A Method for Reducing Wellbore Instability Using the Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) System

Abstract

Drilling for oil and gas wells is considered as a risk factor that is perceived as tolerable. As drilling companies expand into harsh environments and farther depth, the probability of a potential failure increases. An unexpected influx to or from the wellbore might be disastrous if not handled properly. Drilling-related issues such as jammed pipes, lost circulation, and high mud costs demonstrate the need for improved drilling technologies. The goal is to limit annular frictional pressure losses, especially in fields where the pore pressure and fracture pressure gradient are too close together. If these issues can be resolved, the economics of drilling wells would increase, allowing the industry to drill previously uneconomical wells. Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) is a unique approach that allows the control of annular frictional pressure losses and can solve these types of drilling challenges. The industry is still mostly unaware of the entire range of advantages. Prompt detecting and handling of an influx of formation fluids can have the possibility to reduce the magnitude and extent of a kick by operating on a faster time scale with greater precision. Constant Bottomhole Pressure (CBHP), Pressurised Mudcap Drilling (PMCD), and Dual Gradient Drilling (DGD) are a few MPD variants. MPD reduces drilling issues and increases the economics of drilling wells. This research focuses on strategies employed in MPD, with the goal of uncovering some of the less well-known and thus underappreciated possibilities.