HPHBT 2004 Land-Rig Drilling Manual

HP/HBT well control &
Drilling operations manual
Compiled by Peter Aird, CEng,
Kingdom Drilling Services Ltd
www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk
May 2004; Revision 1.1
www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk Page 1 Rev 1.1 April 2004

Table of contents
HP/HBT well control & Drilling operations manual..................................... 1

Foreword ......................................................................................................................... 4
Abbreviations.................................................................................................................. 5
1. Origin of high pressures and high temperatures ............................................................. 6
1.3 Reminders; Pressure gradient definition................................................................... 8
1.4 Main features of HP zones........................................................................................ 9
1.5 Abnormal (High) pressure detection & prediction ................................................. 10
1.6 HP/HBT zone specific problems ............................................................................ 19
1.7. Drilling procedures ................................................................................................ 23
2.0 HP/HBT drilling techniques and procedures .............................................................. 31
2.1 General.................................................................................................................... 31
2.2 Drilling Equipment Preparation........................................................................ 32
2.3 Drilling.............................................................................................................. 34
2.4 Tripping procedure.................................................................................................. 37
2.5 Coring ..................................................................................................................... 40
2.6 Casing wear monitoring.......................................................................................... 40
2.7 BOP Testing............................................................................................................ 41
2.8 Wellbore surveying................................................................................................. 42
2.9 Minimum stocks, suspension of operations ............................................................ 42
2.10 Mud management.................................................................................................. 43
2.10.2 Mud testing ........................................................................................................ 44
2.11 Wire-line ............................................................................................................... 46
2.12 Stuck pipe.............................................................................................................. 46
3 HP/HBT Well killing procedures & guidelines ............................................................. 47
3.1 General.................................................................................................................... 47
3.2 Well Control Philosophy................................................................................... 48
3.3 Shut-In Procedures.................................................................................................. 48
3.5 Kick Confirmation .................................................................................................. 50
3.6 Determining the Kick Size...................................................................................... 50
3.7 Pre-Kill Meeting ..................................................................................................... 50
3.8 Well Kill Procedures............................................................................................... 51
4.0 Other operational aspects............................................................................................ 60
4.1 Well control equipment........................................................................................... 60
4.2 Management and control of HP/HBT Operations .................................................. 63
4.3 HP/HBT Training........................................................................................................ 69
5. HT/HBT FLUIDS ......................................................................................................... 74
5.1 Introduction............................................................................................................. 74
5.2. Mud types............................................................................................................... 75
5.3. Temperature Limits................................................................................................ 76
5.4 Mud Properties........................................................................................................ 77
5.5 HP/HBT mud problem Symptoms and Remedial Action....................................... 78
5.5.4 Planning ............................................................................................................... 80
5.6 Operational Considerations..................................................................................... 82

6.0 Gas Hydrates in HPHT wells...................................................................................... 83
6.1 Introduction............................................................................................................. 83
6.1.1 Primary prevention, removal & mitigation.......................................................... 83
6.2 Properties of Hydrates............................................................................................. 83
6.3 Hydrate Formation .................................................................................................. 84
6.4 Water Vapour in Gas .............................................................................................. 87
7.0 Appendices.................................................................................................................. 89
7.1 Appendix 1; abnormal pressure process help charts......................................... 89
7.2 Appendix 2; HP/HBT Well Control Equipment..................................................... 91
7.3 Appendix 3. HPHT rig procedures ......................................................................... 98
7.4 Appendix 4; HP/HBT Well killing; thought considerations................................. 113
7.5 Appendix; Stuck pipe preparedness...................................................................... 116
7.6 Appendix; Mud Gas definitions............................................................................ 117

Foreword
This document is intended to develop and educate, safe working High Pressure,
High Bottom Hole temperature (HP/HBT) procedures, guidelines and best
practices.
This documents purpose is:
1. To educate and develop a knowledge and understanding of DRILLING TEAMS as to the

basic dangers (i.e. Hazards and risks) associated with drilling HP/HBT Wells.
2. To present the fundamental safety rules and procedures that both Operators and IADC
Drilling contractors use and consider the required standards, instructions,
guidelines and practices to be implemented.
3. To ensure that drilling and particularly rig-site personnel are fully familiar with HB/HBT
guidelines, rules and procedures and what is more, are confident to implement and
exercise the controls needed.
4. To ensure that personnel understand all the physical parameters related to HP/HBT wells
and can properly assess their dangerous evolution.
5. To present the mechanisms and information required to raise concerns regarding locality,
geology, well, rig, equipment, design or personal operational aspects to thereby enable
solutions to the issues raised prior to executing well(s).

Abbreviations
1. API RP American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice
2. BHA Bottom-hole Assembly
3. BHT Bottom hole temperature
4. BG Background gas
5. BOP Blow-out Preventer
6. BRT Below Rotary Table
7. CG Connection gas
8. DC Drill collar
9. DWT Dead Weight Tester
10. ECD Equivalent Circulating Density
11. EMW Equivalent Mud Weight
12. GPM Gallons per minute
13. H2S Hydrogen Sulphide
14. HP/HBT High Pressure / High bottom-hole temperature.
15. IADC International Association of Drilling Contractors
16. ID Internal Diameter
17. KTOL Kick Tolerance
18. LCM Lost Circulation Material
19. LOT Leak off
20. MAASP Maximum Allowable Annular Surface Pressure
21. MBT Methylene blue test
22. MD Measured depth
23. MW Mud weight
24. MWD Measurement while drilling
25. OBM Oil Base Mud
26. OD Outside Diameter
27. OIM Offshore Installation Manager
28. PG Pump off Gas
29. PMS Preventive Maintenance System
30. POOH Pull out of hole
31. PPG Pounds per gallon
32. PV Plastic Viscosity
33. RFT Repeat formation tool
34. RIH Run in hole
35. RKB Rotary Kelly Bushing
36. ROP Rate of Penetration
37. RPM Revolutions pre minute
38. SCR Slow Circulating Rate
39. SICP Shut in casing pressure
40. SIDPP Shut in drillpipe pressure
41. SOBM Synthetic Oil Based Mud
42. SG Specific Gravity
43. SPM Strokes per Minute
44. TD Total depth
45. TG Trip Gas
46. TVD True vertical depth
47. VSP Vertical seismic profiling
48. WBM Water based mud
49. WOB Weight on bit
50. YP Yield Point

1. Origin of high pressures and high temperatures
The origins of abnormal pressures are summarized in the table 1 below.
Table 1; Origins of abnormal pressure
In the context of HP/HBT wells, pressure is considered as having two key origins.
1.1 Depth based

Based on depth only, a normally pressurised i.e. 0.4335 psi/ft reservoir buried at
39,370 ft would have a minimum pore pressure of 17,046 psi. Assuming a gas
blow out status of this well, a potential wellhead pressure of +- 12500 psi could
result i.e. if fully evacuated to gas. As can be seen, at this pressure range this well
could be considered as a High Pressure Well.
1.2 Source of abnormal pressure based

The depth based well in 1.1 had a normal pore pressure gradient (Case 1) and
due to normal pressure regimes that existing could be drilled with the same
(normal hydrostatic) mud weight, from top to bottom.
This however would be absolutely impossible if an Abnormally Pressurised Well

existed (Case 2), as presented in Fig 1 & 2 that present a likely evolution of
normal and abnormal pore pressure gradients, particularly in figure 2 as three
distinct phases. i.e.

1. Normal; Hydro pressures Zone
2. Abnormal (Increasing); Transition Zone
3. Abnormal (High); Geo pressures Zone
See figure 1. Normal and abnormal pressure definitions
Figure 1; Pressure definitions
What are the origins of abnormal pressure? Raises the first and obvious
question to be asked? Where here, among the various reasons listed by
geologists, the following ones in the context of HP/HBT wells are highlighted;
a. Recent sediments with very high rate of deposition:

a. If the porous zones have a limited extension and are covered with impermeable
sediments, the deposition rate is too high to allow proper compaction and
drainage of the interstitial water. The latter tends therefore to bear part of the
weight of the overlaying sediments, and is therefore over-pressurised. e.g.
Indonesia.
b. Old sediments:
a. The normal tendency of a sedimentary basin is to subside. This leads to an
increase in temperature at the bottom of the basin (normal earth geothermal
gradient), which in turn induces a fluid dilatation.
b. If the porous zone, filled with fluid, is covered by an impermeable cap rock
(pressure seal), the pressure cannot be released. The formation, little by little,
tends then to be over pressurised e.g. North Sea Sahara.
c. Gas effect at the top of a very thick gas pay-zone:
a. NB: Do not get confused: The pore fluid is at abnormal pressure and therefore
requires a higher mud density to be controlled.
* The pore fluid’s own density does not change.

1.3 Reminders; Pressure gradient definition
Concerned more with pore fluid pressure, rather than formation density, tends by
analogy with the Mud Weight we are using, to drill, describe and control
pressure in terms of a gradient, and more practically in terms of either Specific
Gravity (SG), ponds per gallon (ppg) or pounds per square inch, per foot, (psi/ft).
Pressure gradient: is therefore a pressure increase per depth unit;

e.g. To be practical, terms that represent the pressure gradient per 10 metres = 1.90
kg/cm /10m. or 0.82 psi/ft per foot are used.
Pressure gradient may be: abnormal if the Geo-pressures vary more or less
quickly as illustrated in figure 2; (in that be prepared for sudden kicks!)
Figure 2; Pressure zone definitions
Figure 3 further illustrates a typical normal and abnormal pressure profile

prognosis for Indonesia.
Here it can be noted that HP/HBT pore pressure ramps up from a fairly shallow
depth and continues to increase over a significant interval length.
Refer to Fig 3 for a local example (Indonesia).

Figure 3: Pore pressure vs. depth (Indonesia)
1.4 Main features of HP zones

The main features of high pressure zones as illustrated in figures 1-3 are;
1. High pressure means; existence of a seal i.e. ‘Pressure Cooker’ principle.
2. The tightness i.e. porosity and/or permeability efficiency of this pressure

seal may vary as a function of lithology, time, where consequently the
pressure profile may vary from a smooth to a violent pattern.
3. Higher porosity: as this is obviously needed to “house” the excess of

high pressure fluid.
4. Higher associated temperatures often exist within the abnormally

pressurised zones.
a. The temperature rise is particularly sharp in the Transition Zone, which is acting
as a permeability barrier and thus prevents proper thermal exchanges since fluid
circulation is significantly reduced. (All of the above factors are kept in mind by the
drillers, as they are fundamental parameters to be coped with during HP zone drilling).

1.5 Abnormal (High) pressure detection & prediction
When considering abnormal pressure detection and predictions, most methods
are considered as ‘Warning signs’ that essentially by themselves cannot be
considered individually as sufficient and/or reliable indications of high pressure
development.
Methods to be used must therefore be analysed and interpreted both

Concurrently and Carefully where drilling personnel should not neither OVER
nor UNDER estimate each indicators significance, as soon as it feasibly possible
to do so e.g;
 Properly assess both actual regional and well trends. E.g. for location
selection.
 Take the proper decisions for actions that will be need. E.g. casing setting
depths.
The most common pore pressure prediction methods to be used are summarised
in table 2 below;
Table 2: Pore pressure prediction methods

In the context of this document HP/HBT pressure methods during, drilling and
after e.g. particularly logging are particularly of most interest.
1.5.1 While drilling

The following methods can be used while drilling to assist in pressure detection &
prediction;
1. Flow-line Temperature.
a. Often disturbed by the riser cooling effect.
2. Pore Water Salinity

a. This normally increases with depth and temperature, but reverses its
trend when pore pressure Increases. Assess through mud resistivity
measurement both; IN/OUT.
3. Gas Shows
The quantity of gas observed at the surface when circulation is resumed
depends mainly on the following criteria.
– differential pressure,
– formation permeability,
– nature of the gas contained in the drilled formation,
– length of time pumps were halted,
– movement of the drill pipe (swabbing upwards and surging downwards).
a. It is also vital that the respective evolution of the following are therefore
carefully assessed:
i. Background gas (BG).
ii. Trip gas (TG).
iii. Connection gas (CG).
iv. Pump off gas (PG).
The presence of connection gas (CG) or trip gas (TG) may be typical of well imbalance.
The equivalent density applied to the formation with pumps stopped (static) is lower
that the equivalent circulating density (dynamic). When the well is close to balance the
drop in pressure while static may allow gas to flow from the formation into the well.
Even if various parameters influence the respective magnitudes of gas levels, it should
be kept in mind that the main ruling factor is the differential pressure between Mud
Hydrostatic Head and Pore Pressure: The smaller the difference, the bigger the shows.
Consequently the trend analysis of the gas shows is a MUST. The Mud Logger has a
key role to play and must be extremely vigilant.

