An In-Depth Guide to Drilling Rig Derricks and Their Manufacturing and Supply Chain

I. Overview of the Derrick

A derrick is one of the most prominent structures in the petroleum industry, serving as the tall, steel framework that supports key lifting equipment and tools such as cranes, winches, and hooks.

The primary function of a derrick is to provide the height, stability, and load-bearing capacity needed for drilling, casing running, and pipe string storage during oil and gas operations.

Whether in offshore or onshore settings, the derrick is a critical component of a drilling rig derrick (or derrick rig).

It enables operators to carry out essential tasks such as drilling deep wells and supporting heavy equipment.

Offshore derricks, in particular, are designed to withstand the challenging marine environment, while onshore derricks are built for more stable land conditions.

Given the importance of drilling derricks in petroleum extraction, manufacturers, suppliers, and factories around the world play a key role in providing these essential structures.

In particular, China has emerged as a leading hub for manufacturing and exporting drilling derricks, offering competitive prices and advanced technology.

II. Types of Drilling Derricks

There are several types of derricks used in drilling operations, each designed to meet specific operational and environmental needs.

These include:

1. Tower Derrick

A tower derrick is a space-frame structure with four vertical edges and a truncated cone shape.

It is widely used in offshore operations, where stability and high load-bearing capacity are crucial.

Its enclosed structure provides excellent resistance to harsh weather conditions, and its wide base ensures stability in the face of high winds and waves.

While installation is time-consuming, its strength and durability make it a top choice for offshore drilling rigs.

2. Type A Derrick

The Type A derrick features an “A”-shaped frame constructed from two lattice or tubular legs, connected by rods and a second-floor platform.

Known for its high bearing capacity, the Type A derrick offers an open front and back design, providing drillers with an unobstructed view of the wellhead.

These derricks are typically lifted by a winch and are often referred to as “full-view derricks” due to their design, which enhances visibility and safety.

3. Mast Derrick

Mast derricks are typically used on workover rigs and smaller drilling rigs.

They are made from lattice or tubular legs and usually lean slightly toward the well (about 3° to 8°).

This angled design helps stabilize the derrick during operations.

Mast derricks can be either telescopic or non-telescopic, with telescopic versions offering the flexibility to adjust the height of the derrick depending on the needs of the operation.

4. K-Type Derrick (Front-Opening Derrick)

The K-type derrick, or front-opening derrick, features a truss system with a sectioned design that provides excellent structural rigidity.

These derricks are easy to transport, can be installed at lower heights, and are often raised using winches or hydraulic cylinders.

Their front-opening design offers better visibility and accessibility, making them a popular choice for both onshore and offshore operations.

III. Key Components of a Drilling Derrick

A derrick rig consists of several components that work together to ensure the stability and efficiency of the drilling process.

The main parts include:

• Derrick Body: The body of the derrick is typically made of 4 to 5 segments, each connected by pin shafts. The upper part of the derrick is a closed quadrilateral structure, while the remaining segments are open at the front, providing easy access for operators.
• Second-Floor Platform: This platform contains an operating platform and finger beams. It serves as a work area for the crew and includes safety railings to prevent accidents.
• Cage Ladder: Installed on both sides of the derrick, the cage ladder allows operators to safely move between the second floor and the roof.
• Lifting Device: The lifting mechanism, which includes a herringbone lift, ropes, and pulleys, is used to raise or lower the derrick, allowing for adjustments during operations.
• Derrick Accessories: These include essential tools like riser operating tables, casing centralizers, and tongs balancing weights, which help maintain the derrick’s stability and assist in various operations.

IV. The Derrick Base and Its Importance

The base of a derrick is a critical structural element, designed to support the weight of the derrick and its equipment.

It must be able to handle the combined load of the drilling rig and its associated components, including winches, turntables, and diesel engines.

Derrick bases come in several forms, such as:

• Box Stack Base
• Box Block Base (Block Mount Base)
• Rotary Lift Base
• Slingshot Base (Double Lift Base)
• Retractable Base

Of these, the jack-up bases (Rotary Lift, Slingshot, and Retractable bases) are particularly common in offshore drilling rigs, providing the flexibility to raise and lower the derrick above the water surface.

V. Offshore Derrick Considerations

Offshore drilling derricks require additional considerations due to the challenging marine environment.

These derricks are typically more robust, constructed from materials resistant to corrosion and capable of withstanding high winds, saltwater exposure, and rough seas.

Offshore derricks must not only provide support for the drilling operation but also ensure the safety and stability of the entire rig, especially in unstable or deepwater conditions.

China, with its well-established manufacturing base, is a leading supplier of offshore derricks, offering competitive prices and the latest engineering technology.

Many offshore drilling companies source their derricks from Chinese manufacturers, as they provide high-quality equipment at a more affordable price than many Western suppliers.

VI. Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain of Drilling Derricks

When sourcing drilling derricks, buyers typically work with manufacturers and suppliers who specialize in custom-made rigs suited to various drilling conditions, whether onshore or offshore.

China has become a global hub for derrick manufacturing, offering an array of options to suit different needs.

Chinese factories are well-known for their ability to produce large quantities of derricks at competitive prices, making them a preferred choice for companies looking to reduce operational costs.

The price of a drilling derrick can vary significantly based on factors like the type, size, material used, and additional features required.

Offshore derricks, due to their complexity and the materials required to withstand marine conditions, tend to be more expensive than onshore models.

However, the affordability of Chinese manufacturers has made them a top choice for many companies in the drilling industry.

VII. Conclusion

Drilling derricks are essential for efficient and safe drilling operations, whether onshore or offshore.

By understanding the various types of derricks—tower, Type A, mast, and K-type—and their components, companies can select the most suitable derrick rig for their specific needs.

Offshore derricks, in particular, require specialized designs to withstand the harsh conditions of the sea, and manufacturers in China have become key suppliers of such equipment due to their high-quality products and competitive prices.

For those looking to invest in drilling derricks, it is crucial to partner with reputable manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that they receive reliable, cost-effective, and durable equipment.

As the demand for oil and gas continues to grow, the role of drilling derricks in enabling efficient exploration and production cannot be overstated.