IDM Rig Automation

The IDM Electronic Driller's Cabin
The self-elevating IDM Electronic Drillers' Cabin provides a climate controlled environment and the latest technology in automated drilling controls and touch-screen monitoring. It also serves a dual function as a transit system for electrical power and the control cable for the rig floor, eliminating the need for a grasshopper.

Ergonomically designed for efficiency, safety and comfort, the driller has complete control of all drilling operations and is presented with a constant stream of information enabling him to make rapid decisions. High viewing angle and a better-than-180° of peripheral vision, provide visual clues to events on the drill floor and on the ground.

Single or dual touch screens and joy sticks replace the need for hydraulic and pneumatic feeds into and out of the driller's cabin. This eliminates not only the cost of running the required hoses and air lines, but also prevents the danger of air and fluid leaks. A simulation software package is furnished for training drilling personnel.

Inverters (AC Drives) for Efficiency
AC drives have a Power Factor (PF) of apprximately 0.9, and it stays at 0.9 under all speed and load conditions. This equates to reduced capital outlay for oversized or overload generators needed to handle the power factor problems inherent in SCR controls, thus reducing generator KVA by 20-30% when using inverters. It also means fuel savings because of the ability to run loads with fewer generators online.

SCR Controls
SCR controls at full speed have a PF of approximately 0.82. As the speed of the DC motor is decreased, such as when the drilling crew is tripping, utilizing the drawworks, or slowing down the mud pumps, the PF decreases in a somewhat linear fashion. At 1/2 speed, the PF is approximately 0.41. This means that over half the current produced by your generators is in the form of circulating currents and not available to supply other loads. In this case, you will need to bring online one or more additional generators to fulfill your load requirements.

Typical Features and Specifications
The following table is based on an IDM 1600 HP AC vs. a typical 1500 HP DC drawworks.