4. Gas Ratios C2/C3
a. In other words, the farther from the pay zones, the less heavy the
hydrocarbon elements (C3), and conversely the closer to the pay zone,
the heavier the hydrocarbons.
b. The light/heavy ratio will decrease accordingly.
c. The evolution of this ratio is also influenced by the differential pressure
i.e. “mud weight and Pore Pressure relationship”.
5. Borehole Behaviour
a. Owing to the higher porosity, pore water content and pressure, shales
will tend to heave as soon as they are drilled through, especially as the
differential pressure, mud weight (MW) (MW - Pore Pressure) decreases.
Torque, drag and fill-up will result from this.
b. However, this problem is mainly related to recent under-compacted
sediments.
6. Shales Density and Resistivity

a. The higher water content will modify i.e. decrease the shale density,
mainly in under - compacted sediments, and also their resistivity. The
latter variation is better recorded by electric logging.
7. Rate of Penetration
a. The ROP is highly influenced, among many other influent factors, by the
differential pressure “MW - Pore Pressure”. This can be followed-up
through the trend of ROP recorded by the Drillers/Mud Loggers, and also
through computation of a parameter, which represents the efficiency of
the WOB upon the ROP.
b. Since this efficiency decreases with compaction, it is logical to conclude
that, all variations of other parameters considered e.g. bit wear, MW
change, RPM or WOB change, any variation of the normal efficiency trend
is due to variation of the differential pressure “MW - Pore Pressure”, and
consequently of the Pore Pressure if MW is unchanged.
8. Kicks
a. This is obviously the only valuable detection method as it Is a direct
method of quantifying the formation pressure gradient.
b. However it is not NORMAL OPERATING Company policy to drill into
kicks; all efforts shall be made to avoid them or to limit their amplitude,
mainly in high pressure zones.
Figures 4 to 8 illustrate examples related to drilling detection and prediction

methods.

Figure 4; Flow line temperature data

Figure 5: Gas data

Figure 6; Gas shows composition
Figure 7; Connection & background gas.

Figure 8; D exponent; plotting, interpretation and use

1.5.2 While logging
1. Warning Methods (Fig 9)
a. Both resistivity and sonic logs are good indicators of pore pressure
evolution.
b. Resistivity of the rock normally increases with compaction (less water
in the pore space), and will decrease in the presence of abnormal HP
zones (more porosity, more water).
c. The sound transit time decreases with depth and compaction (less
water: sound travels quicker through solid rock than through water), but
will increase as porosity (hence water content) increases.
2. Evaluation Method.
a. Apart from kicks, the best way to take pressure measurements is
with the RFT, MDT tools. A must for pressure evaluation.
Figure 9; Logging evaluation
Schematic responses of wire-line logs in an under-

compacted zone (modified from Fertl &Timko, 1971).

1.5.3 Leak off testing
1. This is a fundamental operation to assess the value of the
formation strength, not only at the shoe but at any level above the
pay zone.
2. The purpose is to ensure that enough safety margin is granted

between the Formation Strength and the Pore Pressure, so as to
“squeeze” in between the Mud Weight, which:
a. Shall exceed the pore pressure by at least the expected swab effect
(in other words, the mud weight hydrostatic head should still control the
pore pressure even if we swab).
b. Shall be lower than the Formation Strength decreased by the
expected ECD (in other words, avoid losses while circulating).
1.5.4 Quantitative methods

1. Quantitative methods are summarised in table 3. It can be seen
that there are many variable that will determine the most suited
method(s) to be used in a particular area.
Table 3; Quantitative prediction methods and environments
NB; A ‘help process to pore pressure prediction’ can be reviewed in Appendix 7.1

1.6 HP/HBT zone specific problems
As it is paramount to safely conduct HP/HBT zone drilling i.e. so as to prevent
significant AFE supplements to the well, it is also as important to understand and
acknowledge the main problems associated with abnormal HP/HBT pressures as
illustrated in this section.
1.6.1 Transitions zone

Under—compacted shales i.e. recent sediments present a lot of wellbore related
problems and Drilling difficulties, i.e. particularly well control (losses and gains)
and wellbore instability. Ref. figure 10. Additionally where pore pressure gradient
increase is quite rapid e.g. SOMETIMES just below the casing set above the HP/HBT
zone, kicks, loss circulation and gas cutting may be encountered, as well as
differential sticking if permeable zones are present in the drilled section.
1.6.2 High pressure zones

Furthermore, if the safety margin between fracture gradients and pore Pressure
(i.e. Kick tolerance) is reducing rapidly as pore pressure increases: Kicks and/or
Losses are going to alternate unless formation strength can be improved by
cement (or other products), squeezing, or a premature casing e.g. expandable liner
may be the safest option. However here it should also be kept in mind that the
safest way to drill, cement and test HP/HBT wells are through maximum bore
diameter. Consequently there is the possibility of a difficult challenge to contend
with as pore pressure increases, margins reduce and casing strings have to be
set, ultimately resulting in reduced wellbore diameters.
Figure 10; Under compaction

1.6.3 Solubility of HP/HBT gas into base mud
It is a fact that, in the lower part of the well, for critical pressures at given
temperatures e.g. 8,000 psi/300 deg F, the reservoir fluid (liquid gas) is fully
miscible with the hydrocarbon phase of the OBM. It may enter as a fluid!
Here, the industry as a whole is perhaps confused the operating reality, that
“solubility” is responsible for the difficulty in detecting a kick in OBM under such
conditions. In other words, kicks can occur despite negative flow checks!
However under such conditions if the well flows by itself due to formation
pressure being greater than mud hydrostatic pressure. The 5bbls entering the
well should see a 5bbl increase in surface volume, despite any shrinkage
‘theories’ viewed.
Additionally in some cases HP/HBT zones can be ‘TIGHT’ formations due to poor
permeability where the resulting influxes produced will again be small and not fall
perhaps within the range of surface detect-ability!
Although it should be stated that; * NORTH SEA and WORLDWIDE experience

has clearly disclosed that significant although relatively small kicks off 1.2 to 2m3
have been quickly recognised and safely dealt with. See Fig 11. As long as early
kick detection training, practices, and standards are administered and applied
throughout the well planning, construction and implementation processes.
In Conclusion w.r.t. to solubility;

1. Productive i.e. permeable zones will deliver kicks (in under-balanced
conditions) which are detectable.
2. Tight formations, even in under-balanced conditions, will deliver influxes

that may not be ‘initially’ detected from surface.
3. Drilled, connected and trip gas may result in reduced influxes that will
not be “seen” until they arrive at surface
To combat the above;
a. Competence in proper kick control is required in Case 1).
b. Extra vigilance and strict procedure follow-up is required for

Cases 2) and 3), especially when drilling near to or under under-
balanced conditions.

Figure 11 Kick recognition
1.6.5 Violent Gas Expansion (Fig 12)

Classic gas expansion can be poor due to the fact that:
1. The influx, because of its partial or complete miscibility into the mud,
arrives relatively undisturbed close to surface, and may unload the well
over a large volume as it expands.
2. The heavier the MW, the closer to surface that detectable expansion will
result.
Consequently, the utmost CAUTION must be taken when treating any

size of gas influx, i.e. in order to avoid unloading the riser or part of the well, or
to avoid exceeding the surface equipment capacity (Poor Boy degasser explosion,
mud vented through derrick flare boom or rig-site vent line.)

Figure 12; Volume of 1 ft3 of
methane circulated out from
the bottom while drilling
(solubility ignored)

1.7. Drilling procedures
1.7.1 Well control policy in HP/HBT sections
Once the casing string above the transition zone has been set, specific HP/HBT
operating guidelines and instructions will have to be complied with in order that
the standards for drilling any hydrocarbon or pressure bearing formations are met.
Constant awareness in the HP/HBT zone is the essential operational aspect to avoiding
drilling problems and/or associated difficulties.
1.7.2 Applicable safety policy

1. Operating Company’s and Drilling Contractor’s drilling practices and safety
management procedures should concentrate due attention to pore pressure
management on HP/HBT wells i.e. ECD, swab, surge and adverse pressure effects
outlining specific preventive maintenance steps to follow should be available
in an “understandable” form for the rig personnel’s reference. E.g. In English and
local language if required.
2. The purpose of the safety policy should be to ensure that specific problems
linked with HP/HBT wells, e.g. the use of oil based mud, specific safety policy,
drilling operational, equipment, competency and well control procedures are
attended to.
3. That all key personnel from the drilling contractor from tool pusher to assistant
driller and from all 3rd party sub-contractors concerned with the execution of
an HP/HBT well should be afforded the opportunity to attend a HP/HBT
course or workshop note; both day and night shifts.
1.7.3 Preliminary precautions

1. Kill Mud
a. A sufficient volume of an active mud pit must be permanently ready with heavy
mud whose density must be at least (0.1psi/ft) higher than the circulating mud
density. To be adjusted according to pore pressure evolution (and consequently to
the circulating MW evolution).
2. Shoe Bond Test

a. To be performed once the rat hole below the casing shoe has been cleaned out,
to check the cement sheath integrity. To be done up to a pressure valve
equivalent to the maximum required L.O.T. pressure. Drilling shall not be
allowed to proceed until this has been successfully carried out. N.B The
maximum required LOT pressure will be defined according to the maximum expected
pore pressure.

3. Leak—off Test
a. To be conducted below the casing shoe, but no deeper than (100-120 ft).
b. Considerations should be afforded to repeating “LOT” just before reaching
the pay zones.
c. There should be a minimum of 0.06 psi/ft, 1.2ppg, between the maximum
expected pore pressure and the minimum required LOT value, before allowing
drilling to proceed.
d. This is assessed as follows: The margin between Mud Weight and LOT shall be
greater than the expected ECD (estimated to be around 0.02 — 0.02 psi/ft at casing
shoe).
e. The margin between Mud Weight and pore pressure shall be greater than the
expected swab effect (estimated to be around 0.02 ESG with a 0.85psi/ft ,16.5ppg, mud
weight).
4. Bulk
a. The following quantities will be present at any time on the rig:
i. barite: 200 mt
ii. cement: 100 mt.
1.7.4 Precautions while drilling

1. Permanent follow—up of pore pressure indicators to assess the
overbalance status:
a. Hole behaviour
b. Rate of penetration
c. Gas shows (gas background, trip and connection gas)
d. Gas ratios
e. Shale density and resistivity
f. “d” exponent.
2. Proper control of gas background level.

a. Before tripping: not greater than 5%
b. While drilling: if greater than 10%, increase MW by steps to drop down to 5%; if
greater than 25%, stop drilling and Increase MW as above.
c. Systematically circulate out trip gas through wide open choke:
 To avoid unloading the riser.
 To get rid of it before resuming drilling, so as to have better
understanding of further pore pressure evolution, before allowing drilling
to proceed.
3. Active Mud management.

a. Permanent check of the rheology for better maintenance and mainly for better
evaluation of ECD, swab and surge magnitudes in particular if the safety margin
between LOT and pore pressure is reduced. The drilling ECD should be regularly
worked out with offshore/onshore computer software (compulsory).
b. The Mud Weight should be adjusted to balance the expected pore pressure, by a
safety margin which cannot be less than the calculated swab effect.
c. And it should be permanently adjusted according to the actual pore pressure
evolution (per above).

4. Flow checks.
a. Compulsory before pulling out of hole, at ID, then with bit at shoe, and when the
BHA reaches the surface (10-15 min maximum).
b. Wiper trips should be as per the supervisor’s judgement, especially if the margin
between LOT and pore pressure is reduced, so as to ensure that the mud weight
properly balances the pore pressure, and to evaluate the trip gas magnitude.
5. Kick drills.
a. To be conducted as per the OPERATING COMPANY AND DRILLING
CONTRACTOR’S Safe Operating procedures. Correct appraisal of the crew’s
competence is vital. and prompt (Surveillance of flow indicators and correct reaction
to abnormal situations).
1.7.5 Precautions while tripping

1. Mud transfer; is strictly prohibited once trips have been initiated.
2. Trip Speeds.
a. To be reduced particularly in the open hole section (IN and OUT) to avoid
imperatively swab and surge. Also be careful in the casing section.
b. Permanently use the Trip Tank to ensure that the well is constantly full of mud.
c. If swabbing is feared (balled—up BHA, and/or low safety margin between LOT
and pore pressure), pump out the string up to the last shoe, by using the special
Tripping Head.
d. Work out adequate trip speeds and their related swab and surge effects,
according to the actual mud rheology, and to the specific open hole problems (If
any). This Is applicable to the drill string and to casing running operations
(compulsory).
3. Core barrel.
a. Any time the core barrel needs to run, it should be racked in the derrick a long
time In advance, so as to reduce the downtime between the moment when the
last bit is at the surface and the moment when the core barrel is ready to run.
This will eventually reduce the amount of trip gas and the related problems in
getting rid of it.
1.7.6 Equipment considerations For Drilling

1. All HP/HBT equipment and instrumentation shall be checked, calibrated and
in good working conditions prior to entering the HP/HBT zone.
a. This means a thorough inspection prior to drilling out of the lowest
intermediate/production casing.
b. If anything unexpected occurs or if there is a failure of HP/HBT equipment or
instrumentation evaluate the situation and perform necessary precautions prior to
continuing the operation.
2. HP/HBT sensors, instruments and recorders including H2S detectors shall be

tested weekly and cross checked between locations e.g. the mud room and the
mud logging unit.

