside diameter of the pin are determined by the type of
connection; therefore, only the outside diameter of the box and inside diameter of the pin need to be
measured. This is illustrated at right
For any combination of connection, box OD, and pin ID, the tables given in API RP7G can be used to
determine the bending resistance ratio.
Experience had shown that a bending resistance ratio of 2.5 results in a balanced connection. The
range of acceptable BRRs depends on the severity of the service to which the drill collars will be
subjected. The following recommendations are given for guidance, but local operating experience may
show closer tolerances are required.
Conditions
DCs < 6 OD
High RPM with DCs << hole size
Low RPM with DCs close to hole size

Acceptable BRR Range

2.75 - 2.25
2.85 - 2.25
3.20 - 2.25

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9.

Allowable Weight on Bit

9.1.

Discussion Vertical Holes

An important function of the bottom hole assembly (BHA) is to protect the drill pipe from buckling. In
straight holes, buckling of the pipe is prevented by using a BHA of sufficient weight to ensure that the
neutral point of bending is kept within the BHA. A common misconception is that the neutral point of
tension and compression is relevant in BHA design.
When a drillstring is run into a straight hole, the forces acting on the string are self-weight and
hydrostatic pressure of the drilling fluid. This hydrostatic effect, commonly called buoyancy, results
from the pressure exerted vertically on the cross-sectional area of the drillstring. For a drillstring of
constant cross section, the resulting hook load can be calculated as follows:

) (

HL = WTstring x D CSAstring x 0.052 x MW x D

HL = Hookload , lbf
WTstring = Weight of drillstring , lb/ ft
D = Depth of well , ft
CSAstring = Cross sec tional area of drillstring wall , in 2
MW = Mud weight , ppg
Buoyancy acting at the bottom of the drillstring places the lower portion of the drillstring in compression
and reduces the hook load.
Compression

Buckling occurs only below the neutral point

of bending, which is defined as the point
where the average of the radial and
tangential stress in the string equal the axial
stress.
The neutral point of bending occurs where
the effective hydrostatic force equals the
compressive force in the drillstring. With no
WOB, this point is at the bottom of the string;
therefore, the drillstring is not buckled.

Equivalent mud
hydrostatic
force

Neutral
point
of bending

Tension

Pipe
stress

Neutral point
of
tension/compression

Stress conditions within the drillstring in a

vertical hole are shown at right.
If weight is placed on the bit, there is additional compression in the bottom of the drillstring, and the
neutral point of tension and compression moves up the drillstring. The neutral point of bending also
moves up the drillstring to the point where the equivalent mud hydrostatic force is again equal to the
compressive force in the drillstring.
The height of the neutral point of bending above the bottom of the drillstring can be calculated as
follows.

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Fhyd = D H x 0.052 x MW x CSAString

) (

Fcomp = WOB + D x 0.052 x MW x CSAString H WTstring

At the neutral point of bending Fhyd = Fcomp , and the calculation is as follows:

H x 0,052 x MW x CSAstring = WOB + H x WTstring

H = WOB WTstring 0,052 x MW CSAstring

H = WOB / BUOYED WTstring

Where

H = Height of neutral point of bending, ft

Fcomp = Compressive force in drillstring, lbf

WOB = Weight on bit, lbf

BUOYED WTstring = Buoyed weight of drillstring , lbf

= WTstring x 1 0.015 x MW

The height of the neutral point of bending above the bottom of the string is thus the weight on bit divided
by the buoyed weight per foot of the drillstring. The forces in the drillstring in this situation are shown
below.
To prevent the neutral point of bending from
being in the drill pipe, the buoyed weight of the
BHA must exceed the applied WOB.
In
practice, field applications commonly allow for a
safety factor. It is recommended that the
applied WOB should be limited to 85% of
the buoyed weight of the BHA (provided the
HWDP is not buckled)

Compression

Equivalent mud
hydrostatic
force

Neutral
point
of bending

Heavy-weight drill pipe is generally run as

transition pipe between the drill collars and the
drill pipe.
Sedco Forex field experience
indicates that it is not acceptable to run heavyweight drill pipe for WOB in
vertical holes.
9.2.

