Insurance Claim

It is important that you get in contact with the insurance agent from whom the insurance policy was purchased. He or she will be able to give you the details and steps that you have to perform regarding claiming the benefits.

As the beneficiary, you should also be familiar with the insurance policy that you will be getting the claims. This information can be read in the policy documents and if you have questions you can also contact the insurance agent.

Consider also the length of time that you have to claim the benefit. There might be an unlimited time some insurance companies transfer the benefit to the state. This means that the process of claiming the benefit will be complicated. So better claim the benefit as soon as you have the documents needed such as a death certificate.

There are also different ways on how the money can reach you. You can either get it at lump sum or by installment. You can receive the claim after seven (7) days when the beneficiary has finished processing all the requirements.

Do not worry if you do not see any taxes taken from the amount you received. There would only be a tax of 55% in the excess of $1 million claim received.

Filing your claim can be hard and stressful at times, so make sure that you have copies of all documents needed. Make sure that you also know your insurance agent and the insurance company of the policy you purchased.

Check www.lifeinsurancequotes-online.org for available insurance that may fit your needs. It is also better if the beneficiaries have access to this information so that they can easily process the claims in cases such as death or accidents. Click here to get more information about life insurance claims.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julius_Daviz_Galvez

Spend enough time assessing the various products of these companies and compare them. Go for the one that can give you the most comprehensive coverage at the price you can afford. Just be careful to properly understand the terms and conditions before signing anything. That brings us to our third tip which is to consult with an expert. Since we are not experts on this field, it's normal for us to entertain doubts. In order to clear up those doubts and secure the most suitable coverage, it's best to seek professional assistance. Consult with an experienced and reliable agent regarding your needs. That way, you will pay for the kind of coverage you want and deserve.

You can learn more about PPI and other forms of insurance by looking up online resources and reviews.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Merle_Bastilla

Taking a look at my Oxford English Dictionary I get no fewer than six distinct meanings. When accounting for the life insurance industry jargon we get a seventh meaning referring to 'the risk' which in this context means whoever is being insured rather than an event that might cause loss or damage.

As a life insurance specialist two key element of what risk is have emerged to me, there must be an element of uncertainty, and there must be a potential for loss.

This is, however, seemingly too simplistic for the insurance industry to use. When calculating life insurance policy costs we also need to encompass a third ingredient which is a measurement that allows risk to be distinguished from uncertainty.

The probabilities of certain events happening, such as death or injury need to be calculated. This process involves using complex financial models based on past statistical data. While pricing factors such as age and sex are beyond your control there are some steps that can be taken to save some money. Smokers will always get a lousy deal when it comes to life insurance, so quitting can save you a packet. Insurance firms will class you as a smoker if you have consumed a cigarette in the last twelve months. If you're classed as overweight you'll also take a hit to the pocket. So cutting down on those excess pounds is a great idea.

Hopefully I have demonstrated how insurance and risk are intertwined and in order to understand the price of life insurance we must first define just what risk is.

Bryan Collins is a life cover specialist, specializing in Endowment Mortgage Insurance and Endowment Insurance

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryan_I_Collins

There are women who are the breadwinners of their families. Purchasing insurance is one way of preparing for whatever accident that may happen in the future. In case of death of the breadwinner, the family is surely to suffer from financial difficulties. An insurance policy would somehow cover the financial loss for a certain period of time depending on the insurance cover chosen by the one paying for it.

There is no assurance that you will always have what you are experiencing currently. There have been a lot of uncertainties when it comes to the current economy as well. In cases where you get an accident or lose a job, the insurance can help you financially while you are in a crisis.

For women who live alone or have no relatives to turn to when they die, they can purchase a death insurance policy. The insurance company will cover burial expenses and other expenses that are left unpaid such as hospital bills and home utilities.

There are different insurance quotes for women. The earlier you purchase an insurance policy, the longer time you have to pay for it. This means that you only have to pay for lower amount each month for a number of years. There are also different factors that determine the insurance quotes for women. Some factors that are taken into consideration include age, annual salary and health condition, whether you have any vices such as drinking and smoking.

It would be best to purchase an insurance policy of your choice while you are still younger. For more detailed information about life insurance for women, you can visit this website. Learn and know more about the different types of insurance available at www.lifeinsurancequotes-online.org. Secure your life and your family as well by getting insurance.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julius_Daviz_Galvez

Different agents of different companies are available. We can buy the policies from them. But as the commission is quite less, so the agents are not keen to sell the policies to the people. Information regarding Term Insurance policies can be obtained from the internet. The companies provide many lucrative death beneficiary schemes. Furthermore, this may be beneficial to think about several simple items regarding recommendations coming from different organizations offering identical or perhaps related term plans.

Term life is undoubtedly a straightforward insurance coverage choice that's appropriate if you're seeking to guarantee your lifetime from minimal price associated with premium rates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dnesh_Khandelwal

Pension Plans are for you if you desire to lead a happy and respectful retirement life, a decent pension plan is a must. Pension plans help to provide better retirement days by securing amount while you are earning. Here, the policyholder can pay any large total sum or premiums for certain years to acquire an annuity throughout old age.

"With Money-Back Plan" you can enjoy insurance coverage along with savings. "In this policy all through the term" you are benefited along with fair dividends along with the final lump sum return.

The eligibility to apply for the life insurance policy is to attend the age of maturity. They can make a valid contract with any of the insurance providing company and can protect those with whom they have an insurable interest. One can also take policies on the life of one's spouse or children, on certain terms and conditions. Policyholder's state of health, the supporter's income and other significant aspects are being checked by the insurer before any approval. For working women who earn an income can also apply for the policy with the above conditions. In other cases, there is an obstruction clause that only female up to the age of 30 years, and if she does not have an income attracting Income Tax can apply for life insurance policies.

While taking a policy, you should ensure that you go through all the terms and conditions carefully, and all questions in the application form are correctly filled. Any parody, non-disclosure or deception in any document may lead to risk and your policy could be considered null and void.

There are several life insurance companies in the market, getting the right insurance policy at the right time is extremely critical. A comparison between different life insurance products and getting a quote, all at one place would be of significant help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dnesh_Khandelwal

While many Americans are concerned that their health issues will drive up the cost of life insurance and make it unaffordable, this is not the case.

"We need to redefine the word 'healthy' in the context of insurance eligibility," says Janet Deskins, Genworth senior vice president for product development. "For adults with conditions such as anxiety, asthma, depression, high cholesterol and sleep apnea, life insurance can still be an affordable part of their overall financial plan, especially if they are actively taking steps to manage their condition."