3. Mudlogger’s gas sensors shall be tested daily.
4. Ensure that designated HP/HBT equipment is HP/HBT compatible with

respect to temperature, pressure and H2S exposure e.g. elastomers and BOP
rams.
5. The following HP/HBT equipment shall be hooked up and ready for use:
a. The burner boom line with remote operated valve.
b. The glycol injection system.
c. Atmospheric mud/gas separator.
d. HP flexible circulating line to cement standpipe manifold.
6. The following HPHT instrumentation shall be hooked up and ready for use,
if installed.
Temperature sensor upstream of the choke.
Temperature sensor downstream of the choke.
Pressure sensors and audible warning Signals in the atmospheric mud/gas separator.
Gas sensor in the active fluid tank.
1.7.7 Drilling break procedure

Should a drilling break occur, typical guidelines to be followed are;
1. Do not drill more than 1-2 feet maximum the drilling break occurs.
2. Stop drilling, reduce pump(s) rate, pick up Top drive/Kelly and keep rotating
2min without WOB.
3. Then stop rotation and pumping.
4. Proceed to conduct a first flow check: 10 - 15 min or until satisfied that the
well is stable.
a. If any flow: Proceed with standard shut—in practices (see below).
b. If in doubt: Pick up tool joint as per drawing in drill-master cabin. Close bag
preventer and attempt to record SIDPP (It has been reported to be valuable in
case of heavy mud and bad pressure transmissibility).
c. If no flow: Circulate the bottom’s up to (1500 - 2000 ft) RKB checking carefully
monitoring pit levels at all time during circulating.
i. Proceed with a second 10 - l5min flow check or until satisfied that the
well is stable.
ii. Then close the bag preventer and check if any pressure.
NB; What-ever the case (pressure or not), carry through the bottom’s up through wide open
chokes.
d. When the effluent, If any, is out, attempt to record SICP and SIDPP to check
whether the effluent was due to:
b. ‘drilled” porosity

c. formation under-balancing, probably worsened by the effluent surface expansion.
1.7.8 Mud losses

1. It is fundamental to keep in mind that losses can lead to subsequent kicks,
mainly if the margin between Mud Weight and pore pressure is reduced
(weak LOT).
2. For significant losses a special formalised pill, preceded by an LCM slug or

spacer, will be mixed and pumped in front of the thief zone through the Drill
Pipe or via a circulation sub.
a. The string will then be pulled above the theif zone and a Hesitation Squeeze may
be performed (80% max of the pill) so as to seal the thief zone.
b. The maximum squeeze pressure should be at least equivalent to the required
LOT pressure.
3. After a minimum of x hours waiting on pill formulation to work (validated by

reduction or elimination of losses!), the string will be RIH, the loss zone drilled
out and a flow check performed to validate the success of the operation.
4. As a general rule, cement will not be spotted with the drilling BHA except In
the case of an emergency.
1.7.9 Well killing procedures

1. Pressure noticed following a drilling break.
a. Apply the killing procedure recommended by the Operating Company, which is
the Balanced Bottom Hole Pressure Method (so-called Wait and Weight).
2. Pressure noticed when the bottom’s up is at (1500 - 2000 ft) RKB:

a. Whatever the origin of the gas: drilled porosity or under-balanced formation and
probably tight formation, i.e. without enough productivity to induce a “surface-
detectable kick, It will be circulated out with the Drillers’ method, through wide
open chokes (careful to line freezing/hydrate formation/high vibrations ........).Then
take SICP and SIDPP again to assess the actual overbalance status. If any
pressure, kill the well as above in 1).
3. If gas expansion is so strong that the poor boy degasser gets saturated.
a. gas/mud mixture shall be diverted via gas vent line.
4. If a surface detectable kick is experienced*, and only in this case the

formation fluid will be bull-headed back into the formation, but provided there
is no risk of fracture at the shoe and to squeeze there Instead of bull-heading
the gas at TD.
a. It is therefore very important to have permanent knowledge of the maximum
pressure admissible in the annulus, according to the actual Mud Weight.

5. The bull heading solution will be decided on once it has been proven that
there is either a risk of internal blow out when the gas bubble reaches the last
casing shoe, or a risk of excessive wellhead pressure when the gas reaches
the surface to be worked out with kick control software.
6. As bull heading Induces a large amount of force and stress to the equipment, it will
only be done with the mud present in the well, and at a very slow rate. The pumping
speed must nevertheless be greater than the estimated migration speed of the gas in
the annulus. Once a volume equivalent to around 150% of the Influx has been
pumped back into the formation, take SICP and SIDPP reading and use the BBHPM
method to kill the well with the adequate MW. * Means that the formation
productivity is sufficient to produce enough gas so as to create a significant surface
volume variation.
1.7.10 Emergency procedures

Emergency situation may arise in the following circumstances:
1. Blow-out status; blow-out situation may develop as follows:

a. The well is blowing out around the wellhead e.g. burst casing, cratering.
i. OR Closure of all blow out preventer devices have mechanical problems,
and failed to contain the flow.
ii. OR The well is contained in the annulus but is blowing through drill pipes
(washed out BACK pressure valve), assuming the shear rams have failed to
control the flow.
b. Once Operating Company’s Drilling Supervisor and Drilling Contractor’s Tool-
pusher have determined no further actions for bringing the well under control are
or are justified. They will evacuate the rig and initiate emergency response plans.
c. If there is a risk of fire/explosion, all non essential people will first be evacuated.
d. Meanwhile, drilling crew will immediately initiate emergency procedures.
e. The company representative will keep the base informed of the situation.
f. Drilling crew will attempt to close in well and all non-essential personnel will be
evacuated to a safe area.
2. In an ultimate situation:
a. SAFETY OF PERSONNEL HAS PRIORITY OVER ALL OTHER
CONSIDERATIONS.
b. THE DRILLING CONTRACTOR TOOLPUSHER WITH THE OPERATING
COMPANY DRILLING SUPERVISOR HAVE THE AUTHORITY FOR SAFE
ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN.
1.7.11 De-gasser kick control - procedure

The rigs degasser may get saturated while drilling HP/HBT well if a significant
amount of gas; drilled gas, trip gas or kick gas gets trapped in the mud whether in
solution or not, and suddenly expands at the surface, possibly with condensate.
Two main problems may arise from this phenomenon:
1. Un-properly degassed mud is blown out of the pits, with the risk of gas build-up and
further explosion.

2. Highly gas-cut mud blown via the vent line with the expanding gas, leading to a possible
explosion of the degasser, as its internal pressure is controlled by the pressure losses of
any effluent escaping through the vent line.
Consequently the following safety procedure will apply during HP/HBT well pay zone drilling:
1. Check that the mud pit equipment if functioning properly.
2. Properly flush the diverting line connecting the choke manifold buffer chamber and the
burner gas vent line with water, before starting the HP/HBT drilling phases.
3. Install a pressure gauge (0.20 psi differential pressure transmitter) at the highest point of
the poor boy degasser with remote read out to the driller’s choke console.
4. Make a prior check to ensure that the poor boy degasser manual Isolation valve can be
easily and quickly closed; check also that the buffer chamber overboard manual valves
can be easily and quickly opened.
5. Pressure test the vent line (if feasible), down to the test station on the main deck, at its
nominal WP. Then connect the gas vent line piping with chicksans and properly secure
the same.
6. Ensure glycol injection pump (if fitted) is hooked up to the choke manifold.
7. Ensure that the valve between degasser, trip tank are lined up as required during the
drilling phases. If necessary a Safety Tag shall be attached relevant valves, stating that
under no circumstances should the valve be manoeuvred, unless approved by the Rig
Tool pusher and the Company Representative.
8. During kick control through the choke manifold and the degasser, the differential pressure
of the PBD transmitter should not be allowed to exceed a value corresponding to 80% of
the hydrostatic head of the liquid seal, depending on the circulating mud weight, e.g.:
9. The first reaction, in the case of degasser overload and/or critical gas content Increase is
to avoid excessive vent rates by adjusting the choke.
a. If this proves to be Inefficient, particularly in the case of large gas influx, and if
the pressure exceeds the above mentioned value, decision for bypass venting
shall be taken. The normal well control practice to be resumed as soon as a
more continuous mud flow is observed at the exhaust point.
b. Once the decision to vent is taken, the well must first be shut-in at the choke
manifold, then the poor boy degasser isolation valve shall be closed, the vent
valves opened. The tool-pusher order the valve of the upwind vent line be
immediately closed. When all valves are properly positioned, the choke will be
re—opened and the well will be vented.

10. During gas and mud venting overboard, glycol will be injected at the choke manifold, to
decrease the risk of hydrates plugging between the choke manifold and vent exit.
11. Throughout the kick control period, the gas content at the trip tank top will be controlled
with portable detectors.
a. The reason for this Is two-fold:

i. It is always difficult to satisfactorily get rid of dissolved gas in a kick
control situation. The top of the trip tank is therefore the best place to
check abnormal gas concentrations.
ii. If light liquids (condensates) are abundantly mixed in the return mud,
they could decrease the hydrostatic head of the mud seal. A gas blow
through could therefore take place, unnoticed by drillers, because of the
lower pressure required to over-discipline the seal.

2.0 HP/HBT drilling techniques and procedures
This section contains what would be considered standard operating instructions
and guidelines to review for drilling the transition and HP/HBT zones.
2.1 General
1 The minimum standards to be implemented during HP/HBT operations are
enclosed in this section. If there are any doubt or questions raised regarding
any item contained there-in. The Oil company representative, Tool-pusher or
3rd party line supervisor should be consulted accordingly.
2 HP/HBT zones are normally tight. Influxes produced are generally of a small
volume e.g. less than 5 bbl and do not therefore fall within the range of easy
surface delectability.
3 Drilled, connection and trip gas levels may also be indicative of small influxes
which will not be seen (especially in Oil Based Mud’s) until they arrive at
surface.
4 These guidelines therefore reflect a summary of best practices for wellbore

pressure indicators and warning signs to be recognised so that kicks are
reacted to within 5 -10bbls.
5 Finally, in HP/HBT wells; planning, preparation, organisation, communication

and awareness of equipment, wellbore conditions, procedures and practices
are viewed as essential aspects to be considered to deliver operational
success.

2.2 Drilling Equipment Preparation
1. The following specific instructions are issued regarding drilling equipment:

a. All pressure gauges used in the drilling and well control circulating system will be
calibrated to ensure they are accurate and consistent with one another.
b. A float valve may or may not be run in any BHA. (this again depends on company
policy and other determinants that would need to be evaluated for each wells conditions
and circumstances to be addressed.)
c. A Gray type NRV will not normally be kept on the drill floor, but will be available
for use on the rig.
d. A Hydril dart sub is to be included in every BHA. The dedicated drop-in dart will
be kept fully serviced in the Driller’s dog house and ensured that on each trip out
of the hole the dart sub is checked for damage and erosion and that the dart will
pass through every component in the string above the dart sub including the stab
in valves kept on the drill floor. The dart must be rated for the temperature and
pressures that could be encountered in the well. Note : During weekly testing of
surface equipment the dart will be installed in the dart sub and pressure tested as per the
drilling programme details.
e. Non-magnetic drill collars will only be run in the BHA if azimuth survey is required.
f. Two 15,000 psi, full opening safety valves will be kept on the drill floor with
crossovers for each type of connection in the drillstring.
g. In order to reduce ECD/Swab/Surge problems, use light BHA’s (less DC, more
HWDP); use only spiralled DC.
h. The use of a circulating sub, for emergency pumping of LCM- Full Opening
Safety Valves for manual stab in.) To be located at least (60 ft) above the bit (to
avoid both bit and sub being plugged together)! Ensure that the opening ball can
reach the sleeve of the sub without the likelihood of It getting stuck above (check
ID’S by prior pipe rabbiting).
i. One triple drill stand with Full Opening Safety Valves below each pin- end when
drilling with stand.
j. Consideration should also be given to drilling with singles in place of stands,
baryte, cement .etc. in case of plugged bit, is compulsory.
2. The choke manifold and BOP will be lined up in the following manner and
checked at the start of each shift by the Driller:
a. Failsafe valves closed.
b. To accept flow from the choke line through auto-choke (if fitted0, to the poor boy
or mud pit degasser, to the liquid seal and on to the header box.
c. Valves must be lined up for fast shut in.
d. If glycol injection is installed, pump will be permanently rigged up to allow
immediate use.
e. A blow down line will be made accessible for immediate use. The Driller will
function test remote actuated valves (if fitted) to the mud gas separator (MGS)
and MGS bypass line at the start of each shift and ensure that both directional
valves (if fitted) are lined up for the prevailing wind direction.
f. MAASP control will be disconnected at remote choke control console.
3. SCR pressures are to be taken with the mud pumps and the kill (and/or
cement/kill) pump. The kill pump SCR pressures are to be taken with ½

