Well control. Part 1. Pressures define well control objectives
The first installment of this series presents the principles of well control and the procedures that must be followed to control potential blowouts. Basic causes of well kicks are discussed, and limitations imposed on the operator in assessing the probable presence of those circumstances and in controlling kick events are indicated. The key method for controlling kicks is maintenance of down-hole pressure at a level which controls blowout but which does not induce fracture in the formation. The primary means of maintaining the proper down-hole pressure is through control of the hydrostatic pressure of the drilling fluid in the well. The drilling fluid is used to prevent a well kick, and is also used to kill the kick and regain control of the well when a kick occurs. Example well - control problems are included to demonstrate the various causes of kicking (insufficient mud weight, improper hole fillup during trips, swabbing, and cut mud), including the calculations that allow the operator to avoid or offset loss of hydrostatic pressure below that of formation pressure.
- OSTI ID:
- 5835988
- Journal Information:
- Oil Gas J.; (United States), Vol. 77:41
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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