The model is only as good as the friction factors, and friction factors are obtained by calibration rather than from tables. Measured hook loads while tripping in and out, and measured torque while rotating off bottom, are compared with the model and the friction factors adjusted until they match. Once calibrated, the model predicts; before calibration, it guesses.

Trends matter more than absolute values. A well where the calibrated friction factor starts to climb is telling the team that cuttings are accumulating, the hole is packing off or a ledge is forming, usually before any other indication. Tracking modelled versus actual loads every stand is one of the cheapest early warning systems available on a rig.

Buckling is the limit that stops wells. In deviated hole, compression beyond the critical buckling load causes the string to buckle sinusoidally and then helically, after which added surface weight produces more friction rather than more weight on bit. Knowing where that limit sits for a given string and trajectory is the core of reach prediction.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Explain friction mechanisms and normal force generation in deviated wells.
• Compare soft string and stiff string models and their applicability.
• Specify model inputs, including trajectory, string and fluid data.
• Calibrate friction factors against measured field data.
• Analyse tripping, rotating, sliding and backreaming operations.
• Calculate buckling limits and assess weight transfer to the bit.
• Analyse casing and completion running loads.
• Predict reach limits and run sensitivity analysis.
• Monitor torque and drag in real time and interpret trends.
• Use torque and drag as a diagnostic tool for hole condition.

The course is instructor-led and modelling-based. Participants build torque and drag models for real wells, calibrate them against field data and use them to predict running loads and reach. Diagnostic exercises use real drilling data in which hole condition deteriorated, with participants identifying the change from the load trends. Participants are encouraged to bring their own well data for discussion.

Organisations sending participants to this training will:

• Predict running and drilling loads reliably before operations.
• Detect hole condition problems early through load trend monitoring.
• Improve reach prediction and extended reach well feasibility.
• Reduce stuck pipe and failed casing runs.
• Improve the use of torque and drag software across the team.

Participants will:

• Understand friction mechanics in deviated wells.
• Be able to build and calibrate a torque and drag model.
• Be able to analyse tripping, running and drilling operations.
• Be able to predict buckling and reach limits.
• Be able to use load trends as a diagnostic tool.

• Drilling engineers
• Well planners and directional specialists
• Rig site supervisors
• Completion engineers running strings in deviated wells
• Drilling performance engineers
• Service company engineers supporting drilling

Upon successful completion of this training course, delegates will be awarded an official Certificate of Completion issued by the Petroleum Engineers Association (PEA), an ISO 9001:2015 certified training organization. The certificate carries 10 Credits and formally records the total learning hours completed.

Each certificate is signed by the Course Facilitator and the CEO of the Petroleum Engineers Association, and serves as verifiable proof of professional training that delegates can present to employers and professional bodies worldwide.