Digital rig price
Technical Specifications – SJ Digital Rig Parameters
Below are the core specifications for SJ's AC VFD digital drilling rigs across the standard depth ratings. All models are API‑certified and designed for integration with Idrilling and third‑party automation platforms.
| Parameter | ZJ40/2250DB | ZJ50/3150DB | ZJ70/4500DB | ZJ90/6750DB (9,000m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal Drilling Depth (5″ DP) | 4,000 m (13,100 ft) | 5,000 m (16,400 ft) | 7,000 m (23,000 ft) | 9,000 m (29,500 ft) |
| Max Hook Load | 2,250 kN (≈505,800 lbs) | 3,150 kN (≈708,000 lbs) | 4,500 kN (≈1,000,000 lbs) | 6,750 kN (≈1,500,000 lbs) |
| Drive System | AC VFD | AC VFD | AC VFD | AC VFD |
| Top Drive Type | AC permanent magnet direct drive | AC permanent magnet direct drive | AC permanent magnet direct drive | AC permanent magnet direct drive [2†L12-L14] |
| Drawworks Power | 1,000‑1,300 HP | 1,500‑2,000 HP | 2,000‑3,000 HP | 3,000+ HP |
| VFD Efficiency Advantage | 5‑10% higher vs DC SCR | 5‑10% higher vs DC SCR | 5‑10% higher vs DC SCR | 5‑10% higher vs DC SCR [16†L7-L9] |
| Automation Level | Optional catwalk + manipulator | Optional full automation | Optional full automation | Integrated automation controls [14†L5-L7] |
| Idrilling Integration | Ready | Ready | Ready | Integrated |
| Remote Monitoring | RTOC‑compatible | RTOC‑compatible | RTOC‑compatible | RTOC‑integrated |
| Data Acquisition | Full EDR with IoT sensors | Full EDR with IoT sensors | Full EDR with IoT sensors | Full EDR with IoT + predictive analytics |
| Control Interface | Integrated driller's panel | Dual driller ring network | Dual driller ring network | Dual driller ring network integrated control [14†L5-L7] |
| Mast Type | K‑type / A‑frame | K‑type / A‑frame | K‑type | Double‑beam double‑triangle |
| Mobility | Truck / Skid | Skid / Trailer | Skid / Modular | Modular with integrated towing [14†L5-L7] |
| Ambient Temperature | -40°C to +55°C | -40°C to +55°C | -40°C to +55°C | 50°C+ desert‑rated [14†L5-L7] |
| Certifications | API Q1, 4F, 7K, 8C, ISO 9001 [3†L35-L37] | API Q1, 4F, 7K, 8C, ISO 9001 | API Q1, 4F, 7K, 8C, ISO 9001 | API Q1, 4F, 7K, 8C, ISO 9001 |
Key digital features across all models:
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AC VFD digital drive architecture – Stepless speed control, real‑time power management, seamless automation integration
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RTOC‑compatible data acquisition – Real‑time transmission of drilling parameters to remote support centers
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IoT sensor network – Continuous monitoring of equipment health, vibration, temperature, and operational parameters
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Automation‑ready control system – Supports incremental addition of catwalk, manipulator, iron roughneck, and monkey board
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Idrilling‑compatible – Pre‑configured for Sinopec's AI‑driven scientific drilling system
Application Fields
1. Onshore Multi‑Well Pad Drilling (Shale Gas, Tight Gas, CBM)
The classic deployment for digital rigs. Hundreds of connections per well, dozens of wells per pad – automation pays back quickly. Idrilling has demonstrated an average 19.34% ROP increase across nearly 400 wells in deep formations, shale gas, and tight gas reservoirs. [15†L9-L13] IoT sensing and real‑time optimization reduce connection time and eliminate manual errors.
2. Deep & Ultra‑Deep Well Drilling (5,000m – 9,000m+)
Deep wells demand precision and efficiency. SJ's ZJ90DB digital rigs have been deployed in Kuwait's northern oilfields to 9,000 meters – and in field service in China's northwest region, reaching a maximum depth of 9,270 meters. Advanced automation controls, VFD power, and integrated towing capability enable efficient operation in deep wells.
