Feasibility:
A large proportion of the costs and benefits of HDD are determined at the feasibility stage. Expert evaluation of the most suitable HDD options or alternative trenchless methods can significantly reduce risk and overall costs.
At Riggall & Associates our focus is on the best solution for the given conditions. Our combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge gives us an edge in identifying alternative options and cost saving methods. Typical outputs at the feasibility stage are:
A large proportion of the costs and benefits of HDD are determined at the feasibility stage. Expert evaluation of the most suitable HDD options or alternative trenchless methods can significantly reduce risk and overall costs.
At Riggall & Associates our focus is on the best solution for the given conditions. Our combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge gives us an edge in identifying alternative options and cost saving methods. Typical outputs at the feasibility stage are:
- Rig size requirements
- Location and size of entry and exit sites and site size
- Preliminary HDD designs
- Any special considerations for ground conditions, environment, or surface infrastructure
Planning & Design:
At the planning and design stage there are further opportunities to further reduce project cost and risk. Our input, based on our experience and knowledge, will ensure that HDD designs are achievable. Realistic designs ensure that the client receives the outcome they require without the problem of contractual claims. For the contractor, realistic design ensures a simpler project allowing them to focus on quality results.
For the specific HDD design and given ground conditions, our purpose built HDD software enables us to calculate:
- Expected drilling forces; push, pull, torque
- Drillpipe sinusoidal and helical buckling limits
- Expected pipe pullback forces
- Minimum radius of curvature limits
- Drilling fluid hydraulics profiles and hydrofracture limits
- Suitable downhole tooling configurations
- Downhole surveying and steering requirements
Tender Evaluation:
Large HDD projects require well engineered solutions. Advice from HDD specialists during tender evaluation will ensure that technically proficient contractors are chosen for the job. Riggall & Associates are totally independent and have experience working with all major European HDD contractors.
At Riggall & Associates we compile a comprehensive risk register based on past experience and assessment of the specific site and ground conditions. Tender submissions are evaluated based on how each risk is eliminated or mitigated. Submissions are also examined for their consideration of the expected parameters calculated in the Planning and Design phase.
Project Supervision:
Riggall & Associates can provide project supervision to ensure your HDD project stays on track. We take a proactive approach, working with parties to prevent problems and reduce risk. Our experience of over 95 HDD projects is invaluable in this capacity.
Training:
Riggall & Associates have given training courses on HDD guidance systems throughout the world. Seminars are available that address broader issues of HDD engineering for those unfamiliar with the technique.
Riggall & Associates have written training manuals on HDD guidance systems and HDD surveying for Prime Horizontal Ltd. Training seminars in these subjects are available through Prime Horizontal. http://www.prime-horizontal.com/
Troubleshooting:
We offer a troubleshooting service to provide solutions when crossings do not go to plan. Unexpected ground conditions and unsuitable choice of downhole equipment can lead to such problems as unacceptable drilling fluid loss or breakout, loss of survey accuracy, or drill string sticking. In such situations it is often useful to have an impartial analyst who can look at the project data and suggest solutions that may not be apparent to those on the job. In many cases similar problems may have been solved on other projects, so our previous experience is invaluable.