MPD advances path forward for deepwater drilling: New techniques and devices stretch water depth limits

摘要

Managed-pressure drilling (MPD), considered a novel technique only a few years ago, is becoming a standard tool in die driller's toolbox for drilling many deepwater wells. This evolution stems from the increasing challenges and risks in today's well construction operations and the unique ability of MPD to mitigate them. These are applications where process safety is paramount, and narrow-to-nonexistent drilling windows, high pressures and temperatures, wellbore instability, riser gas, and a litany of other issues routinely challenge safety, economics, and the ability to drill and complete the well.