Rig instrumentation

OPSRIG: Operational rig information data were measured using a variety of sensors and compiled using the RigWatch software package. Approximately 50 channels of drilling/coring data are captured in real time during the expedition. Data are presented as ASCII files extracted from the proprietary RigWatch data files and are presented by expedition. RigWatch data in time or depth domain can be imported into graphics and analysis programs to be merged and correlated with core physical properties data to enhance assessment of poor core recovery intervals.

Selected parameter definitions

    WOB (weight on bit): weight that the drill bit exerts on the rocks being cored, reported in kilopounds (klb; 103 lb). The most reliable measure of WOB reported by the RIS is AD Hook Load.
    ROP (rate of penetration): speed that the drilling bit cuts through rock, in meters per hour (m/h).
    Torque (TD-Torque): a rotational force created by the top-drive motors to rotate the drill pipe and bit and allow a hole to be drilled, measured in amps, and then converted and reported in the RIS as kilo foot-pound (ft/lb·k).
    Rotary speed (TD-RPM): revolutions of the drill string defined as revolutions per minute (RPM).
    Mud pumps total (MPT): reflects the sum total volume of two mud pumps supplying hydraulic pressure to the drilling fluid and represents the flux of drilling fluid at the coring bit, generally reported in strokes per minute (SPM).
    Standpipe pressure (SPP): total pressure loss (from annular, drill string, BHA, and bit) in a system that occurs due to fluid friction. Units of SPP in the RIS are pounds per square inch (psi and presumably gauge pressure).
    Block position: a measure of depth defined with respect to the rig floor; considered the most reliable measure of depth recorded by the RIS and is used to define the start and end of coring. Block position is measured in meters (m).