Beruflich Dokumente
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Version 9
DEA 44
PHASE V
User's Manual
By
MAURER ENGINEERING INC.
2916 West T.C. Jester Boulevard
Houston, TX 77018-7098
Telephone: 713/683-8227
Facsimile: 713/683-6418
http://www.maurereng.com
March 2000
TR00-09
This copyrighted 2000 confidential manual and computer program are for the sole use of Commercial Customers of
Maurer Engineering Inc. and their affiliates, and are not to be disclosed to third parties. Data output from the program
may be disclosed to third parties. Customers are free to make copies of this manual for their in-house use only.
1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................1
1.1 BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 NEW FEATURES OF DDRAG 9 ................................................................................................ 1
1.3 GENERAL FEATURES............................................................................................................... 2
1.4 COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER............................................................................................. 4
2. GETTING STARTED.............................................................................................................5
2.1 HARDWARE AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................... 5
2.2 INSTALLING DDRAG................................................................................................................ 5
2.3 UNINSTALLING DDRAG.......................................................................................................... 5
2.4 RUNNING DDRAG..................................................................................................................... 6
2.5 QUICK TOUR OF DDRAG......................................................................................................... 6
3. INPUT.......................................................................................................................................9
3.1 PROJECT PAGE .......................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 SURVEY PAGE ......................................................................................................................... 11
Entering/Editing the Survey Data ............................................................................................... 12
3.3 TUBULARS PAGE .................................................................................................................... 14
3.4 WELLBORE PAGE ................................................................................................................... 16
Friction Factor Estimator ............................................................................................................ 17
3.5 OPERATION PAGE .................................................................................................................. 18
3.6 2D WELL PLANNER WINDOW.............................................................................................. 19
3.7 TORTUOSITY WINDOW......................................................................................................... 20
3.8 MENUS ...................................................................................................................................... 22
File Menu.................................................................................................................................... 22
Edit Menu ................................................................................................................................... 24
View Menu ................................................................................................................................. 24
Run Menu ................................................................................................................................... 24
Options Menu ............................................................................................................................. 24
Units Selection Window ............................................................................................................. 25
Utilities Menu ............................................................................................................................. 26
Window Menu ............................................................................................................................ 27
Help Menu .................................................................................................................................. 28
4. OUTPUT.................................................................................................................................29
4.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 29
4.2 MAIN OUTPUT WINDOW....................................................................................................... 29
4.3 OPERATING MARGIN ANALYSIS WINDOW...................................................................... 32
4.4 SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS WINDOW ..................................................................................... 33
6. GETTING HELP...................................................................................................................47
6.1 CONTACTING MEI .................................................................................................................. 47
6.2 REPORTING PROBLEMS ........................................................................................................ 47
Note: Go to Section 2.5 for a Quick Tour of major features and functions of DDRAG.
1.1 BACKGROUND
DDRAG, the Drill-String Torque and Drag Model, was developed by Maurer Engineering Inc. as part of
the DEA-44 joint-industry project to “Develop and Evaluate Horizontal Well Technology.” DDRAG is the
drilling industry’s premier engineering program for computing torque and axial drag on a drill string. The
program is used worldwide for designing and monitoring operations in deviated, horizontal and extended-
reach wells. DDRAG can also be applied to casing, liners, or tubing-string applications.
1. Load vs. measured depth along the drill string at a specific time and condition (that is, a
snapshot of instantaneous loads on the string when the BHA is at a depth of interest)
2. Surface and BHA load history vs. measured depth of the BHA during complete slack-off/pick-
up operations (that is, a dynamic load history at the surface)
DDRAG is coded in Visual Basic 6 and written for use with IBM-compatible computers with Microsoft
Windows 95 or later versions.
Several important new features have been added to version 9. These include:
the effect of drill-pipe stiffness is included in the torque and drag calculations
a convenient 2D Well Planner utility has been added to quickly create wellpath surveys for
simple or complicated wells for use in planning analyses for directional wells
output can be exported directly as a Microsoft Word document, Excel workbook, and/or
PowerPoint presentation
Another significant feature is comprehensive on-line Help. Descriptions and instructions are provided for
every input and output screen by clicking or pressing [F1]. The on-line Help system is also context
sensitive to allow intuitive navigation by pointing and clicking the mouse on the area of the screen where
your question originates. Most of the information provided in the User’s Manual is also contained in the
on-line Help system.
DDRAG runs in the Microsoft Windows 95/98 and Windows NT environments. As a true 32-bit
application, the program is not compatible with Windows 3.x.
Handles seven operating modes: pick-up with rotation; pick-up without rotation; slack-off with
rotation; slack-off without rotation; drilling with rotation; drilling without rotation; and rotation
off bottom
Handles up to 15 tube segments for each drilling operation set and 15 well intervals
Drill string and casing data can be imported directly from the on-line database (compatible with
Microsoft Access), which can be modified within DDRAG or in Access
Results, data, and graphs can be output to screen, printer, and disk file
Supports English and metric units, as well as custom combinations of units (bit size in inches,
depth in meters, etc.)
Drilling/Tripping Operations
Calculates torque and drag for pick-up with or without rotation
Calculates hook loads and surface torques for continuous operations (dynamic)
Friction Factor
Determines friction factor for pick-up without rotation
Determines friction factor for slack-off without rotation
Buckling
Indicates the onset of 1) sinusoidal buckling, 2) helical buckling, and 3) yield stress limit
One of three sinusoidal buckling criteria can be selected: 1) Exxon's equation, 2) Texas A&M
University's equation, and 3) Rogaland Research’s equation
One of three helical buckling criteria can be selected: 1) Rice University's equation, 2) Texas
A&M University's equation, and 3) Rogaland Research’s equation
Tortuosity
Survey data can be “tortured” (add small imperfections to an ideal wellpath so that it better
represents real wells)
Different tortuosity amplitudes and cycle lengths can be applied across as many as five wellpath
intervals
The output window provides a wide variety of informative graphs and reports that may be printed or stored
to disk.
Program Disks
DDRAG is shipped on CD. The DDRAG executable file (DDRAG9.EXE) should be placed in a new
folder (default “C:\MEI\DDRAG”) along with the example data files. This will be accomplished during
the set-up procedure described below.
Installation
The following procedure will install DDRAG from the floppy drive onto the working directory of the hard
disk (e.g., copy from D: CD drive onto hard drive directory C:\MEI\DDRAG).
