General equation explains casing buckling

A general equation has been derived to predict casing buckling using the stresses determined from pressure, fluid weights, and temperature. A buckled casing is one which is deflected from its original straight up and down condition. The disadvantages of buckled casing are many. The most important ones include difficulty in running drilling and completion equipment and rapid wear and deterioration of casing at buckled regions. The factors affecting buckling are many and complex. However, it is generally accepted that buckling of elastic members is caused by the action of compressive forces. It should also be observed that excessive tensile forces can result in buckling of elastic members. In oil well applications, however, buckling due to compressive forces is more common than that due to tensile forces. This work discusses the main factors contributing to buckling and presents a general equation for the solution of buckling problems.