The Genworth study also revealed that:

2012: Entire U.S. Adult Population 18+ (226 million)

    52% are uninsured; approximately 118 Million
    For those with Insurance, $152K is the average coverage amount

2011: Entire U.S. Adult Population 18+ (223 million)

    51% are uninsured; approximately 114 million
    For those with insurance, $155K is the average coverage amount

Within each of the populations identifying with the health conditions below*, a sizable portion is uninsured:

    Anxiety: 15 million total, 8 million (53%) with no insurance
    Asthma: 13 million total, 7 million (54%) with no insurance
    Depression: 17 million total, 9 million (53%) with no insurance
    High cholesterol: 26 million total, 10 million (39%) with no insurance
    Hypertension: 25 million total, 10 million (40%) with no insurance
    Overweight: 24 million total, 11 million (44%) with no insurance
    Sleep apnea: 12 million total, 5 million (42%) with no insurance

Be sure you take steps in getting yourself covered to ensure you are protected and have a financial plan for your future. Take our insurance quiz below to find out how much you know.

*Mid-point averages were used in coverage amount calculations.

Take our life insurance quiz and see how prepared you are at https://www.naalife.com/life-insurance-quiz.php.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Brunick

3. Fill out the application form

Once you have made up your mind on which policy or insurer you want to choose, you can now start applying for a life plan. This necessitates a preliminary application that will also include few questions concerning your present and past health condition. Insurers make use of the information supplied on the form to help them in creating a policy.

4. Go through a medical exam

Most reputable insurers compel applicants to undergo a medical exam completed before they approve your application. Normally, this test should be paid by the insurance company, which utilizes it to confirm the information on your health history.

5. Understand the premium and coverage before buying it

After taking you medical exam, the insurer will design a policy for you that stipulate your coverage and indicates how much premium will be charged to you. You should get through the policy documents right before you sign it to verify if it suits your needs at a price you can afford.

6. Sign the policy and pay the premium

Lastly, sign the policy papers to obtain insurance coverage and pay the premium. Once you have completed these steps, you already have a life plan that will protect your dependents in case you die.

Mei Mayore is a dedicated life insurance agent who is keen to provide people fast and risk free life insurance quotes. Learn more things on how to achieve maximum savings and claim strategies by visiting Life Insurance Quotes Canada.

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Term life plan, on the other hand, is generally a more affordable policy compared to whole life. It can protect your finances for about 10 or 20 years (the typical period options for this plan). After the indicated period, you can choose to continue receiving financial coverage, but the premiums will be significantly increased. The money your family will receive from your term life plan can be used to continue paying general expenses after your death (such as a mortgage or your children's education). The funds can serve as your beneficiaries' financial solution to the years of potential income that you have lost with the event of your death.

Before taking out an insurance policy, it is recommended that you do sufficient research on the type of coverage that would provide your family with the best benefits. It is also important to gather enough information about a few of your preferred insurance providers before deciding on signing a contract with a single one. You can arrange for a meeting with an agent who can thoroughly explain their policies; you can also request a whole life insurance online quote so you can get a clearer picture of how much the coverage will cost. Making secure financial arrangements is the best way to safeguard your family's financial future no matter what events take place.

It is important to secure the future of your family by having a life insurance. This can help you secure your finances at whatever events that may happen. Choose the life insurance that will suit your funds and your plans, get it from a renowned company that will surely provide you the best coverage for your family.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tyrone_I_Fedler

Benefits

A suicide clause guards an insurer against a circumstance where a policy holder commits suicide with the objective to give his recipients a considerable sum of money from life insurance claims. Considering the fact that contemporary life insurance policies can easily build up a face value of $100,000 or more, the clause can protect the insurer from disbursing such a significant amount of money.

Insurers are not the only one who benefit from suicide clause, even the desperate and emotionally distressed policy holders gains from this clause. For example, if a desperate policy holder learns that their beneficiaries might not get any benefits from their insurance plan if they commit suicide, the person may reconsider his attempt to commit suicide.

Time Frame

A suicide clause usually covers the first two years that the life plan has been in effect. In case the suicide transpired within that period, the insurer will just hand back to the policyholder's recipients any premiums that have been given to that point. If suicide happened subsequent to the clause period, the life insurance company cannot refuse coverage.

Mei Mayore is a dedicated life insurance agent who is keen to provide people fast and risk free life insurance quotes. Learn more things on how to achieve maximum savings and claim strategies by visiting Life Insurance Quotes Canada.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mei_Mayore



A policy holder who feels like he is down in the dumps would be tempted to take his own life only to leave his loved ones a considerable amount of money from a life insurance policy. Suicide of a family member is one of the most disheartening situations any family can encounter. This incident could also complicate the process of claiming the life insurance benefits. But the question whether an insurance company will grant the insurance benefits to the recipients will be hinge on clauses in the policy. There are instances when a policy's suicide clause holds back the redemption of the benefits. Sometimes the policy holder does not easily recognize this clause concerning suicide because some policies use languages like "intentional self-destruction" or "death by one's own hand" to describe the act.

Forms

A suicide clause is just one of the clauses or stipulations that you can find most life insurance policies, while the stipulations may also differ to some extent depending on the state or country. Some insurers include a free look provision that offers the policy owner a considerable period of time to review a policy after it was issued to for the buyer to decide whether he wants to purchase the policy. Incontestability clause prevents the policyholder from annulling the policy after it takes in effect for a definite period of time, except if the policyholder cease from paying the premium.

Purpose

A suicide clause states that policy benefits will not be granted to policyholder's beneficiaries if he ends his own life within a specific term following the inception of the policy. In circumstances a policyholder passes away within that period covered by the suicide clause, the insurer usually investigate the claim strictly to guarantee that the demise of the policy holder was not a case of suicide.

Benefits

A suicide clause guards an insurer against a circumstance where a policy holder commits suicide with the objective to give his recipients a considerable sum of money from life insurance claims. Considering the fact that contemporary life insurance policies can easily build up a face value of $100,000 or more, the clause can protect the insurer from disbursing such a significant amount of money.

Insurers are not the only one who benefit from suicide clause, even the desperate and emotionally distressed policy holders gains from this clause. For example, if a desperate policy holder learns that their beneficiaries might not get any benefits from their insurance plan if they commit suicide, the person may reconsider his attempt to commit suicide.

Time Frame

A suicide clause usually covers the first two years that the life plan has been in effect. In case the suicide transpired within that period, the insurer will just hand back to the policyholder's recipients any premiums that have been given to that point. If suicide happened subsequent to the clause period, the life insurance company cannot refuse coverage.

Mei Mayore is a dedicated life insurance agent who is keen to provide people fast and risk free life insurance quotes. Learn more things on how to achieve maximum savings and claim strategies by visiting Life Insurance Quotes Canada.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mei_Mayore

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7368931

Industrial production rose 1.1% in April, led by automobile manufacturing and utility output, the Federal Reserve said Wednesday.

The gain in activity at factories, mines and utilities topped economists’ projections of a 0.6% increase, Bloomberg reported.