1. Choose “Run...” from the Start menu. Then type “D:MENU” for CD.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
During set up, a new program folder (“MEI Applications”) will be created (depending on your choice
during installation) with the shortcut to DDRAG and other MEI programs.
Note: To move other previously installed MEI software applications into this folder, select Start Settings
Taskbar & Start Menu... Start Menu Programs [Advanced]. Then double-click “Programs” to
display the folders in your Programs menu. Drag and drop shortcuts to other MEI programs into the MEI
Applications folder.
Using this procedure clears the library registry in the Windows system folder and erases the corresponding
library files that are not stored in the DDRAG directory.
Install:
1. Start Windows 95 (or above)
Run:
5. Launch DDRAG. Select DDRAG from the MEI Applications folder under Start Menu Programs.
6. In the Main window of DDRAG, choose “Open...” from the File menu (or click ).
7. From the Project File Open dialog box, select “DDRTest.DD9” in the file list box, and click [OK].
8. Review the input data by clicking the tab on each input page in turn (Project, Survey, Tubulars,
Wellbore, Operation).
9. Click the view output icon to launch the calculations and display the results. The progress of the
calculation will be shown on the right end of the icon toolbar.
Output:
10. After the Output Window is loaded, review the graphs and table in turn by double-clicking on the title
bar to maximize and double-clicking again to restore the tiled display.
12. Click to return to the Input window. Change any parameters as desired. Click the view output
icon to calculate torque and drag based on the new parameters.
13. Finally, select “Exit” from the File menu or in the upper right corner of the main DDRAG window
to close the program.
Menu Bar. Functions of the pull-down menus in the Main Window are similar to that in other
Windows applications. A description of all functions and features is presented later in this chapter in
Section 3.8.
Tool-Bar Icons. Tool-bar icons can be used to quickly access commonly used functions. The icons
are short-cuts for menu options. The functions of the icons are:
Save. Saves all input data to current file name. If the project is new, the Save As... window is
activated automatically.
Print. Prints the current window (input or output). To change printers, open the “Page
Setup…” window under the File menu.
View Input. Used to return to the Input window for reviewing and modifying input data after
the Output window has been accessed.
View Output. Launches the calculations based on the current input data and automatically
displays the results in the Output window.
Operating Margin. Opens the Operating Margin window (see Section 4.3) for analyzing the
range of safe operational loads (torques and bit weights) and how pipe stresses develop as
loads are increased.
Sensitivity Analysis. Opens the Sensitivity Analysis window (see Section 4.4) for analyzing
the relative impact of changes in individual parameters while other parameters remain
constant.
Wellbore Geometry Schematic. Opens a utility window that displays the relative diameter
with depth of the wellbore and drill string.
Sheave and Weight Indicator Calculation. Opens a utility window (see Section 3.8) used to
calculate sheave efficiency based on weight indicator readings and loads.
Units. Opens the Units Selection window (see Section 3.8). You can select default English
units, default SI units, or any custom combination of English and SI units.
Help. Opens the DDRAG on-line Help system directly to a description of the current page.
Same as [F1]. Alternatively, select “Help Topics” from the Help menu to open the Help
Contents.
Page Tabs. Switching between the five input pages for entering or checking data is simple – just
click on the corresponding tab. The small circle on the left side of each tab is like a traffic
signal light. A red light indicates that data entry is not complete on that page. A green light
on all tabs means that all required data have been entered and that the calculation sequence
may be launched by clicking .
Note that the tab traffic light may not change color until the tab is redrawn (by selecting another tab).
Project Documentation. These data provide specific information about the project to identify the
company, project name, well location, date, and miscellaneous comments. Any or all of these items
may be left blank if desired. The function of the program is not affected.
Operational Mode. Select one operational mode for the analysis. String rotation has a dramatic
impact on torque and drag. Axial friction becomes very small if the pipe is rotated while it is moved
axially. This occurs because the frictional drag force acts in a direction opposite to the velocity of a
point on the surface of the drill pipe. If the pipe is both rotating and moving axially, the velocity of
the pipe relative to the hole is a combination of two vector quantities – axial velocity and rotational
velocity. More discussion on these concepts is presented in Section 5.1.
Use the button to clear the survey data table (i.e., new file). The button will open an existing
*.SDI file for importing into DDRAG. will save the current survey data into the *.SDI format so
that it can be imported into other MEI software. Again, note that this save button is not needed unless
these survey data are to be used elsewhere in other software.
Survey Data Units Selection. Specify the format for entering survey data based on the format of the
source data. If inclination is entered in Degrees:Minutes, the data may be entered using a decimal
point to separate degrees and minutes. A colon will be entered automatically.
Survey Data Table. Wellbore survey data are entered into the first three columns of the table.
Column 1 is Measured Depth of the survey point. Column 2 is Inclination Angle at that depth.
Column 3 is Azimuth Angle at that depth. Column 4, TVD (true vertical depth), and column 5, DL
(dogleg severity) are calculated quantities. The yellow background on these columns denotes they
cannot be entered or edited by the user.
You can input any number of survey positions in the table. Survey depth in row 1 should be 0 feet
(or 0 meters). Survey depths must be in increasing order (i.e., descending down the hole). The
inclination angle and azimuth angle each have two options for units, independent of the general
system of units selected for the overall application.
[ROW 1] MD, Inclination, Azimuth; [ROW 2] MD, Inclination, Azimuth; [ROW 3]......
Copying Data
The standard Windows key combinations can also be used to copy, paste or move individual entries
or blocks of cells in the survey table. Control+C will copy the selected entry (ies); control+V will
paste; control+X will remove the entry to the Clipboard. Note that you can copy individual entries
only to individual cells, not to a block of cells.
To copy from a spreadsheet application (e.g., Excel), assemble the data in the spreadsheet in three
columns in the correct order. Select the range of interest and copy to the clipboard (control+C). Go
back to DDRAG, click on the upper left cell to position the cursor, and press control+V.
After an arrow key or the mouse is used to move to the cell of interest, the default edit mode for that
cell is the overwrite edit mode. Type any number or a decimal point, and the old value will be
erased and replaced by the new number.
The number edit mode allows changing individual digits in the cell entry. Double-click on the entry
to activate the blue highlight on the cell. Cancel the blue highlight by clicking inside it or
using the right or left arrow key. After the blue highlight is removed, single digits can be erased
(using backspace or delete keys) and new digits added.
Survey Calculate Button. After survey data are entered or modified, the [Calculate] button must be
pressed for calculating Columns 4 and 5 in the data table. These data will also be used to generate or
refresh the survey graph on the right half of the screen.