bbl/min as the lowest circulating rate using the drill floor remote operating
controls. Kick sheets will be updated after taking the SCR pressures. SCR
pressures will be taken at the remote choke control panel:
a. At the start of each shift.
b. After changes to the mud weight/properties.
c. After changes to the BHA.
Note : Taking of SCR's at the beginning of each shift needs to coincide with the flushing of
choke and kill lines and trip tank if mud is stored in these components.
4. Bulk lines will be fluffed up and purged daily. It must be ensure that any
surge tanks are full at the start of each shift.
5. Mud degassers are to be operated daily. If instrumentation is installed on

the dip tube, it is to be checked against mud weight daily.
a. Mud gas separator temp and press monitoring equipment to be checked and
function tested every week.
6. The bit nozzle selection will take into consideration the potential for
pumping of LCM materials, barite and cement plugs, during instances of
lost circulation. The bit nozzle selection will be discussed with the Drilling
Superintendent prior to implementation. Minimum nozzle size should allow
pumping of and lost circulation material required. This can be qualified
with mud company.
7. A 15,000 psi kill sub complete with spacer sub and chicksan swivel will be
made up, pressure tested, and available on the rig floor at all times.
8. The choke manifold and the mud gas separator temperature and pressure
data monitoring equipment is to be function tested every week. This is to
be performed in place if at all possible.
NB; For an example of an HPH/HBT equipment checklist see equipment ‘check

list’ section 7.2 in the appendices.

2.3 Drilling
1. All drilling personnel must ensure that accurate, clear, and concise
operational instructions, well control procedures and shift handovers, are
both given and received (in writing where appropriate.)
2. All changes in wellbore or drilling related parameters, circumstances

and/or wellbore conditions must be communicated to mud loggers and
ensured to be indicated and captured on drilling recording equipment.
3. Pre tour meetings will be held prior to each shift commencing. Current and
forward operational aspects will be discussed at these meetings.
4. On any indication of flow the well will be shut in according to the fast shut
in technique.
a. The Driller will be responsible for shutting in the well and he will not wait for
confirmation from the Tool-pusher or Drilling Supervisor.
5. For ‘Top Drive’ Drilling, a normal HP/HBT procedures would be to drill

theses section in singles, using a drilling ‘HP/HBT Kelly’ comprising of two
10ft -15ft pup joints separated by a full opening drill pipe safety valve.
a. This arrangement will ensure that the top drive can always be safely
disconnected during high pressure well control operations.
b. Alternatively a drilling stand (27, 93ft m stand with a full opening safety valve
below each pin-end) can be used.
c. Note: When drilling with stand always break out above the lower kelly valve prior
to connections. Observe the well with the full opening safety valve open while
rotating the string. If there is no indication of flow, break out the full opening
safety valve and make up a new stand, with a full opening safety valve in the
drilling stand.
d. If a dart sub is installed it shall be as close as possible to the bit. Keep the
corresponding drop-in dart handy at the rig floor.
e. Stop drilling when changing drilling fluid density or displacing new fluid until the
new fluid has been circulated to surface.
f. If the pressure does not bleed off to zero in the pipe when the pumps are
stopped this may indicate gelled drilling fluid. If so, adjust fluid accordingly.
g. If the drilling fluid parameters fall outside the recommended tolerances do not
continue drilling until the fluid parameters are within specified tolerances
h. Consider pulling the bit into the casing shoe and treat the drilling fluid. Stage to
TD while condition the open hole section.
i. The BHA shall be as basic as possible in order to avoid problems during
treatment for kicks or losses. Use drill float without peephole (flapper type).
j. Control ROP so that Lag Time* x ROP is less than 27 m (3 x singles). Once
drilling in continuous reservoir where further pressure seals are not anticipated,
this restriction can be lifted. However, no more than one possible gas bubble due
to loss of ECD should be in the wellbore at any one time.
k. Perform pump off tests as needed.(Dummy connection).
* Lag Time: Time for cuttings to reach surface from bottom.

6. Procedure for drilling with HP/HBT ‘Kelly’ singles.
a. Prior to running in the hole make up 15' pup, BOP v/v, 15' pup, saver sub, and
chain tong all connections tight.(This is the working string.)
b. During run in the hole make space out to tag bottom on a single.
c. Pick up working string in 5"elevators and make up to single in mouse hole and
chain tong tight.
d. Pick up working string plus single. Stab into tool joint in rotary table and make up
all connections using top drive and back up tong.
e. Tag bottom on single. Drill remainder of single plus 15'pup. This keeps BOP
valve above the rotary table.
f. To make connection, set slips on single below working string .(This effectively gives
15' between bit and TD.) Break off top drive from working string and working string
from drill string. Make up working string to single in mouse hole, chain tong
connection tight and continue with steps 2 and 3 above. properties or replace
part of or the entire drilling fluid system prior to continue drilling.
g. Apply items as per 4 d), to k) as previously stated.
7. For Rotary Drilling, a safety valve will thus be used below the HP/HBT
kelly so it can be safely disconnected during well control operations.
8. Once optimised, drilling parameters will be kept constant to allow rapid

identification of drilling breaks. The Driller will not allow the bit to ‘drill off’.
9. When drilling into or whilst in a high over-pressure formation, drilling

parameters will be controlled so that not more than one connection gas
influx is present in the hole at any one time.
10. When OBM is used, drilling breaks of 1-3ft will be flow checked for a
minimum of 15 minutes.
a. If the flow check indicates no flow,
i. drill an additional 2-3ft and if the drilling break continues, circulate
bottoms up before drilling ahead. Circulate bottoms up, shutting in the
well as bottoms up is 1500-200ft below the BOP's.
b. When WBM is in use, flow checks will be for a minimum of 5 minutes or until it is
established that the well is not flowing.
11. A competent person to be present on the Shaker and mud pit area at all
times while circulating.
12. Mud loggers to ensure strict control of all equipment, checks, calibrations
etc.
13. Mud weights in and out, and pit levels are to be monitored and recorded
by the mud watcher every 15 minutes.
a. When recording the mud weight, the temperature at which the mud has been
weighed must be stated and corrected to a specific reference temperature.

14. Active mud system must be run by mud engineers under tight control.
Additions to the active system will therefore only be made by the Mud
Engineer. All additions will be discussed with the Drilling Supervisor, Tool-
pusher, Driller and Mud Logger prior to implementation.
a. Mud transferring operations will not be conducted on the active system whilst
drilling into or in high over-pressured formations. If mud transfer is necessary,
drilling operations will be suspended until the operation has been completed and
the pit levels have been established.
15. Drilling parameters will be continuously monitored by both the mud logging
and rig sensor packages.
a. Any discrepancies between the two systems will be fully investigated. Any
deviation between physically observed parameters and monitored parameters
will also be investigated.
16. The temperature of the mud returns will be monitored at the header box at
all times.
a. Any changes to the temperature trend will be fully investigated. The implication of
the changes on the maximum continuous working temperature rating of the
elastomer goods will be discussed and corrective action taken as necessary.
b. Drilling operations will be suspended if the temperature of mud returns at surface
exceed 200° F or if the temperature measurement system fails.
17. When operations dictate that a sample requires to be circulated to surface

for investigation, the following will be used as a precautionary measure to
prevent sudden release of gas at surface.
a. The well will be shut in on annular when the sample is 500 meters below the
BOP's and directed through the choke line and over a full open choke.
b. Circulation will continue until the sample is out of the well and gas levels return to
a normal level or shut in procedures have to be initiated.
18. If drilled, connection or trip gas levels in the mud increase significantly
then the well should be shut in on the upper annular and circulation
continued through an open choke to the poor boy degasser (taking into
account the choke line losses).
a. The well will be circulated in this manner until the gas levels have normalised. If
gas levels do not return to normal levels, further action may be required and
discussions with the Drilling Superintendent should be established.
b. Whilst drilling into or in over-pressure transition zone the mud weight will be
increased in accordance with indications of overpressure.
c. If the pressure transition zone occurs in a low permeability limestone formation
the most reliable method of detecting over pressure is increasing gas levels.
d. The background gas level will be normalised by the Mud Logger for penetration
rate and circulation rate so that a reliable trend can be followed.
e. Drilling will stop and the mud weight increased if the continuous normalised
background gas levels increase above 5%.
f. Drilling will not continue until the background gas level has been reduced to the
previous level.

19. A flow check will be made while drilling after :
a. A significant drilling break of 1 - 3ft
b. If penetration rate increases steadily e.g. over a 5-15ft interval.
Note : Flow check until you are satisfied that the well is stable
Monitor flow checks at trip tank and time stabilisation period to establish a trend.
c. NO FLOW observed after drilling break, DRILL AHEAD
d. DRILLING BREAK CONTINUES (3-5ft), CIRCULATE BOTTOMS UP
20. Shut in well immediately at FIRST SIGN OF FLOW or PIT GAIN. Call
company Man and Tool-pusher. If there is no pressure build up, flow
check over choke and options will be discussed.
21. When normalised or average gas levels in return mud exceeds 5% or

when circulating bottoms up after a trip or drilling break.
22. Drillers should be expected to know.

a. How to safely close in the well.
b. Bottoms up volume, strokes.
c. BHA weights, weights above and below the Jar.
d. Heights to all rams, space outs required.
e. Maximum allowable pull on the pipe in the hole.
f. Stuck pipe and well control procedures.
g. Immediate freeing actions to initate.
2.4 Tripping procedure
Under no circumstances will the string be pulled out of the hole if the hole
is not in a stable condition i.e. losses or gains exist.
2.4.1. Prior to tripping;
1. Circulate the wellbore to;

a. Remove any entrained gas or cuttings from the wellbore mud system.
b. Determine the maximum pipe speed taking into account swab/surge pressures.
These figures will be given to the Driller prior to tripping operations.
c. Obtain a mud weight required to provide an adequate trip margin.
2. Prior to tripping in OBM systems perform a 15 minute flow check across

the trip tank to ensure that the well is stable. In WBM systems flow check
for a minimum of 5 minutes and until the well can be confirmed to be static.
3. The Driller should line up the trip tank and fill in a trip sheet.
a. A trip sheet from the previous trip out of the hole should be available.
b. A mud log of the section should be available.
c. A BHA sheet should be available.

4. The Tool-pusher will provide the Driller with written instructions containing
the necessary information about the trip, i.e. reason for trip, prevailing pore pressure
regime and tripping over balance and to ensure that the Driller and crew are fully aware of the
correct well control procedures whilst tripping.
5. The Driller is to ensure that the rig floor is fully prepared to shut in the well,
a drill pipe safety valve is nearby and fitted with the correct crossover, and
the drop in dart is ready for use. Ensure that the dart passes through the
safety valve.
6. Driller is to be provided with necessary instructions and information

regarding trip ands that all necessary Drilling personnel are aware of
correct well control procedures to be implemented during tripping.
7. Trip speed recommendations (swab/surge) to be advised by Drilling Rep/

Mud loggers.
2.4.2 While tripping
1. Start pulling out of hole to the shoe, monitoring the drop in fluid level. Do
not fit a pipe wiper until the hole-fill has been confirmed.
2. If the hole is not taking the correct volume of fluid:

a. Stop tripping.
b. Install a full opening safety valve.
c. Flow-check the well in OBM systems for a minimum of 15 minutes across the trip
tank.
d. In WBM systems flow check for a minimum of 5 minutes and until well condition
(static or flowing) is established.
e. STATIC
i. RIH to bottom monitoring hole volumes with the trip tank
ii. Circulate bottoms up, shutting in the well as bottoms up is 1500ft - 2000ft
below BOP.
f. FLOWING
i. Initiate shut in procedures
ii. See well kill decision trees.
3. Once well is deemed stable and taking correct fluid volume. Pump a
heavy slug (often not considered until bit is in the casing shoe!) to
avoid a wet trip and resultant uncertainty concerning fluid volumes
a. Calculate the slug size and return volume to give 200ft of dry pipe. Allow slug to
stabilise with the top drive/kelly disconnected and ensure that the correct volume
of fluid returns as the slug equalises. Note: Rule of thumb for non tapered drill pipe
string on return mud volume due to pumping a slug. Slug Volume x Slug Weight -1 =
Extra Mud Volume Mud Weight at surface.

