Practical Considerations in Pressure Control Procedures in Field Drilling Operations

1977 ◽  
Vol 29 (08) ◽  
pp. 1031-1036
Author(s):  
R.D. Grace
Keyword(s):  
Pressure Control ◽  
Drilling Operations ◽  
Control Procedures

Kick detection and well control in a closed wellbore

2011 ◽  
Vol 51 (1) ◽  
pp. 109 ◽  
Author(s):  
Steve Nas
Keyword(s):  
Control Process ◽  
Pressure Control ◽  
Control Device ◽  
Primary Objective ◽  
Pressure Management ◽  
Well Control ◽  
Managed Pressure Drilling ◽  
Drilling Operations ◽  
Control Procedures ◽  
Additional Level

Closing the wellbore at the top with a rotating control device (RCD) for some kinds of managed pressure drilling (MPD) operations raises a number of issues with regards to well control and kick detection. The wellbore is closed and the standard flow check of looking into the well is no longer possible. The use of a RCD provides drillers with an additional level of comfort because it is a pressure management device, but it doesn’t eliminate the need to have well control as a primary objective. In recent MPD operations, it has already been observed that well control procedures are relaxed as a result of managed pressure drilling. Is managed pressure drilling the same as primary well control, and how do we deal with kicks in managed pressure drilling operations? At what point in a well control process do we hand over from MPD to drillers’ well control, and who is responsible? This paper will present some of the issues that need to be considered when planning and conducting MPD operations. Early kick detection and annular pressure control are promoted as an essential part of MPD operations, but there can be confusion as to where the responsibility for well control lies. Does the responsibility remain with the drilling contractor and operator or with the provider of the MPD services. The paper provides some case studies where MPD and well control conflicted, causing a number of issues that in some cases led to the loss of wells.

Intelligent Pressure Control System for MPD

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhao Hui Song ◽  
Fu Qiang Li ◽  
Deng Pan Xie ◽  
John Zhu ◽  
Liam Zeng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Control System ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Pressure Control ◽  
Full Time ◽  
Time Data ◽  
Drilling Operation ◽  
Pressure Control System ◽  
Bottom Hole Assembly ◽  
Drilling Operations ◽  
Compact Design

Abstract MPD (Managed Pressure Drilling) is an important technique for challenging drilling operations especially in narrow operational windows. This paper is to introduce the IPC (Intelligent Pressure Control) system with super compact footprint, unique algorithm and IoT (Internet of Things) feature which bring operator a fresh understanding of MPD operation. IPC system is equipped with the ultra-compact MPD manifold (L11.75ft × W7.50ft × H9.08ft) with complete functionality of measurement & automatic control, benefit the operators on footprint reducing for limited field space. With the unique algorithm integrated in iPWD (Intellegent Pressure While Drilling) module, the real time downhole pressure data could be generated without any downhole PWD (Pressure While Drilling) sensor, the deviation between iPWD data and real PWD data is within 3%, which was proven in field operations. NEBULA system is an add-on feature for IPC system, using cloud and IoT technologies, it could track the equipment’s specific location, working status and parameters, providing statistical diagnosis based on data collected from field operations, which helps operators to make decisions quickly. The data uploaded to cloud could generate different reports based on end user’s requirements to analyze drilling operation challenges or difficulties. You can receive all data provided by NEBULA system on your cellphone and PC (Personal Computer) at any time anywhere. The compact design of IPC system manifold benefit the operator by minimizing the footprint in limited field space especially for offshore operations; iPWD module provides full time data during drilling operation regardless of connection or any pump off scenarios; also erases the need of PWD sensor on BHA(Bottom Hole Assembly). NEBULA system featured on IPC equipment generates different report based on real-time data received on site after cloud calculation and big data analysis, all data and report could be accessed via cellphone or PC at any time anywhere, which can be an upgraded intelligent features on conventional MPD technology.

Nitrogen-Based Back Pressure Unit Modernizes Managed Pressure Drilling Operations

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wamidh Louayd Al-Hashmy
Keyword(s):  
Drilling Fluid ◽  
Pressure Control ◽  
Drill String ◽  
Back Pressure ◽  
Managed Pressure Drilling ◽  
Core Function ◽  
Wellbore Pressure ◽  
Drilling Operations ◽  
Pressure Unit ◽  
Static Conditions

Abstract Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) solutions are no longer the anomaly to Operator strategies, but rather another tool in their belts. With this continual utilization, MPD is evolving to become compact, more effective and safer. The inventive use of a Nitrogen Backup Unit (NBU) has eliminated the reliance of MPD operations on sizable Auxiliary Pumps. The core function of MPD operations is maintaining the total wellbore pressure by manipulating surface applied back pressure. MPD relies on circulating fluid as back pressure is generated by restricting flow against its choke(s). While drilling, fluid circulation is a given; however, that is not the case during static conditions such as drill string connections. The NBU solves this issue by injecting a small volume of nitrogen into the MPD lines upstream of the choke at a pre-set pressure. This supplements the back pressure control at surface should additional pressure be needed after closing the choke or if pressure diminishes during long static periods. Prior to the NBU design, the only effective solution was an Auxiliary Pump setup. This solution doubles the choke manifold footprint, relies on mechanical maintenance, and requires additional dedicated personnel at times. Most critically, the Auxiliary Pump lags the operation minutes before each use and is therefore functioned before static conditions when possible. However, unplanned and sudden events are commonplace – such as Rig Pump failures. When drilling formations with narrow pressure margins, unsafe gases, or crucial hole instability pressure limits, a few minutes can result in considerable and costly outcomes. Once installed during initial rig-up, the NBU is capable of injecting nitrogen-sourced back pressure instantaneously at the literal click of a button – avoiding costly and sometimes hazardous conditions. The NBU modernizes MPD operations and renders the Auxiliary Pump setup outdated in many applications. This paper details this innovative implementation of maintaining wellbore pressure, highlights several field examples of the NBU maintaining back pressure at critical times and shows how the layout used minimizes the operational footprint.

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