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Institute For Oil & Gas Training
OGI-1442 New

Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course

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

The Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course by Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical capabilities required to integrate petrophysical knowledge into drilling operations, well planning and real-time formation evaluation. It focuses on drilling petrophysics, rock properties, formation pressure, formation evaluation while drilling and drilling data interpretation to improve the understanding of subsurface conditions and support more informed operational decisions.

Drilling engineers work in environments where understanding the formations being drilled is essential to maintaining well performance, controlling operational risks and achieving planned well objectives. Conventional drilling data provides important information about drilling conditions, equipment performance and wellbore behaviour. However, integrating this information with petrophysical measurements provides a more comprehensive understanding of formation characteristics, reservoir potential, pore pressure behaviour and geological changes encountered during drilling.

Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers bridges the technical gap between drilling engineering and formation evaluation. It explains how rock properties, porosity, permeability, fluid saturation, lithology and formation pressure influence drilling performance and well construction. Participants develop the ability to interpret petrophysical information alongside drilling parameters, mud logging data, formation evaluation measurements and other subsurface information.

The course addresses the increasing importance of integrating subsurface evaluation with operational drilling decisions. Modern drilling programmes rely on timely interpretation of formation characteristics to support well placement, identify formation changes, evaluate potential drilling hazards and improve communication between drilling, geology, reservoir engineering and wellsite teams. A sound understanding of petrophysics enables drilling engineers to recognise the significance of formation responses and understand how geological conditions influence drilling performance.

A central component of the programme is formation evaluation while drilling. Participants examine the principles of logging while drilling and measurement while drilling technologies, including the information generated by downhole sensors and the operational significance of real-time measurements. The programme explains how gamma ray, resistivity, density, neutron porosity and other formation evaluation measurements contribute to identifying lithology, evaluating reservoir characteristics and understanding subsurface conditions.

The course also examines the relationship between drilling parameters and formation properties. Rate of penetration, weight on bit, torque, rotary speed, drilling fluid characteristics and equivalent circulating density provide valuable operational information when interpreted alongside geological and petrophysical data. Participants explore how changes in these parameters relate to formation transitions, variations in rock strength, pressure regimes and potential wellbore instability.

Formation pressure evaluation is another important area of focus. Understanding pore pressure, fracture pressure and the relationship between formation pressure and drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure is fundamental to maintaining well control and establishing appropriate drilling practices. The programme develops participants' understanding of pressure indicators, pressure estimation principles and the interpretation of relevant drilling and formation evaluation information.

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this programme with a practical emphasis on the application of petrophysical knowledge in drilling engineering environments. The content connects formation evaluation principles with operational requirements, enabling participants to interpret subsurface information more effectively and communicate technical findings across multidisciplinary teams.

By completing this training, drilling professionals strengthen their ability to use petrophysical information when planning and executing wells, evaluating formation responses and supporting operational decisions. The programme establishes a practical connection between drilling engineering, geological interpretation and reservoir understanding, helping organisations improve the quality of subsurface-informed drilling decisions.

Objectives

  • Explain the fundamental principles of petrophysics and their applications in drilling engineering.

  • Understand the relationship between lithology, porosity, permeability and other important rock properties.

  • Identify how formation characteristics influence drilling performance and wellbore behaviour.

  • Interpret basic gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron logging measurements.

  • Understand the principles and applications of logging while drilling and measurement while drilling technologies.

  • Apply formation evaluation while drilling concepts to real-time operational decision-making.

  • Interpret drilling parameters alongside geological and petrophysical measurements.

  • Recognise the significance of formation pressure indicators and understand pore pressure evaluation principles.

  • Explain the relationship between pore pressure, fracture pressure and drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure.

  • Identify petrophysical indicators associated with formation transitions and potential drilling challenges.

  • Understand the applications of petrophysical data in well placement and reservoir identification.

  • Evaluate the limitations and uncertainties associated with drilling petrophysics measurements.

  • Improve technical communication between drilling, geology, petrophysics and reservoir engineering teams.

  • Integrate subsurface evaluation findings into drilling planning and operational discussions.

  • Support more informed decisions concerning drilling efficiency, formation assessment and well construction.

Training methodology

Institute For Oil & Gas Training uses an applied, industry-focused methodology that combines technical presentations, petrophysical interpretation exercises, drilling case studies, operational scenarios and group discussions. The delivery approach connects the fundamental principles of petrophysics with the practical responsibilities of drilling engineers working in exploration, development and production environments.