Production had declined 0.6% in March, revised from an unchanged reading.

Factory production, which makes up three-quarters of the total, rose 0.6%, while utility output jumped 4.5%, the most in two years.

Production of automobiles and parts rose 3.9%, following a 1.2% increase. Factory production excluding autos rose 0.3%.

Capacity utilization, which measures plant output, rose to 79.2%, the highest in four years, from 78.4% in March.

Manufacturing accounts for about an eighth of the U.S. economy and the factory sector is one of trucking’s largest and most important customers.

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An index of leading economic indicators fell in April following six straight increases, the New York-based Conference Board said Thursday.

The index slipped 0.1% following a 0.3% gain in March.

Economists had forecast a 0.1% increase, Bloomberg reported.

The LEI is closely watched by trucking companies because it forecasts business activity for the next three to six months.

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Total cargo volume in Southern California ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach rose 2% in April, indicating stronger international trade volume at the nation’s two largest ports.

The total container shipments handled at the ports, measured by industry standard 20-foot units, reached 1.17 million, including a 15% increase at Los Angeles and a 13% drop at Long Beach.

Total cargo volumes at the ports, which handle approximately 40% of containerized international cargo arriving or leaving the U.S., have risen 0.5% through the first four months of 2012.

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Jamie Rector/Bloomberg News

Oil fell more than $1 Wednesday to finish the trading day at six-month-low under $93 a barrel, Bloomberg reported.

The $1.17 decline to $92.81 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange — the lowest closing price since $92.51 on Nov. 2 — followed a Department of Energy report that showed higher supplies last week.

The price also dropped on concerns that Europe’s debt crisis may worsen, after talks to form a coalition government in Greece collapsed, Bloomberg said.

DOE reported Wednesday that crude inventories rose by 2.1 million barrels last week to 45.1 million barrels, the highest level on record.

Analysts had forecast a 1.75 million-barrel gain, Bloomberg reported.

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Bruce Harmon/Trans Pixs

Volvo AB’s North American truck deliveries rose 39% in April from a year ago, the company said Wednesday.

Sales for its Volvo and Mack brands improved to 4,712 trucks, from 3,388 a year ago, Sweden-based Volvo said in a statement.

In North America, Volvo Trucks rose 26% to 2,431 units, while Mack Trucks’ sales soared 75% to 2,238 units.

For the year, North American sales have jumped 44% from a year ago, to 17,560 units, from 12,209.

Worldwide truck deliveries for all Volvo’s brands slipped 4% to 18,497, led by a 27% decline in Western Europe and 30% downturn in South America.

Volvo AB is the parent company of Volvo Trucks North America. Mack Trucks and the Eicher, UD Trucks and Renault Trucks brands.

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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has formally withdrawn its regulation that would have mandated electronic onboard recorders for some carriers.

The action comes nine months after an appeals court blocked the mandate, which would have required EOBRs for about 5,700 carriers with the worst hours-of-service violations.

A supplementary proposal for the universal EOBR mandate, one that fits the harassment requirements, will come in late 2012 or early 2013, the agency said in February.

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U.S. natural gas prices may double from recent 10-year lows by 2015 as more of the fuel is used in transportation, the Financial Times reported Thursday, citing an oil company executive.

Prices will rebound from the recent lows that have come about from strong North American shale gas production, Royal Dutch Shell CEO Peter Voser told the newspaper in an interview.

Truck and engine makers made a big push toward more natural gas use at the Mid-America Trucking Show in March.

Shell is considering plans to liquefy U.S. natural gas for export, which could also raise world natural gas prices, the Financial Times reported.

China and Europe are also boosting exploration, and China may have larger shale resources than North America, the paper said, citing the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

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Initial jobless claims were unchanged last week, holding at 370,000, the Labor Department said Thursday.

Economists had forecast claims to drop to 365,000, Bloomberg reported.

The four-week moving average, a less volatile measure, fell to 375,000, from 379,750.

Continuing claims for the previous week ended May 5 rose by 18,000 to 3.27 million a week earlier.

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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ordered two affiliated Alabama trucking companies to stop operating, declaring the carriers “imminent hazards to public safety.”

BM&L Trucking LLC and IDM Transportation Inc. had multiple federal safety violations in the areas of hours-of-service compliance, driver qualifications and vehicle maintenance, FMCSA said May 16.

BM&L declined comment, and a message left with IDM was not returned.

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YRC Freight, the national less-than-truckload unit of YRC Worldwide, said it plans to immediately add 200 over-the-road drivers in 13 locations.

The announcement by Overland Park, Kan.-YRC said drivers are being hired because “the Freight unit is growing and volumes are building.”

The locations include three in Ohio and two in New York State, as well as Chicago; St. Paul, Minn.; Salt Lake City; Indianapolis; Charlotte, N.C.; Jackson, Miss.; Albuquerque, N.M.; and Kansas City, Mo.

YRC Worldwide is ranked No. 4 on the Transport Topics 100 listing of U.S. and Canadian for-hire carriers.

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An index of manufacturing activity in the Philadelphia region in May showed contraction for the first time in eight months, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia said Thursday.

The region’s factory index fell to a reading of minus 5.8, from a reading of 8.5 in March. Readings greater than zero indicate expansion.

The May reading was the lowest since September and was below economists’ forecasts of a 10 reading, Bloomberg reported.

The Philadelphia Fed surveys about 100 manufacturers for the index in eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware and southern New Jersey.

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Mud motor failure downhole may be happened from time to time. The questions that are usually raised are things like “How do I know if the mud motor fails down hole?” and “What indications will I see that this has happened?” etc. Due to this, I would like to share my personal experience regarding mud motor failure and its symptoms.

The following signs indicate that you may be faced with downhole mud motor breakdown.

Frequent Mud Motor Stall– Motor stall happens when the rotor of the mud motor has stopped moving. Typically, the motor stalls only with a high differential of pressure. However, if the motor doesn't perform as normal, it will get stalled with by a small amount of differential pressure. For instance, a mud motor normally drills at 400 psi differential pressure, but if the motor is stalled out with only 100 psi you can suspect the problem is with the motor.

Pressure fluctuation while rotating- As you know, differential pressure it a set parameter while rotating down, not based on the weight on bit (WOB). Rotating with a good mud motor won't create pressure fluctuations, whereas a bad mud motor will show fluctuation in stand pipe pressure and you may not be able to maintain constant pressure.

Abnormally high surface pressure– A stator is made of rubber. When the stator rubber is worn out and breaking into pieces, small parts of rubber can jam the flow path in the motor. This situation also results in high stand pipe pressure.

Reduction in Rate of Penetration– If there are no changes in formation and drilling parameters, the decreasing in ROP (Rate of Penetration) may be caused by failure of the down hole tool. Moreover, if the took is severely damaged, you will be able to drill any footage.

What should you do if the problem is clearly identified?

