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Institute For Oil & Gas Training
OGI-1416 New

Coring Program Design and Core Recovery Optimization Training Course

Duration
5 days
CPD hours
15
Language
English
Next date
16 Nov 2026
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Overview

The Coring Program Design and Core Recovery Optimization Training Course by Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical and operational capabilities required to plan, execute and evaluate effective coring programmes across oil and gas exploration, appraisal and development activities. Coring Program Design is a critical component of reservoir characterisation because the quality, representativeness and preservation of recovered core samples directly influence geological interpretation, petrophysical evaluation, reservoir modelling and field development decisions.

Obtaining representative core samples requires more than selecting suitable coring equipment and conducting a successful downhole operation. It involves an integrated understanding of reservoir objectives, formation characteristics, drilling conditions, sampling requirements, core barrel configurations, drilling fluid properties, operational risks and recovery performance. Poorly designed coring programmes introduce avoidable sampling uncertainties, mechanical complications, core damage and recovery losses. These limitations reduce the technical value of laboratory measurements and weaken the reliability of subsurface evaluations.

This professional training course addresses the technical and operational challenges associated with coring programme planning, coring equipment selection, core recovery optimization and the management of complex coring operations. It examines the complete coring workflow, from establishing sampling objectives and selecting appropriate coring technologies to executing field operations, managing recovered material and evaluating core recovery efficiency. Participants develop a structured understanding of the relationship between formation characteristics, operational parameters and recovery performance.

Oil and gas organisations depend on reliable geological and petrophysical information to evaluate reservoir quality, identify productive intervals, assess formation heterogeneity and support development planning. Conventional wireline logging and other formation evaluation techniques provide essential subsurface information, but physical core samples offer direct material for geological description, sedimentological analysis, petrophysical measurements and geomechanical testing. A properly designed reservoir sampling strategy ensures that these samples represent the formations and reservoir intervals relevant to the organisation's technical objectives.

The course explores the factors influencing core recovery across different lithologies and formation conditions. Participants examine the behaviour of unconsolidated, fractured, naturally vuggy, laminated and mechanically unstable formations during coring operations. Particular attention is given to core barrel selection, bit configuration, inner barrel design, core catchers, drilling fluid compatibility, operating parameters and the management of differential pressure and mechanical disturbance.

A further focus is the optimisation of operational performance. Effective core recovery optimization requires coordinated decisions involving drilling engineers, geologists, petrophysicists, mud engineers, directional drilling specialists and service providers. Participants explore how pre-job planning, equipment readiness, operational communication, contingency arrangements and real-time performance monitoring contribute to more reliable core acquisition.

The programme also addresses core preservation, handling, orientation, transportation and documentation. These activities are essential because recovered core material must retain its physical and geological characteristics to support meaningful laboratory analysis. Mishandling, contamination, moisture loss, mechanical disturbance and inadequate sample identification compromise the value of recovered material even when downhole recovery is technically successful.

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this course for professionals responsible for planning, supervising and evaluating coring programmes. It combines established industry practices with practical operational scenarios to strengthen decision-making across the entire coring lifecycle. Participants gain the ability to assess coring requirements, evaluate technical alternatives, identify recovery risks and establish more effective procedures for achieving representative and usable core samples.

Objectives

  • Explain the principles and operational requirements of effective Coring Program Design across exploration, appraisal and development wells.

  • Establish geological and reservoir sampling objectives aligned with subsurface evaluation requirements.

  • Develop structured coring program planning strategies based on formation characteristics, lithology and sampling priorities.

  • Evaluate reservoir conditions that influence core recovery, sample quality and formation stability.

  • Select appropriate coring equipment and configurations for different geological and operational environments.

  • Assess core barrel designs, coring bits, inner barrels, core catchers and associated equipment.

  • Understand the influence of drilling fluid properties and operational parameters on core recovery performance.

  • Apply appropriate operational practices to improve core recovery optimization and reduce avoidable sample losses.

  • Identify common mechanical, geological and operational causes of poor core recovery.

  • Evaluate core recovery efficiency through recovery calculations, quality assessments and performance documentation.

  • Establish appropriate procedures for core handling, preservation, orientation, labelling and transportation.