3. Offshore Platform Drilling
Space is tight, HSE requirements are stringent, and remote support is essential. Our digital rigs are equipped with dual driller ring network integrated control systems and automated catwalks – unified centralized management of rig parameters and controls with minimal personnel on board.RTOC remote support enables shore‑based experts to monitor and assist multiple platforms simultaneously.
4. Desert & Harsh Environment Drilling (Middle East, North Africa)
The ZJ90DB rigs deployed in Kuwait feature integrated automation controls, positive pressure explosion‑proof driller's cabin, VFD power, and modular design with integrated towing – specifically tailored for high‑temperature, sandy environments.The first rig achieved first spud 73 days ahead of contract schedule, demonstrating the efficiency of digital rig deployment in extreme conditions.
5. Workover & Well Intervention
Our XJ series self‑propelled workover rigs (XJ150 through XJ1200, 300‑2,250 kN static load, 235‑1,300 HP) incorporate the same AC VFD technology and automation features – automated catwalks, automated pipe handling, and one‑click activation of automated drill feeding.
6. Fleet‑Wide Digital Management via RTOC
For operators with multiple rigs, Sinopec's RTOC technology – the abbreviation for Remote Technical Operations Center – is a core drilling optimization and decision‑making technology with 100% proprietary intellectual property rights, capable of simultaneously managing hundreds of wells online. [17†L26-L29][17†L18-L20] The system integrates wellbore risk warning, drilling parameter optimization, 3D geosteering, automated cementing, fracturing remote monitoring, and construction KPI analysis. One experienced drilling supervisor can support 3 rigs simultaneously, with AI‑powered early warning for lost circulation, stuck pipe, and other events enabling proactive intervention before problems escalate.The RTOC platform transitions drilling from "experience‑driven" to "science‑driven" operations.
Product Types – Digital Rig Portfolio
| Type | Configuration | Depth / Capacity | Digital Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC VFD Land Drilling Rig (ZJ Series) | Truck / Skid / Trailer‑mounted; 1,000‑3,000+ HP; AC VFD drive; integrated driller's panel | 3,000‑9,000 m | VFD digital backbone; IoT sensors; RTOC‑compatible; automation‑ready |
| Fully Automated Digital Rig | Catwalk + manipulator + iron roughneck + monkey board + dual driller ring network | 3,000‑7,000 m | One‑button pipe transfer; full interlock safety; remote monitoring |
| Idrilling‑Integrated Intelligent Rig | Pre‑configured for Sinopec's AI‑driven scientific drilling system | 3,000‑9,000 m | IoT sensing + scientific decision‑making + closed‑loop control; AI‑optimized drilling plans [15†L20-L22] |
| RTOC‑Connected Fleet Rig | Real‑time data transmission to Remote Technical Operations Center | Any depth | Hundreds of wells managed online; AI early warning; remote expert support [17†L18-L20] |
| Digital Workover Rig (XJ Series) | Self‑propelled; 235‑1,300 HP; AC VFD; automated catwalk | Workover depth 2,500‑9,000 m | Automated pipe lifting/lowering; one‑click drill feeding |
| Retrofit Digital Upgrade Kit | Add VFD controls, automation components, RTOC connectivity to existing rigs | Customer specified | Incremental digitization without new rig purchase |
Why Choose SJ Petroleum Machinery for Digital Rigs?
1. Direct Sinopec Subsidiary – Access to Idrilling Scientific Drilling System
As a Sinopec subsidiary, SJ has direct access to the parent company's "Idrilling Yinglong" scientific drilling system – an AI‑powered platform integrating IoT sensing, scientific decision‑making, and closed‑loop control. [15†L20-L22] Idrilling has been deployed in nearly 400 wells, achieving an average 19.34% increase in ROP and a 12.93% reduction in drilling cycle time – with operational efficiency improved by 40% compared to previous models. Our digital rigs are designed to be Idrilling‑ready from the start.
2. API & ISO Certified – Global Compliance Ready
Our facilities maintain API Q1, API 4F, API 7K, API 8C, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 certifications. Complete documentation packages are available for international tenders, client audits, and regulatory approvals.
