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Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning

  • 1st Edition - March 1, 2027
  • Latest edition
  • Author: William P. Dixon
  • Language: English

Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning imparts foundational knowledge, functioning both as an introductory guide and as a practical reference—ideal for professional… Read more

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Description

Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning imparts foundational knowledge, functioning both as an introductory guide and as a practical reference—ideal for professionals, educators, and students seeking a thorough overview of modern drilling rig engineering.

By consolidating widely dispersed industry knowledge, this book offers a unified resource to shape projects across sectors, (e.g., geothermal, oil and gas, and water well drilling). It details a structured project management model outlining phases, objectives, and deliverables critical to successful rig development. Readers are guided through evolving regulatory guidelines with an emphasis on hands-on implementation.

A pragmatic approach to defining rig specifications pioneers the “70% solution,” encouraging cost-effective, high-performing designs without unnecessary complexity. In-depth discussions of facility-wide requirements, layout planning, and integrated utility systems enable actionable design and construction decisions. Comprehensive equipment specifications serve as a technical basis for producing rig-specific documentation.

Advancing fit-for-purpose engineering and operational efficiency, the volume addresses contemporary challenges, including energy transition goals. It caters to a broad audience, from industry newcomers to experienced practitioners seeking a clear, rigorous framework and applied insight for enhancing safety protocols, optimizing resource allocation, and driving innovation throughout the lifecycle of drilling rig projects.

Key features

  • Presents a comprehensive project management chapter that delineates a clear five-phase model, enabling readers to systematically achieve key objectives, streamline activities, and deliver critical milestones with confidence
  • Highlights often-overlooked considerations within rig specifications, allowing for more thorough, precise, and effective documentation that minimizes risks and enhances rig performance
  • Provides exclusive, detailed appendices featuring unique tools—such as the Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning model, drilling engagement plans, organizational structures, and criticality ratings—that support improved planning and operational excellence
  • Is accompanied by a companion site that features workflow charts, complex diagrams, and large-format illustrations to enhance understanding of technical concepts, multi-step processes, and system-level overviews

Readership

Industry professionals (e.g., engineers, project managers, operations, and maintenance personnel) engaged in new rig designs and refurbishment projects; a primary or supplemental text for senior-level undergraduate and graduate students in petroleum & gas/water well/geothermal drilling engineering, offshore/onshore rig construction and operations, and mechanical engineering

Table of contents

1. Introduction to Drilling Rig Design

2. Project Management for Drilling Rigs

3. Design Regulations and Standards for Drilling Rigs

4. Defining Drilling Rig Requirements

5. General Requirements for Drilling Rigs

6. Facilities Layout for Drilling Rigs

7. Utilities and Interfaces for Drilling Rigs

8. Drilling Equipment Specifications – Part 1

9. Drilling Equipment Specifications – Part 2

Product details

  • Edition: 1
  • Latest edition
  • Published: March 1, 2027
  • Language: English

About the author

WD

William P. Dixon

William (Bill) P. Dixon is a retired ocean engineer and drilling specialist with over 30 years of experience at ExxonMobil. He began his career as a research engineer and advanced through roles in drilling operations, strategic planning, rig design, and global project management. Bill played a key role in implementing ExxonMobil’s Operations Integrity Management System (OIMS) and led major rig design and construction efforts worldwide, including for projects in the North Sea, Caspian, and Gulf of Mexico. A former US Navy carrier-based aviator and combat veteran, he holds a BSc from the US Naval Academy and an MSc in Ocean Engineering from the University of Rhode Island. Bill has published extensively in journals and conference proceedings, holds multiple patents, and has taught courses in drilling operations and rig safety. He is a member of the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the US Naval Institute and is also a licensed commercial pilot and former scuba instructor.
Affiliations and expertise
(Retired) Drilling Rig Design and Construction Manager, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Spring, Texas, USA