Design and Construction of Rotary Drilling Rig Prototype

Abstract

Drilling in search for hydrocarbon is an essential component of exploration and production activities. Chemicals, Drill rig, Casing, Tubing, Drill pipes and bits are basic requirements to successfully drill a well. Rotary Drilling rig is very crucial among the basic requirements. A major function of rotary drilling rig, is continuous circulation of drilling fluid and removal of cuttings. Hence, this paper focused on the design and construction of drilling rig prototype, for training purposes in academic environment. Components were constructed from the most suitable materials obtained from metal scraps individually, and when put together forms an integrated system that enables the drilling process to make a well. The prototype was produced successfully. The mixing hopper, hoisting and the mud circulatory systems were fully incorporated and connected. The rig prototype was, in principle, to transport fluid from the mud pit up the stand pipe to the swivel via the rotary hose down the drill pipe to the annulus and back to the mud pit through the shale shaker, De-sander, De-gasser, De-silter units, via the mud return line. The drawworks is to lift the drill pipe and lower it back into the rotary table with the aid of the drawworks motor and a top drive system.