Using Rotating Control Devices Safely in Today's Managed Pressure and Underbalanced Drilling Operations

摘要

In today’s Underbalanced and Managed Pressure Drillingrnenvironments the Rotating Control Device (RCD) is no longerrnsimply a flow diverter, but is a key piece of well controlrnequipment and the critical first safety defense to preventrnescape of well fluids during critical drilling operations. ThernRCD should not be considered just another piece of rentalrnequipment to be called out at the last minute. When planning arnUBO or MPD well it is important to consider the RCD, andrnconsult with the supplier early in the planning stages.rnThis discussion will attempt to identify the informationrnrequired to properly select the RCD device and trim, definernancillary equipment needed, and assign responsibilities tornvarious parties to ensure that fit for purpose materials andrninformation are available at the rig site when needed.rnProcedures and safety precautions for installing the device willrnbe addressed. Operational considerations to insure safetyrnwhile drilling and maintaining the sealing elements andrnbearings will also be covered.