The methodology focuses on interpreting and applying information rather than simply understanding measurement technologies. Participants examine how formation properties influence drilling conditions and how petrophysical measurements contribute to operational decisions. Technical presentations establish the principles of porosity, permeability, lithology, fluid saturation, formation pressure and well logging before connecting these concepts with drilling engineering applications.

Case studies provide opportunities to examine realistic drilling situations involving formation changes, unexpected pressure indicators, variations in drilling performance and differences between anticipated and actual geological conditions. Participants assess the available information, identify relevant petrophysical indicators and consider the implications for drilling operations.

Practical interpretation exercises develop familiarity with common formation evaluation measurements. Participants examine gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron responses to understand how different measurements contribute to lithology identification, porosity evaluation and reservoir characterisation. These exercises also demonstrate the importance of understanding measurement limitations and interpreting multiple data sources together.

Drilling data interpretation exercises connect operational parameters with geological and petrophysical information. Participants consider rate of penetration, torque, weight on bit, rotary speed, drilling fluid properties and other relevant indicators to understand changes in formation behaviour. This approach develops the ability to recognise patterns, investigate unusual responses and distinguish between geological influences and operational factors.

Real-world scenarios focus on formation evaluation while drilling and the interpretation of measurements acquired through downhole systems. Participants examine how real-time information supports formation identification, well placement, pressure evaluation and drilling optimisation. Group discussions reinforce the importance of collaboration between drilling engineers, petrophysicists, geologists, mud loggers and reservoir engineers.

The methodology also incorporates scenario-based problem-solving involving pore pressure indicators, wellbore stability considerations and changing formation conditions. Participants evaluate the available evidence and discuss appropriate technical responses within the responsibilities of their respective operational roles.

This integrated approach ensures that the Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course remains relevant to operational requirements. Participants develop a stronger understanding of how petrophysical information supports drilling performance, subsurface evaluation and multidisciplinary decision-making.

Organisational impact

Improved Drilling Decisions

The application of drilling petrophysics strengthens the technical basis of drilling decisions. Engineers develop a better understanding of how formation properties influence drilling performance, enabling organisations to make more informed assessments of changing geological conditions and operational requirements.

More Effective Formation Evaluation

Improved interpretation of formation evaluation measurements supports the identification of lithology, reservoir intervals and subsurface characteristics. This enhances the quality of information available to drilling and subsurface teams during well construction and supports more reliable technical assessments.

Enhanced Pressure Awareness

A stronger understanding of formation pressure principles helps drilling personnel recognise pressure indicators and evaluate relevant drilling information. This supports pore pressure awareness, well control planning and effective communication of potential pressure-related concerns.

Improved Drilling Efficiency

Integrating drilling parameters with petrophysical information enables engineers to investigate changes in drilling performance more effectively. Evaluating geological influences on rate of penetration, drilling response and operational conditions supports targeted troubleshooting and more efficient drilling programme execution.

Better Well Placement Support

Formation evaluation while drilling provides valuable information about subsurface conditions during well construction. Improved awareness of formation characteristics enables drilling teams to collaborate more effectively with geologists and geosteering specialists when evaluating well trajectory decisions.

Stronger Multidisciplinary Collaboration

The course develops a shared technical understanding between drilling, geology, petrophysics and reservoir engineering functions. This strengthens technical discussions, improves the interpretation of subsurface information and reduces communication gaps between operational disciplines.

More Consistent Technical Interpretation

A structured understanding of petrophysical measurements helps organisations establish consistent approaches to reviewing and interpreting formation evaluation data. This supports technical quality assurance, accurate documentation and effective transfer of operational knowledge.

Improved Operational Risk Awareness

Understanding rock properties, formation pressure and wellbore behaviour helps drilling engineers recognise conditions requiring closer technical evaluation. This strengthens operational risk identification and supports established well control and well integrity procedures.

Better Use of Subsurface Data

Developing personnel capabilities in drilling petrophysics enables organisations to obtain greater operational value from available drilling and formation evaluation information. This strengthens the connection between data acquisition, technical interpretation and operational decision-making.

Overall, the organisational benefits include improved technical decision-making, stronger multidisciplinary collaboration, more effective formation assessment and better integration of subsurface information into drilling operations. Actual improvements in drilling performance, cost and safety depend on operational conditions, data quality and the application of course learning within the organisation.