3. Factory‑Direct Pricing – 25‑35% Below Western Competitors
We manufacture everything in‑house – AC VFD drives, top drives, drawworks, control systems, automation components, steel structures. Our 663,000 m² facility employs over 2,000 people and produces 100+ drilling rigs annually. Factory‑direct means no middleman markup, no brand tax – just API‑certified digital rigs at prices that compete aggressively with any global supplier.
4. Field‑Proven Digital Technology – ZJ90DB in Kuwait
SJ's ZJ90DB digital drilling rigs – featuring integrated automation controls, VFD power, positive pressure driller's cabin, modular design, and integrated towing capability – have been successfully deployed in Kuwait's northern oilfields. The first rig arrived at the wellsite and achieved first spud 73 days ahead of contract schedule.This milestone demonstrates the reliability and efficiency of SJ's digital rig technology in extreme desert conditions.
5. RTOC Remote Support Capability – Experts Without Travel
Our digital rigs are RTOC‑compatible – enabling real‑time data transmission to Sinopec's remote technical centers. RTOC integrates wellbore risk warning, drilling parameter optimization, 3D geosteering, automated cementing, fracturing remote monitoring, and construction KPI analysis, capable of simultaneously managing hundreds of wells online. For international operators, this same architecture can be adapted to your preferred remote operation platform.
6. Predictive Maintenance & Analytics
Our AC VFD drive architecture enables continuous condition‑based monitoring of critical equipment. IoT sensors monitor vibration, temperature, pressure, and electrical signatures – data that analytics platforms use to predict failures before they occur. The result: reduced unplanned downtime, extended equipment life, and lower operating costs. Predictive diagnostics allow drives to estimate component health – such as capacitors, power modules, and motors – enabling condition‑based maintenance and reducing unplanned downtime.
7. Modular & Expandable – Start Today, Scale Tomorrow
You don't need to purchase a full digital rig upfront to begin your digital transformation. Our retro kit adds VFD controls, automation components, and RTOC connectivity to existing rigs. Start with basic data acquisition, add automation incrementally, and build toward full digital operation over time – without scrapping your existing capital investment.
8. Complete Ecosystem – One Supplier for Your Entire Digital Fleet
SJ manufactures over 200 product models across 12 series – drilling rigs, workover rigs, cementing units, fracturing equipment, coiled tubing units, snubbing units, and high‑pressure fluid control products. For digital fleet development, single‑source procurement reduces complexity, ensures component compatibility, and streamlines support logistics.
9. Responsive After‑Sales & Global Support
24/7 technical support via WhatsApp/email. Spare parts warehouse with global shipping (5‑10 days to most oil regions). Optional on‑site service contracts for fleet purchases. For the Kuwait project, SJ assembled a dedicated service support team of dozens stationed at the project site – providing hands‑on training covering electrical control and hydraulic system principles, accumulating over 300 hours of training for local crews.
Digital Rig ROI – What the Data Shows
Across the industry, digital drilling solutions are delivering measurable results:
| Metric | Reported Improvement | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Operational safety | 41‑70% improvement | [11†L4-L8] |
| Rig time savings / efficiency | 16‑33% improvement | [11†L4-L8] |
| Personnel reduction | 22‑77% reduction | [11†L4-L8] |
| Non‑productive time (NPT) | Up to 79% reduction (operational NPT) | [18†L52-L55] |
| Tripping speed | Up to 20% faster | [11†L11-L13] |
| On/off bottom efficiency | Up to 30% improvement | [11†L29-L31] |
| Rate of penetration (ROP) | Up to 25% improvement | [11†L29-L33] |
| Drilling dysfunctions (stick‑slip, vibrations) | Up to 70% reduction | [11†L31-L33] |
| Repair and maintenance expenditures | Up to 20% reduction | [11†L23-L27] |
| Fuel savings (per rig) | 5‑8 gallons per hour → $100,000+ annually | [0†L28-L32] |
| Well delivery time reduction | 12‑15% average across Idrilling deployments | [15†L9-L13] |
| Single feature NPT reduction savings | $9+ million in two years | [18†L5-L11] |
For a typical deepwater well, a 25% reduction in drilling time can translate to $5‑15 million in direct cost savings. [18†L46-L51]
FAQ – Digital Rigs
Q1: What makes a drilling rig "digital" rather than just "automated"?