The only thing you can do is pull out of the hole and change a new tool. It is almost impossible to drill with a damaged mud motor unless you only have a few feet to the well target depth.

With the mentioned indicators of mud motor failure above, you should be able to identify your suspected problem and begin troubleshooting as soon as possible to minimize non-productive time on a drilling rig. Ref: Article : How to Determine Mud Motor Failure in drilling formulas blog

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Drilling waste minimization is a method to reduce any waste generated from drilling operation. The ideal goal of it is to generate zero residue requiring final disposals. People have developed technologies for two main reasons which are project cost reduction and environmental protection.

Typically, the drilling waste minimization starts with reducing amount of drilling waste, recycling and recovering waste streams which will be covered in next topics in this blog.

Strategies for minimizing drilling waste are listed below:

• Minimize hole volume

• Optimize drilling mud and solid control equipment

• Reusing drilling fluids and water as much as possible

• Motivating contractors by creating the achievable waste management scheme so they can get good payment and overall waste is reduced

• Using only required chemical in drilling mud and reducing toxic fluid additives

• Eliminating single packing waste by using bulk material delivery

• Optimizing solid control equipment

• Using experienced personnel to work on the project

• Developing best practices to manage drilling waste

• Implementing special waste monitoring programs which will tell people signs if the operation is met both economical and environmental criteria.

• Studying new technology from several sources and implement some techniques that suite with the drilling operation in the area

We will try to cover a lot of details regarding the drilling waste management in many aspects in the following articles. Please feel free to sign up the newsletter to get the update from us.

Reference from: Drilling Waste Minimization Strategies article from drilling mud blog.

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Today, we would like to distribute the new update

Drilling formula version 1.3. It is still totally FREE!

What new drilling formulas are added into the drilling formula version 1.3?

Effective Viscosity

Hydraulic Horse Power (HPP)

Optimum Flow Rate for basic system

Power Law Constant

Pressure Loss Annulus

Pressure Loss Annulus With Tool Joint Correction

Pressure Loss Drillstring

Pressure Loss Drillstring With Tool Joint Correction

Pressure Loss in Surface Equipment

Reynold Number

How many total useful drilling formulas in this version?

There are a total of 87 formulas which are divided into 7 categories (Applied Drilling Formulas, Basic Drilling Formulas, Directional Drilling Calculation, Drilling Fluid Formulas, Engineering Formulas, Hydraulic Formulas and Well Control Formulas).

Download Now For Free!!!

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Actions of OPEC and free market factors were already in place to bring oil prices down. It is the stated goal of OPEC members to get oil trading between $75.-$80 bbl . The fundamentals for this price reducing goal were already in place, along with market forces which had oil predestined to meet these goals. The Obama administration is simply seeking to capitalize on a pre-existing market dynamic and claim undue credit in order to translate falling pump prices into votes. A scheme that , with the help of the media and an oil-ignorant populace, will likely work.

Release of crude from the SPR is a bad idea, decreases national security and is, in this instance, DEFINITELY politically motivated. If the administration was truly concerned about fuel prices at the pump, they would place a moratorium on federal fuel taxes, and if release of SPR crude were out of "genuine concern" (which it is not) they'd have taken this action , and tooted their horn about it, a few months ago when prices were reaching their peak and still climbing (it wouldn't have helped prices back then, just as it won't in the big picture now, but at least now, in a falling market, it is easy to put forth the appearance that the release of SPR crude is accomplishing something).

Comment by Drilling Ahead on June 26, 2011 at 10:45am I have to agree 100% Chris. Our share of the 60 million barrel release(which would fuel the world for 17 hours) is 30 million barrels. What does President Obama plan to do with the revenue from the 30 million barrels? Is he just using this as smoke and mirrors to get his hands on billions of dollars in extra spending money for Congress? When we replace the 30 million barrels we released-it will be at a higher price and in the end it will just be another colossal waste of taxpayer money.Comment

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Pore pressure in shale is more than hydrostatic pressure; however the well does not flow because shale is in permeable. While drilling through pressured shale formation, pressure in shale causes fractures of shale due to stress crack.

Shale finally falls into the well and results in stuck pipe incident.

Warning signs of geo-pressured shale

• Shale fractures are seen at shale shakers.

• Possibly observe change in d-exponent, which means a sign of abnormal pressure, from mud logger.

• Pump pressure abnormally increases.

• Increase in rate of penetration (ROP).

• When compared to a normal trend, torque and drag trend abnormally increase.

• Background gas may increase.

Indications when you stuck due to geo-pressured shale

• It could be happened either while tripping or drilling.

• When it happens, the hole may be completely packed off; therefore, circulate is restricted or impossible in some cases.

What should you do for this situation?

1. Attempt to circulate with low pressure (300-400 psi). Do not use high pump pressure because the annulus will be packed harder and you will not be able to free the pipe anymore.

2. If you are drilling or POOH, apply maximum allowable torque and jar down with maximum trip load.

3. If you are tripping in hole, jar up with maximum trip load without applying any torque.

4. Attempt until pipe free and circulate to clean wellbore.

Preventive actions

1. Use proper mud weight to create over balance. You may need to weight up prior to drilling in to high pressure shale zones.

2. Minimize surge pressure and equivalent circulating density (ECD) in the wellbore.

Reference: Drilling formulas blog in the section of stuck pipe

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Overburden stress increases over depth (the more a well is drilled, the more overburden stress will be seen). When mud weight is not enough to support the overburden, the stress from the overburden will create shale fractures which will fall down into the wellbore. Finally, shale fractures will pack the wellbore and cause a stuck pipe incident,

(Mud weight is high enough to overcome overburden stress.)

(Mud weight is not high enough to overcome overburden stress.)

Warning signs of overburden stress shale

• Torque and drag increase.

• Pump pressure increase.

• Abnormal amount of shale at shale shakers

• Caving shape of shale at shakers

Indications when you stuck due to overburden stress shale

• It could be happened either while tripping or drilling (most likely while drilling).

• When it happens, the hole may be completely packed off or bridged off; therefore, circulation is very difficult or impossible to establish.

What should you do for this situation?

1. Attempt to circulate with low pressure (300-400 psi). Do not use high pump pressure because the annulus will be packed harder and you will not be able to free the pipe anymore.

2. If you are drilling or POOH, apply maximum allowable torque and jar down with maximum trip load.

3. If you are tripping in hole, jar up with maximum trip load without applying any torque.

4. Attempt until pipe free and circulate to clean wellbore.

Preventive actions:

1. Use drilling mud that heavy enough to stabilize overburden stress.

2. Weight up mud prior to drilling into stressed shale zones.

Reference: Overburden Stress Shale Causes Stuck Pipe in Drilling Formulas blog

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Cutting slip velocity is velocity of cutting that naturally falls down due to its density. In order to effectively clean the hole, effect of mud flow upward direction and mud properties must be greater than cutting slip velocity (settling tendency of cuttings). Otherwise, cutting will fall down and create cutting bed.

