Case History: Utilizing 5-1/2" Drill Pipe in a Deepwater Gulf of Mexico Drilling Program

Abstract This paper describes lessons learned while selecting and utilizing a string of 5-1/2" drill pipe with special reduced clearance outside diameter (OD) tool joints in a long-term deepwater Gulf of Mexico drilling program. Actual field data including hydraulic analysis, fishing considerations, trip-speed, and completion uses are chronicled. The paper also discusses using the string of drill pipe to drill inside a 9-5/8" drilling liner along with tieback and completions inside 9-5/8" production casing. Savings associated with using one string of drill pipe are presented. Inspection results and all damages are discussed. A comparison of drilling loads, drilling hydraulics and completion hydraulics is made on this string of specialty 5-1/2" drill pipe vs. standard 5" drill pipe along with a limited comparison to 6-5/8" drill pipe. Running and handling aspects are analyzed and discussed. A specific well that utilized this string of 5-1/2" drill pipe was drilled to below 27,500' MD (25,600' TVD) and is described as the example case for the program.