Drilling EngineeringWell Control
Level Drop After Pumping a Slug Formula
Level Drop After Pumping a Slug calculates level drop after pumping a slug for well control workflows in drilling engineering.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (W_s, W_m, V_s, C_dp) 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, L_drop equals 375.375375 ft.
W_sppg
16
W_mppg
12
V_sbbl
20
C_dpbbl/ft
0.01776
Inputs
W_s
ppgSlug Weight
W_m
ppgMud Weight
V_s
bblSlug Volume
C_dp
bbl/ftDrill Pipe Capacity
Outputs
L_drop
ft
Level Drop After Pumping a Slug
W_s
ppg
Slug Weight
W_m
ppg
Mud Weight
V_s
bbl
Slug Volume
C_dp
bbl/ft
Drill Pipe Capacity
Source and review
reviewedIADC WellSharp Formula Sheet, field units, formula 27.
Source