Section 6 - Erd, Hole Cleaning, Barite Sag and Lubricity PDF

deviated erd
drilling
section 6
section 6a – hole cleaning
section 6b – barite sag
section 6c - lubricity
hole cleaning
section 6a
deviated drilling - hole cleaning
Section 6a
contents
factors that impact hole cleaning ..................................................................................1
annular velocity (av)...................................................................................................1
drill pipe rotation ........................................................................................................1
mud weight ..................................................................................................................2
hole angle .....................................................................................................................2
rheology .........................................................................................................................2
cutting size ....................................................................................................................3
drill pipe eccentricity .................................................................................................3
feed concentration (rop)...........................................................................................4
mud type........................................................................................................................4
drill pipe size.................................................................................................................4
significant parameters noted for cuttings bed heights of <10%: angle
60˚ or greater .......................................................................................................4
significant parameters noted for cuttings bed heights of >50%...............4
general ............................................................................................................................4
conclusions summary................................................................................................5
hole cleaning in deviated wells.......................................................................................5
good hole cleaning practices ..........................................................................................7
mud and rheology guidelines ................................................................................7
flowrates and hydraulics...........................................................................................8
drillpipe rotation.......................................................................................................10
monitoring hole cleaning performance...........................................................11
clean-up practices ....................................................................................................13
tripping practices......................................................................................................14
back reaming and pumping out .........................................................................14
remedial hole cleaning...........................................................................................17
running casing...........................................................................................................19
01 deviated drilling - hole cleaning
Section 6a
factors that impact hole cleaning

The ten factors identified as being of most importance to good hole
cleaning in deviated wells are:
ƒ Annular velocity
ƒ Mud density
ƒ Mud rheology
ƒ Mud type (oil or water)
ƒ Cutting size
ƒ ROP
ƒ Drill pipe rotation
ƒ Drill pipe eccentricity
ƒ Drill pipe diameter
ƒ Hole angle (45-90 deg)
annular velocity (av)

Annular velocity has been found to be the most significant factor
impacting hole cleaning and minimising cuttings bed height. In studies
bed heights have been found to occupy >40% of the annular space when
the annular velocity is maintained below 40 m/min (131 ft/min) and
<10% of annular space when maintained at greater than 80 m/min (262
ft/min). Increasing the annular velocity can, in combination with other
variables, diminish the cuttings bed height. Additionally the effects of
other variables such as hole angle and drill pipe rotation will diminish
with increasing annular velocity.
drill pipe rotation

Rotation is desirable and effective in minimising cuttings beds. The
effect of rotation is substantial at low annular velocities and high hole
angles and minimal at high annular velocities and low hole angles. The
effect of rotation diminishes with increased annular velocity and
increases with increased mud density. The impact of eccentric drill pipe
positively improves the effect of drill pipe rotation and high rotary rpm
will combine effectively with high rheology at low annular velocities to
reduce the cuttings bed height.
The effect of rotation is optimised by increasing the drill pipe diameter.

Cutting size will also impact the effect of rotation, i.e. by doubling
the size of the cutting the effect of rotation will be halved. Rotation is
especially desirable and effective at angles of 60˚ or greater. Where
deviated drilling - hole cleaning 02
Section 6a
ROP, cuttings size and cuttings density is high the effect of rotation
decreases.
mud weight
Along with annular velocity, mud weight has the greatest impact on
hole cleaning. Bed heights can occupy >40% of the annular space when
mud weights are low and <10% of annular space when mud weights
were high. The industry study found there was little potential for
cuttings bed formation when the mud density is >1.70 S.G., even for
low annular velocities. Field experience indicates cuttings beds are
unavoidable at low mud weights, even when annular velocities are
maximised. From accumulated data it would appear mud weight had
a significantly greater impact on cuttings bed height than mud
rheology. It was also observed in the study that cuttings bed sliding
diminished with increasing mud weight.
hole angle
Between 45˚ and 60˚, dynamic cuttings beds continuously slide
downward, especially at lower annular velocities and diminishes as the
hole angle increases past 60˚. Between 45˚ and 60˚, cuttings beds
immediately slide and tumble downward under static conditions. Average
dynamic cuttings bed height is consistently higher at 60˚ than at 45˚.
Between 75˚ and 90˚, cuttings beds are maintained uniformly in height
over time, and become packed. Of the 4 major variables i.e. AV, rotary
rpm, mud weight and hole angle, hole angle had the lowest impact.
rheology
Rheology is only moderately effective at reducing cuttings bed height.
The effect of rheology is improved at high annular velocities and is
greatest when one or more of the major variables are optimised (i.e. AV,
mud density and rpm. Cuttings bed heights tend to be lower at hole
angles between 75˚ and 90˚ with low rheology muds. The effect of
rheology on bed height is less evident in hole angles between 45˚ and
60˚. High rheology combines effectively with high rotary rpm at low
AV and reduces cuttings bed height. Bed heights occupy >40% of
annular space with low AV and low mud density and no rotation in
high angle holes. Bed heights occupy <10% of annular space with low
rheology combined with high AV, low mud weight and no rotation in
high angle holes.
Section 6a
cutting size
The impact of cutting size is dependent upon cutting density and feed
rate (i.e. ROP). Doubling the cutting size and ROP may double the bed
height unless one or more of the major variables are optimised (i.e. AV,
rotary rpm and mud density). Doubling the size of cuttings generally
halves the impact of rotary rpm on hole cleaning.
drill pipe eccentricity

The eccentric position of drill pipe is desirable in high angle and
horizontal wells when rotary rpm is applied. The effect of rotary rpm on
hole cleaning is greatest when pipe position is eccentric. AV will tend to
reduce cuttings bed height more effectively when drill pipe is concentric
or centred.
Figure 1: Eccentric Pipe Flow Patterns
Drill pipe eccentricity:
ƒ Significant effect on annular pressure drop

ƒ A skewed drill string can have infinite number of eccentricities at
the same time
ƒ Usually an unmeasured factor, but of great importance to hole cleaning
ƒ While sliding, equals tool joint stand-off
ƒ While rotating > 25 rpm, DP lifts off-bottom
Effect of Drill Pipe Eccentricity in Deviated Wellbore
ƒ Rapidly alters velocity distribution throughout the annulus