  • Integrate geological, drilling and petrophysical requirements into a coordinated reservoir sampling strategy.

  • Assess operational risks and develop contingency arrangements for challenging coring environments.

  • Interpret coring performance information to identify opportunities for operational improvement.

  • Strengthen coordination between drilling contractors, coring service providers and subsurface technical teams.

Training methodology

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers the Coring Program Design and Core Recovery Optimization Training Course through an industry-focused methodology combining specialist technical presentations, coring case studies, equipment evaluation exercises, operational simulations, sampling scenarios and structured professional discussions.

The delivery approach follows the complete coring programme lifecycle. It begins with the definition of geological and reservoir sampling objectives before progressing through formation assessment, equipment selection, operational preparation, coring execution, recovery evaluation and core preservation. This integrated structure enables participants to understand how individual technical decisions influence overall programme performance.

Technical Presentations and Industry Practices

Specialist presentations establish the technical foundations of coring operations, including coring technologies, core barrel configurations, cutting mechanisms, formation behaviour and recovery performance. Participants examine the operating principles of conventional and specialised coring systems and their suitability for different reservoir conditions.

Coring Programme Planning Exercises

Practical planning exercises require participants to assess geological objectives, formation characteristics, sampling intervals and expected recovery challenges. They evaluate how sampling priorities influence equipment requirements, operational procedures and contingency arrangements.

Equipment Selection and Evaluation

Participants examine different coring equipment configurations, including core barrels, bits, inner barrels, core catchers and associated downhole components. Equipment evaluation activities focus on operational suitability, formation compatibility, mechanical reliability and the relationship between equipment design and recovery efficiency.

Real-World Coring Case Studies

Industry-based case studies demonstrate common operational challenges, including poor core recovery, core jamming, barrel failures, formation instability, core fragmentation and sample contamination. Participants investigate the underlying causes and assess corrective actions to improve future operations.

Operational Simulation and Scenario Analysis

Structured scenarios examine the decisions required during actual coring operations. Participants evaluate changes in formation conditions, drilling parameters, equipment performance and operational risks. These exercises strengthen their ability to recognise developing problems and implement appropriate responses.

Core Recovery and Performance Evaluation

Practical evaluation exercises introduce recovery calculations, recovered-length assessments, core quality classification and performance documentation. Participants explore the differences between physical recovery, representative sampling and the preservation of material suitable for subsequent laboratory analysis.

Group Discussions and Knowledge Application

Professional discussions encourage collaboration between geological, drilling, petrophysical and operational perspectives. Participants apply their knowledge to integrated coring scenarios and develop recommendations for improving programme design, operational coordination and core recovery efficiency.

Organisational impact

Improved Core Recovery Efficiency

A structured approach to coring program planning helps organisations identify the operational and geological factors responsible for recovery losses. Appropriate equipment selection, formation assessment and operational preparation reduce avoidable complications and improve the quantity and quality of recovered core material.

More Representative Reservoir Sampling

An effective reservoir sampling strategy ensures that selected intervals reflect the geological and petrophysical characteristics relevant to reservoir evaluation. Improved sampling decisions strengthen the technical value of recovered material and support more dependable geological correlations.

Better Equipment Selection and Utilisation

Understanding equipment capabilities and formation requirements enables organisations to select suitable coring systems for specific operational conditions. This improves equipment utilisation, supports procurement decisions and reduces the risk of deploying unsuitable configurations.

Reduced Operational Disruption

Comprehensive pre-job planning, equipment readiness assessments and contingency arrangements strengthen operational control. Early identification of potential equipment and formation-related problems supports more effective intervention and reduces avoidable interruptions to drilling activities.

Improved Reservoir Characterisation

High-quality core samples provide direct information about lithology, sedimentary structures, porosity, permeability, fractures and formation properties. Better core acquisition and preservation improve the reliability of geological and petrophysical interpretations used in reservoir models.

Stronger Laboratory Data Quality

Appropriate core handling, preservation and transportation procedures protect sample integrity between the wellsite and laboratory. This strengthens the usefulness of subsequent petrophysical, geological and geomechanical measurements.

