Definition
Free Point — The free point is the deepest depth in a stuck drill string that is still free to move, determined with a free-point indicator tool so the operator knows where to back off or begin fishing the stuck portion.
Also known as: free point, free-point, stuck point
What the free point is
When a drill string becomes stuck, the free point is the boundary between the pipe above that still moves freely and the pipe below that is held fast. Knowing this depth is the first step in any recovery: it tells the operator how much string can be backed off and pulled out, and where the stuck portion — the fish — begins so a fishing string can be dressed accordingly.
Locating the free point
A wireline free-point indicator is run inside the pipe to measure how much stretch or torque each section absorbs when the string is pulled or rotated. Free sections stretch and twist elastically; the stuck section does not. The tool anchors at successive depths and records the response, pinpointing the deepest free connection. That connection is then chosen for a chemical or explosive back-off to separate the free pipe from the stuck fish.
Why it matters for rentals
Free-point work leads directly into fishing, which demands catching and jarring tools on short notice.
Once the free point and back-off are made, our fishing tools cover the recovery of the stuck portion — contact us to prepare a fishing string.