Drilling and Production Flashcards

What is the main purpose of 'cementing' a casing string in a well?

Answer: To provide zonal isolation and bond casing to the formation

Primary cementing provides zonal isolation between formations and permanently bonds the casing to the wellbore wall.

In API well classification, what does a 'Class II' injection well typically receive?

Answer: Fluids associated with oil and gas production (brine, produced water)

Class II injection wells are regulated by EPA and are used to inject fluids associated with oil and gas production, such as produced water disposal or enhanced recovery.

What is 'fishing' in the context of drilling operations?

Answer: Retrieving lost or stuck equipment from the wellbore

Fishing refers to the operation of recovering equipment that has become stuck or lost in the wellbore during drilling.

What does the 'kelly bushing' elevation (KB) datum refer to in well depth measurements?

Answer: The reference point on the rotary table from which drilling depths are measured

Kelly bushing (KB) is the standard reference datum for depth measurements on a drilling rig, located at the rotary table on the rig floor.

In well stimulation, what is the primary goal of hydraulic fracturing?

Answer: To create or extend fractures in the formation to improve hydrocarbon flow to the wellbore

Hydraulic fracturing pumps fluid at high pressure to create fractures in the rock, which are held open by proppant to improve permeability and production.

What is the function of a 'packer' in a production well?

Answer: To isolate zones in the annulus between the tubing and casing

A packer is a downhole mechanical device set to isolate the tubing-casing annulus and prevent fluid communication between different zones.

What API standard governs the design and testing of drill bits?

Answer: API Spec 7-1

API Specification 7-1 covers the requirements for rotary drill stem elements including drill bits used in petroleum and natural gas drilling.