Tension

Pipe
stress

Neutral point
of
tension/compression

Discussion Inclined Holes

WOB

In inclined holes, two additional factors must be

considered when calculating the maximum weight on bit that can be run without buckling the drill pipe.

Weight on bit is applied at the inclination of the well, but the weight of the BHA
continues to act vertically.

To allow for the reduction in available BHA weight, the buoyed weight must be
reduced by a factor equal to the cosine of the well inclination.

The drillstring generally lies on the low side of the hole and obtains some lateral support from the bore
hole wall. In these circumstances, pipe above the neutral point of bending buckles only when the
compressive forces in the drillstring exceeds a critical load, calculated as follows:

Fcrit = 1617

(OD

4
pipe

IDpipe4 x BF x ODpipe2 IDpipe2 x Sin

Dhole ODtj

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Where

Fcrit

= Critical buckling force, lbf

OD pipe = Outside diameter of pipe, inches

OD tj

= Max OD of pipe, inches

ID pipe

= Inside diameter of pipe, inches

BF

= Buoyancy factor, = (1 -.015 x MW)

D hole

= Diameter hole, inches

= Hole inclination, degrees

The curve in Appendix 1 represents a graphical solution to the equation for critical buckling.
9.3

Vertical Hole Calculation Procedure

Available weight on bit can be calculated as follows:

WOBmax = 0.85 x Ldc x WTdc (1 0.015 x MW )

Where

WOBMAX
Ldc
WTdc
MW
.85

= Available weight on bit, lb

= Length of drill collars, ft
= Air weight of drill collars, lb/ft
= Mud weight, ppg
= 85% safety factor

The actual weight of drill collars in mud should be measured and recorded when going in the hole. This
recorded value can then be used as the maximum allowable weight on bit, provided that the mud weight
is unchanged.
If the mud weight is altered, the maximum allowable weight on bit must also be altered as follows:

1 0.015 MWnew

New WOB = Old WOB max

1 0.015 MWold
EXAMPLE: available WOB calculations for vertical hole
The following bottom hole assembly is run into a 12 vertical hole containing 13.0 ppg mud. What is
the available weight on bit.
372 of 8 x 3 drill collars with an air weight of 147 lb/ft
465 of 5 x 3 heavy weight drill pipe with an air weight of 50 lb/ft
Because the hole size does not exceed the nominal tool joint size by more than 6, the HWDP is used
for drilling weight. The weight on bit available from the BHA is

WOBmax = 0.85 x Ldc x WTdc (1 0.015 x MW )

= .85 x 372 x 147 x (1-0.015 x 13) = 37,418 lbf

What would be the available weight on bit if, while drilling, the mud weight is increased to 16.5 ppg?

1 0.015 MWnew

New WOB = Old WOB max

1 0.015 MWold
1 0.015 x 16.5

= 37,418
1 0.015 x 13
= 34,987 lbf

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9.4 Inclined Hole Calculation Procedure

The available weight on bit is calculated as follows.
1. Calculate the available WOB provided by the drill collars.

WOBdc = Ldc x WTdc (1 0.015 x MW ) x Cos

Where

WOBDC = Available weight provided by collars, lb

Ldc
= Length of drill collars, ft
WTdc
= Air weight of drill collars, lb/ft
MW
= Mud weight, ppg

= Bottom hole inclination, degrees

2. Calculate the maximum available WOB provided by the HWDP.

WOB HWDP = L HWDP x WTHWDP (1 0.015 x MW ) x Cos

Where

WOBHWDP = Available weight provided by HWDP, lb

LHWDP
= Length of HWDP, ft
WTHWDP = Air weight of HWDP, lb/ft
MW
= Mud weight, ppg