Table Control Buttons. The table control [Insert] and [Delete] buttons can be used for editing the
survey table data. [Insert] will place a new blank row above the cursor position. [Delete] will clear
the current row. A confirmation pop-up box appears before any data are deleted.
Dogleg Warning Feature. The dogleg warning feature was added at the request of our clients. If this
feature is active, the computer will warn you when the dogleg severity exceeds the limit entered in the
box. Extreme dogleg severity in column 5 will be displayed as red text on a white background
. This alarm function can be used for indicating significant errors in inclination or azimuth
data. Large errors (which produce large doglegs) will be quickly found and corrected.
2D Planner. The 2D Planner button opens the 2D Planner window for rapidly creating a simple or
complicated wellbore survey based on geometric constraints. See Section 3.6 for a complete
description.
Survey Data Graph. The survey data are plotted graphically in one of three formats chosen by the
user. Options, which include dogleg severity with depth, inclination angle with depth, and a 2D
wellbore profile, are selected by clicking the tabs at the bottom of the graph area. These plots can be
very helpful for spotting errors in the survey data. The current graph can be sent to the printer by
clicking [Print Graph].
Tortuosity Button. The tortuosity button activates the Tortuosity window for adding doglegs and
other irregularities to ideal wellbore surveys to represent typical field conditions. See Section 3.7 for
a complete description.
Drill-String Data Table. The drill string placed in the well must be specified in detail. The first row
is the first section that would be inserted into the hole (i.e., the BHA, collars, etc.). Other sections of
drill pipe should be entered in order proceeding up the string.
Several convenient features are provided for assistance with data entry into the Drill-String Data
Table.
The first utility can be used to calculate the final length of drill pipe required to achieve the planned
depth. The last row entered in the table describes drill pipe in the uppermost section of the well when
the bit is at the depth of
interest. The length of drill
pipe for this section should
only be enough to complete
the string to the depth of
interest (which may be at any
depth). A utility is provided
to quickly compute the
required length to complete
the string. Right-click on the
length cell in the final row of
the table (as shown in the
figure). Within the Final Section Length utility, enter the MD of interest where the bit will be
located. The required length of drill pipe to complete the string will be calculated automatically.
Click [Apply] to export the resulting value to the Drill String Data Table.
Drill-String Database. An extensive on-line database of drill string dimensions and properties is
provided. Dimensions and strengths for a wide variety of drill pipes can be directly imported into the
Drill-String Data Table.
Before accessing the database,
position the cursor anywhere
on the row into which data are
to be imported. Note that
column 1 (Description) and
column 2 (Length) will not be
affected by the import. Any
information entered in those
columns will remain after
importing data from the
database.
Wellbore Data Table. Friction along the wellbore must be specified so that torque and drag can be
calculated. ID and friction factor are required for each section. If friction factor is unknown, open
[Friction Estimator] to derive an appropriate value for the expected conditions. If casing ID is
unknown, access the [Tubular Database].
Friction Estimator Utility. A utility window is provided for estimating friction factor for a range of
conditions. This utility is described below.
Tubular Database. An extensive on-line database of casing and tubing dimensions is provided.
Internal diameter for a wide variety of tubulars can be directly imported into the Wellbore Data Table.
Before accessing the
database, position the cursor
anywhere on the appropriate
row. Note that columns other
than Pipe ID will not be
affected. Any information
entered in other columns will
not be changed after
importing data.
Friction Factor Estimate Selection. Two options are provided for estimating friction factor. The
simpler approach is to select the “Oilfield Experience” tab and review the table of representative
values presented (see table at right). Choose the most appropriate value(s) based on the area of
operations and anticipated field conditions.
“Actual Friction Factors” are those reported
by operators and service companies for
operations in real wells. “Predictive
Friction Factors” have been increased to
account for differences between drag
predicted in smooth planned wellpaths and that observed in real wells. Apply these predictive friction
factors at the planning stage when only planned well surveys are available. Another technique to
address the differences between real and ideal wells is to add tortuosity to the well survey. The
Tortuosity window is described in Section 3.7.
The second option is to calculate an estimate of friction factor based on a field measurement of hook
load at a given depth. Click the “Calculated Estimates” tab.
Operation Selection. Select the calculation option based on the field measurement(s) available.
These include “Pick-up without Rotation” and “Slack-off without Rotation” when hook load is
known, and “Rotation off Bottom” when surface torque is known. Parameter fields will change to
reflect the selected operation.
Operating Parameters. Enter the depth and hook load (or surface torque) measured in the field. The
surface load is equal to the hook load you enter minus the weight of the traveling assembly. This
surface load is used to calculate the estimated average friction factor of the wellbore section.
Friction Factor Estimate. After entering all required input parameters (in white boxes), click
[Calculate] to display friction factor and calculated hook load. Results displayed in yellow boxes
cannot be edited.
To change the traveling assembly weight, return to the Operation page (Section 3.5).
BHA Loads. Enter the operational parameters and loads at the bottom-hole assembly. BHA torque
and drag values are usually either engineering judgments or are based on the difference in surface
readings between a slick drill string and one containing the BHA or similar assemblies. These values
are primarily used with stabilizers or logging tools that go into the hole collapsed and are withdrawn
with arms extended.
BHA torque and drag are boundary conditions at the bottom of the drill string. They represent
starting points for the calculation of torque and drag, which proceeds upward along the drill string
from the BHA.
Mud Weight and Traveling Assembly Weight. Mud weight affects buoyancy of the drill string and
hook load at surface. The weight of the traveling assembly is a tare weight that is subtracted from
hook load to derive actual string weight.
Tripping and Drilling Speeds. Axial and rotary velocity of the string affects hook load when drilling
or tripping. Enter all four parameters if you will evaluate both drilling and tripping operations.
Otherwise, you may leave the parameters blank (zero) that are not needed.
Depth of Operation. The starting and ending depths define the operating range for the specific
(current) analysis. This range will impact the data display in the output graphs. In output graphs and
tables that describe conditions at the BHA or surface, results will be displayed only for this defined
2D Plan Options. Three basic directional wellpath types are provided: 1) build and hold (for
example, a classic horizontal well), 2) build and drop (an S-shaped trajectory), and 3) build and build
(an extended-reach well with a tangent section). Geometric parameters required for the well plan
vary depending on the option selected. The example wellpath shown in the graphic (which defines
the geometric parameters) will change to reflect the option currently selected.