4. Continue tripping out of hole to casing shoe and perform a minimum of a
15 minute flow check in OBM systems across the trip tank. In WBM
systems, perform a minimum of a 5 minute flow check or until well can be
established as being static.
5. On RIH trip to bottom after short wiper trip (IF REQUIRED) while
monitoring wellbore volumes and taking into account surge pressures.
a. Circulate the hole ensuring the first slug is circulated out.
b. Close in the well when bottoms-up is 1500ft – 2000ft below the BOP. Watch out
for a pit gain as any gas comes out of solution.
c. If necessary increase the trip margin and perform further check trip as outlined in
this Section. In special circumstances it may be required to pump out of the hole.
6. Once a safe trip margin has been established, drop survey barrel if
required. Start trip out of the hole as outlined in Paragraphs of this Section.
Perform a further 15 minute flow check prior to the BHA entering the BOP.
7. If the trip is interrupted for any reason, install the drill pipe safety valve. If
the hole fill pump fails during the trip, do not fill hole through the drill pipe.
8. Whilst the drill string is out of the hole the blind/shear rams will normally
remain open.
a. The well will be monitored by circulating across the hole with the trip tank.
b. If the blind/shear rams are closed the well will be monitored by circulating across
the BOP by pumping down the kill line and up the choke line with returns to and
suction from the trip tank if possible.
9. If a 7" drilling liner has been run, the following additional procedure will be
performed. The reduced clearance between the drill string and the 7" liner
will increase the likelihood of swabbing whilst tripping. For this reason the
check trip performed as part of a trip out of the hole should be extended
past the shoe to the top of the liner. When pulling out of a hole with a
tapered 3 1/2" - 5" drill string, additional flow check procedures per OBM
or WBM systems will be performed:
a. When the bit is at the liner overlap.
b. Prior to the 3 1/2" drill pipe entering the BOP.
2.4.3 After tripping

1. When back on bottom, prior to further drilling or coring, circulate bottoms up to
check for trip gas. Circulate the hole until bottoms up are 1500ft - 2000ft from the
BOP. Shut in and circulate out through a fully opened choke.

2.5 Coring
1. Good drilling practices will be used during coring of HP/HBT reservoirs.

The following actions will be taken during coring operations.
a. A circulating sub will be run above and as close to the core barrel as possible.
b. Ensure both the core ball and circulating sub ball will pass through all restrictions
in the drill string. Note : The circulating sub ball is to be kept in the Operators office
and not on the rig floor.
c. The inner core barrel is to be perforated or have some other pressure relieving
device to avoid pressure being trapped in the barrel.
d. In exploration drilling the length of the first core barrel to be run in a new reservoir
section will be 30ft. If no problems are experienced on the first core then core
barrel length may be increased to a maximum of 60ft with approval of the Drilling
Superintendent. Where appraisal or developmental drilling is being performed
this restriction can be lifted. The lifting of this restriction will be performed by the
Drilling Superintendent. Note : Coring operations will not be performed if
there is a high probability of encountering a pressure transition zone.
e. The hole will be circulated and the mud conditioned prior to the core ball being
dropped.
f. In addition to the standard tripping procedures, special attention will be given to
the calculation of swabbing pressures and critical tripping speeds prior to pulling
out of the hole with the core barrel.
g. Coring operations will only be undertaken when approximately 3-5ft of the
objective sand has been penetrated.
h. Coring operations will only be undertaken when after penetrating the objective
sand and before tripping out of the hole to pick up the core barrel a 10 stand
check trip has confirmed that there is sufficient overbalance.
i. After cutting the 30ft core tripping procedures as per Section 2.4 of this manual
will be followed.
j. If the core is in excess of 30ft the following special tripping procedure will be
used:
i. POOH to 1500-2000ft below the BOP's.
ii. RIH to 2500-3000ft. Shut in and circulate
iii. POOH to 750-1000ft below the BOP's.
iv. RIH to 1000-1500ft meters. Shut in and circulate
v. POOH to surface.
2.6 Casing wear monitoring

1. Two high grade ditch magnets will be placed in the return stream header
box and the quantity of metal collected checked every 24 hours by the
Well Loggers. They will store the samples and mark them accordingly until
they are told differently.
2. The amount of wear on the wellhead and flex joint wear bushings will be
measured and recorded each time the BOP’s are pressure tested.

3. If significant wear is suspected in the last casing string prior to entering the
highly over-pressured formation, consideration will be given to running a
multi-fingered calliper log and pressure testing the casing.
2.7 BOP Testing
1. The BOP’s and auxiliary pressure control equipment will be tested as per
oil companies drilling policy to the maximum expected wellhead pressure.
2. Annular’s will be tested to a maximum of 70% of the rated pressure.
3. The BOP’s and auxiliary pressure control equipment including glycol

injection line (if installed) will be tested at the following intervals:
a. At intervals not exceeding 14 days.
b. Prior to drilling out casing shoe.
c. After the installation of wellhead seal assemblies.
d. On completion of any repair work on the system.
4. If an annular BOP has been used during a stripping operation then it will
be re-tested on completion of the well control operation.
5. If the main BOP package fails in anyway and has to be repaired, then the
well will be temporarily suspended. The exact suspension programme will
be submitted to the rig, prior to implementation. The programme will be
based on:
a. Mud circulated to a density such that the well is sufficiently overbalanced with the
riser removed.
b. A cement plug will be set across the deepest casing shoe. This plug will be
tagged and pressure tested to 250 psi above the casing shoe leak off pressure.
c. A retrievable packer, fitted directly beneath the wellhead and tested.
d. Any valve that has been subjected to choking of a gas flow in the context of a
well kill operation will be inspected.
6. The 15k flexible (co-flexip) choke and kill hoses are subject to annual
inspection and pressure testing to 22.5k psi onshore. The testing must be
witnessed by a certifying authority and a certificate of conformity issued on
successful completion of the work. Routine pressure testing is conducted
as per outlined in this Section.
7. All surface pressure control equipment, including the surface gas handling
facilities are inspected annually.
a. The pipe work component of the choke and kill lines on the riser and BOP stack
should be inspected at the end of each well.
b. All equipment, except the mud gas separator is pressure tested routinely as per
company policy.

c. If possible the remote pressure sensors monitoring MGS pressure needs to be
pressure tested to maximum liquid seal hydrostatic pressure in place.
2.8 Wellbore surveying
1. The maximum allowable positional uncertainty in the hole is often limited

to +/- 30- 50ft, prior to entering a potential producing zone, as stated in the
contractors or Operators surveying guidelines.
2. This positional uncertainty of the hole is to be calculated after each survey

and projected to TD.
3. If the value approaches limits then a more accurate survey will need to be
run. This will be decided in consultation with the Drilling Superintendent
and/or drilling manager.
4. If a magnetic single shot survey (MSS) has to be taken, this will primarily
be prior to performing a trip out of the hole. The survey barrel should be
dropped after the check trip and after the hole has been circulated clean, If
a MSS survey has to be taken while drilling, the barrel should be retrieved
inside the casing shoe with complete wire-line pressure control equipment
on drill pipe.
2.9 Minimum stocks, suspension of operations
1. Operations will be suspended if kick tolerance falls below the Operators

and/or drilling contractor policy recommendations.
2. The following minimum stock levels of chemicals will be kept onboard the
site installation at all times:
a. 200 metric tonnes of Barite.
b. 100 metric tonnes of Cement.
c. 250 gal of Glycol for hydrate suppression in the choke manifold.
3. If at any time stocks fall below the levels stated above, drilling operations
will be suspended until supplies are replenished.
4. Drilling operations will be suspended if facilities for weighing up or mixing

new mud become inoperable.

2.10 Mud management
2.10.1 General
Mud management is always important in drilling operations, but in high pressure,
high temperature wells this becomes extremely important as the consequence of
a mistake can be extremely serious. The following precautions should be
observed:
1. All unexpected pit volume increases should be reacted to as if they were

coming from the well.
2. Always notify the driller and mud loggers prior to transferring mud,
starting/stopping solids control equipment, making chemical additions,
dilutions etc.
3. When drilling in HP/HBT section NEVER add anything to the active drilling
fluid system while drilling ahead. Without reliable PVT control ALWAYS
stop and circulate.
4. When drilling in HP/HBT section DO NOT use the centrifuge on the active
system.
5. When drilling in HPHT section always have a competent person at the

shale shakers when circulating bottoms up after trips, flow checks etc.
6. Once every shift ensure that PVT sensors are working properly.
7. Under no circumstances will any string be pulled out of the hole if the hole
is not in stable condition i.e. no losses or flow.
8. Prior to every trip update swab/surge pressure calculations based on

current hole geometry and fluid properties.
9. Estimate theoretical volume return due to heavy slug displacement.
10. Tripping speeds shall be carefully controlled in order to minimize

swab/surge pressure. When tripping in, the hole shall be circulated at the
casing shoe in order to:
a. break the gel
b. In addition break Circulation at least every 1000 m inside casing and every 500
m in Open hole.
c. Circulate bottoms up prior to start drilling after any trip.

2.10.2 Mud testing
Deep, hot, high pressure wells require special emphasis for drilling fluid testing in
order to prevent fluid related problems from Occurring. The guidelines listed
below should be performed in addition to the daily drilling fluid checks when the
BHT is 150 Degrees C (302°CF) or greater.
High Temperature Stability

When the BHT exceeds 150 Degrees C (302° F) special consideration will be
given to the high temperature stability of the drilling fluid.
1. Static aging tests should be performed daily on a drilling fluid sample from
the active system at current BHT + 20 Deg F in order to determine if a
problem is developing. This testing will be performed the rig and the
results will be confirmed by the mud company onshore lab. The mud
engineer is responsible for shipment of samples and for documenting and
communicating the results.
2. Whenever the drilling fluid has been left Static in the hole (e.g. after trips,
etc.), bottoms up samples should be tested for rheology and fluid loss
properties in order to detect any developing problems.
3. Prior to Drill Stem Testing (DST) operations Where drilling fluid will be left
in the annulus for an extended period of time, long term static aging tests
will be performed. The length Of time for the static aging tests will be
determined by the anticipated time for the DST.
Pilot Tests
1. Pilot tests should be run on any special treatment to the drilling fluid
system before it is carried out.
2. In this context, special treatments are any treatments other than

maintenance of the require product concentrations.
3. The pilot testing will also include static age testing of the treat drilling fluid.
Garret Gas Train

1. Garret Gas Train analysis should be performed daily, or more frequently
required when drilling below the chalk section to provide early detection
C02 or H2S whether from drilled formations or from decomposition drilling
fluid products.

HPHT Test Temperatures
1. These test temperatures are specified in the individual drilling program
based on the expected well temperatures.
2. These may be modified in case of significant changes in the casing points

and/or temperatures.
3. The temperature data recorded from the MWD tools should also be used
determine the temperature profile in the well and therefore the require
testing temperature.
Rheologies
1. The rheologies should be run at the API test temperature (120 Deg F) for
routine testing.
2. In addition, tests should be run at the average BHT and Flow line
temperatures for use in ECD, swab/surge and cementing calculations
(SLFP).
3. The need for high temperature/ high pressure rheology measurements will
be evaluated on a case by case basis.
Drilling Fluid Density Measurements

1. Pressurized “mud balances” will be used for density measurement checks.
2. This method can be inaccurate, however, at high densities above 1.9 s.g.
(15.8 ppg). Therefore, to ensure an accurate measurement of the fluid
density, the balances should be calibrated with 2.15s.g.(17.9 ppg) Zinc
Bromide brine once a week.
3. The mud engineer on the rig is responsible for calibration of the

pressurized “mud balance”.

2.11 Wire-line
1. All wire-line work inside drill pipe shall be performed using wire-line
pressure control equipment.
2. The wire-line BOP should be rated to the maximum Shut in Surface

Pressure anticipated.
3. Electric wire-line logging shall not be performed before full well

stabilization is obtained.
a. Intermediate control trips with drill string may be necessary e.g. to cool and
condition mud.
2.12 Stuck pipe.
1. While drilling into a HPHT reservoir with a small bit diameter stuck pipe is
prone to occur due to several causes (poor hole cleaning, progressive
increase of differential pressure, drilling fluid gelation, excessive drag, torque)
where all preventive measurements should be taken and employed to
avoid such problems.
2. In case of stuck pipe the curing and freeing method used shall limit a
potential kick while freeing the pipe.
a. Drillers should have been provided with immediate actions to initate for the
following situations
i. Pack off
ii. Mechanically stuck pipe
iii. Differentially stuck pipe.