ƒ Flow in the annular narrow gap greatly reduced; flow in the wide
gap greatly increased
ƒ Flow distribution largely controlled by fluid flow index ‘n’
ƒ Flow profiles can be generated in computer programs
Section 6a
feed concentration (rop)
Increases in ROP do not greatly impact cuttings bed height as compared
to the major variables (i.e. AV, rotary rpm and mud density). High ROP is
sustainable in most cases if the cuttings size is small. High ROP is not
sustainable if the cuttings size is large unless the major variables are
optimised (i.e. AV, rotary rpm and mud density).
mud type
Mud type has marginal effects and does not interact with other
variables. Results are more predictable with OBM and bed sliding is
normally more prevalent with OBM
drill pipe size

Drill pipe diameter has minimal effects on cuttings bed heights.
Effectiveness of rotary rpm is impacted by drill pipe diameter and cuttings
size.
significant parameters noted for cuttings bed

heights of <10%: angle 60˚ or greater
ƒ High AV
ƒ High mud weight
ƒ Drill pipe centred
ƒ Lower mud rheology
ƒ Drill pipe rotating
significant parameters noted for cuttings bed

heights of >50%
ƒ Low AV
ƒ No drill pipe rotation
ƒ Low mud wt
ƒ Horizontal flow
ƒ Higher mud rheology
ƒ Drill pipe centred
general
ƒ Studies consistently demonstrate the difficulty of removing
cuttings beds once they accumulate.
ƒ Under normal circumstances, as much as half the annular area
may be filled by a cuttings bed.
ƒ Cuttings beds formed at angles of between 45˚ – 60˚ tend to
continuously slide and tumble down the low side of the hole.
Section 6a
ƒ At angles of between 60o and 90o, cuttings beds are static, with
little tumbling and sliding behaviour.
ƒ The most significant variables impacting cuttings bed height are
AV, rpm, mud weight and hole angle.
conclusions summary
Major impact on cuttings bed

Annular Velocity
Pipe Rotation
Mud Density
Hole Angle
Moderate impact on cuttings bed
Rheology
Cuttings Size
Eccentricity
Minor impact on Cuttings bed
Feed Rate (ROP)
Type of Mud
Drill Pipe Size
ƒ It requires a “heavy” emphasis on AV and rotation to minimise

the development of a cuttings bed.
ƒ Mud weight is subject to the predicted pore pressure gradients
and therefore cannot be easily manipulated to optimise hole
cleaning.
ƒ Hole angle while subject to target location can to a certain extent
be designed to optimise hole cleaning.
ƒ Cuttings beds are easier to “control” during the drilling phase
than they are to subsequently remove at TD.
hole cleaning in deviated wells

Cuttings beds will form in high angle wellbores, regardless of how
efficient the hole cleaning practices are. How the cuttings are distributed
in the hole will dictate the measures that are required to move them.
Management of the cuttings in the hole is a key to efficient drilling
operations.
A wellbore does not have to be 100% clean, or free of cuttings to be

“clean”. Every high angle wellbore will have a cuttings bed of some
kind. A cuttings bed that is clean for drilling is not necessarily the same
Section 6a
as that for tripping a BHA, running casing or running wireline logs.
When approaching hole-cleaning issues it is important to understand
the behaviour of cuttings beds at different hole angles.
Hole cleaning in general can be divided into 3 categories which have

quite different strategies and circumstances.
ƒ 0˚ - 45˚ wells
ƒ 45˚ - 60˚ wells
ƒ 60˚ - 90˚ wells
In a vertical to 45˚ well cuttings are brought to surface by combating

cuttings slip velocity where the cutting must fall thousands of feet to
reach the bottom of the hole.
Figure 2 shows dynamic cuttings bed behaviour at 45˚, the cuttings

bed takes on a dune formation as cuttings are continually picked up and
brought into the mud flow by pipe rotation. After some distance the
cutting again falls to the low side of the hole where it is again picked up
and transported further up the wellbore, this process is continually
repeated until the cutting is finally discharged onto the shale shaker
screen at surface.
Figure 2
45 degrees
Flow
In wells with inclinations in the range of 45˚ - 60˚, cuttings begin to

form dunes as the distance for them to fall to bottom is now measured
Section 6a
in inches. Due to the hole angle there is a constant tendency for

cuttings beds to tumble and slide during the drilling process, and once
flow stops cuttings beds will immediately slide.
Inclinations of 60˚ - 90˚ present a different set of operational

circumstances. Here the cuttings fall to the low side of the hole and
form a long continuous cuttings bed. Although the challenges associated
with an avalanching dune have gone away, hole cleaning in this
environment is actually more difficult and time consuming.
Figure 3 shows dynamic cuttings bed behaviour at 90o, beds quickly

become packed and bed height remains stable over time (with constant
rpm / gpm).
Figure 3
90 degrees
Flow
good hole cleaning practices

Good tripping and drilling practices are critical to ensuring acceptable
hole cleaning. The benefits of a powerful, purpose built drilling rig can
easily be negated by poor or inappropriate drilling practices.
mud and rheology guidelines

Regardless of the mud type the overall objective is to maintain a
pumpable fluid with low-end rheology that is high enough to keep
cuttings moving out of the hole. The use of 6 rpm readings as a primary
indicator of hole cleaning capability and maintaining low PV (plastic
viscosity) for pumpability is widely accepted. Generally maintain 6 rpm
Fann readings at 1.0 to 1.5 x hole diameter.
Section 6a
Maintain high rheology, YP = > 25 lbs/100ft2 to achieve good primary
hole cleaning.
Try to avoid pumping low-vis / hi-vis pills. The focus should be on primary
hole cleaning to minimise the formation of cuttings beds in the first place.
It is thought that such pills lead to uneven mud properties and pack offs,
contributing to the hole instability.
Low-vis pills create turbulent flow (intended to stir up cuttings) in the

wellbore but this has a number of detrimental effects. The turbulent flow
may contribute to the erosion of shales and the turbulence creates localised
shifting patterns of lower than average and higher than average pressure
which can give rise to shale splinters. These shale splinters are often
interpreted as pressure cavings and the mud weight is increased, increasing
PV and exacerbating the problem.
Hi-vis pills are likely to pick up large quantities of cuttings and cavings, which
can result in pack-off.
flowrates and hydraulics