Better Technical and Commercial Decisions

Improved coring programme performance provides a stronger information base for evaluating reservoir potential, comparing development alternatives and prioritising subsurface investments. Organisations gain better visibility of equipment requirements, operational risks and sampling priorities when planning coring activities.

Enhanced Operational Risk Management

Systematic assessment of equipment limitations, drilling conditions, formation instability and handling requirements strengthens operational risk identification. Clearer procedures and contingency planning support safer and more controlled coring activities.

Improved Cross-Functional Coordination

Coring operations involve multiple technical disciplines and service providers. A common understanding of programme objectives, equipment requirements, operational parameters and recovery expectations improves communication and coordination throughout the coring lifecycle.

More Consistent Operational Performance

Standardised planning, execution and evaluation practices provide a framework for reviewing coring results and identifying performance gaps. Organisations can use recovery records, operational reports and lessons learned to improve future programmes and strengthen continuous improvement initiatives.

Personal impact

Advanced Coring Programme Planning Skills

Participants learn to translate geological and reservoir objectives into practical coring requirements. They develop the ability to evaluate sampling intervals, identify formation-related challenges and establish appropriate operational priorities.

Improved Equipment Selection Competence

Professionals strengthen their understanding of coring equipment configurations and their suitability for different formations. They become better equipped to evaluate technical proposals, review equipment specifications and contribute to equipment selection decisions.

Stronger Operational Decision-Making

Participants gain a structured approach to evaluating operational conditions, recognising recovery problems and assessing corrective actions. This improves their contribution to pre-job planning and field-level decision-making.

Enhanced Core Recovery Evaluation

Participants develop practical knowledge of recovery calculations, sample quality assessments and performance documentation. They become more capable of identifying recovery inefficiencies and interpreting the operational factors influencing core acquisition results.

Improved Geological and Petrophysical Understanding

The course strengthens awareness of how core quality and sample representativeness influence geological description, petrophysical measurements and reservoir characterisation. Participants develop a clearer understanding of the connection between field acquisition practices and subsequent technical analysis.

Better Communication Across Technical Teams

Participants gain a stronger understanding of the responsibilities and information requirements of drilling, geology, petrophysics and coring service teams. This supports more effective technical discussions and operational coordination.

Professional Development and Career Progression

The acquired knowledge strengthens participants' professional capabilities in drilling engineering, coring operations, reservoir evaluation and subsurface data acquisition. It supports their contribution to specialist technical assignments, operational supervision and wider programme management responsibilities.

Who should attend

  • Drilling Engineers: Professionals responsible for well planning, drilling programmes and the technical integration of coring activities.

  • Senior Drilling Engineers: Experienced specialists overseeing complex drilling operations and evaluating coring programme performance.

  • Wellsite Drilling Supervisors: Personnel responsible for supervising field operations, equipment readiness and operational compliance.

  • Geologists: Subsurface professionals involved in formation evaluation, geological interpretation and the identification of representative sampling intervals.

  • Reservoir Geologists: Specialists responsible for reservoir characterisation, geological modelling and core data integration.

  • Petrophysicists: Professionals who use core measurements to calibrate formation evaluation interpretations and reservoir properties.

  • Core Analysis Specialists: Technical personnel involved in core sample assessment, preservation, laboratory preparation and analysis.

  • Coring Service Engineers: Specialists responsible for coring equipment configuration, technical support and field execution.

  • Mud Engineers and Drilling Fluids Specialists: Professionals assessing drilling fluid properties and their influence on formation stability and core recovery.

  • Directional Drilling and LWD Specialists: Personnel involved in coordinating drilling conditions, downhole measurements and formation-related operational requirements.

  • Well Engineering Managers: Managers responsible for technical planning, resource allocation and oversight of drilling and coring programmes.

  • Reservoir Engineers: Professionals who incorporate core-derived information into reservoir evaluation, simulation and development planning.

  • Exploration and Appraisal Managers: Decision-makers responsible for ensuring that subsurface data acquisition programmes meet geological and commercial objectives.

  • Technical Services Managers: Managers coordinating specialist service providers, equipment requirements and operational performance.

  • Operations Managers and Department Heads: Senior personnel responsible for operational efficiency, technical standards and continuous improvement across drilling and subsurface functions.