= Bottom hole inclination, degrees

3. Calculate the critical force to buckle the HWDP.

Fcrit = 1617

(ODHWDP 4 IDHWDP 4 ) x BF x (ODHWDP 2 IDHWDP 2 ) x Sin

Dhole ODtj

Where

Fcrit
= Critical buckling force for HWDP, lbf
OD pipe = Outside diameter of pipe of HWDP, inches
OD tj

= Max OD of pipe, inches

ID pipe

= Inside diameter of pipe, inches

BF
D hole

= Buoyancy factor, = (1 -.015 x MW)

= Diameter hole, inches
= Hole inclination, degrees

4. Calculate the critical force to buckle the drill pipe.

Fcrit = 1617

(OD

pipe

ID pipe 4 x BF x OD pipe 2 ID pipe 2 x Sin

Dhole ODtj

Where

Fcrit
= Critical buckling force, lbf
OD pipe = Outside diameter of pipe, inches
OD tj

= Max OD of pipe, inches

ID pipe

= Inside diameter of pipe, inches

BF
D hole

= Buoyancy factor, = (1 -.015 x MW)

= Diameter hole, inches

= Hole inclination, degrees

5. If WOBHWP + Fdp > FHWDP, Then the maximum allowable weight on bit is given by the following:
WOBMAX = WOBDC + FHWDP

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If WOBHWP + Fdp < FHWDP, Then the maximum allowable weight on bit is given by the following:
WOBMAX = WOBDC + WOBHWP + Fdp
The maximum allowable weight on bit calculated above should be reduced by a safety factor. Generally,
a safety factor of 85% is adequate.
9.5

Weight of BHA Required

Weight of DCs required is estimated from the bit specifications and formation classification.
Weight on bit and rotary speed
Formation Classification
lb / in of diameter
Soft
2270 - 6750
Medium
4500 - 9000
Hard Milled Tooth Insert
5600 - 11250
Hard Insert Bit
2250 - 9000
Hard Friction Bearing
4500 - 6750

RPM
100 - 250
40 - 100
35 - 70
35 - 70
35 - 60

10. Tension
10.1 Static Load
The design of the drill string for static tension loads requires sufficient strength in the topmost joint of
each size, weight, grade and classification of drill pipe to support the submerged weight of all the drill
pipe plus the submerged weight of the collars, stabilizers, and bit. This load may be calculated as
shown in the following equation. The bit and stabilizer weights are either neglected or are included with
the drill collar weight.

FTEN =

[( L

dp

x WTdp + ( Ldc x WTdc ) BF

where

FTEN
Ldp

= submerged load hanging below this section of drill pipe, lb

= length of drill pipe, ft

Ldc

= length of drill collars, ft

WTdp = air weight of drill pipe, lb / ft

WTdc = air weight of drill collars, lb / ft
BF
= buoyancy factor
The tension strength values are based on minimum area, wall thickness and yield strength of the pipe.
The yield strength as defined in API specifications is not the specific point at which permanent
deformation of the material begins, but the stress at which a certain total deformation has occurred.
This deformation includes all of the elastic deformation as well as some plastic (permanent)
deformation. The tensile strength can be calculated from the equation.

Fyield = Ym A
where

Fyield = minimum tensile strength, lb

Ym
A

= specified minimum yield strength, psi

= cross section area, sq. in.

If the pipe is loaded to the extent shown in the API formula above it is likely that some permanent
stretch will occur and difficulty may be experienced in keeping the pipe straight
10.2 Margin of Over Pull
To prevent this condition a design factor of approximately 90% of the tabulated tension value is
recommended.

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Fdesign = Fyield x 0.9

where

Fdesign = minimum tensile strength, lb

F yield = minimum tensile strength, lb
0.9

= a constant relating proportional limit yield to strength

The difference between the calculated load FTEN

the Margin of Over Pull (M.O.P.).