Pump at the maximum available flowrate at all time. This will be limited
by formation pressure integrity. Use the ECD as a guide to maximum
flowrate possible without compromising hole integrity.
Flowrate is the key parameter for hole cleaning rate, as shown in the
figure 5. The faster the pump rate the quicker the hole is cleaned, so long
as the rpm is sufficiently high, preferably >120 rpm.
Section 6a
Figure 4 - Flowrate Effect on Hole Cleaning
There is a minimum hurdle flowrate that must be exceeded if there is to

be any hole cleaning in a high angle wellbore. Field experience also
suggests that there is a point of diminishing benefit for flowrate increases.
It is important to appreciate that as long as cuttings are moving up the
hole at a faster rate than they are being generated, then the hole is being
cleaned. Flowrate will affect the rate of cleaning and allow faster cuttings
generation to be tolerated.
When discussing the desired flowrate for highly deviated, say 1,000 –
1,200 gpm in 12-1/4” hole, it is not unusual to be told that such high
flowrate will wash out the hole. Many people have concerns that
turbulent flow will result in erosion of the wellbore. This is a misnomer for
several reasons.
For all intents and purposes, it is impossible to get turbulent flow in the
drillpipe annulus, regardless of the flowrates with the viscous mud systems
that will be used in highly deviated wells.
Such high flowrates, 1,000 – 1,200 gpm in 12-1/4” hole will give
theoretical AV’s (Annular Velocities) of 196 – 231 ft/min across 5”
Section 6a
drillpipe and 235 – 277 ft/min across 6-5/8” drillpipe. When you
consider that walking pace is approximately 350 ft/min (4 mph / 6.4 kph)
it is difficult to visualise that such relatively low velocities can erode the
wellbore.
drillpipe rotation
High speed drillpipe rotation is critical for good hole cleaning in the high
angle portion of the well. Flowrate alone is ineffective unless the pipe
is being rotated fast enough to stir the cuttings into the flow regime.
When slide drilling the drilling fluid is near stationary on the low side of the
hole where the cuttings are so no hole cleaning takes place.
Figure 5: Annular Fluid Movement in High Angle Wells

Vertical Wellbore High Angle Wellbore
High Velocity Fluid
Low Velocity Fluid

on Low side of Hole
Cuttings bed on low side

of hole will be disturbed by
Fluid moves almost uniformly throughout fluid flow unless stirred up by
annulus in a vertical wellbore. Cuttings pipe rotation
move evenly in annullus
Field experience suggests that there are key rotary speeds that produce
step changes in hole cleaning performance on highly deviated wells.
The mechanics of why these key speeds occur is unclear, especially since
they remain relatively constant for variations in hole size, drillpipe size
and mud systems.
Step changes in cuttings returns occur at 100 – 120 rpm and again at 150
– 180 rpm as shown in the figure 6 below.
Section 6a
Figure 6 - Effect of Pipe Rotation on Hole Cleaning
Cuttings Return Variation with Pipe Speed
Step changes in cuttings return occur at 100

Cuttings Return
– 120 rpm and again at 150 – 180 rpm.
Fine tuning of rotary speed from 60 – 80

rpm is generally not meaningful. The hurdle
speed of 100 – 120 rpm must be exceeded
for significant improvement
0 25 50 75 100 125 150 175 200

Rotary Speed (rpm)
If possible slide only in the middle of a stand. This will result in rotating
before and after the sliding period to move cuttings deposited during the
sliding period well away from the BHA prior to making a connection. Also
less angle will be lost when reaming the stand.
monitoring hole cleaning performance
rop
Historically, there have been two different schools of thought on drilling
ROP in high angle hole sections. Some choose to drill at maximum
instantaneous ROP and then perform remedial hole cleaning operations as
required. Alternately some nominate a safe ROP at which the hole can be
kept clean as it is drilled ahead.
High instantaneous ROP and remedial hole cleaning are likely to result
in periods when the well unloads cuttings at a rate that cannot be
handled by the containment system.
torque and drag monitoring

This is one of the primary methods of monitoring hole cleaning as the
information is readily available and easily interpreted on the rig floor.
Section 6a
Surface torque and drag monitoring involves taking torque, rotating
string weight, pick and slack-off weights at every connection. As the well
is drilled deeper the values for up weight, rotating weight and down
weight will all slowly increase, as will the difference between them.
When the up and down weight lines diverge away from the predicted
trends, i.e. up weight increases and down weight decreases it can indicate
build up of cuttings beds in the well and a requirement to stop and circulate
clean. Examples of these trends are shown in the figure 7 below.
Figure 7 - Torque & Drag Monitoring

S tr i ng W e i ghts
140
U p W e ig h t
130 R o t a t in g W e ig h t
D o w n W e ig h t
120
U p & D o w n w e ig h t s d iv e rg in g ,
in d ica t in g p o o r h o le c le a n in g
110
100
90
80
U p & D o w n w e ig h t s d iv e r g in g ,
in d ic a t in g p o o r h o le c le a n in g .
S t o p d r illin g & circ u la t e cle a n
70
S t o p p e d d r illin g &
circ u la t e d w e ll c le a n
60
2400 2600 2800 3000 3200 3400 3600 3800
Measured Depth (feet)
The theoretical predictions that the actual data is compared to must be

of good quality. Not only is the software model important but the input
data must be of good quality and continuously calibrated with actual
measured values. Most importantly, the data must be collected in the same
manner for each data point to ensure consistent, reliable output.
Section 6a
It is important to trust the torque and drag modelling but it is just as

important that its limitations are well understood. Torque and drag
modelling has proven to be an excellent tool for monitoring cuttings bed
build up but there are many actions that may be occurring that will not
necessarily show up or may be misinterpreted. Differential sticking, key-
seating and wellbore instability effects should not be misinterpreted as
cuttings build up. The symptoms of these problems are different and their
identification underlines the importance of collecting and interpreting
the torque and drag data in conjunction with centrally monitored drilling
parameters on an ongoing basis.
clean-up practices
Effective hole clean-up practices are essential to successful and risk
free tripping. It is vital that the hole is cleaned adequately prior to POOH.
This does not mean that there should be no cuttings at all but simply
that any cuttings bed height is sufficiently low and evenly distributed
to allow the bit and BHA or casing to pass through without problems.
The introduction of the top drive system has lead to many operators
choosing not to invest time in cleaning the hole prior to tripping since
they have the ability to backream if necessary. This has developed into
a time consuming and risky practice.
Generally, prior to POOH, the hole should be circulated with maximum

available flowrate and maximum allowable pipe rpm while working the
last stand on bottom. Do not stop circulating as the sudden reduction in
flowrate may induce avalanching of cuttings, leading to pack-off and stuck
pipe.
Avoid circulating at the same depth for an extended period to prevent