Calculated Survey Table. After all required geometric parameters are entered, click [Calculate]. The
calculated survey will be displayed in this survey table. The 2D Plan survey table includes only
essential points defining the wellpath, that is, where the inclination and/or build rate changes.
Additional survey stations will be added into the survey as it is exported to the Survey page.
2D Plan Target. Specify the target end point of the wellpath. Two format options are provided: 1)
TVD (true vertical depth) along with North/South and East/West distances, or 2) TVD along with
horizontal displacement and azimuth direction. Labels on the number entry boxes will change to
reflect the option selected.
2D Plan Parameters. After you specify the target position, several basic geometric parameters must
be entered. Obviously, an infinite number of wellpaths could be used to connect the surface and
target locations. To develop a practical solution, you must specify most of the geometric parameters.
For Build and Drop and Build and Build trajectories, specify six of
the following: 1) inclination 1 (from surface to the first KOP), 2)
length 1, 3) build rate 1, 4) inclination 2 (the tangent section), 5)
length 2, 6) build rate 2 (the second curve section), 7) inclination 3
(from the end of the curve to TMD), and/or 8) length 3.
2D Plan Control Buttons. Click [Calculate] after the geometric parameters are entered. DDRAG
will iteratively calculate the values of the two unknown parameters and devise the survey. When you
are satisfied with the results, click [Accept] to complete the survey with incremental survey stations
and to export the results to the Survey page.
The amplitude of the tortuosity (maximum value in degrees of the sine-wave variation) is chosen according
to hole conditions. Dr. Russell Hall of MEI recommends a tortuosity of T = 0.7º as a typical starting
point. After the tortuosity amplitude is set, the original survey data are then modified (“tortured”) by
adding the corresponding sinusoidally varying dogleg to each survey point. These data can then be
exported to the Survey page and used to predict wear in a non-ideal wellbore more representative of field
wells.
Survey Data Table. The values initially appearing in this table are copied from the Survey page.
After tortuosity is added to inclination and azimuth, the adjusted values will appear in this table for
review. Data cannot be edited within this table. Return to the Survey page (click [OK] or [Cancel])
to make changes to any survey data. The table can be enlarged for detailed review by the Windows
control buttons and .
Tortuosity Zone Parameters. The survey can be divided into as many as five zones (for example:
surface to KOP, first build section, first tangent section, second build section, second tangent
section...). Each survey zone may then be given a different amplitude and/or period for its distributed
tortuosity. The bottom measured depth should always be the maximum survey depth.
Select Sinusoidal or Random for the general method to modify the survey. As stated above,
sinusoidal tortuosity adds a regular, sinusoidally varying dogleg to inclination and azimuth. Random
tortuosity adds a “random” dogleg to inclination and azimuth.
Amplitude is the maximum dogleg added to the data. Exxon reported that they used a tortuosity of
1º. Dr. Russell Hall of MEI has found a tortuosity of T = 0.7º to be typical.
This means that the tortuosity period should not be assigned a value that is 2/n (2, 1, , ½, etc.) times
the distance between survey stations. It is recommended that be at least five times greater than
the interval between survey stations.
Insert Survey Stations is used if the survey depths are too widely spaced for a reasonable tortuosity
period. Click “insert in zone x” to add stations to the existing survey. The default interval between
inserted stations is 100 ft.
Tortuosity Control Buttons. There are five command buttons at the bottom of the Tortuosity
Window. [Calculate] tortures the original survey data, and both the survey data table and dogleg
severity graph show the tortured survey. [Undo] resets the data to the original survey. [Print] prints
the active window. (If the table or graph is maximized on the screen and the print command button is
hidden, press [F6] to print.) [OK] copies the tortured survey data to the Survey page. [Cancel] closes
the Tortuosity window without any changes to the survey data.
Tortured Dogleg Graph. The impact of adding tortuosity to the survey can be visualized by
inspecting the dogleg graph. The graph may be enlarged for easier viewing by using the Windows
control buttons and .
3.8 MENUS
The menu system in DDRAG is typical of Windows
applications. Most functions are self-explanatory.
There are eight menus available in all primary input and
output windows: File, Edit, View, Run, Options,
Utilities, Window and Help.
File Menu
The File menu contains commands for creating,
retrieving, saving and printing input data. The functions
of the individual menu options are:
4. “Save As...” saves the current version of the input data under a different name. A dialog box is
opened to let the user specify the drive, directory, and name of the project file.
5. “Import from DDRAG 8” is used to open project data files previously created and saved with an
earlier version of the program. After a file is imported, you will need to input additional data that is
not stored in DDRAG 8 files. These are Tool Joint IDs on the Tubulars page. You also need to
check Tripping Speed, Tripping RPM, Drilling ROP and Drilling RPM on the Operation page. Some
of these parameters will have been assigned a default value of zero because they were not stored in
your DDRAG 8 data file. For example, if your DDRAG 8 project was for a drilling operation,
tripping speed and tripping RPM were not required and were not stored. We recommend that you
check all of these parameters on the Operation page after importing data.
Note that, in addition to this menu option which imports entire DDRAG projects (which consist of
multiple data files), wellbore survey data may be easily imported independently from any existing
survey file in the MEI standard *.SDI format by clicking the special open survey file icon near
the top of the Survey page.
6. “Page Setup...” provides options for selecting printers. Select the printer from those available on your
computer before selecting “Print.”
7. “Print” prints the current input data file on the default printer. To select another printer, go the “Page
Setup...” Same as .
8. “Print All” prints all input data and output graphs and tables to the default printer. This option is
available only after a calculation has been completed.
9. “Print Summary Report” prints a one-page report that summarizes important input parameters and
output results. This option is available only after a calculation has been completed.
10. “Export Results…” opens a dialog window for saving the output table to a text file (*.txt) for opening
in other applications for further analysis of the results. This option is available only after a
calculation has been completed.
13. “Database...” opens the interface for the GALAXY database for sharing project data between MEI
programs.
14. “Exit” concludes the current session. DDRAG will prompt for saving the input file if data have been
changed and not yet saved.
3. “Paste” copies the Clipboard contents to the data table starting at the
current position of the cursor.
5. “Insert Row” inserts a blank row into the currently selected table at the cursor position.
6. “Delete Row” deletes the row of the data table the cursor is currently positioned in, whether a cell or
the entire row is selected.
View Menu
The View menu contains commands for changing the main display. The
functions of the individual menu options are:
1. “Input” displays the main input window for entering and editing
input data. Same as .
2. “Output” calculates the results and displays the main output window for reviewing the torque and
drag analyses. Same as .
