Integrating an MPD System on a Jack-Up Rig; Why You Should and How You Can

Abstract

The benefits of Managed Pressure Drilling are well understood in the drilling industry, but until now, they have never been integrated into a Jack-Up rig. For a UK North Sea HPHT campaign, the Drilling Contractor, Operator and MPD Service Provider collaborated for what is believed to be the World's first fully integrated, permanently installed MPD system for a Jack-Up, capable of drilling the most challenging narrow-margin HPHT wells. Overcoming the perceived complexity and cost of MPD are common obstacles. Integrating MPD systems into jack-up rigs addresses both challenges by simplifying logistics planning and operations and reducing costs. Putting MPD at the heart of the rig's drilling system offers a wealth of advantages to both the Operator and Drilling Contractor and provides ‘MPD on demand’ for all operations undertaken from the rig.