How to identify and deal with common operating problems of drilling rigs

How to identify and deal with common operating problems of drilling rigs

When drilling rigs operate in the field, they will inevitably encounter some failures. Quickly identifying problems and taking correct basic treatment measures can minimize downtime and ensure construction safety and progress.

1. Power system problems: The machine cannot start or lacks power.

Phenomenon identification: The machine has no response when starting, or the engine/motor sounds dull, emits black smoke, the speed cannot increase, and the drill pipe is weak after starting.

Basic processing method:

Check the energy supply: Diesel engine checks the fuel (whether it is exhausted or the oil line is clogged), oil and air filter (whether it is too dirty). Check whether the power connection of the motor is firm and whether the voltage is normal.

Check the battery and circuit: For electrically started diesel engines, check whether the battery power is sufficient and whether the cable joints are rusted or loose.

Avoid overloading: If the drill bit encounters a hard layer and is stuck, resulting in insufficient power, the drill should be stopped first, increase the drilling tool release torque, and then try to start at a slow speed. Do not forcibly increase the throttle.

2. Drilling system problems: Drill pipe is stuck or no footage is being drilled

Phenomenon identification: The drill pipe cannot rotate or lift in the hole (drill stuck), or the drill bit keeps idling in place but cannot drill down (no penetration).

Basic processing method:

Handling stuck drill: First try to slowly rotate back and forth and lift the drill pipe at the same time (if power allows). Never lift it with brute force. You can inject clean water or mud into the hole to lubricate the well wall before trying again. If the hole wall collapses and causes the drill to get stuck, the treatment will be more complicated and may require professional tools.

Treatment without footage: First check whether the drill bit has been severely worn (the amount of slag produced is significantly reduced, most of which are ground flat), and it is necessary to lift the drill and replace the drill bit. Secondly, determine whether the formation has become a hard rock formation. At this time, it should be replaced with an alloy drill bit or impact drill bit suitable for the rock formation.

3. Circulation system problems: Abnormal mud (or water) circulation

Phenomenon identification: The water pump cannot pump water, the transportation is weak, or the mud does not return smoothly from the orifice, or even does not return at all.

Basic processing method:

Check the water source and suction pipe: Make sure there is sufficient water in the water supply pool, the bottom valve of the suction pipe is not blocked by debris, and each joint is well sealed and does not leak.

Check the pump body: Stop the pump and check whether the water pump filter is blocked and whether there is air in the pump (exhaust it). After prolonged use, the water pump seal may wear, causing insufficient pressure.

Check the situation in the hole: If the return slurry in the hole suddenly decreases, it may be that the drill encounters a large fissure, causing mud loss, and it is necessary to increase the mud consistency or add clay; it may also be that the circulation channel is blocked by drilling slag, and the drill needs to be lifted to clean it.

4. Structural abnormalities: abnormal noise, vibration and oil leakage

Phenomenon identification: Abnormal impact or sharp friction sounds are made during operation, the fuselage vibrates abnormally and violently, or there is continuous oil leakage from hydraulic components and oil pipe joints.

Basic processing method:

Abnormal noise and vibration: Stop the machine immediately for inspection. The common reason is that the fastening bolts of various components (especially the power head, tower, and base) are loose due to vibration and need to be fully inspected and retightened. It is also possible that the bearing or gearbox is damaged internally and needs to be contacted for maintenance.

Oil leakage: For hydraulic systems, if only the joints are loose, they can be tightened after cleaning. If the oil seal or hose is ruptured, use should be suspended and spare parts should be replaced before operation to prevent greater damage caused by lack of oil.

Summary: Safety first, check in order

When encountering a problem, the first principle is to stop the machine immediately, cut off the power, and then troubleshoot from simple to complex. Prioritize inspection of external, easily visible areas: fuel/electricity, drill bits, bolt tightening, pipe connections. Most common problems stem from neglected maintenance of these foundations. For complex internal faults (such as engine overhaul, hydraulic pump damage), after completing the basic investigation, professional maintenance personnel should be contacted in time to avoid secondary damage caused by blind disassembly. Good daily inspection and maintenance habits are the most effective way to prevent these problems.