3. “Wellbore Schematic” displays the relative diameter with depth of the wellbore and drill string. Same
as .
Run Menu
The Run menu is used to launch DDRAG calculations. Click “Start” after all input
data are entered. Green traffic lights on all tabs indicate that all required data are entered and that the
calculations can now be performed. The view output icon can also be used to launch the calculations.
After the calculations are complete, the results will be displayed automatically in the output window.
The same results are obtained by selecting “Output” from the View menu.
Options Menu
The Options menu includes:
Units Table. Physical parameters and currently assigned units for each quantity are displayed in the
Units Table. The user cannot edit this table directly (as indicated by the yellow background).
Allowable options for each quantity are accessed by pulling down the drop-down box attached to each
quantity.
Custom Units Control Buttons. If any changes are made to the default English or SI systems of units
by selecting another option from one or more pull-down boxes or changing the decimal display
format, the new custom system will need to be saved for future use. Use the [Save] button for new
custom systems or updates to previously created systems. The [Save As...] button is used when a new
combination of units is designed, and you wish to save it separately, rather than overwriting the
previous custom system. Custom systems of units are stored as *.UNT files and normally placed in
the C:\MEI main folder for easy access by other MEI programs.
The [Print] button will print the Units Table for documentation or reference. (This functions only
after a save.)
Numeric Display Format Table. The user can adjust the number of decimal digits displayed for each
parameter. The number of zeroes typed after the decimal point for each quantity will be used as
standard for the input entries and for printouts.
Within the decimal section of the number (which defines how many decimals are displayed), a zero
denotes a “hard” digit (always displayed) and a “#” denotes a “soft” digit (displayed if required). For
example, if the specification for diameter is “0.000,” a 3½-in. OD pipe will be listed as “3.500 (in.).”
If the specification is “0.###,” a 3½-in. pipe will be listed as “3.5 (in.).”
System of Units Selection Buttons. These buttons select entire systems of units, which then appear in
the table, and in DDRAG screens, graphs and printouts. The [Other] button will display the file
names of the custom systems previously created and stored.
The name of the currently selected system of units is displayed in the upper left corner of the Units
Selection Window (“My Custom” in the figure above).
Utilities Menu
The Utilities menu includes:
2. “Sensitivity Analysis…” opens the Sensitivity Analysis window (see Section 4.4) for analyzing the
relative impact of changes in individual parameters while other parameters remain constant. Same as
.
3. “Friction Factor Determination…” opens the Friction Factor window (see Section 3.4) for estimating
appropriate friction factors for different wellbore
conditions.
Window Menu
The Window menu contains commands for
arranging the output graphs and tables on the
screen. The first three options relate to the
simultaneous display of all output (i.e., all non-
minimized graphs and tables).
2. “Tile Horizontally” arranges the graphs and tables into three rows of two windows each. This is the
default arrangement when the Output window is first loaded.
3. “Tile Vertically” arranges the graphs and tables into two rows of three windows each.
4. Selecting a numbered graph/table has a different effect depending on the current display mode.
Help Menu
The Help menu provides on-line assistance for running DDRAG and
presents various parameters describing the user’s computer.
1. “Help Topics...” launches the DDRAG on-line Help system from the
Table of Contents. Alternatively, click or press [F1] to open the
Help system directly to a description of the current screen.
3. “Feedback...” opens a special screen form for documenting bugs, problems, etc. and communicating
with MEI. The form can be printed for faxing or saved to disk and attached to an e-mail routed to
mei@maurereng.com.
4. “MEI on the Web” provides a direct link to MEI’s home page for more information on MEI software,
including late-breaking announcements and other news.
5. “About...” opens the About window, which displays the version number of DDRAG along with
hardware in your computer. Click “Licensing...” to view a summary of the restrictions for copying
the program and manual, and the program disclaimer.
4.1 INTRODUCTION
A great variety of output data are generated by DDRAG for evaluation by the engineer. Output
presentations include X-Y graphs, tables, and secondary output windows for detailed analysis. The format
of the printouts is very concise and informative. Printed output is ready for inserting into proposals,
reports, etc.
Options are provided to view the graphs individually or in groups, to copy output data to the Clipboard for
importing into Word, WordPerfect, Excel, PowerPoint etc., as well as several other convenient features.
Output windows and all related functions are described in the following sections.
Menu Bar. Functions of the pull-down menus in DDRAG are similar to that in other Windows
applications. A description of all functions and features is presented in Section 3.8.
Save. Saves all input data to current file name. If the project is new, the Save As... window is
activated automatically.
Print. Prints the current window (input or output). To change printers, open the “Page
Setup…” window under the File menu.
View Input. Used to return to the Input window for reviewing and modifying input data after
the Output window has been accessed.
View Output. Launches the calculations based on the current input data and automatically
displays the results in the Output window.
Operating Margin. Opens the Operating Margin window (see Section 4.3) for analyzing the
range of safe operational loads (torques and bit weights) and how pipe stresses develop as
loads are increased.
Sensitivity Analysis. Opens the Sensitivity Analysis window (see Section 4.4) for analyzing
the relative impact of changes in individual parameters while other parameters remain
constant.
Wellbore Geometry Schematic. Opens a utility window that displays the relative diameter
with depth of the wellbore and drill string.
Sheave and Weight Indicator Calculation. Opens a utility window (see Section 3.8) used to
calculate sheave efficiency based on weight indicator readings and loads.
Units. Opens the Units Selection window (see Section 3.8). You can select English, SI, or
any custom combination of English and SI units.
Help. Opens the DDRAG on-line Help system directly to help with the current page. Same
as [F1]. Alternatively, select “Help Topics” from the Help menu to open the Help system at
the table of contents.
Output Graphs and Table. Results of calculations for the current input parameters are displayed
graphically. Six graph and table windows are presented. These may be reviewed in any order by
double-clicking on a plot to enlarge it to full screen.
Output presentations when “Drill with Rotation” is the selected mode of operation include:
1. Drill with Rotation – Hook Load. This dynamic-format graph displays a plot of hook
load as the BHA moves over the entire range of operation specified on the Operation page.
2. Drill with Rotation – Axial Drag. This static-format graph displays a plot of load
conditions when the BHA is at the depth of interest.
3. Drill with Rotation – Surface Torque. This dynamic-format graph displays a plot of
torque at the surface as the BHA moves over the entire range of operation specified on the
Operation page.
4. Drill with Rotation – Drill-String Torque. This static-format graph displays a plot of
torque load conditions along the entire string when the BHA is at the depth of interest.
