How Does Oil Drilling Work?

 

Have you ever wondered how oil drilling works? Well, it sounds like a complex process—and it is too. However, with the help of our experts, you’ll understand the process in no time. From completing the well to the production phase, you’re going to learn a lot from this insightful guide.

Keep on reading to learn about how oil drilling works.

Drilling the Hole

When you think of oil drilling, think of those orange juice commercials where people poked an orange with a straw. This’ll help you envision the process better, and if not, we’re here to tell you anyway.

The first step of oil drilling requires drilling a hole through the earth’s surface. This process is carried out with the help of a drilling string. A drilling string can be anywhere between five to fifty inches. After a hole is drilled, a steel pipe is inserted, and the gaps surrounding it are closed using cement.

Completing the Well

Once a hole is drilled, then comes the step of completing the well. This is also when the hole is prepared for extraction. Typically, this means perforating the casing in order to allow oil or gas to enter the tube. Moreover, a screen is created by covering the bottom most reservoir with sand or gravel.

Then comes the pumping of fluids to clean and fracture the rock. These can be high-pressure water or acid to help release hydrocarbons from the rock. In the end, the main reservoir is sealed. After that is done and using smaller diameter tubing, it’s connected to the surface.

The Production Phase

Now comes the most important step of how oil drilling works, the production phase. During this phase, oil and gas are pulled from the ground. Typically for the majority of wells, the reservoir’s pressure is enough for the oil or gas to be pushed to the surface. However, this pulling-from-the-ground process is necessary for more expend areas.

Economic Limit

An economic limit is when the oil or gas being pulled doesn’t cover the costs related to the operation anymore. When this occurs, the steel pipe is removed, and the hole is then covered using cement. This is done to ensure that the hydrocarbon reservoirs do not mix with the water and cannot reach the surface.

Afterward, the excavation and removal of the pump head take place. Moreover, a cap is wielded in that area, and the entire thing is enclosed then to prevent accidents.

As reserves shrink, it can become difficult for us drillers to search for reliable sources of hydrocarbon. That is because we have to resort to dangerous drilling places otherwise. However, when we really have to, we have no choice but to do so.

If you’re searching for a credible company that provides services in oil and gas, we have you covered. At True Shot LLC, we offer everything from thru tubing motors to directional drilling completions. For more information on our services, get in touch with us now.