You can learn more detail about it via this topic -> Cutting Slip Velocity

This calculation will show annular velocity, cutting slip velocity and net velocity so you can use as a reference for you hole cleaning indication. There are 2 calculation methods and I will show the first method via this topic.

1. Determine annular velocity with following equation:

Where;

AV is annular velocity in ft/min.

Q is flow rate in gpm (gallon per minute).

Dh is diameter of hole in inch.

Dp is diameter of drill pipe in inch.

2. Determine cutting slip velocity with following equation:

Where; Vs is cutting slip velocity in ft/min.

PV is plastic viscosity in centi-poise.

MW is mud weight in ppg.

Dp is diameter of cutting in inch.

DenP is cutting density in ppg.

3. Determine net rise velocity with following equation:

Net rise velocity = AV – Vs

Where; AV is annular velocity in ft/min.

Vs Cutting Velocity in ft/min.

This figure indicates that cuttings are being lifted by mud or are still falling down. If net rise velocity is positive, it means that you have good flow rate which can carry cutting in the wellbore.
On the other hand,If net rise velocity is negative, your current flow rate is NOT engough to carry cuttings.

Example: Please use the following information to determine annular velocity, cutting slip velocity, net rise velocity, and tell us if the flow rate is good for hole cleaning.

Information

Flow rate = 300 gpm

Hole Diameter = 6.3 inch

Drillpipe OD = 4 inch

PV = 15 cps

MW = 10 ppg

Diameter of cutting = 0.20 inch

Density of cutting = 20.0 ppg

1. Determine annular velocity:

AV = 310.3 ft/min

2. Determine cutting slip velocity:

Vs = 35.4 ft/min

3. Determine net rise velocity with following equation:

Net rise velocity = AV – Vs Net rise velocity = 310.3 – 35.4 = 274.9 ft/min

Conclusion: This flow rate is GOOD for hole cleaning practice because annular velocity is more than cutting slip velocity.

If you are interested in the spread sheet from this topic, please download from this site, Drilling Formula Calculation Sheet.

Reference from: drilling formulas

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This article will demonstrate you how to determine hole size by fluid caliper. First of all, you need to know what is the fluid caliper is. The fluid caliper is one simple way to calculate hole diameter. The concept is based on hole volume, annular capacity, and inner capacity. You pump any substance and when you seen it on surface, you back calculate the hole size based on strokes pumped. It is quite tricky to explain so I would like you to see the example below which it will make you clear about what I say.

7” casing shoe is set at 5000’MD/4500’TVD

7” casing 23 ppf, ID 6.33 inch

4” drill pipe is used to drill the well and its ID is 3.34 inch.

4-3/4” drill collar is used as BHA and its ID is 2.5 inch. The length of drill collar is 500 ft.

This hole section is used water based mud and the bit size is 6-1/8”

Drill to section TD at 10,000’MD/9,000’TVD then drop carbide once TD is reached.

Pump output is 0.1 bbl/stroke.

Surface line from pumps to rig floor is 20 bbl.

Carbide is detected by a gas sensor on surface after 4,000 strokes pump.

With the given information, determine what is the hole size of the open hole section.

The basic drilling formulas that you need to know are inner capacity and annular capacity calculation.

1st step – Determine Inner Capacity and Annular Capacity of All Parts

Inner capacity of 4”DP

Inner capacity of 4”DP = 0.01084 bbl/ft

Inner capacity of 4-3/4”DC

Inner capacity of 4-3/4”DC = 0.00607 bbl/ft

Annular capacity between 4” DP and 7” Casing

Annular capacity between 4” DP and 7” Casing = 0.02383 bbl/ft

I assign “d” is the open hole diameter.

Annular capacity between 4” DP and open hole

Annular capacity between 4 3/4” DP and open hole

2nd step – Determine Volume of All Parts

Volume in 4”DP = Inner capacity of 4”DP x length of 4” DP

Volume in 4”DP = 0.01084 x 9,500 = 103 bbl

Volume in 4-3/4”DC = Inner capacity of 4-3/4”DC x length of 4-3/4”DC

Volume in 4-3/4”DC = 0.00607 x 500 = 3 bbl

Volume between 4”DP and 7” Casing = Annular capacity between 4” DP and 7” Casing x length of 4” DP inside 7” casing

Volume between 4”DP and 7” Casing = 0.02383 x 5,000 = 119 bbl

Volume between 4”DP and open hole = Annular capacity between 4” DP and open hole x length of 4” DP inside open hole

Volume between 4-3/4”DC and open hole = Annular capacity between 4-3/4”DC and open hole x length of 4-3/4”DC inside open hole

3rd step – determine hole size. The total volume pump is equal to total volume in the system.

With the pump output of 0.1 bbl/stroke, 4000 strokes equate to 400 bbl.

In the following equation, I account for the surface volume from the pump to the rig floor.

Solve the equation to get d, d is equal to 6.97”.

Answer:You will get the hole size based on the fluid caliper of 6.97 inch.

I wish this article will give you idea on how to calculate hole size based on the fluid caliper.

Ref: Drilling Formulas blog in the topic of How To Determine Hole Size By Fluid Caliper

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Another late night researching OSHA confined spaces and H2S safety.

Eagle Ford Shale is in my back yard, and started Crude Rig Washing LLC with my younger brother, we are two months in the works.

I'm now fully comply with federal, state, general liability insurance, workers comp, truck trailer, employees hired, have all the equipment to perform my service to the oil and gas industries, PPEs', MSDS, and the dream team, with two (bad to the brizzle!) seasoned veterans as senior supers.

All this week I have been back and forth to locations making contacts with company men, filling out vendor forms. Now I'm looking for that call or Email.

Being that this is a holiday weekend I figured it might be a little time waiting for a response from the companies I desired and prayed I will be working for to give me that conformation, that I'm accepted.

Much anticipation should be worth the hard work set forth by my brother and family who stood behind me asking, "What you going to do now? Why not just sell it, and go back into home building," thanks mom!!! (lol)

I just wanted to thank Drilling Ahead for the information I obtained, and the Rig Count helped me big time. I'm going to keep posted keeping D.A. members informed.

Open for job leads; let those companies know I exist, also new employment opportunities coming soon within the New Year.
Thanks,
Jacob
Crude Rig Washing, LLC

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Kill Weight Mud or Kill Drilling Fluid Density is the mud weight required to balance formation pressure. The kill weight mud may be pumped into the well at different time depending on kill methods (Driller’s method, Wait and Weight, Bull head, etc).

How to determine kill weight mud?

With the following equation, you can determine this figure.