Note that the titles of the individual graphs and tables change to reflect the operating mode
currently selected.
Operating Mode Selection. The drill string operating mode may be selected and changed within this
window independently from the primary mode selection on the Project page.
Operating Parameter Selection. Four different quantities may be considered, with from one to three
options available for any individual operating mode. Select one of the available parameters and click
[Calculate] to perform the analysis.
Operating Margin Boundary Conditions. Starting boundary conditions of torque or drag, or torque
and drag should be specified. The data can be started at zero if you don’t know the proper value.
Operating Margin Graph. The graph displays the limits defined for the drill string and the current
loading condition of the string. As calculations are performed, the drill-string curve (blue) will
gradually move toward the right (for tension and torsion) or toward the left (for buckling) until it
contacts the limit curve.
Operating Margin Results. After all input data are entered (parameter values in white boxes), click
[Calculate] to begin the animation sequence. After the animation is concluded, the first point of
contact with the limit curve is described (string element, depth, and load) in the text box along the
bottom of the window. Corresponding conditions at the surface and at the bit are summarized in the
output table above the [Calculate] button.
Sensitivity Parameters. Select one parameter to be varied while others are held constant. Enter in the
table the range over which the parameter of interest will be varied (i.e., white cells in Range Low End
and Range High End). Base-case constants for the other parameters are assigned default values
corresponding to those assigned within the current project file. Of course, you can change any
33 2000 Maurer Engineering Inc.
Chapter 4. Output
parameter to a different value within this window without impacting the project data in the main input
window.
Sensitivity Output Table. To perform the sensitivity analysis, the parameter under consideration is
varied across its range in 10% increments and a calculation performed at each step. Results for each
step are recorded in the output table in 11 rows.
Sensitivity Operating Mode. The operating mode (slack off, pick up, drill, etc.) may be selected
independently here without impacting the selection in the main input window (Project page).
Friction Factor and Adjusted Weight Prompts. These drop-down boxes assist in recalling friction-
factor and adjusted-weight data for individual sections of the drill string. If you click on any of the
string sections listed, the corresponding friction factor or adjusted pipe weight will be copied from the
main input window into the Sensitivity Parameter input table.
Sensitivity Output Graphs. Sensitivity results are summarized in two graphs, one for hook load and
one for torque. The parameter under consideration is the x-axis for both graphs.
Click [Print] to print the input data, output results, and graphs (two pages).
The model considers the drill string to be made up of short segments joined by connections which transmit
tension, compression and torsion, but not bending moment. The basic equations of friction are applied to
each segment, with the calculations starting at the bottom of the drill string and proceeding upward to the
surface. Each short element thus contributes small increments of torque drag, axial drag and weight. These
forces and torques are summed to produce the total loads on the drill string.
f = friction factor
F = axial friction force
M = torque
N = normal force
T = tension
R = effective radius of element
= inclination angle
= azimuth angle
= incremental values
W = weight (including buoyancy)
2 2
1/ 2
When the string is rotating, there is no contribution from friction force (f = 0), so the equation is reduced to
T = W cos
M=fNR
Multi-Element Cases
As the calculation proceeds along the drill string, T + T becomes T for the element above the present
calculation point and T contributes to the overall sum of torque required for rotation. When completed,
the analysis yields tensile and torsional loads as functions of depth all along the string.
D = pipe diameter
Vc = D· rpm
where D is the pipe diameter, and rpm is the rotary speed of the pipe. Va is either drilling rate or tripping
speed.
Va and Vc are perpendicular, and their resultant velocity, Vr, is the vector sum of these two quantities.
The magnitude of the frictional drag, F, is dependent only on the product of the coefficient of friction and
the normal force, N, that pushes the pipe against
the wall of the hole. Frictional drag acts in a
direction opposite to the resultant velocity of the
pipe relative to the hole wall. This frictional
drag can be resolved into components in exactly
the same manner as the velocity of the pipe.
One component opposes axial motion, while the
other opposes circumferential motion (as shown).
Since the two triangles shown in the figure are similar, the axial drag force equals:
Fa = F· (Va/Vr)
Fc = F· (Vc/Vr)
For example, if 5-inch pipe is rotated at 150 rpm and moved axially at a rate of 10 ft/min, axial friction will
be reduced to 5% of the value it would have been without simultaneous rotation (Va = 10 ft/min., Vc =
196.4 ft/min., Vr = 196.6 ft/min., Va/Vr = 0.051). This shows the importance of using a top drive in
horizontal wells where torque and drag are high.
Spatial Orientation
Spatial orientation refers to the values for inclination and azimuth angle at both ends of the element. These
are easily obtained from wellbore survey data.
Nature of Motion
The nature of the string motion determines the effect of the drag force. If the string is moving up and not
rotating, the drag force adds to the weight component of tension. With downward motion and no rotation,
the drag force decreases the weight component. If the element is rotating, drag is assumed to have no effect
on tensile force, but it does add to the total torque required to rotate the string.
In terms of field operations, upward motion with no rotation occurs when raising the string (i.e., picking up
or coming out of the hole). Downward motion with no rotation corresponds to lowering the string (i.e.,
slacking off or going in the hole). The string is rotated prior to drilling (no weight on bit) and during
drilling (with weight on bit).
Using a top drive, it is possible to rotate while moving either up or down. When rotating, most of the
frictional drag acts in the circumferential direction, leaving very little to oppose axial motion of the pipe.
In a deviated or horizontal well, this will allow a greater measured depth to be achieved before approaching
the yield load of the drill pipe.
Friction Factor
The friction factor is a very important parameter because it characterizes the surface-to-surface interaction
central to the mathematical model. A great amount of work has gone into obtaining and verifying typical
friction factors for predictive work. The exact friction factor applicable to any particular situation is a
function of many things, including drilling fluid type and composition, formation type (in open hole),
casing material and condition (in cased hole), and tool-joint material and condition (e.g., roughness or
presence of hard-metal coating).
At a single point in time, mud type and composition in the well is constant but there may exist significant
portions of both cased and open hole. As a consequence, it may be necessary to use two friction factors,
one for the drill-string/casing interaction and one for the drill-string/formation interaction.
FRICTION FACTOR(S)
OPERATION
DRILL-STRING LOADS = FUNCTION OF TENSION/TORSION BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
PIPE SIZES, WEIGHTS, LENGTHS
MUD WEIGHT
WELLBORE SURVEY
In other words, if the information listed on the right is known, the resulting loads on the drill string can be
calculated.