the creation of ledges but do not lay out stands unless absolutely
necessary.
When reciprocating the pipe do not run the pipe up and down between
the same depths, as this will create ledges at these depths. The
consequence of this is that the rotating bit will damage the lowermost
stand of the wellbore. As the rest of the section is likely to have washouts
anyway this is deemed acceptable but the impact of any loss of inclination
may have to be determined.
Circulation and rotation should continue until the hole cleans up.
Do not stop circulation after a nominal 1 or 2 bottoms up. Good cuttings
return in highly deviated wells does not actually commence until after
1 to 2 bottoms up, and for the shakers to clean up may take 4 bottoms
Section 6a
up. The cuttings return volume will also vary erratically with time as the
hole is cleaned up, especially if periods of slide drilling have been used.
Slide drilling will create dunes of cuttings in the wellbore, which as they
are circulated out will give the appearance that the hole is unloading.
Regardless of the length of time that it takes to clean the hole up prior to
POOH, it is worth the investment.
tripping practices
Tripping practices should be tailored specifically for high angle wells. As
the inclination increases and cuttings beds form, these can be very
problematic. If tripping procedures do not account for this phenomenon,
then back reaming through tight hole will result in an inappropriate, time
consuming and sometimes dangerous operation.
The primary rules are:
ƒ Always assume that any tight hole or overpull is due to cuttings

and hole cleaning related.
ƒ Clean up the hole using maximum rotation and circulation for
the minimum number of bottoms up as calculated using the lag
model and then until the shakers are clean.
ƒ Do not assume that cased hole is a safe haven for tight hole
avoidance. It is not unheard of for stuck pipe to occur inside
casing, either just inside the shoe or many thousands of feet
inside casing.
ƒ POOH without pumps or rotation.
ƒ If tight hole is encountered, progressively increase overpull
ensuring that the string is free to move down at each stage
before increasing the overpull. If the string cannot be pulled
through the tight hole proceed as per the guidelines in the
Section Guidelines For Back Reaming Through Tight Hole.
back reaming and pumping out

Although back reaming may be considered an appropriate practice in
vertical wells and conventional low angle deviated wells. Back reaming
and pumping out of hole are not appropriate practices for high angle well
bores when tight hole is encountered or as a primary hole cleaning tool.
Back reaming and pumping out of hole are not only considered to be very
inefficient but can also be very risky on highly deviated wells.
Section 6a
Whereas tight hole in vertical wells is likely to be due to wellbore conditions,

tight hole in highly deviated wells is likely to be due to hole cleaning and
cuttings. Back reaming and pumping out of hole through a cuttings bed can
very easily lead to packing off, stuck pipe and possible loss of the string and
wellbore.
The reason that back reaming or pumping out is so dangerous in high angle
wellbores is that the process completely cleans the hole below the bit/BHA
rather than leaving a small cuttings bed along the bottom of the hole. The
cuttings instead are deposited in a dune just above the top of the drill collars.
This significantly increases the chance of packing off as the top of the drill
collars is pulled into the cuttings bed.
Figure 8 : Effect on Cuttings Bed of Back reaming or Pumping Out
Acceptable Cuttings Bed for Tripping
A cuttings bed exists but the hole is acceptably clean to

allow trouble free tripping. Cutting are left below the bit. Harmless cuttings
are left below the bit
Situation During Back Reaming or Pumping OOH
No cuttings are left

Cutting Dune is created
below the bit
above the BHA
When back reaming or pumping out the hole is completely cleaned below the
bit and the cuttings deposited as a dune above t he top of the BHA. The dune
represents a significant pack-off/sruckpipe risk.
A feature of high angle wells that utilise back reaming is that the
wellbores often seem to deteriorate over time, especially if any tight
hole occurred whilst back reaming. When a well packs off whilst back
reaming or pumping out of the hole, the wellbore below the pack-off
is subjected to a very rapid increase in pressure as the rig pumps are still
running. This can force mud into the shales creating micro-fractures
and consequently cavings, which add to the hole cleaning problems.
Section 6a
back reaming guidelines
If back reaming is necessary the following recommendations are made:
ƒ Pumping out of the hole will not be carried out as the

pumping out process creates a cuttings dune above the BHA
but provides no hole cleaning ability in the drill pipe annulus
above the BHA.
ƒ Back reaming should only be performed with ideal
parameters. Even at low flowrate the process will still clean the
wellbore extremely well around the BHA, creating a cuttings
dune above the BHA. However without sufficient flowrates and
rotary speed the cuttings dune cannot be cleaned away from
the BHA sufficiently.
ƒ The pulling speed is a critical parameter, too fast and the top of
the drill collars will be pulled into the cuttings dune, creating a
pack off and possibly leading to stuck pipe. The process needs
to be based on surface torque readings by the driller as a means
of determining pulling speed.
guidelines for back reaming through tight hole

It should always be assumed that any tight spot during a trip is a
cuttings related problem. If a tight spot is encountered while POOH
then the following guidelines should be followed.
1. If the hole is sufficiently tight that the string cannot be pulled

through, RIH 3 to 5 stands until the BHA is clear of the obstruction
and circulate with maximum flowrate and rotation for 30 minutes.
2. Never commence pumping or rotation while the BHA lies in or close
to the obstruction. If the BHA cannot be moved down, perhaps
because it is close to bottom, then gradually start rotation prior to
bringing on the pumps slowly.
3. POOH again without pumps or rotation. If the tight spot has
disappeared or moved up the hole then the tight hole was
probably due to a cuttings bed. The BHA should then be tripped
back into hole and the well circulated clean with maximum flowrate
and rotary speed.
4. If the tight spot is in the same place, then it may be assumed to be
something other than cuttings alone and careful back reaming may
be necessary until past the restriction.
5. If back reaming has taken place, great care should be taken when
beginning to POOH again as a cuttings dune may have built up
Section 6a
above the BHA and may cause a pack off and stuck pipe. Consider
circulating the hole clean again before resuming tripping.
guidelines for precautionary back reaming

