Drilling EngineeringDirectional Drilling
Kickoff Point from Target TVD and Build Sections Formula
Kickoff Point from Target TVD and Build Sections calculates kickoff point true vertical depth for directional drilling workflows in drilling engineering.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (TVD_target, dTVD_build_1, dTVD_tangent, dTVD_build_2) are known and the assumptions behind the cited directional drilling 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, KOP equals 4,272.53 ft.
TVD_targetft
4800
dTVD_build_1ft
413.5
dTVD_tangentft
50
dTVD_build_2ft
63.97
Inputs
TVD_target
ftTarget True Vertical Depth
dTVD_build_1
ftTVD Gain in First Build Section
dTVD_tangent
ftTVD Gain in Tangent Section
dTVD_build_2
ftTVD Gain in Second Build Section
Outputs
KOP
ft
Kickoff Point True Vertical Depth
TVD_target
ft
Target True Vertical Depth
Source and review
reviewedDrilling Manual horizontal directional drilling calculations, kickoff-point example.
Source