Personal impact

Stronger Petrophysical Knowledge

Participants develop a practical understanding of lithology, porosity, permeability, fluid saturation and other important rock properties. They learn how these characteristics influence reservoir quality, drilling behaviour and formation evaluation, strengthening their technical understanding of subsurface conditions.

Improved Data Interpretation Skills

The programme strengthens participants' ability to interpret common logging measurements and relate them to drilling information. They develop a better understanding of gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron responses and their significance when evaluating subsurface formations.

Greater Understanding of Real-Time Formation Evaluation

Participants gain practical knowledge of logging while drilling and measurement while drilling applications. They understand how real-time formation measurements contribute to geological interpretation, reservoir identification, well placement and drilling decisions.

Enhanced Formation Pressure Awareness

The course develops participants' understanding of pore pressure, fracture pressure and their relationship with drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure. They become better equipped to recognise pressure-related indicators and understand their operational significance in drilling environments.

Improved Operational Judgement

By connecting drilling parameters with formation characteristics, participants strengthen their ability to investigate operational changes and interpret geological influences on drilling performance. This provides a broader technical foundation for evaluating drilling conditions and contributing to operational decisions.

Better Cross-Functional Communication

Participants develop the technical knowledge and terminology required to communicate effectively with petrophysicists, geologists, reservoir engineers, mud logging specialists and other drilling professionals. This supports more productive technical discussions and multidisciplinary cooperation.

Greater Confidence in Technical Discussions

A stronger understanding of formation evaluation principles enables participants to contribute more effectively to well planning meetings, drilling reviews, operational assessments and discussions concerning subsurface conditions. They gain the ability to relate petrophysical findings to practical drilling engineering requirements.

Professional Development

The programme broadens participants' technical capabilities beyond conventional drilling engineering knowledge. It strengthens their professional competence in integrated well planning, formation evaluation, drilling optimisation and multidisciplinary subsurface projects, supporting their development into more technically versatile oil and gas professionals.

Who should attend

  • Drilling Engineers: Develop the ability to integrate petrophysical information into drilling planning, execution and operational decisions.

  • Senior Drilling Engineers: Strengthen technical evaluation capabilities and improve the integration of formation data into complex drilling programmes.

  • Wellsite Drilling Engineers: Improve understanding of formation responses and the operational significance of real-time drilling and petrophysical information.

  • Drilling Supervisors: Develop a stronger understanding of subsurface conditions influencing drilling performance and operational requirements.

  • Well Planning Engineers: Apply petrophysical principles when evaluating geological information and supporting well design and planning.

  • Directional Drilling Engineers: Understand how formation evaluation information contributes to geological awareness and well trajectory decisions.

  • Geosteering Engineers: Strengthen their understanding of formation evaluation measurements used to support well placement and trajectory adjustments.

  • Petrophysicists: Improve their understanding of drilling engineering requirements and the operational application of petrophysical measurements.

  • Geologists and Wellsite Geologists: Develop a clearer understanding of how formation properties and drilling parameters interact during well construction.

  • Reservoir Engineers: Strengthen their understanding of drilling-stage formation evaluation and its contribution to reservoir characterisation.

  • Mud Logging Engineers and Geologists: Improve the integration of mud logging observations with petrophysical and drilling information.

  • Formation Evaluation Specialists: Develop a stronger understanding of drilling-related applications of petrophysical measurements.

  • Drilling Operations Managers: Improve their technical understanding of the relationship between drilling performance and subsurface formation characteristics.

  • Well Delivery and Asset Team Professionals: Strengthen multidisciplinary understanding of formation evaluation requirements across well delivery and asset development activities.

  • Technical Managers and Department Heads: Improve oversight of integrated drilling and subsurface evaluation activities.

Course outline

This module introduces the fundamental principles of petrophysics and their relevance to drilling engineering. Participants examine the physical and geological characteristics of subsurface formations and understand how rock properties influence drilling performance, reservoir quality and wellbore behaviour.

The module explores lithology, porosity, permeability, grain density, bulk density and fluid saturation. Particular attention is given to understanding the relationship between rock characteristics and drilling responses, enabling engineers to interpret formation changes and appreciate their operational significance.