3 HP/HBT Well killing procedures & guidelines
3.1 General
1. The following specific well kill procedures and guidelines have been
written as guidance for well control operations of HP/HBT wells.
2. More advanced techniques i.e. Stripping and volumetric kill procedures will
be followed later in this Manual.
3. This manual should be read with the intent of procedures and guidelines
to be adapted to suit in HP/HBT wells.
4. The following Kick prevention should be assured during normal HP/HBT

section drilling operations;
a. Monitor fluid temperature in/out and use change in differentials a pore pressure
indicator.
b. Do not rely on the d exponent alone for pressure prediction especially below
chalks.
c. Use flow checks liberally. Flow check fingerprint all connections.
i. All fIow checks should last a minimum of 15 minutes and/or until the
driller is assured the well is stable.
d. Whenever in doubt if an influx has taken place or when changes in trends, carry
out a full circulation.
e. Do not leave the pipe open in the rotary at operational stops other than normal
tripping regardless of anticipated time.
i. Place a full operating safety valve on top and make up hand-tight.
ii. Consider to rig up for circulation or pull inside the shoe for observation
depending upon actual situation.
f. Prior to drilling out from the casing shoe above the potential HP/HBT reservoir
the following shall be performed:
i. Kick drills with each crew incorporating choke practices and coordination
between pump operator and choke operator.
ii. Record kill rates and pressures with mud pumps.
iii. Record kill rates and pressure with HP cement pump.
g. The following shall be adhered to while drilling below the lowest
intermediate/production casing shoe:
i. Record rates with mud pumps at least every 12 hrs. and whenever the
drilling fluid density is changed. Recorded pressure difference between
mud pump and HP cement pump recordings can be consid ered
constant.
h. Drilling trends such as ROP, chlorides, background gas, connection gas,
temperature in/out shall be recorded and compared. Any significant change in
one or more trends shall be reported immediately and if deemed necessary stop
drilling, perform flow check and circulate bottoms up. Circulating bottoms up
should not be hesitated to check any changes in trends.
i. On any positive indication of a kick, the well will be shut in on pipe rams without
performing a flow check. If no pressure build up, the well may be flow checked
over the choke.

3.2 Well Control Philosophy
1. The well will be shut in on any sign of a flow using the fast shut in method.
2. After shutting in the well, the choice of well control technique used to kill
the well will depend upon the manner in which the kick was taken. For
deep HP/HBT wells a Well Control Technique Decision Tree should be
constructed.
3. The well control philosophy for HP/HBT wells is:

a. To attempt to minimise the volume of hydrocarbons reaching surface.
b. To limit surface pressures, temperatures and gas volumes to within the safe
handling capacities of all the individual components of the BOP system.
c. To vent or flare gas at surface in a controlled and safe manner.
4. The bull-heading technique has proved successful in dealing with discrete

kicks such as those swabbed in whilst tripping.
a. Kicks taken whilst drilling may prove difficult to bullhead because the influx will be
mixed with the drilling mud.
b. The degree of dispersion into the mud is related to the time that the well is
allowed to flow before the pumps are shutdown and the rate at which the influx
enters the well, i.e. the well’s productivity.
3.3 Shut-In Procedures

3.3.1 Flow while drilling
1. Stop drilling.
2. Pick up off bottom and switch off pumps.
3. Open upper inner and outer choke line failsafe valves and close upper
annular.
4. Check that the well is shut in.
5. Start recording well pressures. Assistant Driller is to assemble the crews
at the rig floor.
6. Notify Tool pusher and Drilling Supervisor.
7. Check string space out.
8. Close upper pipe rams.
9. Adjust annular closing pressure.
10. Hang off on upper pipe rams.
11. Close ram locks.
3.3.2 Flow while tripping

1. Set pipe in slips with tool joint at the rotary table.
2. Stab in a full operating drill pipe safety valve.
3. Close stab in full operating safety valve.

4. Open upper inner and outer choke line failsafe valves and close upper
annular.
5. Check that the well is shut in.
6. Notify Tool-pusher and Drilling Supervisor.
7. Record time and initial shut in conditions (SICP)
8. Make up kill circulating assembly. (test to equipment pressure rating).
9. If decided to use the HP circulating hose proceed as follows: - close kelly
valve over pump-in sub - make up HP circulating hose - line up cement
pump - pressure test to 690 bar - bleed off pressure and open the full
opening safety valve.
10. Check space out.
11. Determine influx volume.
12. Open the full opening safety valve. Slowly pump down the drill string to
establish SIDPP, meantime observing the SlCP.
13. Kill the well or consider stripping to bottom.
3.3.3 Flow while out of hole.

1. Open upper inner and outer choke line failsafe valves.
2. Close shear rams.
3. Monitor the pressure at the choke manifold.
Note: The lower rams will only be used in the event of loss of control and they are
therefore described as the master valve.
3.3.4 Personnel deployment in a well control incident

The deployment and responsibilities of personnel after the well has been secured
are given in the following job categories:
 DRILLER
o Monitor well pressures.
o Inform Tool-pusher and OPERATOR Drilling Supervisor.
 ASSISTANT DRILLER
o Remain on the drill floor.
o Check that the choke manifold is lined up to direct flow to the mud gas
separator, then the liquid seal and on to the header box.
 DERRICKMAN
o Line up mud pits.
o Line up degasser.
o Prepare to weight up the mud.
 FLOORMEN
o Assemble at the drill floor.

3.5 Kick Confirmation
If doubt exists as to whether or not an influx has occurred, the following
procedures should be followed:
3.5.1 Flow while drilling

1. If trapped pressure is suspected the procedure in the rig’s Well Control
Manual can be followed.
2. If SIDPP or/and SICP are present, circulate out the potential influx
maintaining a constant bottom hole pressure.
3. If there are no shut in pressures, circulate until the potential influx is 1500ft
-2000ft below the BOP stack. Close the BOP and continue circulating
through an open choke as per Section 2.3, Paragraph 11 of this manual.
3.5.2 Flow while tripping

1. If there are no shut in pressures, open up the well and flow check for 15
minutes. If no flow exists, RIH to bottom and circulate the hole until the
potential influx is 1500ft - 2000ft below the BOP stack. Close the BOP and
continue circulating through an open choke as per well specific
instructions.
2. If either SICP or SIDPP is detected then the string will have to be stripped
back to bottom and the influx circulated out of the well maintaining a
constant bottom hole pressure.
3.6 Determining the Kick Size

1. The kick size will be determined from the pit gain at surface checked and
agreed with the mud loggers. The classification of the kick will be made by
analysis of the shut in casing and drill pipe pressures and the pit gain.
3.7 Pre-Kill Meeting

1. After the well has been secured and the pressures are being monitored, a
pre-kill meeting will be held. The following personnel will attend the
meeting:
a. Drilling Supervisor.
b. Drilling Engineer (if present).
c. OIM.
d. Toolpusher.
e. Mud & Cement Engineer.
f. Mud Logging Engineer.
2. At the safety meeting clear responsibilities and paths of communication

will be confirmed.
3. The following critical parameters need to be considered prior to making

the well kill decision:
a. Anticipated surface volumes and maximum surface pressures.

b. The likelihood of hydrate formation under the anticipated surface and wellhead
conditions. The hydrate formation curve can be used as a guide to the conditions
when hydrates will form.
c. The critical slow circulating rate for the poor boy degasser pressure can be
estimated for varying slow circulating rates to ensure that the operating pressure
is not exceeded and the liquid seal is not broken. An optimum circulating rate can
therefore be selected which will minimise surface pressures and pipe erosion and
will not reduce the integrity of the mud gas separating equipment.
d. The temperature drop across the adjustable choke where preparations may have
to be made to heat the choke manifold. The predicted temperature drop across
the adjustable choke can be estimated.
e. The likely affect of the chosen SCR on the surface pressures and the volume of
free gas at surface.
4. When all the information has been collated the Drilling Superintendent will
be informed to discuss the forward plan of action.
3.8 Well Kill Procedures
Refer to "Well Kill Decision Tree" in figure 13, for typical criteria to be used for
deciding which well kill technique is to apply. Note the majority of circumstances
require the bull-heading well control procedure to be used.
3.8.1 Bull-heading
1. This procedure is to be used in conjunction with "Bull-heading Decision
Tree" as illustrated in this Well Control Manual.
a. Refer to figure 14.

Figure 13; typical well kill decision tree example (Offshore well, semi-submersible rig)
Preparation
2. The following information should be recorded prior to drilling the pressure
transition zone. The limiting pressures for bull-heading i.e. LOT result,
casing burst pressure, surface equipment rating.
3. Once it has been established that an influx has entered the wellbore and
that the influx will be bull-headed, the following information should be
known prior to commencement of operations:
a. The size of the influx and its location in the wellbore.
b. The stabilised drill pipe and annulus pressures to establish actual formation
pressure.
c. The location of weak zones in the open hole section.
d. The estimated fracture pressure of the reservoir.
4. The estimate of the fracture pressure should be used with the current mud
hydrostatic pressure to determine the surface fracture pressure.
5. With this information annulus pressure profiles should be calculated at

points of interest for varying bull-heading pressures at surface. From this a
maximum injection pressure should be established. The volume that has
to be bull-headed away will depend on both the volume of the influx, and
the way in which the influx was taken. An influx taken whilst drilling will be

strung out in the drilling fluid, and thus a volume in excess of the influx
volume will have to be bull-headed.
6. This can be calculated using the circulating rates at the time of the influx
together with the rate at which the influx was taken and the time taken to
shut in the well.
7. An influx that is swabbed in whilst tripping can be sized and the bull-
headed volume should equal the influx volume.
Procedure
1. Ensure that sufficient mud of the current weight is available for the
operation and that the line to the kill pump suction is clear.
2. Line up the BOP and choke manifold to pump with the kill pump down the
kill line through the lower kill line failsafe valves. Pressure test the surface
equipment to above the maximum injection pressure.
3. Start the bull-heading operation at a sufficiently slow rate such that the
volume versus rate relationship can be monitored. Attempt to keep the
rate constant during the operation and plot up volume versus rate as per
leak off graph. Allow for the compressibility of the mud as the pressure is
brought up to the injection pressure.
4. As bull-heading continues, the surface pressures should theoretically

decrease as lower density influx is displaced by higher density mud.
5. Surface pressures should be monitored and plotted at regular intervals to

check influx is being bull-headed away. If the pressure does not fall it may
be as a result of mud being injected into a formation above the influx.
6. The injection pressure may increase during the operation as the

permeability of the reservoir is damaged. If the injection pressure
approaches the maximum allowable surface pressure, stop the pumps
and allow the pressure to stabilise. Recommence at a slower rate keeping
within the maximum pressure limitations.
7. If it becomes impossible to bullhead without exceeding maximum pressure

limitations i.e. fracture pressure, the decision to continue bull-heading
operations in excess of this pressure will depend upon the volume of the
remaining influx and the position of the bit in the hole.
8. Once the calculated volume of influx has been bull-headed back to the
formation, bleed off trapped pressure and shut in the well to monitor
drillpipe and casing pressures.

9. If the shut-in pressures have fallen, then it is a fair assumption that the
operation has been partially successful. It should be remembered that if
the kick was taken whilst drilling, it is unlikely that the drill pipe and casing
pressures will read the same due to the dissemination of the influx in the
mud.
10. If bull-heading was seen to be successful, then it should be continued until

the drill pipe and casing pressures are similar. The subsequent well kill
operation to secure the well, will depend on how the kick was taken.
a. If the influx was taken whilst drilling, then the well can be killed using the wait and
weight method utilising the original shut in pressure information.
b. If the pipe is off-bottom, then it will be necessary to strip back to bottom using
standard stripping procedures. A circulation should then be performed,
maintaining a constant bottom hole pressure, to clear the hole of disseminated
gas.
11. If the procedure is not seen to be successful, then consideration will have
to be given to:
a. Stripping back to bottom if necessary and circulating out the influx at a rate
dependent on its size and the limitations of the surface equipment. See
procedures for circulating out an influx in typical "Kill Circulation Decision Tree".
b. Beginning operations leading to the suspension of the well.
c. An influx swabbed into the well when there is 3 1/2" drill pipe across the BOP, will
be shut in using the standard shut in procedures.
Note: The BOP will be fitted with one set of HPHBT 3 1/2" pipe rams.
This is effectively a master for 3 1/2" drill pipe. During well control
operations with 3 1/2" drill pipe across the BOP, the use of choke
outlets beneath the 3 1/2" rams should be avoided if possible. For this
reason bull-heading procedures will have to be altered.
If the shut in or required injection pressure is less than 7,000 psi the
influx is to be bull-headed, pumping against the annular, as per
standard procedure.
If these conditions are exceeded, or bull-heading pressures are

sufficient to hydraulic the string out of the hole, 5" drill pipe should be
stripped down to the BOP (annular stripping).
The string should subsequently be hung off on the upper pipe rams
and the bull-heading operation performed as per standard procedure.
On completion of bull-heading the 5" drill pipe should be stripped back

out of the well, and the bit subsequently stripped back to bottom with 3
1/2" drill pipe as per standard procedure.

Figure 14; Bull heading decision tree

Figure 15; Kill circulation decision tree.