Kill Weight Mud (KWM) = Current Mud Weight + (SIDPP ÷ 0.052 ÷ Well TVD)

Where,

Kill Weight Mud (KWM) in ppg

Current Mud Weight in ppg

SIDP stands for “Shut In Drill Pipe Pressure” in psi.

Well TVD is true vertical depth of the well in ft.

If your drilling string has a solid float, you will not be able to read SIDPP right away. So you need to bump the float to get SIDPP. You can read more detail about it via this > float bumping procedure.

Example

Drilling with 9.5 ppg mud and current depth at 9500’MD/9000’TVD. The well takes influx. Operation is stopped and the well is shut in.

Shut in drill pipe pressure = 550 psi.

Shut in casing pressure = 700 psi.

The kill weight mud required to balance formation pressure:

KWM = 9.5 + (550 ÷ 0.052 ÷ 9000)

KWM = 10.7 (round up number)

Why do we need to use SIDPP?

When you take a kick (wellbore influx), the density of fluid in the annulus is very hard to predict because it is a mixture between drilling mud and influx. Therefore, you don’t know exactly what the density in the annulus is. Moreover if you take gas kick, shut in casing pressure will increase over time, and you will NOT be able to identify the right shut in pressure to determine formation pressure.

Looking at the drill pipe side, there is only one pure fluid column so you know exactly its density. With the precise mud density, you can apply hydrostatic pressure concept in order to get the formation pressure and kill weight mud (the equation is showed at the beginning of the topic).

Reference : Kill Weight Mud topic at Drilling Formulas Blog

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Trying to find someplace that a guy could get 1502 plug valves they are in short supply here in North Dakota and months out at the distributors in the state. If anyone knows where to find any i would be grateful for the info.

 Thanks

Comment by Dwayne "Cactus" Jones on December 4, 2011 at 2:46pm

Call NOV or Bell Supply in Kilgore, Texas and have them shipped to you

Comment by Dustin Frazier on December 4, 2011 at 3:04pm Comment by Roger Payne on December 4, 2011 at 3:11pm

You may have tryed this ! Call Kemper Valve In Sulpher, Ok. Or FMC in Stephenville,Tx. Or as Cactus said you may try the supply stores, But my guess would be the supply stores are haveing a hard time getting from people like the ones i posted above..

Comment by Scott Murdock on December 4, 2011 at 3:21pm

We have lots up here in alaska in prudhoe bay, but we are having a whiteout snow storm right now. Good luck in your search FMC is your best bet.

Comment by Scott Murdock on December 4, 2011 at 3:22pm

If anyone sees Darrie Lindberg, tell him murdock said you rock old man, and the nordic guys said hello too.

Comment by Horizon3 on December 4, 2011 at 5:02pm

You might try Schlumberger or Halliburton, or one of the other service companies, they might lease you some until you can get some from a distributor. I would imagine that FMC and the other valve companies are trying to play catchup with the recent booms going on overseas and in the Northern US, and that is why the supply houses and others are having a hard time getting them.

Comment by Wayne Nash on December 4, 2011 at 5:32pm

Call James at Weatherford, Williston.  If he can't find it for ya, nobody can.  701-339-2929. Tell him I sent ya.

Comment by BS Safety on December 4, 2011 at 6:25pm

May be something of a haul from West Texas but Halliburton has plenty.lol

Comment by Ted A Snelling Jr. on December 7, 2011 at 10:45am

Contact Phoinix Global LLC., Alice, TX  361-664-6163

They manufacture them.

Comment by Brock Hodges on December 30, 2011 at 10:39am

We can get them for you WB Supply Co  the 2" are running about 8 to 12 weeks out but 3" is usually shipped next day I you need any help call 806-669-1103 Ask for Mark or Brock or email me at bhodges@wbsupply.com  we can help you out for anything you may need, or do our best to get you what you need.

Comment

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What it's Like To Be Oilfield Trash
Everyday the headlines read something about the hardships hard-working American men  are causing on cities and towns where drilling is occurring.

In Pennsylvania a Congressmen accuses oilfield workers of spreading sexually transmitted disease among his "womenfolks" as he calls them. The issue to him was never

"What were the womenfolks of his community doing dropping their panties for these oilfield workers" or "maybe it was the locals who actually harbored the disease and spread it to the workers to begin with"?

To these locals of Pennsylvania it's ok if you are a Penn State football coach who knew your staff was a child molester for over the last 9 years and not report it to the authorities-Hey the locals support this so much they take to the streets and overturn news vans and break windows, destroying the property of others so they can show their support for the staff that seemed to condone child molesting.

These are the same people calling us "Oilfield Trash"-If the term distinguishes me from them then I wear the moniker proudly.

The issue is the same in Williston North Dakota
City Councils there have started banning new "Man Camp" permits-meaning that the camps provided by the companies to house and feed their workers will no longer receive permitting. The reason the councils quote for this is because they cannot handle the influx of people-it's just to much of a burden on their resources. The excuse is just another lie the locals use to disguise the real truth.

Obviously a "Man Camp" by definition is designed to remove much of the burden off cities and stopping them would actually increase the burden on cities as the workers would need to find private housing. Maybe you have already guessed it-the city does not make money off the men staying in "Man Camps" so they want the Man Camps gone. The camps mean lost revenue for those on the council that own rental housing. Man Camps mean lost revenue for those that own the RV Parks. Man Camps also feed the workers this means lost revenue for the food and dining sector.

In North Dakota communities could care less about oilfield workers-in their greed all they want is the money and to hell with the living conditions and the individuals. In Williston you are nothing more than "Oilfield Trash"... nevermind that you are an honest hard-working American man far from home trying your best to provide a living for your family.

To these bigots of North Dakota you are trash.

Still have your doubts?

If they had their way in Williston, North Dakota your kids would not be allowed to ride the school bus with local kids-Oilfield Trash would have separate bathrooms and drinking fountains...you get the idea I'm sure.

If you still have your doubts that the prejudice exists in Williston-

This incident happened last night in a restaurant at the Eagle Ridge Golf Club of Williston as reported to me by a friend

My boss, was jumped in a restaurant last night in Williston, North Dakota...

Here's what happened..

He and his wife went to the little local country club... They were expecting other guests.. As such, they moved two tables together. The waiter came over and jumped all over him for it.

Ended up in an argument about it, but eventually, He just let it go. About 10 minutes later, a large group comes in.. They move tables together, and none of the staff said anything to them. So He calls the waiter over.. The waiter jumps all over his a**, calling him "white oilfield trash", and proceeds to start yelling at his wife.. Words got exchanged, to say the least.. He finally says screw it, and he and his wife turn to leave.. At which point, the waiter jumps him from behind, knocking him out....

It was made VERY clear that "trash" was not welcome on the property.

To those of you who take offense to not only being treated like trash but to those that also have a dislike for cowardly back jumping waiters you should stop by this club in Williston have a couple of shots of whiskey then share your concerns with the staff.

