Do you know what ‘nipple up to the Christmas tree’ means?

Petroleum News Alaska Staff

Author Steve Devereux’s latest book is designed for individuals interested in learning the special language of the drilling industry.

Published in 1999 by PennWell Corp., “Drilling Technology in Nontechnical Language” is being offered online by The International Association of Drilling Contractors.

IADC recommends it as “a handy desk-top reference … (for) finance and accounting experts, government managers and leaders, human resources personnel, executive recruiters, product vendors, journalists, students considering careers and those who work with or are married to individuals in the drilling industry.”

“No longer will you wonder what it means to ‘nipple up the Christmas tree because the book provides good definitions for the vocabulary that is unique to our industry,’” Mike Killalea, vice president for member services said in a written statement.

Devereux’s book, Killalea said, introduces the reader to both onshore and offshore drilling operations and technology. He covers basic geology, planning and drilling an exploration well on land and offshore, rig selection and rig equipment, the selection of drill bits, muds and fluids, directional and horizontal drilling, casing and cementing, sampling and logging, well control and managing drilling operations.

“In addition, he covers key management issues such as drilling problems and solutions, safety, the environment, costs and regulations,” Killalea said.

The 337 page book, which sells for $65 online, includes an overview, summary and glossary and a detailed index, line diagrams and black and white photographs to illustrate the text.