A novel continuous tripping offshore rig and its key equipment

Given the disadvantages of the intermittent tripping approach adopted in the current conventional offshore jack-up drilling rig, such as prolonged tripping duration and frequent downhole complex issues, a novel concept of continuous tripping rig was developed for the offshore jack-up drilling platform. The operation workflow of continuous tripping was clarified, the pipe stand length was determined, and the designs of key technologies and equipment, such as the continuous tripping system, pipe racker and integrated control system, were completed. The presented rig is compatible with a conventional top drive and enables continuous tripping, with the help of the extra continuous tripping system, modified pipe racker and integrated control system. It allows for drilling string lifting and lowering, tubular makeup/breakup and drilling fluid collection at higher positions, and the maximum running rate amounts to 2 160 m/h. Compared with available rigs, it can greatly enhance the drilling operation efficiency and reduce the downhole pressure fluctuation. Moreover, it presents a relatively small technical span and thus is of high practicability.