FuchsRohr releases lightweight AluDrill for improved drilling
FuchsRohr has released its aluminium alloy AluDrill, which is up to 50% lighter than similarly sized steel pipe, making transport easier and cutting freight costs. It has a strength-to-weight ratio approaching that of titanium. In tests, the AluDrill demonstrated an improved rate of penetration in sliding mode of up to 30% compared with standard steel pipe. 
Innovative, aluminium alloy FuchsRohr AluDrill drill pipe opens up new possibilities for demanding oil and gas drilling operations. Brought to market by OTTO FUCHS Drilling Solutions (OFDS), the pipe is up to 50% lighter than similarly-sized steel pipe. This low weight translates into increased drilling efficiency while making transportation and handling both easier and less expensive.

During a series of shale drilling tests, FuchsRohr Alu Drill has proven its durability and reliability, demonstrating an improved ROP in sliding mode of up to 30% (versus standard steel pipe) through more efficient weight-to-bit transfer. The aluminium alloy’s high yield strength also showed that it can more than handle the demanding shale drilling environment. Its strength-to-weight ratio exceeds that of X80 steel and approaches the range of titanium.

With a view to the upcoming SPE, the leading trade fair for the offshore sector, Peter Kaufmann, President of OFDS, pointed to another advantage of the light-weight aluminum pipe: “Especially in offshore operations, the weight advantage reduces freight costs and facilitates transport and handling. At the end of the day, this, in addition to the increase in drilling effectiveness and a reduction in drilling time, can contribute to reduced costs and higher profit margins in the oil and gas industry.”