Course outline

This module establishes the technical foundations of Coring Program Design and examines its role in exploration, appraisal and development activities. Participants explore how geological objectives, reservoir characteristics, formation conditions and laboratory requirements determine coring programme specifications.

The module focuses on translating subsurface evaluation requirements into practical sampling strategies. It examines interval selection, representative sampling, formation heterogeneity, core acquisition priorities and the coordination required between geological, drilling and petrophysical teams.

  1. API RP 54

    • Establishes recognised safety practices for oil and gas well drilling and servicing operations.

    • Addresses occupational safety considerations relevant to drilling site activities.

    • Provides guidance for identifying operational hazards and establishing appropriate safety controls.

    • Supports pre-job safety planning, personnel responsibilities and operational risk management.

    • Provides a relevant safety reference for planning and organising field coring activities.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the purpose and technical value of coring programmes.

    • Define coring objectives according to geological and reservoir requirements.

    • Assess formation characteristics relevant to sampling decisions.

    • Identify appropriate coring intervals and sampling priorities.

    • Develop a structured reservoir sampling strategy.

    • Establish key requirements for effective coring programme planning.

    • Recognise the operational and geological constraints affecting programme design.

    • Integrate safety considerations into coring preparation and planning.

This module examines the equipment and technologies used to acquire representative core samples under different geological and operational conditions. Participants explore the design, operating principles and selection considerations associated with conventional and specialised coring systems.

The module also examines how equipment configuration influences cutting performance, core integrity, operational reliability and recovery efficiency. Emphasis is placed on matching equipment capabilities to formation characteristics and well conditions.

  1. API Specification 7-1

    • Establishes specifications for rotary drill stem elements used in drilling operations.

    • Addresses applicable equipment design, manufacturing and technical requirements.

    • Provides a recognised reference for evaluating relevant drilling string components.

    • Supports technical review of equipment specifications and applicable component requirements.

    • Its application depends on the equipment component and the scope of the relevant specification.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Identify the principal components of conventional coring systems.

    • Explain the operating principles of different coring equipment configurations.

    • Differentiate between single-tube, double-tube and wireline retrievable systems.

    • Evaluate core barrel and bit configurations against formation requirements.

    • Assess the functions of inner barrels and core retention components.

    • Apply appropriate criteria when selecting coring equipment.

    • Identify equipment-related factors contributing to core damage and recovery losses.

    • Evaluate equipment readiness and technical suitability before mobilisation.

This module focuses on the practical execution of coring operations and the operational parameters that influence successful core acquisition. Participants examine the relationship between drilling fluid properties, formation behaviour, equipment performance anAPI RP 13B-1d operating practices throughout the coring process.

The module also addresses the identification and management of common recovery problems. It develops a systematic approach to improving core recovery optimization through operational preparation, parameter monitoring, equipment performance evaluation and effective coordination between field personnel.

  1. API RP 13B-1

    • Provides recognised procedures for field testing water-based drilling fluids.

    • Covers the evaluation of relevant drilling fluid properties.

    • Supports consistent monitoring of drilling fluid characteristics during operations.

    • Helps technical teams assess fluid properties that influence wellbore conditions and formation interaction.

    • Provides a reference for drilling fluid evaluation during coring programme execution.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the principal stages involved in coring operations.

    • Assess operational parameters influencing core acquisition.

    • Evaluate drilling fluid characteristics relevant to coring performance.

    • Understand the influence of operating conditions on core integrity.

    • Identify common mechanical and geological causes of recovery losses.

    • Assess core jamming, fragmentation and formation instability problems.

    • Recommend operational adjustments to improve recovery performance.

    • Apply systematic approaches to core recovery optimization.

    • Strengthen coordination between drilling personnel and coring service teams.

This module examines the evaluation and management of recovered core material from retrieval at the wellsite through preparation for transportation and laboratory analysis. Participants explore recovery calculations, sample quality assessment, core identification, preservation methods and documentation requirements.

Particular attention is given to maintaining sample integrity and preventing physical, chemical and environmental changes that compromise subsequent analysis. The module connects successful downhole acquisition with the proper handling of recovered material to preserve its geological and petrophysical value.