  1. ASTM D7012 – Rock Strength Testing

    • Establishes test methods for determining compressive strength and elastic properties of intact rock specimens.

    • Provides a recognised basis for evaluating mechanical characteristics of rock materials.

    • Supports understanding of the relationship between rock strength, deformation and drilling response.

    • Helps engineers appreciate the importance of rock mechanical properties when evaluating drilling conditions and wellbore stability.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the fundamental principles of petrophysics and their relevance to drilling engineering.

    • Identify major sedimentary rock types and their formation characteristics.

    • Differentiate between lithology, porosity, permeability and fluid saturation.

    • Explain the influence of grain size, sorting, cementation and mineral composition on rock properties.

    • Understand the relationship between bulk density, grain density and formation characteristics.

    • Explain how rock strength and mechanical properties influence drilling performance.

    • Recognise formation changes through the interpretation of geological and drilling information.

    • Relate basic petrophysical properties to reservoir quality and subsurface evaluation.

    • Understand the importance of integrating geological and mechanical formation characteristics into drilling decisions.

This module examines the principal measurements used to evaluate subsurface formations and their applications in drilling engineering. Participants develop an understanding of conventional well logging measurements and how different logging responses provide information about lithology, porosity, fluid content and reservoir characteristics.

The module covers gamma ray, resistivity, density and neutron logging principles, with an emphasis on interpreting measurements in combination rather than relying on individual responses. Participants also explore the influence of borehole conditions, formation characteristics and measurement limitations on logging interpretation.

  1. ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems

    • Establishes requirements for consistent quality management processes.

    • Provides a framework for controlling documented information and maintaining reliable operational processes.

    • Supports systematic review and quality assurance of technical data and interpretation workflows.

    • Encourages consistent procedures for recording, reviewing and communicating formation evaluation information.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the operating principles of commonly used formation evaluation logging measurements.

    • Interpret basic gamma ray responses for lithology identification.

    • Understand resistivity measurements and their relationship with formation fluids and hydrocarbon identification.

    • Explain the applications of density and neutron measurements in porosity evaluation.

    • Recognise the influence of shale content, borehole conditions and formation characteristics on logging responses.

    • Understand the importance of integrating multiple logging measurements.

    • Identify basic formation evaluation indicators associated with reservoir intervals.

    • Recognise common interpretation challenges and measurement limitations.

    • Explain how well logging information supports drilling decisions and subsurface evaluation.

    • Communicate basic petrophysical interpretations effectively with drilling and geological teams.

This module focuses on the application of formation evaluation while drilling and the interpretation of information acquired through downhole measurement systems. Participants examine the functions of measurement while drilling and logging while drilling technologies and understand how their measurements contribute to operational awareness and formation identification.

The module explores real-time gamma ray, resistivity, directional and other relevant downhole measurements. It also examines the relationship between drilling parameters and petrophysical information, including how real-time data supports geological interpretation, formation correlation, well placement and operational decision-making.

  1. API RP 13B-1 – Water-Based Drilling Fluids

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

    • Covers the measurement of important drilling fluid properties, including density, viscosity and filtration characteristics.

    • Supports consistent acquisition and evaluation of drilling fluid data.

    • Provides operational information relevant to understanding drilling conditions and interpreting formation evaluation results alongside drilling fluid properties.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the differences between measurement while drilling and logging while drilling.

    • Identify the principal applications of real-time formation evaluation measurements.

    • Understand the operating principles of downhole gamma ray and resistivity measurements.

    • Explain how downhole measurements contribute to lithology identification and formation correlation.

    • Interpret drilling data alongside available petrophysical information.

    • Understand the operational significance of rate of penetration, weight on bit, torque and rotary speed.

    • Recognise how changes in formation characteristics influence drilling responses.

    • Explain how real-time formation evaluation supports well placement and geosteering activities.

    • Identify measurement limitations and data quality considerations associated with downhole systems.

    • Understand the importance of timely communication between drilling and subsurface teams.

This module develops an understanding of formation pressure and its importance in drilling engineering. Participants examine pore pressure, fracture pressure, overburden pressure and the relationship between formation pressure and drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure.

The module explores pressure-related indicators, drilling data interpretation and the significance of formation characteristics in understanding pressure regimes. Participants also examine how rock properties, formation fluids and stress conditions influence wellbore stability. The focus is on recognising relevant indicators and understanding their implications for drilling operations, well planning and established well control practices.

