Effects of axial impact load on the dynamics of an oilwell drillstring

Abstract

This article studies the dynamics of oilwell drillstring under large and small axial impact loads. For the case of large impact load, the drillstring is regarded as a continuous bar under the impact load of a falling mass, and the energy conservation method is implemented. A sensitivity analysis is conducted to investigate the effect of cross-sectional area of the drill string on the impact stress. Results show that the design of drillstring with different cross-sectional areas is not a suitable method. In order to understand the effect of high-frequency small axial impact (applied from percussion tools or downhole generators) on the drillstring vibration, a mechanical model in which the drillstring is regarded as a 2-degree-of-freedom system under a harmonic force is developed. Sensitivity analysis on the effects of impact generator placement and impact frequency on drillstring dynamics are conducted. Results show that the impact generator should be installed near the drill bit and that high frequency is recommended to be used.