Assessing Drill String Component Health Through Predictive Digital Analytics
Authors: Belov Dmitry , Chen Wei , Liland Eimund , Malik Asim 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
A cutting-edge solution enables accurate prediction of the remaining useful life (RUL) of drill string components before deployment in the field. This proactive approach allows informed decisions about such components to be made prior to actual drilling, significantly reducing the risk of field fatigue-related failures. The solution provides an efficient and cost-effective method for extending the lifespan of critical components, such as BHA connectors, ultimately improving overall operational efficiency.
The solution seamlessly integrates drill plan data with results from offset well analysis to estimate the RUL of various drill string components, particularly different BHA connectors. By examining offset wells with similar equipment and geological conditions, it extracts essential anticipated operational parameters. Combining a physics-based model of the relevant drill string components with a data-driven approach and modeling capabilities, the solution ensures reliable decision-making regarding the suitability of specific components for particular drilling operations. Additionally, it facilitates the optimal selection of drill string components for the intended job.
This innovative solution has undergone extensive testing, leveraging historical data to validate its reliability and effectiveness. A comprehensive comparison of predicted RUL for monitored components before field runs with actual post-job RUL estimates based on recorded drilling time consistently demonstrates favorable outcomes. This rigorous validation confirms the accuracy and dependability of the approach.
By implementing this solution, drilling engineers can optimize drill string component selection, configurations, and maintenance operations, minimizing uncertainties in RUL estimation and reducing the risk of costly failures. Integrating predicted RUL estimates into routine post-job maintenance before starting new drilling runs enables well-informed decisions, preventing unnecessary maintenance and mitigating premature component retirements.
The solution is now thoroughly validated and ready for seamless integration into a comprehensive drilling platform, encompassing maintenance systems, well construction planning, and execution. This unified strategy for drill string component management maximizes equipment utilization, enhances drilling performance, and ensures reliability throughout the drilling process. Operators adopting this integrated approach can optimize fleet management, reduce nonproductive time, minimize associated costs, and ultimately maximize revenue.
This solution highlights the significant value digital technology brings to traditional mechanical systems in the oil and gas industry by enhancing functionality and creating new service opportunities. The described algorithm and its validation process are novel to the industry. Several instances analyzed demonstrate the methodology's application, providing valuable comparisons to post-job results and underscoring the approach's robustness.