  1. API Standard 53 – Well Control Equipment

    • Establishes requirements and recommendations for blowout prevention equipment systems used in drilling operations.

    • Addresses equipment-related considerations associated with well control system design, installation, testing and maintenance.

    • Provides an important operational framework for understanding well control equipment and its role in managing pressure-related risks.

    • Supports the connection between formation pressure awareness, well control planning and established operational procedures.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the fundamental principles of pore pressure, fracture pressure and overburden pressure.

    • Understand the relationship between formation pressure and drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure.

    • Identify common indicators associated with abnormal formation pressure.

    • Explain how drilling parameters and formation evaluation information contribute to pressure assessment.

    • Understand the operational significance of formation pressure variations.

    • Recognise the influence of rock properties and geological conditions on wellbore stability.

    • Explain the relationship between pore pressure, rock strength and wellbore instability.

    • Understand the importance of appropriate drilling fluid density in maintaining well control.

    • Recognise the limitations of pressure estimation methods and the need for integrated technical evaluation.

    • Understand how formation pressure information supports well planning and drilling risk management

This module brings together the petrophysical and drilling engineering principles covered throughout the programme. Participants examine how drilling information, formation evaluation measurements, geological observations and pressure indicators can be integrated to develop a more comprehensive understanding of subsurface conditions.

The module focuses on practical applications of drilling petrophysics in well planning, formation assessment, operational troubleshooting and multidisciplinary decision-making. Participants explore the importance of data quality, interpretation uncertainty and technical communication when translating petrophysical information into operational recommendations.

  1. ISO 16530-1 – Well Integrity Governance

    • Establishes principles for managing well integrity throughout the well lifecycle.

    • Provides a framework for assigning responsibilities and establishing well integrity management processes.

    • Supports systematic consideration of well integrity risks and associated operational controls.

    • Reinforces the importance of integrating technical information into well lifecycle decisions and organisational well integrity management.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Integrate drilling parameters with petrophysical and geological information.

    • Interpret formation evaluation information in the context of drilling objectives.

    • Evaluate how lithology, porosity, permeability and fluid saturation contribute to subsurface understanding.

    • Relate real-time formation evaluation measurements to drilling performance and well placement.

    • Identify potential formation changes through integrated drilling data interpretation.

    • Understand how petrophysical information contributes to reservoir identification and characterisation.

    • Evaluate the limitations and uncertainties associated with different data sources.

    • Develop a structured approach to reviewing drilling and formation evaluation information.

    • Communicate petrophysical findings and their operational implications to multidisciplinary teams.

    • Apply integrated subsurface evaluation principles to support drilling optimisation and well delivery decisions.

Certificate

Upon successful completion of the Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.

The certificate recognises participation in the programme and completion of its training requirements. Attendees are required to meet the course attendance requirement, with full attendance expected throughout the scheduled programme, to qualify for the Certificate of Completion.

Course dates

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,900

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,900

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,900

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,900

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 Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course about?

The Petrophysics for Drilling Engineers Training Course develops practical knowledge of rock properties, formation evaluation, well logging, drilling data interpretation and formation pressure. It explains how petrophysical information supports drilling engineering decisions, well placement, subsurface evaluation and operational performance.

Who should attend this petrophysics training course?

The course is designed for drilling engineers, senior drilling engineers, wellsite engineers, drilling supervisors, well planning engineers, directional drilling engineers, geologists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers and other professionals involved in drilling operations and formation evaluation.

Does the course cover logging while drilling and measurement while drilling?

Yes. The programme covers the principles and applications of logging while drilling and measurement while drilling technologies. Participants explore gamma ray, resistivity and other downhole measurements, including their applications in real-time formation evaluation, lithology identification, geological interpretation and well placement.

How does petrophysics help drilling engineers improve operational decisions?

Petrophysics helps drilling engineers understand the physical characteristics of formations and their influence on drilling performance. By interpreting rock properties, formation pressure, well logging measurements and drilling parameters together, engineers develop a stronger understanding of subsurface conditions and can contribute more effectively to drilling planning, operational troubleshooting and wellbore stability assessments.

Will participants receive a certificate after completing the course?

Yes. Participants who complete the programme and meet the attendance requirement receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training. The certificate recognises their participation and successful completion of the training programme.

Next: 23 Nov 2026

4 dates available

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