Drilling EngineeringWell Control
Bullhead Pump Speed to Exceed Gas Migration Formula
Bullhead Pump Speed to Exceed Gas Migration calculates bullhead pump speed to exceed gas migration for well control workflows in drilling engineering.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (RGM, C_tbg, PO) are known and the assumptions behind the cited well control relationship match the engineering case being checked.
Assumptions
- Input values are representative for the well, reservoir, fluid, or equipment case being evaluated.
- The declared units match the field-unit constants used in the formula.
- The cited formula applies to the selected petroleum engineering workflow.
Limitations
- The calculation does not replace a full engineering model or operating procedure.
- Accuracy depends on the source correlation, assumptions, input quality, and unit consistency.
Common mistakes
- Mixing unit systems without converting the inputs.
- Using default example values as field recommendations.
- Applying the formula outside the source assumptions.
Default example
Using the default inputs, SPM_bh equals 0.58 strokes/min.
RGMft/hr
600
C_tbgbbl/ft
0.0058
PObbl/stk
0.1
Inputs
RGM
ft/hrGas Migration Rate
C_tbg
bbl/ftTubing Capacity
PO
bbl/stkPump Output per Stroke
Outputs
SPM_bh
strokes/min
Bullhead Pump Speed to Exceed Gas Migration
RGM
ft/hr
Gas Migration Rate
C_tbg
bbl/ft
Tubing Capacity
PO
bbl/stk
Pump Output per Stroke
Source and review
reviewedIADC WellSharp Formula Sheet, field units, well completion/workover bullheading formulae.
Source