Mud flowing from the drill pipe while tripping or making a connection is a common observation in drilling operations. It does not always indicate a kick, but rather the result of hydraulics, pipe movement, and sometimes equipment condition. Pipe displacement effectWhen pulling out of hole, the drill string reduces occupied volume and pushes mud upward. […]

In drilling operations, efficiency and wellbore safety often depend on specialized downhole tools. One such tool is the PBL (Pressure Bypass/Bypass Circulating) Sub, and an important step in activating it is dropping a steel ball. -The PBL sub is run as part of the drill string.-When additional circulation is needed (e.g., to clean the wellbore, […]

Hydrogen Sulfide is a silent but deadly gas that can appear suddenly during drilling operations. For this reason, the H2S alarm system is one of the most important safety protections on any rig. What makes H2S dangerous-Colorless and heavier than air-Flammable and highly toxic-Can cause unconsciousness and death within seconds at high levels How the […]

In drilling and well-completion operations, casing plugs play a crucial role in ensuring well integrity. Today, I’m sharing a quick video showing both top and bottom casing plugs and how they are used in the field. -Bottom Plug: This is placed at the bottom of the casing string before cementing. Its main purpose is to […]

In drilling and workover operations, the casing scraper is one of those unsung heroes downhole. Though simple in design, it plays a critical role in ensuring the success of cementing, completion, and well intervention operations. What is a Casing Scraper?A casing scraper is a mechanical tool run on drill pipe, work string, or tubing to […]

In drilling, even the smallest tool can play the biggest safety role. The float valve (non-return valve) is one of them. Its mission: stop backflow of mud, cuttings, gas, or formation fluids into the drill string, protecting people, pumps, and the well itself. Types of Float Valves-Plunger Type (F): spring-loaded, durable, widely used in vertical […]

When unexpected formation fluids enter the wellbore, the choke manifold becomes one of the most critical tools on the rig. In this operation, the choke operator is maintaining 1700 psi while diverting hydrocarbons safely to the flare line. What may look like fire and chaos is actually a highly controlled process. By carefully adjusting the […]

I recently came across a video of a roughneck working without a helmet, gloves, or coverall. Zero PPE. Zero safety. This raises an important question: how can anyone work without safety in such a high-risk environment like a drilling rig? -Safety culture isn’t just about wearing equipment – it’s about mindset. If someone is not […]

In modern drilling operations, two technologies play a critical role in helping us understand the wellbore and make smarter decisions: Measurement While Drilling (MWD) and Logging While Drilling (LWD). MWD (Measurement While Drilling):-Provides real-time drilling parameters such as inclination, azimuth, toolface orientation, and downhole pressure.-Helps the directional driller steer the wellbore accurately and safely.-Ensures continuous […]

Once drilling operations are complete, the next critical step is the well test. This is where we move from cutting rock to truly understanding the reservoir’s potential. Why Do We Test?-Reservoir Evaluation: Pressure, permeability, and productivity index.-Fluid Characterization: Oil, gas, or water – and their properties through PVT sampling.-Well Performance: How the well responds under […]