Contact details;

"Missouri Club" 

Located at

Eagle Ridge Golf Club
6401 3rd Ave E
PO Box 4125
Williston, ND 58801

As for me, if being "Oilfield Trash" means I am an honest hard-working man that provides for my family with back-breaking labor and the handful of skills the good lord provided me with then I accept the tag with pride.

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“A Roughneck Wife”

It’s his last day home…
The hitch begins tomorrow…
His days at home seem so short…
And I can feel the heartache coming just as it always does…
So I busy myself washin, packin up his clothes…
while the smell of oil base mud is fillin up our home…
It’s hard to keep my head up…
Cause tomorrow he’ll be gone…
but that Iron Hors?e is calling and it almost time to go…

I know it’s hard on him as well…
And I know he doesn’t like to go…
But the job it just won’t wait…
So he’s gettin ready to headed out…
Clear across the state…

As we load his bags in the truck…
He’s tellin us good-bye…
We watch him as he leaves…
Till his truck is out of sight…
With tears fallin down my cheek…
I’m prayin…
God watch over that Roughneck…
He means everything to me…

I keep my phone close to me…
Just in case he tries to call…
It doesn’t bring much comfort though…
Cause the rig is out to far…
And no one gets phone service…
So he can’t make that call…

I’m layin here in bed tonight…
Missin him so much…
Our daughter layin next to me…
It’s hard to hide my tears…
She’s so young she doesn’t know…
How dangerous daddy's job can be…

The hardest thing I do is worry…
I cry myself to sleep begging God to please keep him safe…
I cry sometimes for no reason or because I’m lonely…
But when he calls me and tells me baby I’m on my way…
This hitch is over…
All those worries and fears go away even if only for 7 days…
And I can’t wait to see my Roughneck…

It’s not easy being a Roughnecks wife…
It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done…
While most husbands come home every night mine…
Stays in a trailer, eats microwaved meals and eats off paper plates all while missing his wife and kids…
For 7 long days at a time…
I love this man he’s a strong man, he’s a Roughneck…
And I’m proud to be his wife…
Even if there are days when I wish he wasn’t in the oilfield…
Days when we miss him so much that it hurts…

Days when nothing goes right…
Days when you just need your man beside you…
I’m still proud to be his wife!…

Comment by Trent Kite on October 5, 2011 at 2:15pm Comment by Dustin Frazier on November 27, 2011 at 12:16pm

Now there is an awesome statement!!! Nice!!

Comment by Suzie Black on November 27, 2011 at 2:41pm Comment by Erin Lynch on December 19, 2011 at 10:50pm

That brought a tear to my eye, I loved it!

Comment by Suzie Black on December 19, 2011 at 10:57pm Comment by Brandy Drake on December 22, 2011 at 5:37pm

this is so true, very well put.....it is great

Comment by Marylisabeth Irwin on February 17, 2012 at 12:03am Comment

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January 19th, 2012

It's early in the new year and already we are seeing a number of catastrophic drilling accidents which include blowouts and deaths. Despite millions being spent by drilling contractors in training and HSE each year, the deadly pattern continues with the latest tragedy being the KS Endeavor platform off the coast of Nigeria where today 2 missing workers were declared "missing and presumed dead" after the drilling rig blow out that occurred while drilling for Chevron.

Tonight I visited the OSHA website (OSHA records accident details for all industries in the United States) wanting to find out just how oilfield fatalities are occurring. Reading and learning from these tragedies are ways to prevent them in the future.

After reading several hours I have highlighted many drilling rig accidents that have been recorded on the OSHA site over the last several years with links to details of each accident below. I look forward to your comments on how we can make drilling wells a safer occupation.

There are several more pages that include oilfield related drilling fatalities so I plan to update this blog over the next few weeks with those details. Please bookmark this page to follow these reports.

Employee Is Killed When Struck By Falling Pipe

Employee #1 was using an air hoist to lift a 12-foot long, 6.25-inch diameter pipe segment that weighed approximately 1,200 pounds onto a drilling platform. The suspended load did not have a tag line, and the chain sling had been wrapped around the pipe, without a shoulder or place to connect the lifting adapter, with a double half-hitch configuration. The load slipped out of the chain sling and struck Employee #1, killing him.
Details

Employee Killed In Fall From Oil Derrick
Employee #1, the derrick man on a drilling rig that was being rigged down, went up the ladder after the cathead line had become entangled as the stabbing board was being lowered. He was observed pulling on the catline and then had a coworker cut the tag line that went to the fall protection line. He was observed pulling on this tag line, and then climbed to a higher elevation, apparently free climbing because the climb assist was stuck. Shortly thereafter, the counterweight to the climb assist was heard coming down the line very fast and then hit the end of the line. Employee #1 lost his grip and fell 50 ft to the oil rig floor. He was killed. The climb assist apparently was entangled with the tag line for the fall protection. When Employee #1 climbed to a higher level, he created slack in the climb assist so that when it came free, it accelerated very rapidly. This caused a shock overload to its pulley, which apparently jerked Employee #1 off the ladder. Employee #1's failure to use the fall protection equipment also contributed to the accident.

Details

Employee Is Killed In Fall From Rig Monkeyboard

Employee #1, the derrickman, disconnected from his fall protection and stepped or fell off the monkeyboard. Employee #1 was killed in the fall. The investigation was in progress at the time this report was written.
Details

Employee Is Killed When Struck By High Pressure Line

Employee #1 was working on a high pressure line. An explosion occurred, causing the line to strike and kill Employee #1.

The Cause:
Employees were using a 600 psi Hammond ball valve in a 5,000 psi PZL (PZL-11) Triplex drilling mud pump (reduced to 4,200 psi) to pump water through the line. The Hammond 600 psi ball valve failed resulting in one employee being hospitalized and one employee fatality injured.
Details

Employee Is Killed When Struck By Drill Pipe Collar

Employee #1, a derrick man, was working the drilling board (monkey board) when a drill pipe collar came loose from the securing chain and struck him in the head. When reached by coworkers, he was determined to be unconscious. Paramedics were unsuccessful in resuscitation, and Employee #1 was pronounced dead at the scene.