On occasion, it may be necessary to back ream in an highly deviated well
for precautionary reasons.
1. Prior to precautionary back reaming, the hole should be cleaned

up with maximum flowrate and rotation.
2. The is some danger that cleaning up the hole before back reaming
may be seen as a waste of time, given that the hole is to be back
reamed anyway. However, the intent of circulating clean is to get the
cuttings level down to a more manageable, lower risk level, before
commencing a relatively high risk operation (i.e. back reaming).
3. Back ream slowly out of the hole with maximum allowable
flowrates and pipe rotation. If flowrate is limited it may be advisable
to back ream in stages with several stops to clean the hole to a safer
level of cuttings or at least redistribute them away from the BHA.
4. It must always be remembered that a potentially dangerous
cuttings dune exists above the BHA. The driller should be vigilant
for indications (e.g. increased torque) that the BHA is being pulled
into this cuttings dune and that a pack off or stuck pipe is
imminent if appropriate action is not taken.
remedial hole cleaning

It is better to stay on bottom at an optimised ROP, controlled to match
hole cleaning and cuttings containment capacity than it is to drill in short
fast burst and then use remedial operations to clean the hole.
If drilling practices and parameters are optimised, it is generally possible

to drill for very long intervals and very long periods without any wiper
trips or any other remedial measures.
However, there may be occasions where some remedial actions may

be required, e.g. equipment failure, deteriorating wellbore condition
or suddenly poor mud properties. Any remedial operations should be
based on clear torque and drag and cuttings return trends. Furthermore,
the effectiveness of the remedial operations should be observed and
quantified before and after the operation.
Section 6a
use of sweeps
If the correct mud properties are maintained and drilling practices
include high rotary speeds then the mud system will clean the hole. Once
the mud system is right the use of sweeps only acts to cause deterioration
of the ideal mud properties.
In highly deviated wells mud rheology is already difficult enough to keep

within specification without the detrimental effect of sweeps being
absorbed into the system. Furthermore, their use in highly deviated wells
has proven largely ineffective, regardless of the sweep design.
In an highly deviated well with the fluid flow along the top of the hole,
even the most viscous of pills will allow cuttings to fall to the bottom of
the hole. Also as the pipe is rotated and the fluid flow profile takes
effect, mixing of the sweep with the drilling fluid is inevitable. The most
common result is that a sweep is never detected back at surface.
A further concern is that sweeps may pick up cuttings in concentrated

amounts, which can have a detrimental effect on ECD.
On the rare occasions that sweeps do bring cuttings back it is unlikely

that they come from very far down the hole. Almost certainly, the
cuttings recovered are from the build or vertical section of the well.
stop drilling and circulate

Picking up off bottom and circulating should be looked upon as the first
remedial hole cleaning option once changes in the drilling parameters
and ROP have proved ineffective. As discussed previously this operation
should be performed with maximum flowrate and rotary speed.
Remember off bottom flowrate and rotary speed may be higher than
that used for drilling.
If hole cleaning is a problem consider circulating prior to connections

for 10 minutes while rotating at maximum speed and gently reciprocate
the string to minimise hole damage in one spot. This will ensure that
cuttings are well above the BHA so that when the pumps are turned off
they will not avalanche back across the BHA and pack it off.
Section 6a
wiper trips
Generally, it should be possible to make precautionary and remedial
wiper trips for hole cleaning unnecessary. It has been proved that if good
practices and strategies have been used throughout then long high angle
hole sections can be drilled without wiper trips.
It may still be necessary to wipe a hole for other reasons, e.g. swelling
shale interval.
back reaming
As discussed previously, back reaming is a time consuming and risky
practice on highly deviated wells. It should not be used as a general
practice or tool. If back reaming is to be performed as a remedial option
due to tight hole then it should only be performed after determining that
cuttings are not the problem.
A significant cuttings bed will probably be created above the BHA after
back reaming, therefore, it is important to clean the hole up via circulation
and rotation prior to POOH after back reaming.
It is accepted that there is a time an place for back reaming, such as across
a depleted reservoir or through a swelling shale.
running casing
Should it be required to circulate casing, the well should be circulated
clean. Otherwise, cuttings will just be deposited as cuttings beds higher
up in the well. The casing will be run deeper past the trouble spot. The
cuttings higher up in the wellbore may now avalanche down and pack-off
the casing.
barite sag
section 6b
deviated drilling - barite sag
Section 6b
contents
introduction ..........................................................................................................................1
barite sag fandamentals ...................................................................................................1
key parameters ....................................................................................................................2
influencing factors......................................................................................................2
symptoms ..............................................................................................................................3
awareness & planning ......................................................................................................3
mud properties & testing ........................................................................................4
prevention .............................................................................................................................5
management of sag problems ..............................................................................6
monitoring ....................................................................................................................6
operational practices ................................................................................................7
01 deviated drilling - barite sag
Section 6b
introduction
Barite sag is recognised as a significant hazard in deviated wells using
both weighted oil and water based drilling muds. Detailed research has
been conducted into the underlying fundamentals and key influencing
factors causing barite sag. The following guidelines will detail how good
planning and job execution will ensure the drilling fluid does not allow
barite sag.
barite sag fundamentals

Barite sag is the result of dynamic and / or static slumping of weight
material in the annulus. The majority of sag occurs under dynamic
conditions in deviated wells.
Barite beds caused by dynamic sag tend to slump down the well
during static periods, causing density variations. Sag beds behave
differently and have different characteristics to cuttings beds. At low
solids concentrations, settling occurs in a segregated way, whereas in
dense concentrations settling occurs block-wise at relatively low velocity.
During sag, the denser, larger particles settle first, causing the overlying
fluid to be lighter and more buoyant. This reduces the settling velocity of
the smaller particles in the higher buoyed fluid over time.
Sag can occur in any well deviated by more than 30o. The effect is
most pronounced in wells with a deviation of between 60o and 75o. Sag
beds formed at angles below 60o slump faster than those at higher angles.
Sag can occur in any fluid type and at any density range where weight
material is present. Generally, the higher the density the greater the risk.
Sag increases with time
Sag can occur dynamically where it is absent or minimal under static