M . O . P . = Fdesign

and the maximum allowable tension load represents

FTEN

The same values expressed as a ratio may be called the Safety Factor (S. F.)

S. F. =

Fdesign
FTEN

The selection of the proper safety factor and/or margin of over pull is of critical importance and should
be approached with caution. Failure to provide and adequate safety factor can result in loss or damage
to the drill pipe while an overly conservative choice will result in an unnecessarily heavy and more
expensive drill string.
Normally the designer will desire to determine the maximum length of a specific size, grade, and
inspection class of drill pipe which can be used to drill a certain well. By combining the above equations
the following equation results:

Ldp =

Fyield x 0.9 M . O. P.
WTdp x BF

Ldc WTdc
WTdp

EXAMPLE: Typical drill string design based on margin of overpull

Design parameters:
Pipe Size
4 , 16.6 lb/ft, Grade E w/ 4 tool joints 6 O.D. x 3 I.D., Class 2
Depth
12,700 feet
Hole Size
7 7/8 inches
Mud Weight
10 lb/gal
Margin of Overpull (MOP) 50,000 lb.
Length of Drill collars
630 feet
Weight per foot
90 lb.

Ldp1 =

F yield x 0.9 M . O. P.
WTdp1 x BF

Ldc WTdc
WTdp1

225,771 x 0.9 50,000

630 x 90

18.37 x .847
8.37
= 9846 3087 = 6759 Feet

Ldp1 =
Ldp1

It is apparent that drill pipe of a higher strength will be required to reach 12,700 feet. Add 4 , 16.60
lb/ft Grade X-95, with 4 X.H. Tool Joints, 6 O.D. x 3 I.D. (18.88 lb/ft) Inspection class premium.
Air weight of number 1 class drill pipe and drill collars:

[(

Total Weight = Ldp1 x WTdp1 + ( Ldc x WTdc )

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EXAMPLE: (continue) Typical drill string design based on margin of overpull

[(

) (

)]

Total Weight = 6759 x 18.37 + 630 x 90

= 124,163 + 56,700 = 180,863 lb.
Determine the length of the second string of drill pipe.

Ldp2 =

F yield 2 x 0.9 M . O. P.
WTdp2 x BF

Ldc WTdc + Ldp1 WTdp1

WTdp2

329,542 x 0.9 50,000

180,863

18.88 x .847
18,88
= 15,420 9,580 = 5840 feet

Ldp 2 =
Ldp 2

This is more drill pipe than required to reach 12,700 feet, so the final drill string will consist of the
following:
Weight in Air
Weight in Mud
Item
Feet
lb.
Lb.
.
Drill Collars
630
56,700
48,025
No. 1 Drill Pipe 4 16.6 lb, Grade E
6,759
124,163
105,166
No. 1 Drill Pipe 4 16.6 lb, Grade E
5,311
100,272
84,930
12,700
281,135
238,121

11.Burst
11.1 Pipe Burst Calculation
The drill pipe internal yield pressure can be calculated as follows:

Pi =

2 Ym Wt
D

where

Pi = burst pressure, psi

Ym = specified minimum yield strength, psi
Wt = pipe wall thickness, in.
D = outside pipe diameter, in.
12.

Collapse

12.1 Drill pipe collapse

Drill pipe is used for several purposes, including providing a fluid conduit for pumping drilling mud,
imparting rotary motion to the drill bit, and conducting special operations such as drill stem testing and
squeeze cementing. Drill stem testing (DST) causes the most severe collapse loading on the drill pipe.
API specifications for collapse resistance of drill pipe is calculated assuming either plastic, transition, or
plastic failure based on the pipes D/t (diameter / wall thickness ratio). The applicable equations can be
found in the API RP 7G publication.
12.2 Effect of tensile load on collapse
The effect of tensile load applies only to greater than transition load on normally elastic item, and to any
load on plastic collapse items. The collapse resistance of drill pipe corrected for the effect of tension
loading may be calculated with the following equation:

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2

Z + 4 (3 x Z )
R=
2
Total tensile load (lbs)
Z =
Cross section area x Average yield strength

Where

R =

Effective collapse resistance under tension (psi)

Nominal plastic collapse resistance (psi)

This equation is shown graphically below.