Feasible and Acceptable Abatement Methods would include: 1. Ensure that employees are protected from being struck by drill collars due to the stand of drill collars stored in the alley behind the derrick man. 2. Modify the current procedure for securing the drill collars in the alley. 3. Ensure that employees are trained on securing the stand of drill collars, properly.
Details

Employee Is Killed When Crushed By Falling Pipe

Employee #1 was attempting to repair brackets on a pipe rack. He crawled underneath the tubing and the pipe rack collapsed. He was struck on the back by four 30 ft joints of oil well tubing. Employee #1 was asphyxiated.
Details

Employee Is Burned When Oil Well Blows Out, Later Dies

Employee #1 was operating a pump truck supplying fresh water to the cement truck. After the bottom plug was poured, the well started to flow, uncontrollably. The fluids from the well were reaching the tubing board on the rig mast and falling onto the trucks. The fluids ignited burning 40 percent of Employee #1's body. Employee #1 was being treated at a hospital when he died from complications from the burns.
Details

Employee Is Killed When Safety Harness Strikes
Employee #1 was painting a traveling block of an "A" frame of the drilling unit. Following the completion of the job task, Employee #1 disconnected his lanyard and let it dangle below him. As Employee #1 was being lowered by the air hoist, the lanyard and the air line entangled in the rotating kelly on a rig floor. Employee #1 was pulled into the rotating kelly and struck by the safety harness. He was killed.

OSHA Imposed fines and quoted the following:

American Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practice 54, August 1999 states in Paragraph 5.5.1 " All personnel, when engaged in work ten feet above the rig floor or other working surfaces, shall be protected at all times from falling by guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems (PFAS). When the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to use these systems, the employer shall develop and implement an alternative fall protection plan that provides for personnel safety."

American Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practice 54, August 1999 states in Paragraph 6.8.5 "No personnel shall clean, lubricate, or repair any machinery where there is a hazard of contact with moving parts until such machinery has been stopped or such parts have been properly guarded."

Details

Employee Is Killed When Pinned Between Derrick And Wall

A three-person crew was painting a rig derrick/mast that had been removed from its rig floor and placed horizontally on two stands. The crew was lowering the diving board to its storage/resting position, when the diving board section started to jam up and would not lower to its storage/resting position. Employee #1 was trying to get the back wind wall unjammed, when the board fingers pinched his head against the back wind wall, crushing his head. It appeared as though the cable associated with the wench being used to lower the boards had some slack in the line, and, when Employee #1 freed the wind wall, the board fell into its resting position, pinching the employees head between the fingers and the wind wall. Employee #1 was killed.
Details

Employee Is Struck By Falling Oilfield Equipment, Later Dies

Employee #1, the lead operator of a nipple-up crew and two other crew members had completed torquing the bolts on a dry hole tree at the wellhead of a natural gas well and were preparing to exit from the rig's substructure. Another nipple-up employee had erected a pump beneath the substructure to test the wellhead. Two employees of the drilling crew had begun rig-down activities and had lowered one of two elevator links (bail) to the ground using the air tugger. Control of the second of the bails was lost during the lowering operation. The leg of the 0.25-in. chain sling broke and the bail fell, bouncing into the substructure where it struck Employee #1. Employee #1 suffered a laceration to the head, blunt force trauma to the right chest and shoulder, a fractured right leg and internal injuries. Employee #1 was declared dead a few hours after arrival at the hospital.

Details

Employee Is Struck By Falling Steps And Is Killed

Employee #1 was struck by falling steps when the metal steps he was ascending to the drilling platform dislodged and fell. Employee #1 also fell and the steps landed on him. Employee #1 died of asphyxiation.

OSHA Found:
The drilling contractor did not ensure that employees were protected from falls and a crushing hazard due to inadequately secured stairs leading from the drilling platform to the mud tank. One feasible and acceptable method to abate the hazards noted above would be to secure the steps at more than one point.
Details

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Cement volume calculation is based on annular capacity multiplied by length of cement as per cement program.

This topic will demonstrate you how to determine cement volume as per specification and displace volume. After reading and understanding the concept, you will be able to apply to your cement job.

The knowledge required: annular capacityy and inner capacity of cylindical object

Well information:

Well is drilled with 8.5 inch bit to 9,015 MD/8,505 TVD with oil based mud (9.5 ppg). Estimated hole sized based on an open hole log is 8.6 inch.

Previous casing size is 9-5/8” and its shoe is at 6,500 MD/5000’TVD.

Plan to run 7” casing and planned shoe depth at 9,000’MD/8,500’TVD.

There is one float collar at 8960’MD/8470’ TVD.

Top of cement is 2000 ft above 9-5/8” casing.

Spacer volume is from top of cement to surface.

Casing information

7” casing ID = 6.185”

9-5/8” casing ID = 8.85”

Use hole size measured from the open hole log to determine cement volume.

The well schematic should look like this.

Determine the following items:

• Cement volume

• Spacer volume

• Displace volume

As per the cement program, the final schematic will look like this.

Determine cement volume

Total cement volume = cement in the annulus between open hole and 7” casing + cement in annulus between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing + cement in shoe track

There are three parts that you need to calculate in order to get total cement volume as listed below:

1. cement in the annulus between open hole and 7” casing

2. cement in annulus between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing

3. cement in shoe track

The cement volume is based on annular capacity multiplied by cement length of each section.

Cement in the annulus between open hole and 7” casing

Annular capacity between open hole and 7” casing = (8.62-72) ÷ 1029.4 = 0.02425 bbl/ft

Length from 7” casing shoe to 9-5/8” casing shoe = 9000 – 6500 = 2500 ft

Cement in the annulus between open hole and 7” casing = 0.02425x2500 = 60.6 bbl

Cement in annulus between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing

Annular capacity between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing = (8.852-72) ÷ 1029.4 = 0.02849 bbl/ft

Length of cement inside 7” casing = 2000 ft

Cement in annulus between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing = 0.02849 x 2000 = 57 bbl

Cement in shoe track

Capacity of 7” casing = 6.1852 ÷ 1029.4 = 0.03716 bbl/ft

Shoe track length = 40 ft

Cement in shoe track = 40 x 0.03716 = 1.5 bbl

Total Cement Volume

Total cement = 60.6 + 57 + 1.5 = 119.1 bbl

Determine space volume

As per the cement program, spacer will be at surface.

Spacer volume = Annular capacity between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing x length of spacer

Annular capacity between 9-5/8” casing and 7” casing = (8.852-72) ÷ 1029.4 = 0.02849 bbl/ft

Length of spacer = volume annulus to TOC

TOC 2000 ft inside casing shoe = 6,500 – 2,000 = 4,500 ft

Spacer volume = 0.02849 x 4,500 = 128.2 bbl

Determine displace volume

The displacement volume is from surface to the float collar where the top plug will sit on.

Displacement volume = Capacity of 7” casing x Length to the float collar

Capacity of 7” casing = 6.1852 ÷ 1029.4 = 0.03716 bbl/ft

Length to the float collar = 8,960 ft

Displacement volume = 0.03716 x 8960 = 333 bbl

Conclusion for this cement calculation

• Cement volume = 119.1 bbl

• Spacer volume = 128.2 bbl

• Displace volume = 333 bbl

With this example, I wish you would understand more about how to determine cement volume. Please remember that any cement volume calculation is based on this concept.

Ref: The topic of Calculate Cement (Oil Well Cement) Volume Required at the drilling formulas blog.

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