When running casing, one of the things you always have to keep in mind is keeping the casing string filled with mud.The reason for this is, of course, that you want avoid collapse of the casing.

But filling the casing takes time. Time better spent fulfilling your primary objectives of running the casing to TD, cementing and pressure testing it. The process of filling the casing usually takes between 1 and 1.5 minutes, depending on pipe dimension, pump rates etc. 1.5 minutes is at least a quarter of the time you spend on each connection, so any time saved on this simple task might have a huge impact on the overall operation time.

I have previously written about Top Drive Casing Running and the benefits of this method. However, it has a couple of downsides. I will touch upon one of the biggest challenges and what we are doing to overcome it.  

The top Drive Casing Running Tool has been portrayed as a tool that increases efficiency, keeps people away from red zone and helps you get out of trouble. In this article I will focus on the characteristics that make the tool such a great problem solver, and why I consider it a great insurance policy. 

When being blessed with two derricks on your rig, you should take the full advantage of the extra opportunities this introduces. Running casing in stands is an obvious way to save valuable production time, and in this article I will show you why I consider it a crime not to seize the opportunity to save plenty of bucks.

The battle against time is a constant challenge for all of us, and it influences all parts of the drilling process. New technology and improvements in methodology alters the way we work, but in my opinion, there are plenty of room for improvement on the processes we have already established. Careful preparation and planning make way for a cost efficient casing running process. 

Don't make a too shallow decision based solely on the cost of investment. The following key factors should be taken into considertion when deciding whether to rent or own the casing tongs / power tongs.

It's my prediction that in five years, most casings will be run from the top drive. Why? Because the benefits from a smoother process in all areas of the project greatly outnumbers the extra dimes spent on equipment and expertise.