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Drilling Cost Per Foot Calculator

Compare up to 3 bit runs side by side. Optimize bit selection based on cost per foot and rate of penetration.

Bit Runs:

Cost Per Foot Comparison

How this was calculated

Cost Per Foot: CPF = (Cb + Cr × (Tt + Td + Tc) + Co) / F

Where: Cb = bit cost, Cr = rig rate ($/hr), Tt = trip time (hrs), Td = drilling time (hrs), Tc = connection time (hrs), Co = other costs, F = footage drilled (ft).

ROP: Rate of Penetration = Footage / Drilling Time (ft/hr).

Assumptions: All time components in hours. Rig rate applied uniformly to all time categories.

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Understanding Drilling Cost Per Foot

Cost per foot (CPF) is the primary metric used to evaluate bit performance and drilling efficiency. It captures the total cost of drilling a section of hole by combining bit cost, rig time (trip time, drilling time, connection time), and any additional costs, then dividing by the footage drilled. A lower CPF indicates a more economical bit run, even if the bit itself costs more.

Rate of penetration (ROP) alone is not sufficient for bit selection. A fast-drilling bit that wears out quickly may require more trips, driving up total cost. The CPF formula penalizes excessive trip time, encouraging selection of durable bits that maximize footage per run. By comparing CPF across multiple bit runs in the same formation, drilling engineers can identify the optimal bit type, weight on bit, and RPM for a given interval.

All calculations run entirely in your browser. Built by Groundwork Analytics, an AI and engineering company serving the energy industry. Get in touch or email info@petropt.com.

Disclaimer: These calculations are for screening and educational purposes only. Results should be verified before making operational decisions. Groundwork Analytics assumes no liability for decisions made based on these results.