GulfSlope Energy Inc (GSPE)

[smith199]

While on the subject of drill pipe, I recall a trip to a manufacturing plant. I was miserable. It was hot, noisy, stuffy, stinky, sweaty, and the air had particulate floating around in it. I did not want to breathe any of that air, but sadly, had no choice. That facility really needed better ventilation.

Our tour was escorted to a machine involved in something called ‘inertia welding’. I had never heard of it, was not interested in it, and was ready to leave just as soon as possible. The tour guide explained that a ‘tool joint’, or the threaded part of a joint of drill pipe, was to be be welded to the body of the drill pipe. They were using the inertia welding process to increase productivity and lower costs of production.

So two separate pieces of pipe were butted up against each other and then one was spun at maybe 2,000 rpm’s (?). The machine applied friction pressure to the ends of the pipes during the rotation. After only a few seconds, the butt ends of both sections of pipe were glowing bright red hot from the friction and appeared to be welded together. I was amazed. And impressed. I will never forget it. Welding without a welder or a welding machine!

Then we were able to finally leave that place. And as miserable as it was, I am glad to have had that experience and witnessed that demonstration. I am still in awe of the engineering mind.

On a drilling rig, three joints of drill pipe are ‘made up’ (tightened) together into something called a ‘stand’. Each stand is 90-100’ in length. When drilling a well, a bit is placed on the bottom of the drill pipe and the hole is drilled. When almost all the drill pipe is in the drilled hole, another stand of drill pipe is ‘picked up’ and the connections are tightened to the one in the hole. And the drilling continues another 100’ deeper. Then repeat. This is the full extent of my knowledge on drill pipe.

It all sounds so simple. But I do not think it is. There seems to always be many complications. Like those we have experienced.

I often think back to that day, and rejoice that I have the option to not work at that place.

Here are a couple of links about the drilling process that I found to be informative for those of us with limited or no exposure to drilling.

Currently I am trying to learn more about the drilling mud. I found this aspect of drilling highly interesting. And very complicated.

In fact, the entire offshore drilling process is highly complicated and I have heard it mentioned, that next to space launches, it is the most challenging of engineering activities.

Mrs. Smith