Managed pressure technology for well drilling and casing at Vietsovpetro JV fields

UDK: 622.243

DOI: 10.24887/0028-2448-2025-7-82-86

Key words: managed pressure drilling, equivalent circulating density, rotating control device, Coriolis flow meter, managed pressure cementing, hydraulic model

Authors: A.I. Salikhov (Vietsovpetro JV, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vung Tau); D.Yu. Gundorin (Vietsovpetro JV, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vung Tau); A.V. Zheleznikov (Vietsovpetro JV, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vung Tau)

Traditional drilling methods rely on controlling the bottomhole pressure by using drilling fluids in an open circulation system, which may lead to complication in conditions of a narrow pressure gradient range and unstable equivalent circulating density (ECD). Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) is the innovative approach which includes the enclosed circulation system with the possibility to accurately manage the annular back pressure. This method ensures ECD control in various intervals of an open hole, preventing reservoir fluids from entering the borehole and eliminating the possibility of reservoir hydraulic fracturing. Managed Pressure Cementing (MPC) is applied in cases when it is impossible to reach an optimal downhole pressure during casing process. The technology creates safe conditions for casing runs, prevents cement losses and improves the overall quality of well casing. Implementation of MPD and MPC technologies on Vietsovpetro JV fields is driven by the specifics of geotechnical conditions, including abnormally pressured zones and loose rocks. The article covers the principles of managed pressure operations, its advantages and practical significance for improving the efficiency of drilling and cementing the wells in difficult conditions; provides examples of equipment application, including rotating control device and Coriolis flowmeter, as well as ECD control and adjustment methods; analyses MPD impact on rate of penetration, mud flow rate optimization and improvement of work safety; describes the principles of creating and selecting the optimal hydraulic model; includes data on reducing well construction time and specifics of performing the technological operations.

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