On the Problem of Operation of Self-Propelled Drilling Rigs in the Harsh Winter Conditions of the Far North

Abstract

In the North-East and Arctic regions of the Russian Federation, self-propelled drilling rigs ofvarious modifications are in high demand for drilling of various purpose wells duringexploration and engineering works. Due to the geographical inaccessibility of the productionsites during the warm season, the bulk of drilling work is carried out in winter.The drilling fleet of exploration companies is becoming obsolete due to the lack of stableproduction of new generation drilling equipment by domestic plants, so now the process ofpurchasing imported equipment with higher technological capabilities, but not enough adaptedto work in the harsh climatic conditions of the cryolithic zones of the northern and arcticregions, has begun. Besides, the enthusiasm for imported equipment, as we know, leads toconstant dependence on foreign companies - suppliers of spare parts, technological means andmaterials and providing maintenance of drilling rigs.