Drilling EngineeringDirectional Drilling
Vertical Curvature for Deviated Wells Formula
Vertical Curvature for Deviated Wells calculates vertical curvature for directional drilling workflows in drilling engineering.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (I_a, I_b, dL) 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, VC equals 2 degree/100 ft.
I_adegree
10
I_bdegree
30
dLft
1000
Inputs
I_a
degreeOriginal Hole Inclination
I_b
degreeDesired Hole Inclination
dL
ftCourse Length
Outputs
VC
degree/100 ft
Vertical Curvature
I_b
degree
Desired Hole Inclination
I_a
degree
Original Hole Inclination
dL
ft
Course Length
Source and review
reviewedRobello, S.E. 2015. 501 Solved Problems and Calculations for Drilling Operations, Page 84.
Source