Drill breakout, often simply called "break out," is the essential process in drilling operations involving the unscrewing and disconnecting of drillstring components that are joined by various threadforms known as connections, including tool joints and other specialized threaded connections.
Understanding Drill Breakout
This procedure is a fundamental part of managing the drillstring, which is the long assembly of pipes and tools extending from the rig surface down to the drill bit. When sections of the drillstring need to be separated—whether for routine operations, maintenance, or adjustments—breakout is performed.
Why is Drill Breakout Necessary?
Drill breakout is crucial for several operational phases:
- Tripping Out of the Hole: When the drill bit needs to be replaced or maintenance is required downhole, the entire drillstring is pulled out of the well. As each stand (multiple pipe sections) or single joint of pipe reaches the surface, it must be disconnected from the rest of the string.
- Changing Drill Bits: Different geological formations require specific drill bits. Breakout allows for the quick and efficient replacement of bits without disassembling the entire string.
- Adding or Removing Drill Pipe: As the well deepens, more pipe sections are added. Conversely, if the well is shallower or the string needs to be shortened, sections are removed through breakout.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Components of the drillstring, such as subs, stabilizers, or even the drill collars, may need to be inspected, repaired, or replaced.
The Breakout Process
The process of drill breakout typically involves specialized equipment on the rig floor designed to apply significant torque in the unscrewing direction.
- Hoisting and Positioning: A section of the drillstring (often a stand of pipe) is raised by the drawworks and positioned over the drill floor.
- Gripping and Stabilizing: Power tongs or breakout tongs are used to grip the pipe and apply counter-torque to one section while torque is applied to the other. The pipe is held securely by the slips in the rotary table.
- Applying Torque: Specialized wrenches, often automated power tongs, apply high torque to unscrew the threaded connection. This torque must be sufficient to overcome the make-up torque previously applied, as well as any friction or sticking that has occurred downhole.
- Disconnecting: Once the threads are sufficiently loosened, the upper section is lifted clear, and the disconnected component is laid down on the pipe racks or moved to another part of the rig.
Key Components Involved
| Component | Role in Breakout |
|---|---|
| Drillstring | The assembly of pipe, collars, and tools that is unscrewed. |
| Tool Joints | Thickened, threaded connections at the ends of drill pipe sections designed for frequent make-up and breakout. |
| Threaded Connections | The specific threadforms (e.g., API standard threads, proprietary connections) that couple drillstring components. |
| Power Tongs | Hydraulic or pneumatic wrenches used to apply and remove torque for make-up and breakout. |
This systematic process ensures the integrity of the wellbore and the efficiency of drilling operations, allowing for fluid transitions between different phases of drilling or maintenance. For more details on drilling terminology, consult a comprehensive drilling glossary.
