Drilling Modeling and Simulation

Whirl vibration is a well-known factor in causing destructive drilling dynamics, which frequently cause significant asset loss or non-productive time during drilling operations. Real-time analysis of drillstring dynamics is necessary to optimize surface drilling parameters and reduce vibration-related problems. However, there are complications in accessing the high frequency downhole data generated by the telemetry systems. It is also a challenge to derive the drillstring model due to the complexity of the vibration modes.

Watch a demonstration of the drillstring and bottom hole assembly (BHA) formulated in Simscape™ and Simulink®. You will see models of (a) the torsional and stick-slip dynamics of the drillstring system associated with the top drive and (b) the swirling motions and stick-slip dynamics of the BHA. The modeling is greatly simplified and accelerated because of multiple prebuilt blocks in Simscape libraries such as Flexible Beam and Spatial Contact Force.

Once a physics-based drilling model has been obtained, you can see it used to excite torsional vibrations and you can study the responses. This model forms the foundation for future workflows for creating digital twins and developing control strategies or predictive maintenance studies.

Additional Resources: - MATLAB for the Oil and Gas Industries: https://bit.ly/3kw2Tqm - Drilling Systems Modeling & Automation: https://bit.ly/35Iy0bV