Ellipse of Biaxial Yield Strength

Tension (% of yield stress)
0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0
10

30
40
50
60
Axial Stress % of Yield

70
Tension & burst
Compression Burst

80

Hoop Stress % of Yield

Collapse (% of yield stress)

20

90

Tension and Collapse

Compression &
Collape

100

Figure 12.1

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EXAMPLE: actual collapse resistance

A drill string consists of 10,000 ft of drill pipe and a length of drill collars weighing 80,000 lbs. Determine
the actual collapse resistance of the bottom joint of drill pipe.
Rated collapse for New, 5, 19,5 ppf, grade G pipe is = 12,999 psi
Cross section area = 5.275 sq. in.
Average Tensile yield = 120,000 psi
Z = 80,000 lbs / (5.275 sq. in. x 120,000) = .126 or 12.6%
From figure 11.1 for biaxial loading, a tensile ratio 12.6% reduces the collapse resistance to 95%.
Thus, the collapse resistance of the bottom joint of drill pipe = .95 x 12,999 psi = 12,350 psi

12.3 Slip crushing

The maximum allowable tension load must be determined to prevent slip crushing. In an analysis of the
slip crushing problem, Reinhold, Spini, and Vreeland, proposed an equation to calculate the relation
between the hoop stress (SH) caused by the action of the slips and the tensile stress in the pipe (ST),
resulting from the load on the pipe hanging in the slips. If the dimensions for the cross-sectional area of
the pipe (A) and the cylindrical surface are of the pipe under the slips (AS) are used, the equation can be
presented as follows:
2
SH
DK DK
= 1 +
+

S T 2 LS 2 LS

1/ 2

S H = hoop stress, psi

where

S T = tensile stress, psi

D = oustside diameter of the pipe, in.
K = lateral load factor on slips, 1 / tan (y + z)
y
z

LS

=
=
=
=

slip taper, usually 9 0 27' 45"

arctan
coefficient of friction ( 0.08)
length of slips, in.

Slips are typically 12 or 16 in. long. The friction coefficient ranges from 0.06-0.14. Inasmuch as tool
joint lubricants are usually applied to the back of rotary slips, a coefficient of friction of 0.08 should be
used for most calculations. The equivalent tension load from slip crushing can be calculated as follows:

SH
ST
TS = tension from slip crushing
TL = tensile load in string
SH
= hoop stress, tension stress ratio from previous equation
ST

TS = TL x
where

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EXAMPLE: Slip crushing calculation

A 4 OD drill string has a hanging weight of 192,00 lbs. Determine the equivalent tension due to slip
crushing force on the drill string.
1/ 2

SH
ST
K

DK DK

= 1 +
+
2 LS 2 LS

1
=
0
tan (9 27' 45" + arctan 0.08)

= 4.00
2
SH
4.5 x 4.0 4.5 x 4.0

= 1 +
+
ST
2 x 16
2 x 16

= (2.17159)1/ 2

1/ 2

= 1.4736

S
TS = TL H
ST
TS = 192,000 lbs x 1.4736
= 282,931 lbs (Since new 4 1/ 2", grade G, 16.6 ppf, Drill pipe has a tensile load rating of 462,781 lbs
the pipe will not yield.)

13.