conditions.
Local settling at the top and low sides of the well during low-rate
circulations and static periods causes a pressure imbalance, forcing lighter
mud upwards and accelerating the sag process, known as the Boycott
effect.
The 4 zones of barite sag beds are, from bottom to top, the slump bed,
sediment bed, suspension zone and clarified fluid zone.
deviated drilling - barite sag 02
Section 6b
Volume gains / losses can be induced by sag due to annular density variations.
key parameters
ƒ Hole Angle & Length
ƒ Annular Velocity
ƒ Drill Pipe Rotation
ƒ Flow Regime
ƒ Mud density
ƒ Mud Rheology
ƒ Weight Material
ƒ Particle Size & Shape
ƒ Particle Concentration
ƒ Time
influencing factors
ƒ Barite sag is principally controlled by dynamic flow.
ƒ Flow rate & drill pipe rotation are the most important drilling
parameters which influence sag.
ƒ Low annular velocities induce sag, especially when the drill pipe is
eccentric & not rotating.
ƒ Mud rheology is a key sag control mechanism.
ƒ Sag impacts upon critical wells with close pore pressure &
fracture gradients.
ƒ High temperatures generally thin muds, increasing the sag
potential of fluids.
ƒ Sag potential depends upon the mass of weight material.
ƒ Casing design impacts sag potential when small gauge holes
coincide with large annular diameters in the well, reducing the
annular velocities in the broader zones.
ƒ The higher the O/W ratio of an oil mud, the greater the sag
potential.
ƒ Over-treatment of wetting agents can thin fluids and increase sag
potential.
ƒ Fluid loss reducers and other additives can reduce mud rheology
and increase the sag potential.
ƒ In water base fluids, there is a greater potential for solids
agglomeration of smaller particles.
ƒ Particle size distribution is a key determining factor.
ƒ Excessive solids control processing can increase sag potential by
reducing particle size variations.
Section 6b
symptoms
Mud Weight Fluctuations
Any inexplicable variations in mud weights might indicate a sag problem.
Heavy spots can often be correlated with slugs pumped. Light spots are
often the first indications of barite sag.
Stand Pipe Pressure Variations

Fluctuations can occur as light and heavy spots pass through the drill
pipe and nozzles. Variations can occur due to mud hydrostatic differentials
and frictional pressure losses. These are often cyclic in nature.
Increased torque & drag

Settled barite beds may increase torque and drag in a similar way to
cuttings beds in deviated wells.
Mud losses and gains

Unexpected losses may occur when heavy spots reach the near-vertical
section of the well, causing increases in the fluid hydrostatic pressure.
The opposite may occur, when light spots reduce the hydrostatic, causing
the well to flow.
awareness & planning

Awareness and planning are essential prerequisites to eliminating sag
problems. Anticipate and plan for potential barite sag in all deviated
wells above 30o, especially for 60o - 75o wells.
Be aware that well planning, well type, well environment, well profile,
casing design and hole size, will directly influence the potential risk of sag.
Where necessary, conduct pre-well fluids testing to assess the potential

for barite sag and incorporate specific mud property and engineering
guidelines in fluids programs. Program for, and provide, the relevant
additional fluids testing equipment and reporting guidelines for well site
engineers.
In ERD wells, recognise that constraining factors, such as the need to

control ECD values and SPP limitations, may restrict the ability to
manipulate anti-sag mechanisms such as rheology adjustments and flow
rates.
Section 6b
Recognise that barite sag beds are different from cuttings beds in
their behaviour and that sag beds may be readily dispersed by correct
application of flow rates and rotary.
mud properties & testing
rheology
Primary Mechanisms - The primary mud property control mechanism
for barite sag is manipulation of the low shear rheology, Fann 6 and
3 rpm values, for dynamic sag and the initial 10 sec gel strength for
control of static sag. Well-bore temperatures affect rheology and well-
site measurements need to properly account for the effects of bore hole
temperatures on rheology.
Low Shear Rheology - Elevating the low shear rheology and

establishing the correct relationship between these two variables
is a proven mud control mechanism for eliminating dynamic sag. A
rheology value known as the Low Shear Rate Yield Point (LSRYP), obtained
by the formula 2 x 3 rpm – 6 rpm, may be used to measure the fluid
sag-control condition. In general, LSRYP values in the range 7 - 15 lb/100ft2
have been shown to eliminate sag but the optimum range of LSRYP
values for a specific fluid should be arrived at by experience.
Gel Strengths - The 10 sec gel strength should be high enough to

deter static sag. Values below 7 have been shown to result in greatly
increased static sag potential. Again, testing and field experience will
indicate the correct range of values for a specific fluid. The 10 min & 30
min gels do not form sag control mechanisms.
Temperature Effects – Higher temperatures thin muds and generally

lower the rheology, especially oil base systems. Rheology measurements
need to account for temperature effects.
mud weight
Mud weight measurements are a key area for monitoring sag. To ensure
accuracy, measurements should be taken frequently, especially after
trips, using a pressurised mud balance, which should be regularly
calibrated.
Plotting mud weights against other variables such as time and SPP can
often reveal cyclic and other trends in sag behaviour.
Section 6b
oil / water ratio

Increasing the O/W ratio tends to thin oil based muds and increase the
sag potential or sag rate. Increasing the low shear rate modifier
concentration will help combat this problem.
particle size distribution

Particle size variations are beneficial in deterring sag. Conversely,
uniformity of particle size encourages sag. Measurement of the particle
size distribution and other particle properties helps to understand sag
problems and provides information that may be used correctively.
sag testing
Various apparatus exist for sag measurement for use on high
temperature ERD wells. It may be prudent to provide well-site sag
testing apparatus such as this for critical wells, where the results can then
be used as a guide to treatments.
prevention
ƒ Ensure that adequate pre-well fluid testing has been conducted
and that the sag potential of the fluid has been identified.
ƒ Avoid using old fluid that has been identified as problematical. If
using an old fluid, ensure that it has been properly re-conditioned
and contains as broad a spectrum of particle sizes as practicable.
ƒ Ensure that the fluid has a sufficient LSRYP to deter sag and that
the LSRYP is maintained within the desired range.
ƒ Ensure that all organophilic clays are exposed to high temperature
and pressure shear. This is important for them to achieve full
yield and therefore effectiveness. This type of shear is usually
accomplished either by a special HTHP surface shear system or by
circulating through the bit.
ƒ Maintain the 10 sec gel strength within the desired range and
avoid low static barite sag.
ƒ Avoid excessive dilutions, which lower rheological values and
encourage sag.
ƒ Avoid excessive solids control techniques, which degrade the
solids and reduce the particle size variation. Where protracted
centrifuging is necessary to control LGS, replenish the fluid with
fresh weight material and suspension agents.
ƒ Maintain an adequate concentration of low shear rate (LSR)
modifier, i.e. premium grade clay, especially when diluting.
Section 6b
ƒ Avoid using low shear rate (LSR) liquid rheology modifiers, which
have been shown to be less effective sag control mechanisms
than solids.
ƒ Levels of surfactant or oil wetting agent must be sufficient to
prevent barite agglomeration into large clusters.
ƒ Avoid increases in the O/W ratio unless specifically required to
reduce or minimise pump pressures.
ƒ Avoid over thinning fluids prior to running casing and preferably
do not thin until casing has been run.
ƒ Ensure that the fluid is in condition prior to any extended low-
shear operations such as running casing or logging.
ƒ Maintain strict QC testing of weight materials, LSR modifier, LSR
liquid rheology modifiers and suspension agents.
ƒ Avoid over-treating with additives and surfactants which are
known to encourage sag.
ƒ Avoid prolonged periods of non-rotational slow circulation,
especially where annular velocities in critical deviated intervals
fall below 50 ft/min.
ƒ Regularly calibrate mud testing equipment and use a pressure
balance to measure the fluid density.
ƒ Periodically conduct particle size analysis in order to provide a early
warning of impending sag.
ƒ The use of sub API grade (325 mesh) barite has proven beneficial.
management of sag problems

