Well Control Procedures in Deep Water

Abstract

ABSTRACT Well control procedures are revised aiming at the minimization of problems related to kicks and blowouts in deep water operations. The analysis and definition of the most suitable early kick detection methods, well shut-in technique and kick killing procedure are performed to lead us to safer operations. Kick scenarios are defined and studied with the help of a kick simulator to investigate the influence of some parameters and operational practices in the whole well control procedure. The consequences of flow-check, hard or soft shut-in, and the driller's or engineer's methods of kick control are discussed to serve as the basis for the definition of the most appropriate techniques to be adopted in deep water drilling operations.