Pipe Torsion

13.1 Torsion Only

Drill pipe torsional yield strength when subject to pure torsion is given by the following:
0.096167 x J x Ym
D
Q = minimul torsional yield strength, ft - lb

J = polar moment of inertia,

D4 d 4
32
D = Pipe OD, inches
d = Pipe ID, inches
Ym = minimum unit yield strength, psi
Q=

where

13.2 Torsion and Tension

When drill pipe is subject to both torsion and tension, as is the case during drilling operations, the
minimum torsional yield strength under tension is given as follows
0.096167 J
P2
Ym2 2
D
A
Qt = minimul torsional yield strength under tension, ft - lb

J = polar moment of inertia,

D4 d 4
32
D = Pipe OD, inches
d = Pipe ID, inches
Ym = minimum unit yield strength, psi
P = total load in tension, lbs

Qt =

where

A = cross - sectional area, in2

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EXAMPLE: Torsion and tension

A new string of 5, 19.5 ppf, grade G, drill pipe with a hook load of 250,000 lb is stuck. What is the
maximum torque which can be applied to the pipe (neglecting connection strength in this example) if
100,000 lbs of over pull is applied

4
5 4.276 = 28.53 inches4
32
D = Pipe OD, inches
d = Pipe ID, inches

J = polar moment of inertia,

A = cross - sectional area, in2 = 5.27 in2

0.096167 x 28.5383
350,0002
105,0002
5
. 2
527
= 44,640 ft - lbs

Q=

14.

Fatigue

14.1 Limits
The most common type of drill pipe failure is fatigue wear. It generally occurs in dog legs where the pipe
goes through cyclic bending stresses. These stresses occur because the outer wall of the pipe in a dog
leg is stretched and creates a greater tension load. As the pipe rotates a half cycle, the stresses
change to the other side of the pipe, For example, the stress may change from 50,000 psi to -20,000
psi and again to 50,000 psi in the course of one cycle or rotation of the pipe.
Fatigue damage from rotation in dog legs is a significant problem if the angle is greater than some
critical value. Lubinski has published several works that describe this value. Rotation in angles below

this value does not cause appreciable fatigue. The maximum permissible dogleg severity for fatigue
damage consideration can be calculate with the following equations:

C=

432,000 b tanh K L

K=

E DKL
T
EI

C = maximum permisible dogleg severity, O /100 ft

E = Young' s modulus, psi
= 30 X 10 6 psi for steel
10.5 X 10 6 psi for aluminium
D
drill pipe outer diameter, in.
L
half the distance between toll joints, 180 in. for Range 2 pipe, in.
T
tension below the dog leg, lb
b maximum permissible bending stress, psi

I = drill pipe moment of inertia,

( D4 d 4 )
64
The maximum permissible bending stress, b , is calculated from the buoyant tensile stress, t (psi), in
=
=
=
=
=

the dogleg with the following equations:

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T
A

t =

where A = cross-sectional area of drill pipe body, in2

For Grade E:

10
0.6
2
t
33500)
2 ( t
67
( 670)
This equation holds true for values of t up to 67,000 psi.
b = 19500

For Grade S-135:

b = 20000 1

145000
This equation holds true for values of t up to 133,400 psi.
14.2 Fraction of Drill Pipe Life Expended in Dogleg
Severe pipe damage occurs when dogleg severity is greater than the value computed for C above.
The damage depends on the type of material (aluminum or steel), corrosion level, stress, and dogleg
angle. Metallurgists have established S-N (stress vs bending cycles) diagrams that can be used to
determine the approximate number of cycles, or rotations, before pipe failure occurs. The fraction (f) of
drill pipe life expended in an interval of a dogleg can be calculated as follows:

f =

B
N

where

f = fraction of life expended

B = number of drill pipe revolution to drill interval
N = number of revolutions to failure of joint of drill pipe
It is simple to show that:

B =

60 R d
V

where

R = rotary speed , rpm

d = length of dogleg interval, ft
V = drilling rate ft / hr.
In order to determine (N) the number of revolution to failure of the joint of drill pipe we need to know the
actual bending stress ( b ). This value can be computed as follows:

b =

E D co
2

where

D = outside diameter of the pipe, in.

E = Young' s modulus, lb / in 2
c o = maximum pipe curvature, radians / in.
The relationship between the hole curvature ( c ) and the Maximum pipe curvature ( co ) is:

c o = c ( K L)

where

c = hole curvature, radians / in.

