Drillstring Vibration Observation, Modeling and Prevention in the Oil and Gas Industry

As well designs become increasingly complicated, a complete understanding of drillstring vibrations is key to maximize drilling efficiency and reduce bit wear as well as prevent drillstring, tool, and borehole damage. This paper presents a review of the past fifty years of work on drillstring dynamics models and the proposed and accepted vibration mitigation applications within the drilling industry. Early modeling began with simplistic models in efforts to understand downhole processes. Once downhole sensors were deployed and the basic modes of vibration were understood, proprietary systems were developed and — only recently — successfully deployed to detect and mitigate the effects of certain undesired vibrational modes, specifically stick-slip torsional vibrations. Future systems and their effectiveness will depend on a refined understanding of the various modes of vibration and their interaction, as well as improved real-time downhole sensing techniques. Implementation of high-fidelity models to deduce and correct the downhole drillstring state will subsequently improve the operational drilling efficiency.