Alternatively, if there is an existing well for which the drill-string loads and all other parameters except for
the friction factor are known, the above equation can be rearranged to yield:
DRILL-STRING LOADS
OPERATION
FRICTION FACTOR = FUNCTION OF TENSION/TORSION BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
PIPE SIZES, WEIGHTS, LENGTHS
MUD WEIGHT
WELLBORE SURVEY
The program is structured according to the relationships given above (so that the problem can be worked in
either direction). Obviously, the capability to calculate drill-string loads is necessary for prediction. The
reason the mode to calculate friction factors is included is also straightforward. To effectively use the
program as a predictor, it must be calibrated by obtaining friction factor values characteristic of the areas
and formations under study. These are usually not readily available data, so the best way to obtain them is
to derive values of loads from wells for which all other information is known.
Summaries of the two solution modes of the program are presented below.
Wellbore Shape Information – This is azimuth, inclination and depth data for the anticipated well
shape. These data can be entered directly or loaded from an existing survey data file.
Drill-String Design Information – This is the physical description data for the components in the
string.
Well Design Information – These data are the applicable values for weight on bit, mud weight,
overpull at bit, estimated bit torque, BHA torque and drag, and friction factors.
DDRAG will calculate tensile and torsional loads on the drill string for the following situations:
1. Picking up (raising) the drill string with or without simultaneous rotation (with a margin of overpull if
desired)
4. Rotating the drill string (with bit weight and resulting bit torque applied)
Wellbore Shape Information – Same as above except that this is azimuth, inclination, and depth data
for an actual wellbore.
Well Design Information – The only item that must be specified is mud weight.
Reference Load Data – This is a known value for load in a specific operating scenario. The value can
be either 1) pick-up hook load (minus the weight of the traveling assembly), 2) slack-off hook load
(minus the weight of the traveling assembly), or 3) torque for rotating off bottom.
Calculation Parameters – The parameters specified always include the calculation interval, as above.
If the program is solving for one friction factor in a two-factor scenario, the known factor and its
interval of application must be specified.
After the required information is input, the program iterates to solve for the friction factor that produces a
predicted load equal to the known load.
To add tortuosity to the well survey, sinusoidal variation with a period length (or cycle length) is added
to both inclination and azimuth angles. This is of the form
where
In addition, inclination angle is modified in the program so that it does not become less than zero, since
negative inclination angles are not permitted.
The amplitude or tortuosity number T of the sinusoidal variation is varied according to hole conditions. Dr.
Russell Hall of MEI typically recommends T = 0.7º as a starting value.
This means that the tortuosity period should not be assigned a value that is 2/n (2, 1, , ½, etc.) times the
distance between survey stations. It is recommended that be at least five times greater than the
interval between survey stations.
Sinusoidal Buckling
As compressive force is increased on a length of tubing lying along the bottom of an inclined hole, a point
is reached where the tubing will assume a sinusoidal configuration (basically a two-dimensional snake-like
undulation) side to side
across the bottom of the
hole. The axial force
required to initiate this
first mode of buckling is
calculated in DDRAG
using one of three
models selected by the
user (under Options
Buckling Model).
Field experience with buckling has been reported by several authors and participants in MEI projects,
especially with respect to CT operations. Newman et al. (“Safely Exceeding the ‘Critical Buckling Load’
in Highly Deviated Holes,” SPE 19229, 1989) along with numerous authors since indicate that tubing can
safely be pushed into a hole using compressive loads considerably in excess of the sinusoidal buckling
limit. In the field cases reported, compressive forces greater than the sinusoidal limit have been used to
push CT into inclined holes. A great number of field operations have also verified that compressive forces
larger than the helical buckling limit can safely be used to push CT into deviated holes.
The buckling yield criterion is normally significantly higher than the helical buckling limit. This condition
is closely associated with lock up. After the drill pipe or CT locks up and just begins to yield, significant
additional force may be placed on the string before it fails completely, but little additional penetration will
be achieved. The yield limit with an appropriate safety factor is a practical upper bound for tubing forces.
The design factor applied to the tubular limits (assigned on the Tubulars page) is applied to the output
graphs and should be based on practical experience.
Buckling criteria should be used carefully and as guides rather than as absolute indicators. Judgment based
on experience, though sometimes expensive to acquire, is of great value when dealing with buckling and all
its implications. Buckling itself does not imply failure, but it indicates the onset of a condition which may
precipitate failure.
From an historical perspective, the Dawson/Paslay buckling model was developed first and published in
1984. It quickly became widely applied. Chen/Cheatham published their model for helical buckling in
1990. The other models were developed later (Wu/Juvkam-Wold and He/Kyllingstad were both published
in 1993) and sought to examine and improve the assumptions and boundary conditions of the earlier
models.
Straight Wellbores
For straight wellbore sections (that is, wellbore sections where the inclination is not changing; for example,
horizontal sections), the primary difference between the three models is the nature of the changing axial
load in the load range between sinusoidal and helical buckling. The assumption made by Chen/Cheatham
is that the axial load present between the development of sinusoidal buckling and the onset of helical
buckling is constant. Since the load does actually increase between these two buckling modes,
Chen/Cheatham used a constant value that is the average axial load during the helical buckling process.
Wu/Juvkam-Wold proposed that, rather than the average load, a linearly increasing load should be assumed
for the helical buckling process. The result of this difference in assumptions is that Wu/Juvkam-Wold
predicts a helical buckling limit that is about 30% higher than Chen/Cheatham. Again, note that this
applies for straight sections.
The sinusoidal buckling load in a straight hole section is the same for all three models in DDRAG.
Curved Wellbores
Buckling criteria in curved wellbore sections (where the inclination is changing) can be significantly
different depending on the model selected. Tubing that is constrained in a curved wellbore is already
bowed and will be supported against the bottom side of the curve. Much greater axial loads are required in
curved wellbores to force the tubing to lift off the bottom of the hole and buckle. Dawson/Paslay and
Chen/Cheatham do not consider the impact of curvature on the development of buckling.
Wu/Juvkam-Wold and He/Kyllingstad both consider the impact of wellbore curvature on the onset of
buckling. Their analysis and experiments showed that, the larger the build rate, the larger the load to
initiate buckling in curved wellbores with increasing inclination. Wu/Juvkam-Wold also model the
increasing axial load between sinusoidal and helical buckling in curved wellbores, and consider the
difference in length of the inner and outer curve of the casing. He/Kyllingstad assume a constant load (as
did Chen/Cheatham) and ignore the length difference.