3.8.2 Circulating out the influx with the bit on bottom
1. This procedure should be used in conjunction with a "Well Kill Circulation
Decision Tree".
a. Refer to figure 15.
2. The HSE requirements to drill HPHBT wells with a semi-submersible

stipulate the following:
a. Kill operations are to be suspended if the temperature measured upstream of the
choke manifold exceeds 220 deg F, or if the temperature monitoring system fails.
b. Surface pressure profiles during well control are to be calculated. Evacuation
procedures are to be initiated if choke pressures rise unexpectedly when
circulating out a kick.
Preparation
3. Circulating out an influx through the rigs surface pressure control
equipment is a standard well control procedure. In dealing with high
pressure gas condensate influxes, consideration must be given to the
large volumes of gas liberated at surface, and the obvious stress that this
imparts on the surface equipment. As detailed in the well control
philosophy, the bull-heading technique will be used to reduce the influx
volume whenever possible.
Procedures
4. The initial stages of the well kill circulation will be as per standard
procedures for using the wait and weight well-kill method. At all times
during the circulation, monitor both BOP and Choke Manifold temperature.
If at any time the temperature approaches 220 deg F at the choke
manifold or 250 deg F at the BOP, the pumps should be stopped and a
lower SCR selected.
5. Use should be made of temperature charts for estimating BOP

temperature based on choke manifold temperatures which will be
available for every HPHBT well drilled.
6. Special precautions and procedures are required once the top of the influx
is approximately 1500ft - 2000ft from the BOP.
a. Reduce the SCR to the critical predetermined value.
b. Commence injection of Glycol at BOP and/or Choke manifold at 0.2gall/min and
0.03gall/min respectively.
c. As gas reaches the choke, monitor differential pressure between the mud gas
separator and the liquid seal.
d. The maximum operating pressure of the mud gas separator is indicated by the
reading on the liquid seal hydrostatic pressure gauge. In the event of failure of
this sensor or if it proves in any way unreliable, the maximum operating pressure
of the poor boy degasser will be equivalent to the liquid seal being filled with
condensate having a 0.3psi/ft gradient.

e. If either the buffer tank or mud gas separator approach their maximum agreed
operating pressure:
i. Close choke.
ii. Shutdown pumps.
iii. Allow pressure to dissipate in mud gas separator.
iv. Restart circulation at a lower SCR.
3.8.3 Well kill procedures with a tapered string.

1. If a 7" drilling liner has to be run to allow the well to progress, a tapered
5"-3 1/2" drill string will be required.
a. A well kill with a tapered string is different from a conventional single string.
b. The drill pipe pressure does not decrease linearly with pump strokes,
because of the different capacities of the two drill pipe sizes.
3.8.4 Loss circulation.

Mud logging analysis as illustrated in figure 16 can be utilised to determine loss
occurrence.
Figure 16; Loss circulation analysis
The loss circulation decision tree in figure 17 further serves to provide a method
to assess; both type, cause and solution to loss circulation problems that may occur.

Figure 17; Loss Circulation decision tree

4.0 Other operational aspects.
4.1 Well control equipment.
The following section illustrates a semi-submersible rig’s requirements and
considerations for HP/HBT operations.
Similar equipment considerations should be applied to the type of rig to be used

on each HP/HBT well.
4.1.1 General
It is of the utmost importance that the correct equipment is selected when drilling
an HP/HBT well. The following is the minimum standard that applies to a HP/HBT
well (for an offshore semi-submersible rig).
4.1.2 BOP Equipment

1. The selection of BOP equipment will be in accordance with the Operators
policy or guideline documents.
2. BOP Rams will be fitted with high temperature elastomers with a

continuous working temperature rating of 250 degrees F and a peak
working rating of 350 degrees F for one hour emergency service. All BOP
components should be rated for H2S service.
3. Choke and kill lines and their elastomers will be rated to the same
pressure, temperature and H2S service as the BOP rams.
4. Flexible Hose used in choke and kill lines will be fit for the same pressure
and H2S service as the choke and kill lines. These flexible hoses will have
a continuous working temperature of 250 degrees F and a peak working
rating of 320 degrees F for one hour emergency service.
5. The choke manifold shall be fitted with a data monitoring system which
remotely measures temperature and pressure upstream and downstream
of the chokes.
6. The following choke manifold valves should be remotely operated:

a. A valve upstream of each choke.
b. Valve downstream of choke which isolates the mud gas separator.
c. Overboard line valve.
7. The choke manifold shall have the same temperature, pressure and H2S
rating as the BOP rams.

8. A hydrate suppressant injection system (glycol injection system) will be fitted
upstream of the chokes. This suppressant system shall have a minimum
pressure rating equal to the BOP rams. The hydrate suppressant system
should be hooked up and ready for immediate service. Hydrate
suppressant can also be injected at the BOP’s by pumping down the kill
line with either the cement pump or dedicated kill pump.
9. Volumes of hydrate suppressant that should be kept on the installation are

500 gallons for injecting with the cement or dedicated kill pump and 500
gallons for the glycol injection system.
4.1.3 Surface Gas Handling Equipment

1. The installation needs to be fitted with a mud gas separator to handle
large volumes of free gas which could be present when brought to surface
in a well control situation.
a. Based on industry standards the mud gas separator needs to be sized to safely
handle a flow rate of 18 mmscf per day.
b. The liquid seal downstream of the mud gas separator should be capable of
maintaining a positive seal of 5.0 psi against the mud gas separator while fluid of
0.3 psi/ft gradient is being circulated through the system.
2. The function of the mud gas separator is to remove slugs of gas from the
mud return line and direct them through the derrick vent line. It is not
designed to remove all of the gas from the mud. This function is performed
by the pit room vacuum degasser. A prediction of the maximum
instantaneous flowrate of gas which can be handled by the poor boy
degasser without blowing out the liquid seal needs to be determined.
3. This will be dependent on the maximum operating pressure of the poor

boy degasser.
a. The maximum operating pressure is dictated by the hydrostatic pressure of the
fluid in the liquid seal via a dip tube.
b. The density of the fluid in the liquid seal could vary during a well control situation
due to entrainment of gas, condensate or oil in the mud.
c. To determine the maximum allowable operating pressure of the poor boy
degasser, a pressure sensor is installed at the base of the liquid seal.
d. This pressure is displayed on the drill floor near the remote choke control panel.
e. Using industry standards, the pressure in the mud gas separator should not
exceed 80% of the liquid seal pressure.
f. Using this pressure the maximum gas flowrate that can be safely handled can be
determined using the performance graph for the mud gas separator.
g. After determining the maximum allowable gas flowrate, the maximum circulating
rate that can be used for a given choke pressure can be read in from the graph
showing values of gas production at various SCR.
h. These two graphs should be produced for each well and supplied in well drilling
programs.

4. In the event that the liquid seal pressure sensor fails or is unreliable then
the maximum operating pressure of the poor boy degasser will be 5 psi,
i.e., the hydrostatic head of a liquid seal full of condensate.
5. There will be a blow-down line fitted downstream of the choke and prior to
the mud gas separator. This line should be rated to 5000 psi and capable
of a gas flowrate of 50 mmscf per Day.
6. The blow-down line will be used:

a. If the pressure in the mud gas separator cannot be maintained below the
maximum allowable.
b. If the line from the choke manifold to the mud gas separator fails or becomes
blocked with hydrates.
4.1.4 Additional Rig Instrumentation

1. Additional Rig Instrumentation should be made available on the
installation to monitor critical well parameters. This data will be displayed
where it is visible from the remote choke operating console.
2. This additional instrumentation will consist of temperature and pressure

sensors.
3. Temperature Sensors shall be located to record the following data:

a. At BOP and upstream to any coflexip hose.
b. Upstream of the choke on both choke and kill lines.
c. Buffer tank.
d. Downstream of the choke (optional).
4. Pressure Sensors shall be located to record the following data:

a. Mud Gas Separator.
b. Liquid Seal Hydrostatic Head.
c. Buffer Tank.
4.1.5 High Pressure Kill Facility

1. A high pressure low volume kill pump rated at 15,000 psi working pressure
will be fitted. This pump should be independently driven and not rely on
power from the installation. This pump will be capable of being run either
at the unit or remotely by the drill floor. This pump and its circulating
system will be such that the well can be circulated should rig power be
lost.
2. Should the installation lose power during a well kill situation the
emergency generator will be capable of supplying sufficient power to run
a. Main Air Compressor.
b. Mud Mix Pump.
c. Agitator.
d. Fuel Oil Transfer Pump.

4.1.6 Pit Level Monitoring
1. The installation will be set up with a pit level monitoring system. For
floating operations there will be a minimum of 2 pit sensors placed in all
active pits.
2. Where the installation instrumentation is supplemented by a mud logging

contractor, a systematic cross checking of the 2 systems will be performed
and any discrepancy investigated.
4.2 Management and control of HP/HBT Operations

4.2.1 General
1. For an offshore installation. The Offshore Installation Manager (OIM) has
the ultimate responsibility with regards to the safety, health and welfare of
all persons onboard and for the good practice and security of the
installation.
2. A typical chain of command flowchart onboard an installation is detailed in

Fig 18.
3. A typical reporting relationship between onshore/offshore and Drilling

Contractor is shown diagrammatically in Fig 19.
4. The chain of command and reporting relationships described above will

apply during normal and emergency situations.
5. In the UK for example and in accordance with SI 1019, 1976 the OIM shall
appoint a number of competent persons onboard the installation. These
persons are responsible for the control and safety of operations specific to
their field of expertise. In all drilling matters, including well control, the
Drilling Contractor Tool-pushers and the Drilling Supervisor are regarded
as competent persons by the OIM. The Drilling Supervisor reports to the
OIM on all drilling matters.
4.2.2 Responsibilities of Personnel
Operators Supervision
The Operator will have at least 2 representatives on the rig at all times. They will
be the Drilling Supervisor, and at least one of a Night Drilling Supervisor, Drilling
Engineer or Geologist.
Drilling Supervisor
It is the responsibility of the Drilling Supervisor to ensure that all work on the
installations is performed within the policies and guidelines agreed between

Operator and the Drilling Contractor. It is his responsibility to ensure that the
current well program is implemented as cost effectively and efficiently as possible
without undermining the safety of the operation and installation.
With reference to this the Drilling Supervisor will be involved in the supervision of
all operations likely to affect the safe and successful completion of the well. This
will include the following:
 He will be present to observe all trips out of the hole until preferably the casing shoe, to
ensure the hole is taking the correct fill.
 He will be present during all flow checks.
 He will be present during all well control operations.
 He will be present to witness and verify all pressure testing of well control equipment.
Night Drilling Supervisor

He will perform the duties of the Drilling Supervisor during the night. His
responsibility is to report to the Drilling Supervisor and to carry out his
instructions.
Drilling Engineer
If present, he will assist the Drilling Supervisor and Night Supervisor in meeting
their obligations.
Geologist
The Geologist will supervise the Mud Logging Contractor and provide information
to the Drilling Supervisor relating to the formation geology, pore pressure and
hydrocarbon shows. He will advise the Drilling Supervisor when it is necessary to
stop drilling to take a core or circulate bottoms up when a drilling break occurs or
when penetrating the zone of high over-pressure or the prospective reservoir
interval.
Drilling contractor personnel

OIM
The OIM is the person in charge of the installation at all times. Therefore, the
OIM is responsible for the safety and welfare of the personnel onboard. He will
have the best knowledge of the rigs equipment and drilling operations.
 During well control situations the OIM has overall responsibility for the implementation of
the well control operation.
 He has the responsibility for ensuring that the Driller and the Drill Crew are correctly
deployed during the well control operation.
 He will be present on the drill floor during the start of the kill operation and either him or
the Drilling Supervisor will be present on the drill floor at all times during the operation.
Tool-pusher
He reports to the OIM and will consult him on any problems that occur while on
duty.