L = one half the length of a drill pipe joint, in.

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The effect of bending stress on fatigue cycles before failure is well documented, as be seen below.

S-N Curve for Steel Pipe

Bending stress ( x 1,000)

60
50
40
30
20
10
0
10

100

1000

10000

Revolutions to failure ( x 1,000)

In the presence for tension, however, the fatigue effect of bending becomes more severe. To make the
proper allowances for this , the actual bending stress, ( b ), must be multiplied by a correction factor, ,
as follows:

T
T - t

where
T = tensile strength of the pipe
The vertical axis of the S-N curve should be entered with the product of and b , or b . Determine
the number of cycles, N, to failure. Enter N into the first equation to determine the fraction of the pipe
life expended in drilling the section.

15.

Tool Joint Performance

15.1 Make-up and Yield Torque

The make up torque of a rotary shouldered connection is calculated by using the Farrs formula API 7G:
T=

SA P
R f
+ t
+ Rs f

12 2 Cos

where
T
S
A
P
Rs
Rt

=
=
=
=
=
=

Make up torque (ft / lbs)

Stress in the considered area A (psi)
The weakest critical area (square inches)
Laed of thread (inches)
Average mean radius of thread (inches)
Mean radius of shoulder (inches) Rt is determined Lt / 2 .
For API connections Lt is calculated as the total pin length minus
the box counterbore depth, specified as in API Spec. 7.
f = Coefficent of friction on mating surfaces (thread or shoulder)
= 1 / 2 included angle of thread

As the use of the formula is complicated, it has been rewritten under a simplified form with precalculated parameters.

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T=

SA
X + 0.02 ( OD + Q)
12

where
A = The smaller of A pin or A box

M ID2
4

Abox =
OD2 B
4
ID = Inside diameter (inches)
OD = Oustside diameter (inches
Apin =

For the standard connections in use within the company the values of X, M, B, and Q are given in the
following table.
X
0.1753
0.2022
0.2381
0.2573
0.2885
0.3228
0.3660

Type of Connection
NC 31 ( 2 7/8 IF)
NC 38 (3 IF)
NC 46 (4 IF)
NC 50 ( 4 IF)
6 5/8 Regular
7 5/8 Regular
8 5/8 Regular

M
9.133
13.30
19.94
23.82
31.04
42.48
55.80

B
11.496
16.124
23.460
27.560
36.000
49.000
63.250

Q
3.4531
4.0780
4.9060
5.3125
6.0625
7.0940
8.0470

Values of stress (S) to be taken for:

Make up Torque
Calculation
S= 72,000 psi
62,500 (1)
62,500 (1)

Tool joint of drill pipes

Drill collar (OD < 7)
Drill collar (OD> 7)

Maximum allowable
Torque Calculation
S = 120,000 psi (2)
110,000 (2)
100,000 (2)

(1) API recommendation (RP7G)

(2) Minimum yield strength of material, specified by API (Spec. 7)
EXAMPLE: Tool joint Performance
A new string of 5, 19.5 ppf, grade G, drill pipe with NC 50 connections, tool joint OD = 6 , tool joint
ID = 3

2382
. 2 325
. 2 = 10.41 inches2
4

65
. 2 27.562 = 11.54 inches2
=
4

A pin =

A box

So, A = 10.41 in2

S x 10.41
T =
0.2573 + 0.02 65
. + 53125
.
= S x 0.43
12
Make - up Torque = 72,000 x .43 = 30,960 ft - lb
Maximum Allowable Torque = 120,000 x .43 = 52,000 ft - lb

)]

15.2 Combined Torsion and Tension to Yield a Rotary Shouldered connection

The following figure 14.2.1 shows the limits for combined torsion and tension for a rotary shouldered
connection. The loads considered in this simplified approach are torsion and tension. Bending and
internal pressure are not included, nor is the contribution of shear stress due to torsion. A design factor

