Shock Absorbers—Are They Necessary?

Abstract

Abstract The economic benefits of running a shock absorber seem evident from their growing use in oil and gas drilling operations. However, some controversy still exists over when they should be used, how to get the greatest benefit from them, and whether there are some negative effects such as hole deviation associated with the usage of some shock absorbers. Extensive experience in recent years has included results with a wide variety of shock absorber designs in the full range of hole depths and sizes. The results show that lateral stiffness of the tool, the type of spring or other energy absorption system, and tool length have a significant influence on shock absorber performance. The energy absorption system and its location in the drill string, in conjunction with the type of bottom hole assembly design, bit selection, and formation characteristics, determine whether the maximum benefits possible from the shock absorber are attained Major benefits from proper use of the appropriate shock absorber are longer bit life, higher drilling rates, longer drill-string life, reduced hazard from bending fatigue of the threaded connections in the drill string, and reduced wear on the rig equipment. These all result in a significant reduction of the overall drilling costs. Guidelines for shock absorber selection, placement in the drill string, and operating practices which yield the greatest overall benefit from the use of a shock absorber in oilfield drilling are described. Ultimately, the decision to use a shock absorber will be based on economics. Does the use of a shock absorber reduce the overall drilling cost?