Comparison of Models
Due to the differences in these assumptions of axial loads and buckling in curved wellbores, the buckling
models in DDRAG can produce different results. This is especially true for helical buckling in curved
sections with increasing inclination (going to horizontal, etc.). Generally, Chen/Cheatham will produce the
lowest (most conservative) helical buckling load criterion, He/Kyllingstad a higher load, and Wu/Juvkam-
Wold the highest.
In analyses of this type, engineers often tend to choose the most conservative model to “play it safe.”
However, since the constraining effect of a curved wellbore can be very significant, it is most probable that
Chen/Cheatham is too conservative in these instances; that is, the drill pipe or CT string can be subjected
to much higher loads without buckling helically.
5.6 REFERENCES
Bourgoyne, A.T., Jr., et al., 1986: Applied Drilling Engineering, Society of Petroleum Engineers,
Richardson, Texas.
Chen, Y.C., Lin, Y.H. and Cheatham, J.B., 1989: “An Analysis of Tubing and Casing Buckling in
Horizontal Wells,” OTC 6037, 21st Annual OTC, Houston, Texas, May 1-4.
Dawson, Rapier and Paslay, P.R., 1984: “Drillpipe Buckling in Inclined Holes,” Journal of Petroleum
Technology, October.
Guild, G.J., et al., 1982: “Drilling Extended Reach/High-Angle Wells Through Overpressured Shale
Formation in the Central Graben Basin, Arbroath Field, Block 22/17, U.K. North Sea,” SPE/IADC 25749.
He, Xiaojun and Kyllingstad, Age, 1993: “Helical Buckling and Lock-Up Conditions for Coiled Tubing in
Curved Wells,” SPE 25370, presented at the SPE Asia Pacific Oil & Gas Conference & Exhibition,
Singapore, February 8-10.
Lohuis, G. et al., 1991: “Coiled Tubing/Production Logging in Highly Deviated and Horizontal
Wellbores,” CIM/AOSTRA 91-15, 1991 CIM/AOSTRA Conference, Banff, April 23–24.
Newman, Kenneth R., Corrigan, Mark and Cheatham, John B, Jr., 1989: “Safely Exceeding the ‘Critical
Buckling Load’ in Highly Deviated Holes,” SPE 19229, Offshore Europe '89, Aberdeen, September 5–8.
Spotts, M.F., 1978: Design of Machine Elements, Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
Wu, Jiang and Juvkam-Wold, Hans C., 1993: “Preventing Helical Buckling of Pipes in Extended Reach
and Horizontal Wells,” presented at the Energy-Sources Conference & Exhibition, Houston, Texas, January
31-February 4.
Wu, Jiang and Juvkam-Wold, Hans C., 1993: “Frictional Drag Analysis for Helically Buckled Pipes in
Extended Reach and Horizontal Wells,” presented at the Energy-Sources Conference & Exhibition,
Houston, Texas, January 31-February 4.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
MAURER ENGINEERING INC.
2916 WEST T.C. JESTER BOULEVARD
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77018-7098 U.S.A.
MEI is also very appreciative of your comments and suggestions for improving DDRAG. Let us know if
there are additional features you would like to see added to the program. Though it may not be feasible to
incorporate every suggestion into the next version, many important improvements have been made to MEI
programs based directly on suggestions from users.
Please use the form on the next page to report bugs in the program, as well as suggestions on improving the
function and usefulness of DDRAG.
Address: Phone:
City: Fax:
State/Country: E-mail:
Other Comments:
Other:
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
MAURER ENGINEERING INC.
2916 WEST T.C. JESTER
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77018-7098
PH: 713-683-8227 EXT. 238 • FAX: 713-683-6418
E-MAIL: MEI@MAURERENG.COM
The basic concept of a common library is sound. Since one library file may support many programs,
storing the library once in an accessible location saves space on the hard drive. However, because of
compatibility issues with different versions of the same library files, the wrong library version can cause a
program error. Programs developed/compiled with older versions of library files may not run with newer
versions or vice versa.
When running a Windows application, Windows searches for required library files in the following
sequence:
3. the local program subdirectory which contains the executable application .EXE file
These rules were established by Microsoft and, unfortunately, may lead to serious problems. Placing the
wrong version of the common library into \Windows\System\ subdirectory will cause all programs which
use a different version of that library file(s) to malfunction. MEI has received reports of problems with our
software after users have installed another company’s software. These problems are the result of the third
party software installing its own (different) version of the library into the \Windows\System\ subdirectory.
This new version then gets priority over the correct version in the local MEI subdirectory.
All MEI Windows programs based on 16-bit operating systems install the required library into the local
program subdirectory to avoid conflict with other programs already installed. Though this method requires
slightly more disk space be reserved for libraries, this is the safest approach. If this procedure is
followed, users should not be apprehensive about installing MEI’s programs.
MEI programs based on 32-bit operating systems (these programs will only run in Windows 95 and above)
avoid library problems by taking advantage of design improvements in Windows 95/98 and NT.
If a user finds that an MEI program will not run or the output graphs will not display, the following
procedure should solve any library incompatibility problems.
1. Most often, MEI’s programs will display an error message to indicate which library files are
incompatible. If so, go to Step 4.
2. Look at the specific program’s subdirectory to find all the library files needed by the program.
Usually, the library file extensions are .VBX, .OCX, .DLL, .EXE.
3. Check the \Windows\System\ and \Windows\ subdirectories to see if there is a different version
of the library file (different size or different date) stored there.
4. Move these library files from the \Windows\System\ or \Windows\ subdirectories to a temporary
subdirectory (do not erase these files) to determine whether library incompatibility is the
The following library files most frequently cause problems: GRAPH.VBX, GSWDLL.DLL, GSW.EXE,
GSWAG16.DLL, GSW16.EXE, VBDB300.DLL, THREED.VBX, and GRID.VBX.
If the problems persists after these steps are taken, please contact MEI.
Changing Printers
If you wish to switch to a special printer, assign that printer as the Windows default printer. The
default printer is selected under the Printers control window. This window is accessed in Windows 95 by
selecting Start “Settings” “Printers”. After the Printers window is open, click once on the printer of
interest to highlight it. Then, select “Set as Default” from the File menu.
Network Printers
Some users have experienced problems when trying to send output from MEI software to network printers.
Most difficulties can be addressed by modifying the printer port entry. If a network printer will not print
from an MEI program, follow these steps:
This procedure should allow printing to a network printer, provided that printer is also selected as the
Windows default printer.