Sometimes, it is not possible to prevent a sag problem. Therefore, it is
necessary to manage it. Success or failure will be governed by the well
conditions and by well-site actions.
monitoring
It is important to monitor the variables appropriately in order to be able
to determine if there is a problem and to judge the effectiveness or
otherwise of any remedial actions.
Mud Weights – Monitor mud weights closely and ensure that a pressure
balance is used for accuracy. Plot graphs of mud weight against other
variables to determine any cyclic behaviour.
Stand Pipe Pressure – Monitor the SPP and record any unexplainable
fluctuations. Fluctuations could be caused by density variations inside
the drill string, barite beds leading to slumping and partial pack-off or
density variations in the well resulting in U-tubing differentials.
Section 6b
Torque & Drag – High torque and drag may indicate the presence of
a barite sag bed. Remember that, unlike cuttings beds, sag beds
behave as liquids and flow down the well bore.
Volumes – Monitor volumes closely. Barite sag can become a well-

control problem, caused by density variations in the upper near-
vertical annulus, leading to down-hole losses and gains.
operational practices
Circulating & Conditioning - If barite sag is observed, attempt to
remedy by stopping operations to circulate and condition the fluid
for as long as necessary. Ensure sufficient circulating time to allow for
any rheology modifications to be effective and to balance out any
density variations. Premium grade clay viscosifiers, e.g. CONFI-GEL HT,
require both shear and temperature to fully develop the rheology. If
there is no impediment, ensure maximum annular velocity and rotary
during circulations.
Adjusting the LSRYP – Where possible, adjust the LSRYP to a higher

value by additions of low shear rate modifiers and allow time for
treatments to be effective.
Rotary Vs Sliding – Sag is greater when the pipe is stationary and

otationis a proven deterrent mechanism. If slide drilling, especially on
ERD wells with angles between 60˚ and 75˚, attempt to compensate
with high annular velocities. Supplement this technique where
necessary by pulling back one stand and rotating at high speed, especially
after prolonged periods of slide drilling. Design the BHA for this
contingency.
Trips – Recognise that sag increases with time. Consider rotary wiper
trips to stir up barite beds and consider staging into the well
following trips and static periods in order to minimise the effect
of reintroducing settled weight material into the system.
Additional Mud Testing - Determine if there are additional tests, site

or shore-based, or mud testing methods that may help to indicate the
way to reduce or even eliminate the sag problem.
lubricity
section 6c
deviated drilling - lubricity
Section 6c
contents
introduction ...........................................................................................................................1
friction coefficient ...............................................................................................................1
types of lubricant ................................................................................................................2
liquids .............................................................................................................................2
solids ...............................................................................................................................2
lubricant selection .....................................................................................................3
summary .................................................................................................................................3
lubricity truisms ....................................................................................................................4
01 deviated drilling - lubricity
Section 6c
introduction
Understanding the relative lubricity of a particular mud system and
knowing what factors affect and control lubricity are all-important areas
of mud technology. This is a brief summary of how lubricity is tested,
what factors can affect and control lubricity and other key issues concerned
with the subject.
friction coefficient
General - The friction coefficient (FC) forms the basis for measuring
relative mud lubricity. This is important for understanding comparison
tests and judging relative differences in lubricity. For any given system,
the base line default FC values should be established in controlled tests.
These in turn may be used to make direct comparisons with known systems
and for developing and improving lubricity.
Test Apparatus - There are many different apparatus & test rigs used
to measure FC. For more dependable test results, the larger scale testers
should be used, although accuracy with regard to field calculations is still
questionable. As a result, the FC should be used as a guide only when
applying data to the field.
Influencing Factors - The main factors affecting the FC are:
ƒ Wellbore geometry
ƒ Surface type & roughness
ƒ Contact pressure
ƒ Mud type & density
ƒ Time
ƒ Temperature
ƒ Lubricant effects
ƒ Well & string design
ƒ Wellbore stability
ƒ Cuttings bed thickness & type
ƒ Filter cake characteristics
FC Values For OBM & WBM - FC values for oil based muds are
generally low, in the range 0.11 – 0.15, whereas for weighted WBM the
range is generally 0.25 – 0.35 and for unweighted WBM the values are
still higher at between 0.35 – 0.50. It is well proven that increasing the
O/W ratio of a given OBM will lower the FC and that different oils exhibit
different lubricity values. Tests show that WBM FC values are lower
deviated drilling - lubricity 02
Section 6c
in fully formulated systems where mud additives such as polymers
and barite have a measurably beneficial effect. In both cases, friction
coefficients are highest against sandstone, with shales showing lower
values and smooth steel surfaces such as casing producing the
lowest range. For any mud system, lab tests measuring the contribution
mud additives make to the FC is important in understanding and
improving the lubricity potential.
types of lubricant
There are two types of lubricant, liquid and solid, which may be used
singly or in various combinations. Environmental concerns preclude
the use of some of the more effective lubricants, such as oils, while
mud compatibility and other problems preclude others.
liquids
Liquid lubricants are almost always added to WBM and only recently,
in a limited extent, to OBM. Often, blends of different liquid lubricants
are most beneficial, whereas a single liquid may be sometimes all that
is required. Occasionally, liquids may be used in conjunction with solids
to good effect.
Oils added loosely to a WBM tend to be effective FC reducers, whereas

