Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning
- 1st Edition - December 16, 2026
- Latest edition
- Author: William P. Dixon
- Language: English
Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning provides a compilation of global experience in drilling rig operations and project design, construction, and commissioning… Read more
Description
Description
Drilling Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning provides a compilation of global experience in drilling rig operations and project design, construction, and commissioning. This experience is presented as an overview of modern drilling rig engineering and design and a guide for future projects, useful for professionals, educators, and students.
The book is functionally organized around three broad themes: project management, general rig specifications, and detailed equipment specifications. A pragmatic focus runs throughout, with templates, checklists, and practical guidance supporting each topic. The project management section presents a five-phase model for identifying critical objectives, activities, and deliverables, while the specifications chapters introduce the "70% solution" approach to defining rig requirements efficiently and effectively.
Advancing fit-for-purpose engineering and operational efficiency, the volume addresses contemporary challenges, including energy transition goals. It appeals 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.
The book is functionally organized around three broad themes: project management, general rig specifications, and detailed equipment specifications. A pragmatic focus runs throughout, with templates, checklists, and practical guidance supporting each topic. The project management section presents a five-phase model for identifying critical objectives, activities, and deliverables, while the specifications chapters introduce the "70% solution" approach to defining rig requirements efficiently and effectively.
Advancing fit-for-purpose engineering and operational efficiency, the volume addresses contemporary challenges, including energy transition goals. It appeals 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
Key features
- Presents a comprehensive project management template and practical hands-on project management tools that will enable readers to systematically achieve key objectives, streamline activities, and meet critical milestones with confidence.
- Highlights easily overlooked considerations within rig specifications, allowing for more thorough, precise, and effective documentation that minimizes risk and enhances rig performance.
- Provides exclusive, detailed appendices featuring unique tools—such as the Rig Design, Construction, and Commissioning model, drilling engagement plan—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 the technical concepts, multistep processes, and system-level overviews.
Readership
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
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
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
Product details
- Edition: 1
- Latest edition
- Published: December 16, 2026
- Language: English
About the author
About the author
WD
William P. Dixon
William (Bill) P. Dixon is a retired ocean engineer and drilling engineer 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, and global rig design and project management. Bill played a key role in the implementation of ExxonMobil’s Operations Integrity Management System (OIMS) in Egypt, Malaysia, and Norway. He led major rig design and construction projects worldwide including projects in the North Sea, Caspian Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. A former US Navy carrier-based aviator and combat veteran, he holds a BS from the US Naval Academy and an MS 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 design. He is a member of the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the US Naval Institute. He is also a licensed commercial pilot, scuba instructor, and professional engineer.
Affiliations and expertise
(Retired) Drilling Rig Design and Construction Manager, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Spring, Texas, USA