Analysis of Helical Buckling, Lock-Up, and Drill String Failure in Horizontal Wells: A Case Study from an Oilfield, Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37375/susj.v16i1.4162Keywords:
Helical buckling, Lock-up, Drill string failure, Torque and drag, Horizontal drillingAbstract
Helical buckling in horizontal drilling creates serious risks: high torque, strong drag, poor axial load transfer, and potential string sticking or breakage. Research indicates that friction along the borehole wall governs buckling initiation and growth. Pipe rotation reportedly lowers the helical buckling threshold by roughly half. This study evaluates key factors controlling helical buckling, lock-up conditions, and compressive failure. The case well (A60H-NC169A) lies in Libya's Ghadames Basin. Classical models (Dawson & Paslay, Lubinski) alongside finite element simulations are applied. Parameters examined include pipe size, annular gap, well inclination, torque, and friction coefficient. Findings indicate that axial compression rises with higher friction and inclination. Torque reduces critical buckling load by only 1–3%. Lock-up occurs when helical friction equals applied compression. Threaded connections withstand compression better than the pipe body. These outcomes offer practical guidance for bottomhole assembly optimization, reducing non-productive time, and improving drilling performance in high-angle wells.
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