adding an emulsifying agent to bind in the oil greatly reduces this
effect. Although the FC for waters, brines and very simple water base
muds is almost always reduced by the addition of a liquid lubricant,
only fatty acids and a blend of alcohols and triglycerides have been
found to be effective liquid lubricants over the wide range of WBM
systems .
Lubricants may work well in one type of WBM system and fail or make
matters worse in another, so that the selection process is very much
system specific. The FC of a WBM may be reduced by as much as 68%
by the correct application of liquid lubricants.
solids
Although sometimes effective in reducing the FC, solid lubricants suffer
from the disadvantage of being screened out or physically degraded in
a mud system. As a result, solids lubricants can be much more expensive
to maintain. In many cases, solids additives have been seen to reduce
torque and drag in the well but have not shown up well in tests.
03 deviated drilling - lubricity
Section 6c
Other solids not intended as lubricants (e.g. cellulosic fibres, biopolymers,

etc) have been seen to produce beneficial effects in torque reduction in
the field.
Proven solid lubricants include synthetic graphite, SLICKEN-SIDE, and

asphaltines, SULFO-PLAST. Generally, other mud solids have a negative
impact on mud lubricity by entering the contact space between surfaces
to break any established lubricity-enhancing film present. Liquid
lubricants are also generally adsorbed onto solid surfaces and may be
depleted by high solids loading within the mud system.
lubricant selection
Factors affecting lubricant selection include:
ƒ general mud compatibility

ƒ foaming
ƒ formation of unwanted emulsions
ƒ stability within the system
ƒ environmental concerns
ƒ elastomer compatibility
ƒ formation fluorescence masking
ƒ formation impairment.
summary
A working knowledge of the range of friction coefficients for a base
mud and its constituent parts is a necessary precursor to tackling
the lubricity capabilities of that fluid. Once these values are known,
further lab testing gives a guide to the compatible lubricants and their
type and optimum formulation. This is in turn is used to help improve
the mud lubricity in the field where necessary.
Successful application will also depend upon the extraneous influences

and variables such as well design, surface types and roughness, time,
temperature, contact pressures, well bore stability, etc, etc. In certain
cases, test results obtained in the lab may give incorrect guidance due
to the difficulty of simulating field conditions in particular identifying
the tendency of a lubricant to cause a foaming problem. In this respect,
certain lubricants may also prove to be successful in the field but indicate
otherwise during lab testing.
Certain lubricants may be precluded due to, for example, environmental

considerations. Mud solids should be controlled to as low as practically
deviated drilling - lubricity 04
Section 6c
where mud lubricity is a problem. Problem muds include silicate
systems, which, despite detailed research, continue to defy a solution to
the lubricity issue.
lubricity truisms
Certain proven truisms concerning lubricity can be listed as follows:
1. Oil base muds have lower friction coefficients than water base muds
2. Increasing the O/W ratio leads to a lower friction coefficient
3. Ester based systems have lower friction coefficients than mineral
oil or other synthetic inverts
4. The friction coefficients of water base muds can be reduced with the
appropriate additive(s) and can be as low as some OBM systems
5. Unweighted WBM systems exhibit the greatest response to lubricant
treatments
6. Above 1.50 SG, addition of a lubricant to a WBM has a minimal effect
7. Liquid lubricants have a greater effect on steel/steel friction than on
steel/rock friction where solids lubricants are the more effective
8. Oil based muds are less lubricating as temperature increases
9. Lab lubricity test gear results do not always correspond to full scale
rig results
10. String rotation is a significant factor in drag reduction
11. The most effective liquid lubricants for WBM are based upon esters,
amines, fatty acids and some glycols
12. Lubricant selection is system specific

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deviated erd

section 6b – barite sag

factors that impact hole cleaning

annular velocity (av)

drill pipe rotation

The effect of rotation is optimised by increasing the drill pipe diameter.

drill pipe eccentricity

Figure 1: Eccentric Pipe Flow Patterns

Drill pipe eccentricity:

ƒ Signiﬁcant effect on annular pressure drop

Effect of Drill Pipe Eccentricity in Deviated Wellbore

ƒ Rapidly alters velocity distribution throughout the annulus

drill pipe size

signiﬁcant parameters noted for cuttings bed

signiﬁcant parameters noted for cuttings bed

Major impact on cuttings bed

ƒ It requires a “heavy” emphasis on AV and rotation to minimise

hole cleaning in deviated wells

A wellbore does not have to be 100% clean, or free of cuttings to be

Hole cleaning in general can be divided into 3 categories which have

In a vertical to 45˚ well cuttings are brought to surface by combating

Figure 2 shows dynamic cuttings bed behaviour at 45˚, the cuttings

In wells with inclinations in the range of 45˚ - 60˚, cuttings begin to

in inches. Due to the hole angle there is a constant tendency for

Inclinations of 60˚ - 90˚ present a different set of operational

Figure 3 shows dynamic cuttings bed behaviour at 90o, beds quickly

good hole cleaning practices

mud and rheology guidelines

Low-vis pills create turbulent ﬂow (intended to stir up cuttings) in the

ﬂowrates and hydraulics

Figure 4 - Flowrate Effect on Hole Cleaning

There is a minimum hurdle ﬂowrate that must be exceeded if there is to

Figure 5: Annular Fluid Movement in High Angle Wells

High Velocity Fluid

Low Velocity Fluid

Cuttings bed on low side

Figure 6 - Effect of Pipe Rotation on Hole Cleaning

Cuttings Return Variation with Pipe Speed

Step changes in cuttings return occur at 100

– 120 rpm and again at 150 – 180 rpm.

Fine tuning of rotary speed from 60 – 80

0 25 50 75 100 125 150 175 200

monitoring hole cleaning performance

torque and drag monitoring

Figure 7 - Torque & Drag Monitoring

The theoretical predictions that the actual data is compared to must be

It is important to trust the torque and drag modelling but it is just as

Generally, prior to POOH, the hole should be circulated with maximum

Avoid circulating at the same depth for an extended period to prevent

The primary rules are:

ƒ Always assume that any tight hole or overpull is due to cuttings

back reaming and pumping out

Whereas tight hole in vertical wells is likely to be due to wellbore conditions,

Figure 8 : Effect on Cuttings Bed of Back reaming or Pumping Out

Acceptable Cuttings Bed for Tripping

A cuttings bed exists but the hole is acceptably clean to

No cuttings are left

ƒ Pumping out of the hole will not be carried out as the

guidelines for back reaming through tight hole

1. If the hole is sufﬁciently tight that the string cannot be pulled

guidelines for precautionary back reaming

1. Prior to precautionary back reaming, the hole should be cleaned

remedial hole cleaning