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of 1.1 should be used to provided some safety margin. This safety margin may not be sufficient for
cases involving severe bending or elevated temperature.
The failure criteria is either torsional yield or shoulder separation.
The end points for the limits are defined by five equations:
Ym
P1 =
Ap
11
.
Ym
P

Rt f
T1 =
+
+ Rs f
Ab x
. x 12
11
2 Cos

Ym
P

Rt f
T2 =
+
+ Rs f
Ap x
. x 12
11
2 Cos

Ym
P
Rt f
T3 =
+
Ap x

. x 12
11
2 Cos
Ym Ap Ab
T4 =

. x 12 Ap + Ab
11

Rt f
+
+ Rs f

2
Cos

Depending on the connection geometry, T3 may be greater or smaller than T4. The same is true for T1
and T2.

T4

T3

Box Yield

rS
lde

Recommended
Zone of Operation

Sh

ou

eld

epa

Yi

rat

Pin

ion

Applied Tension

P1

T1

T2

0
0

Applied Torsion

The line (0,0) to (T4, P1) represents shoulder separation for low make-up torque. The line (T2, 0) to
(T3, P1) represents pin yield under the combination of torque and tension. The line (T1, 0) to (T1, P1)
represents box yield due to torsion. The horizontal line from P1 represents maximum tension load on
the pin.
Figure 15.2.1

16.

Combination Tube and Connection Performance

Unless we have inadvertently reduced the tool joint tensile capacity by excessive make-up, the tensile
capacity or combined tension-torsion capacity of the string will probably be limited by the tensile
capacity of the drill pipe tubes. Curves of combined load capacity for tool joints and tubes can be used
to estimate the tensile and combined tension / torsion load capacity for the string as a whole. This is
easily done by superimposing the combined load curve for the appropriate tube onto the combined load
chart for the tool joint. An example is shown in Figure 16.1 for 5 inch 19 ppf, grade S-135 tube with a 3
ID NC-50 tool joint.

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Drillstring combined tension-torsion load capcacity superimposed over the
load capacity of tool joint
1,200,000

1,000,000

800,000

600,000

D
400,000

200,000

E
0
0

10,000

20,000

30,000
Torsion (ft-lb)

40,000

C 50,000

60,000

Figure 16. 1
The area above and to the right of line ABC represents all the conditions of combined external (string)
tension that would yield the tool joint pin.
Point D is the tensile capacity of 5, 19.50 ppf, grade S premium class tube in the absence of applied
torsion on the tube. Point E is the tubes load capacity in torsion with no tension.
Line DE is the combined load capacity of the tube under simultaneous tension and torsion. Tube
weakness in pure tension and tool joint weakness in pure torsion are typical for common tube / tool joint
combinations.
Point G is the absolute limit of make-up torque without reducing the pin necks ability to carry external
tension to less than the tensile capacity of the tube.

17.

Critical Rotary Speeds

17.1 Transverse Vibration

The approximate critical rotary speeds which induce nodal (transverse) vibration can be calculated
using the following shown below.
476000
D2 + d 2
2
L
Where L = length of one pipe, inches
D = Outside diameter of pipe , inches
d = inside diameter of pipe, inches
Critical RPM =

17.2 Axial Vibration

The approximate critical rotary speeds which induce pendulum or spring (axial) vibration can be
calculated using the following shown below.
258000
L ( ft )
Where
L(ft) = Total length of string, feet
Critical RPM =

17.3 Harmonic Vibrations

Secondary and higher harmonic vibrations will occur at 4, 9, 16, 25, 36, etc. time the speed in the
above equation. Vibrations of spring pendulum type are probably less significant than nodal type. Each
higher harmonic of the spring pendulum type vibration is also less significant. Care should be taken to
avoid operating under these conditions which would be the critical speed for both types of vibration
because the combination would be particularly bad.