Real-Time Monitoring for Quality Delivery of Directional Drilling Installations

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of quality management theory and its application in the area of trenchless technology in general, and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) in particular. Current practices that support quality management in the HDD industry are described and are classified using the relevant clauses of ISO 9000. The development of load cell technology aimed at enhancing the quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) of HDD is then described. Based on load cell data collected during 20 commercial installations, electronic records of installation loads are demonstrated to be a powerful tool for implementing QC/QA programs. The records provide installation rates, the average pull load per unit length of pipe, the maximum load exerted on the pipe, as well as the entire load history of the installation. Radio transmitting capability provides real-time load cell data that can be used to adjust drilling practices to match the level of installation effort to the parameters of the given installation, thereby maximizing productivity. Load cell data are expected to benefit owners, contractors, and consulting engineers.