A digital rig is built on three core capabilities: (1) AC VFD digital drive architecture as the electrical backbone; (2) integrated automation across catwalk, manipulator, iron roughneck, and monkey board; and (3) connected intelligence – real‑time data transmission, remote monitoring, AI‑driven optimization, and predictive analytics. A rig can have automation without being fully "digital" – but a digital rig combines automation with data connectivity and intelligent decision‑making. [0†L7-L9]
Q2: What is Sinopec's Idrilling (Yinglong) scientific drilling system?
Idrilling is Sinopec's first self‑developed scientific drilling system – integrating IoT sensing, scientific decision‑making, and closed‑loop control into a unified digital drilling platform. Using the "Great Wall Large Model" AI, the system automatically generates drilling plans, optimizes parameters in real time, and ensures precise control from the drill bit to surface equipment. [15†L20-L22] The system has been deployed in nearly 400 wells, achieving an average 19.34% ROP increase and a 12.93% drilling cycle reduction. [15†L9-L13]
Q3: How does AC VFD drive technology benefit digital rig operations?
AC VFD systems have fewer electrical connections, better motor efficiency, less waste heat, and better power distribution than conventional DC systems. [16†L5-L9] For digital operations, the key advantages are precise speed and torque control (enabling automated sequences), predictive diagnostics (identifying potential failures before they cause downtime), and seamless integration with automation platforms like SmartROS or Idrilling.
Q4: What is RTOC and how does it work with digital rigs?
RTOC (Remote Technical Operations Center) is Sinopec's core drilling optimization and decision‑making technology with 100% proprietary intellectual property rights. [17†L26-L29] The system integrates wellbore risk warning, drilling parameter optimization, 3D geosteering, automated cementing, fracturing remote monitoring, and construction KPI analysis – capable of simultaneously managing hundreds of wells online. [17†L18-L20] Digital rigs transmit real‑time data to the RTOC, enabling remote experts to support multiple rigs simultaneously – one experienced drilling supervisor can support 3 rigs, with AI‑powered early warning for lost circulation, stuck pipe, and other events.
Q5: Can an existing conventional rig be converted to a digital rig?
Yes – absolutely. Our retro kit adds AC VFD controls, automation components, and RTOC connectivity to existing rigs. Start with basic data acquisition, add the automated catwalk, then the manipulator, then the iron roughneck, and build toward full digital operation over time. This incremental approach protects your existing capital investment while delivering immediate benefits from each added component.
Q6: What is the typical lead time for a digital rig?
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Standard AC VFD digital rig (4,000‑7,000m): 9‑12 months from order confirmation
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Fully automated digital rig with full automation suite: 12‑18 months
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Idrilling‑integrated digital rig: 12‑15 months
The 9,000‑meter ZJ90DB digital rigs for Kuwait were delivered within approximately 9 months from order to first shipment. [14†L4-L7]
Q7: What certifications do SJ digital rigs carry?
SJ facilities maintain API Q1, API 4F, API 7K, API 8C, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 certifications. [3†L35-L37] Complete documentation packages are available for international tenders and client audits. Our AC VFD drilling rigs are designed and manufactured in accordance with API Spec Q1, 4F, 7K, 8C, and 9A standards.
Q8: Can SJ digital rigs be operated remotely?
Yes – depending on local regulations and operator requirements. Our RTOC‑compatible architecture enables real‑time data transmission, remote monitoring, and remote expert support. For fully remote operation, additional cybersecurity and control infrastructure is required – contact our engineering team for custom remote operation solutions.
Q9: What are the biggest ROI drivers for digital rigs?
Based on industry data, the key ROI drivers are: (1) personnel reduction – ranging from 22‑77% depending on automation level; (2) NPT reduction – up to 79% for operational NPT; (3) rig time savings – 16‑33% efficiency improvement; (4) fuel savings – 5‑8 gallons per hour per rig; (5) maintenance cost reduction – up to 20% in repair and maintenance expenditures.
