Drilling EngineeringWell Control
Bullheading Initial Hydrostatic Pressure from Formation Pressure Formula
Bullheading Initial Hydrostatic Pressure from Formation Pressure calculates initial hydrostatic pressure for well control workflows in drilling engineering.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (P_form, SITP) 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, P_h_init equals 3,800 psi.
P_formpsi
5000
SITPpsi
1200
Inputs
P_form
psiFormation Pressure
SITP
psiShut-In Tubing Pressure
Outputs
P_h_init
psi
Initial Hydrostatic Pressure
P_form
psi
Formation Pressure
SITP
psi
Shut-In Tubing Pressure
Source and review
reviewedIADC WellSharp Formula Sheet, field units, well completion/workover bullheading formulae.
Source