  1. ASTM D5079

    • Establishes recognised practices for preserving and transporting rock core samples.

    • Addresses the handling requirements necessary to protect recovered rock material.

    • Provides guidance for maintaining sample condition during transportation and storage.

    • Supports consistent procedures for managing core material before laboratory examination.

    • Helps reduce avoidable deterioration associated with improper handling and preservation.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Calculate and evaluate core recovery performance.

    • Differentiate between recovered length, recovery percentage and sample quality.

    • Identify factors affecting the integrity of recovered core material.

    • Recognise the effects of fragmentation, contamination and physical disturbance.

    • Apply appropriate core identification and documentation procedures.

    • Understand core orientation and depth referencing requirements.

    • Evaluate suitable handling, packaging and preservation practices.

    • Establish procedures that protect sample integrity during transportation and storage.

    • Prepare more complete core recovery and handling records.

This module focuses on evaluating the technical quality and usefulness of recovered core samples. Participants examine how core condition, sample preparation and laboratory requirements influence the reliability of geological, petrophysical and geomechanical measurements.

The module also explores the integration of core acquisition results with wider subsurface datasets. Participants develop an understanding of how recovery records, geological descriptions, laboratory findings and operational performance information support future coring programme improvements and reservoir evaluation.

  1. ASTM D4543

    • Establishes practices for preparing rock core specimens and determining dimensional and shape tolerances.

    • Addresses specimen preparation requirements for reliable laboratory testing.

    • Supports consistency in the preparation of cylindrical rock specimens.

    • Provides a recognised reference for evaluating sample dimensions and geometric suitability.

    • Helps improve the quality and comparability of subsequent rock testing results.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Assess the technical quality and representativeness of recovered core samples.

    • Identify geological features relevant to reservoir characterisation.

    • Understand sample preparation requirements for laboratory analysis.

    • Evaluate the influence of specimen quality on laboratory measurements.

    • Explain the application of core data in geological and petrophysical interpretation.

    • Integrate core acquisition information with wireline logging and other subsurface datasets.

    • Evaluate coring programme performance using recovery and quality indicators.

    • Identify opportunities to improve future coring programme planning and execution.

    • Develop recommendations for improving operational efficiency and core data reliability.

Certificate

Upon successful completion of the Coring Program Design and Core Recovery Optimization Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.

The certificate recognises participation in the professional training programme and the successful completion of its course requirements. Attendees are required to maintain full attendance throughout the course and participate in the scheduled learning activities to qualify for the certificate.

Course dates

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,700

Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main focus of the Coring Program Design and Core Recovery Optimization Training Course?

The course focuses on planning, designing, executing and evaluating effective coring programmes in oil and gas operations. It covers reservoir sampling strategy, coring equipment selection, operational parameters, core recovery optimization, sample preservation and core quality assessment. Participants develop practical capabilities for improving recovery performance and obtaining representative core samples for reservoir evaluation.

Who should attend this coring training course?

The course is suitable for drilling engineers, wellsite supervisors, geologists, reservoir engineers, petrophysicists, core analysis specialists, coring service engineers and well engineering managers. It is also relevant to technical professionals and operational managers involved in planning, supervising or evaluating coring programmes.

What topics are covered in the course?

The programme covers five key areas: coring programme design and reservoir sampling strategy, equipment selection and technology evaluation, coring operations and recovery optimization, core recovery assessment and preservation, and core quality evaluation and data integration. It also addresses operational challenges, equipment performance, recovery calculations and continuous improvement.

How is the Coring Program Design training course delivered?

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers the course through specialist presentations, industry case studies, equipment evaluation exercises, operational simulations, practical scenarios and structured group discussions. The methodology connects technical principles with real-world coring challenges to strengthen participants' operational understanding and decision-making capabilities.

What are the key benefits of attending this course?

Participants gain the technical knowledge to develop more effective coring programmes, select appropriate equipment, evaluate recovery performance and improve core handling practices. These capabilities support better reservoir sampling, more reliable core data, improved operational coordination and stronger subsurface evaluation decisions. Attendees who successfully complete the course and meet the full attendance requirement receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.

Next: 16 Nov 2026

4 dates available

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