Rig integrated managed pressure drilling

Abstract

The complexity and challenges related to drilling of wells shows an increasing trend, and there is a demand for new technology and/or methods. Managed pressure drilling (MPD) is gaining more and more attention on the market, giving the possibility to drill the operationally challenged, to drill the economically challenged and to drill the un-drillable. The principles of the MPD technique are not new, but further development of equipment and methods makes it a better choice compared to conventional drilling. Narrow pressure window is an increasing challenge on the North Continental Shelf (NCS), as result of both geological and induced (i.e. drilling and injection) factors. Still, several challenges must be managed in order to drill the wells with respect to Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), and cost effectiveness. The report is based on the constant bottom hole pressure (CBHP) technique, considering a fixed installation on the NCS. The main objective of this Thesis is to improve the execution of MPD, by enhancing the working process and organizational aspects. Effectiveness and performance is not only result of the technique applied, the method is at least of equally importance. The key to success is to connect the three elements in a proper way. Through research from previous operations, interviews with rig personnel and cooperation with NOV, the proposed step to fully integrate MPD include 1. MPD equipment permanently installed on the installation 2. Advanced control system integrated into drilling control system 3. Drilling contractor performing the MPD operation Rig integrated MPD will lead to an increased HSE level, continuous performance and a reduced overall cost.