Fast Moving Rig Walking Systems: Should You Get One?
If you're running a drilling operation, you've probably heard about rig walking systems — the hydraulic systems that let you "walk" a drilling rig from one well to the next without disassembling it. They're becoming more and more popular in the industry, and for good reason. But are they right for your operation? Here's how to decide.
What Is a Rig Walking System?
A rig walking system is a set of hydraulic jacks mounted under the rig substructure. Each jack has a big, wide foot. To move the rig, you lift the whole rig up a few inches with the jacks, extend the jacks forward, set the rig back down, retract the jacks, and repeat. It's like the rig is walking — one step at a time.
Modern walking systems can move the rig in any direction — forward, backward, left, right — and they can even rotate it. That means you can position the rig exactly where you want it, without having to truck it in and out.
Benefits of a Walking System
Faster Rig Moves. This is the biggest benefit. Instead of taking 2-5 days to disassemble, truck, and reassemble the rig, you can walk it to the next well in a few hours. That's days more drilling time every month. For a drilling rig that costs $20,000+ a day to operate, that adds up fast.
Less Labor. You don't need a big crew to break down and rig up the rig. A small crew can operate the walking system. That saves on labor costs.
Safer. Breaking down a rig is dangerous work. There's heavy lifting, high-wire work, and lots of opportunities for accidents. With a walking system, you don't have to take the rig apart, so there's less risk of injury.
Better Well Site Utilization. In a big oilfield, wells are spaced a few hundred meters apart. With a walking system, you can drill a whole row of wells from one location, moving the rig a few hundred meters each time. That means less well site construction, less environmental impact, and lower costs.
When a Walking System Makes Sense
A walking system makes sense if:
- You're drilling multiple wells close together (within 1-2 km of each other).
- You move your rig often — every week or two.
- The terrain is relatively flat and stable.
- You have the budget for the upfront cost.
If you're moving your rig long distances, or if you're working in very rough, hilly terrain, a walking system might not be worth the investment. In that case, traditional truck transport is better.
FAQ
Q: How much does a rig walking system cost?
A: A walking system for a medium-sized drilling rig costs $500,000 to $1.5 million, installed. It's a big upfront investment, but it usually pays for itself in 1-2 years through faster rig moves and lower labor costs. For big drilling contractors, it's a no-brainer.