Practice Test Geeks(SPE) Society of Petroleum Engineers Certification Practice Test
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Drilling Engineering Principles Flashcards

7 cards from real SPE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the primary purpose of a drill stem test (DST) in petroleum engineering?

    Answer: To evaluate reservoir pressure, permeability, and fluid type before completing the well

    A DST evaluates formation fluid characteristics, reservoir pressure, and permeability to determine whether a well is commercially viable.

  2. In directional drilling, what does the term 'dogleg severity' (DLS) measure?

    Answer: The rate of change in wellbore inclination and azimuth per 100 feet

    Dogleg severity measures the rate of change in wellbore direction (both inclination and azimuth) per 100 ft, expressed in degrees per 100 ft.

  3. Which drilling fluid property describes its ability to suspend cuttings when circulation is stopped?

    Answer: Gel strength

    Gel strength measures the thixotropic properties of drilling fluid that allow it to suspend cuttings and weighting materials when pumps are off.

  4. What is the function of a float valve (check valve) installed in the drill string?

    Answer: To prevent backflow of formation fluids up through the drill pipe

    A float valve prevents wellbore fluids and gases from flowing back up into the drill string, helping to control kicks and maintain well control.

  5. The equivalent circulating density (ECD) is higher than the static mud weight because:

    Answer: Annular friction pressure losses add to the hydrostatic pressure

    ECD equals static mud weight plus the additional pressure due to annular friction losses from fluid circulation, expressed as an equivalent density.

  6. What is the purpose of 'reaming' during drilling operations?

    Answer: To enlarge or clean an undergauge section of the wellbore

    Reaming involves rotating and circulating while moving the drill string up and down to enlarge tight spots or clean sections of the wellbore that have collapsed or swelled.

  7. In well control, what is a 'hard shut-in' procedure?

    Answer: Immediately closing the BOP with the choke closed after detecting a kick

    Hard shut-in involves immediately shutting the well in by closing the BOP with the choke line closed upon detecting a kick, allowing accurate SIDPP and SICP readings.