Optimizing drill string material for vibration control: The case for aluminum in suppressing stick slip

In drilling operations, torsional vibration is considered an undesirable phenomenon that reduces the drilling rate in certain situations, increases tool wear, and consequently increases drilling operational costs. Conventional mitigation strategies, such as real-time control algorithms and vibration dampers, often require continuous monitoring and adjustments, making them less effective under highly variable downhole conditions. This paper examines the potential of adopting aluminum drill strings as an alternative to control torsional vibrations and assist in controlling the stick slip phenomenon. An experimental investigation and numerical simulation have been employed to analyze the dynamic behavior of an aluminum drill string operating under variable operational parameters such as weight on bit (WOB) and rotation speed (RPM). Results revealed that under controlled WOB within a certain limit, the drill string composed of aluminum material only develops torsional oscillations without stick slip. Increasing RPMs also improve drilling stability, and consequently, the severity of torsional oscillations is significantly reduced. These results indicate that aluminum drilling string can improve drilling efficiency in any well, as it has the potential to dampen drilling torsional vibrations.