Driller
The Driller is responsible and under the general supervision of the Tool-pushers.
In the UK for example and accordance with SI 1759, 1980, the Driller is the
person in charge of supervising and directing all operations on the well while on
tour.
He will ensure that the well program is carried out in the safest manner.
 During a well control incident the Driller has the primary responsibility for the initial
detection of the kick and closing in the well. After securing the well he will inform the
Tool-pusher and the Drilling Supervisor.
 The Driller will supervise and direct the Drill Crew during the well control operation.
Assistant Driller
The Assistant Driller reports to the Driller and is in charge of the Roughneck
crew. During well control situations the Assistant Driller will be responsible for
organizing any equipment required for the well control operation. He will also be
responsible for the correct operation of the choke and stand pipe manifold
valves, as directed by the Driller or Tool-pusher.
Derrick man
The Derrick man reports to the Assistant Driller. During well control situations the
Derrick man will be responsible for monitoring the mud weight and ensuring that
the required mud weight is maintained throughout the well control operation.
He will monitor surface volumes and ensure that sufficient mud is available for
the well control operation. He will regularly communicate the mud volume and
weight data to the Driller/Assistant Driller.
Floor man
Work under the supervision of the Assistant Driller or Derrick man. During well
control situations they will be required to assist in operations on the drill floor, in
the pit room, in the mud pump room, in the sack room or the moon pool area as
required.
Crane Operator and Deck Crew

They work under the direction of the Barge Engineer who in turn reports to the
OIM. During well control situations their primary role will be to assist with the
movement of equipment and mixing of mud.
Contractor personnel
Mud Engineer
The Mud Engineer(s) report to the Drilling Supervisor. They will report to the

Driller when any changes to the mud system are to be performed. They have the
responsibility for monitoring the mud system and conditioning of the mud. They
will advise the Derrick man and the personnel performing the mud mixing of the
chemical additions required to maintain the required mud properties.
 During HPHBT wells there will be two Mud Engineers onboard to give continuous 24 hour
coverage of the well.
Mud Logging Engineer

The Mud Logging Engineer(s) have the responsibility of continuously monitoring
drilling parameters and assisting in the detection of over-pressured formations.
During well control situations he will primarily be responsible for continuously
monitoring the circulating system. The Mud Logging Engineer reports to the
Drilling Supervisor and reports to the Driller when any changes to the drilling
parameters are required or observed.
NB; Typical rig and well specific Check lists are illustrated in appendices in
section 7.3.
4.2.3 Reporting
Routine operational reports (offshore well)

The following reports are sent from the installation to the onshore support base
daily:
 Daily Drilling Report.
 Drilling Data/Pressure Report.
 Drilling Fluid Report.
 Geological Report.
 POB list.
 Heli-fuel Status.
 OBM/WBM Loss Report.
 Minutes of Rig Site Operations Meeting.
Accident, incident reports

Any accident, incident or industrial illness on the Operator operated/contracted
installation shall be reported to the require authorities. The responsibility for
reporting such occurrences to the statutory body lies with the Contractor. It is the
responsibility of the OPERATOR Drilling Supervisor to ensure that the Contractor
fulfils his obligation and submits reports as required.
Well control Incidents

Operator is required to must inform the Health and Safety authorities in the most
expeditious manner practicable generally not more than 72 hours after a well
control incident. The reportable incidents are as follows:
 When Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) is detected during operations or samples of well fluid
(not applicable where H2S is know to be present).
 When a BOP or diverter is operated to control a flow from a well.

 When precautions in addition to those contained in the original drilling programme have
been taken following failure to maintain minimum separation between wells drilled
directionally from an installation.
 When mechanical failure of a component of a completed well (upstream) of the flowline
leads to abnormal conditions.
 When a failure of blowout prevention systems (including risers), wellheads or casings,
leads to an interruption of operations on the well to carry out immediate repairs.
4.2.4 Communications
The installation will be equipped with a satisfactory ship to shore communication
system fitted where there exists at least one secured line for communications
with the operations base onshore.
1. The OPERATOR Drilling Supervisor will communicate with the onshore

Drilling Superintendent at least twice per day to discuss progress in the
operation and matters arising from it. The discussion will be based upon
an operations check list which will be used during the well.
2. The Drilling Supervisor will consult the Drilling Superintendent:

a. Prior to any changes being made to the mud weight.
b. Once the well is secured if a well control incident has occurred.
c. Prior to deviating from the agreed programme.
3. For contact out of hours, a Designated Duty Drilling Superintendent is

equipped with both pager and mobile telephone. In the event of an
incident occurring on the rig, the OPERATOR Drilling Superintendent will
be contacted and the incident dealt with in liaison with the Operations
Team set up in Town.
4. The Drilling Contractor Personnel will communicate in a similar manner

with their Shore based Manager at their shore base.
5. The Drilling Contractor Shore based Manager and OPERATOR Drilling

Superintendent will liaise daily. In the event of an emergency situation
they will contact each other either at their offices or by their pager and
mobile telephones.
4.2.5 Safety Meetings
Pre-spud meetings
A pre-spud meeting will be held at the OPERATOR onshore office for
OPERATOR, Drilling Contractor and Service company managerial and
supervisory staff prior to spudding the well. The purpose of the meeting is to
explain and communicate the well design and programming, including loss
control aspects of the well.

A similar pre-spud meeting will be held offshore to communicate the well
program to the supervisory and service company personnel onboard the
installation. Clear actions will be allocated to specific personnel and recorded in
the minutes of the meeting.
Mid-well meeting
Due to the long duration of HP/HBT wells a second programmed meeting will be
held at the OPERATOR offices and on the installation before drilling out the last
intermediate casing string, prior to entering the zone of high over pressure. The
main purpose of these meetings will be to re-emphasise the special procedures
that are required when drilling in high temperature and high pressure formations.
Daily meetings
A safety meeting will be held and minutes taken at the start of each day to
discuss the current and planned operations. This meeting will be attended by, but
not limited to the OIM, Tool pushers, OPERATOR Drilling Supervisor, Barge
Engineer, Mud Engineer and Mud Logging Engineer. The meeting minutes will
be sent daily to the OPERATOR Drilling Superintendent and the Drilling
Contractor Shore based Manager.
Pre-tour meetings
Meetings will be held prior to the start of each tour to coordinate the handover
between crews. The meeting will be run by the OIM or Tool-pusher and the
following personnel will attend:
 OIM.
 Tool pushers
 Driller
 Assistant Driller
 Derrickman
 Floorman
 Mud Logger
 Mud Engineer
 Other service hands as required for next tour.
Safety meetings
Safety meetings will be held for special operations and prior to testing the well.
These meetings will be designed to explain any unfamiliar operations. Everybody
who will be involved with the operation shall be present at the meeting and be
made fully aware of the procedures to be adopted and possible hazards that
might occur during the operation. These meetings will be held onshore and
offshore.

4.2.6 Loss of Control of Operations
If during drilling or well control operations the control of the well is lost, the
procedures for Blowout and Emergency Winching detailed in the installation's
Emergency Procedures Manual will be implemented.
4.3 HP/HBT Training

4.3.1 General
1. Training should be provided to all members of the drill crew in the correct
drilling practices, well control and emergency procedures to be adopted in
drilling HP/HBT wells. The training will be implemented by means of
regular drills, safety meetings and training courses.
4.3.2 Drills
2. Drills will be used on a regular basis to ensure that the drill crews are fully
familiar with the procedures and techniques that may be required whilst
drilling a HPHBT well.
3. The Company representative and Tool-pusher will ensure that the drills
are performed regularly and in accordance with the agreed written
procedures, so that a high standard of performance is maintained.
4. The following standard drills will be performed:

a. Kick While Tripping.
b. Kick While Drilling - including hanging off string (offshore rigs).
c. Diverter Drill.
d. Accumulator Drill.
e. Well Kill Drill.
5. Details of drills should be described in Operators and/or contractors

drilling manuals, programs or drilling instruction guidelines.
6. In addition to the standard drills, drills which address the special well
control techniques which may be employed on HP/HBT well will be
performed. These may include:
a. Stripping - annular and ram.
b. Bull heading.
c. Volumetric kill.
7. Again techniques should be covered in Operators or contractor’s drilling

manuals, guidelines or instructions.
8. For offshore rigs, prior to spudding, or when the rig is disconnected from
the wellhead, a drill will be performed to simulate an emergency winch off
from location. Details of such procedure to be adopted for such

emergency winching and indeed other Emergency Procedures should be
covered in a Manual which refers to the situation that could require these
procedures to be implemented.
4.3.3 Training Courses

1. All personnel, both onshore and offshore, involved in a decision making
and/or supervisory capacity will be required to attend a special HP/HBT
drilling and well control course. The following personnel (as a minimum)
should be required to attend these courses:
a. OIM
b. Tool-pushers
c. Drilling Superintendent
d. Drilling Supervisors
e. Drilling Engineers
f. Mud Engineers
g. Mud Loggers
h. Subsea Engineers (offshore rigs)
i. Rig Manager
j. Drillers
k. Assistant Drillers
l. Derrick men
m. Rig mechanics/electrician (land rigs)
2. The courses are designed to explain the special procedures and

techniques required for HP/HBT wells. They will draw on the experience
gained by Operators, those attending and from industry drilling of HP/HBT
wells during the past 15 years.

4.3.4 H2S Training
1. If the installation is not fitted then a third party service specializing in this
training will provide a full H2S detection system and breathing apparatus
prior to drilling into any formations of known or expected H2S presence.
2. The OIM will ensure that all personnel arriving on the installation receive
the necessary briefing from the H2S training personnel on the hazards of
H2S and the use of breathing apparatus and escape equipment. Safety
drills are held on a weekly basis for all personnel on the installation. The
use of BA and emergency escape equipment will be incorporated into
these drills. The Drilling Contractor, in conjunction with H2S training
personnel, will ensure that the H2S detection equipment is tested on a
daily basis.

Figure 18; Typical organisational chart (Offshore rigs)

Figure 19; Typical reporting relationship

5. HT/HBT FLUIDS
5.1 Introduction
Mud selection and maintenance are absolutely essential to the successful drilling
of an HT/HBT well. The harsh environment presented to the mud has the
potential to radically alter its behaviour relative to that on a conventional well.
The effects of any contaminants will be greatly increased as the thermal energy
pushes reaction faster and further.
5.1.1 Definitions
HT/HBT wells are generally considered to be those which encounter bottom hole
temperatures in excess of 300F (150C) and pressures which require a mud
weight of 16.0ppg (1.92 SG) or more to maintain well control.
From the drilling fluid standpoint, high temperature definitions can be considered
as those above which conventional drilling fluid additives begin to thermally
degrade at an appreciable rate. This degradation leads to loss of product
function and system maintenance becomes difficult and expensive.
The majority of mud treatment chemicals derived from natural products begin to
degrade at temperatures between 250 and 275F. However, most systems
designed for hot wells would be based on clay and contain lignosulphonates and
lignites and would exhibit temperature stability up to 350F. However,
management of these muds above 300F can be difficult and expensive.
5.1.2 Mechanisms of Thermal Degradation

Thermal degradation can be simplistically thought of as the result of putting so
much energy into a chemical substance that some portion of its structure can
break off or change form. Similar results can be affected at lower temperatures
by the presence of certain chemicals. Oxygen (from air) can promote oxidation;
water (present in the mud) can promote hydrolysis. Whatever the cause or the
particular chemical reaction involved, the end results are that at higher
temperatures formerly stable drilling mud’s become difficult to control.
Unfortunately, elevated temperatures that are usually not the only stresses
experienced by drilling fluids in high BHT wells. Often chemical contaminants
such as the acid gases hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide are also present.
Very frequently high mud weights and considerable drilling depths are part of the
overall picture. Long trip times, which leave static, solids laden mud exposed to
high levels of contaminants, put many high temperature muds in exceptionally
challenging and stressful environments.

5.2. Mud types
5.2.1 Bentonite Mud’s
High temperatures both disperse and flocculate bentonite suspensions.
Hydration of Montmorillonite (the major constituent of commercial bentonite)
increases with temperature and pressure and an increased number of clay
platelets are split from aggregated stacks. A greater number of particles are then
present in the suspension and the viscosity of the suspension increases. The
split of aggregated stacks presents fresh surfaces for the adsorption of hydroxyl
ions producing a consequential drop in pH. The combination of increased
surface area and drop in pH will tend to increase the flocculation within the
suspension. Under down-hole conditions this creates a demand for alkali and
deflocculant additions. If sufficient deflocculant is not present, or the deflocculant
itself is thermally degrading, sever flocculation or gelation can occur. This
condition is most commonly reached on a trip and problems re-establishing
circulation can be created.
Figure 20; Gelling effect on bentonite

Figure 20 shows the effects of
temperature on the gelling
characteristics of a simple bentonite
suspension (18 ppb) in fresh water.
This shows that excessive gelation
can occur as temperatures approach
120C (250F). In practice the actual
temperature that triggers thermal
flocculation depends on the fluid’s
composition. The type of bentonite,
the type and concentration of drilled
solids, the type and concentration of deflocculant and the ionic composition of the
liquid phase, all have an effect on the flocculation process. The reaction of
calcium ions with colloidal clays in a high alkalinity environment can result in the
formation of cement-like calcium alumino silicates. In these situations extremely
high gels can develop and, in the worst cases, the mud may actually solidify.
5.2.2 Polymer Mud’s

Temperature effects on polymer mud’s are mainly due to the effects of
temperature on the constituent polymers. In most cases polymer muds are low
solids fluids and all have a degree of inhibition to clay hydration. The problems of
increased clay hydration, seen in bentonite muds are rarely a problem in polymer
systems. The polymers are, however, susceptible to thermal degradation.
Cleavage of the polymer chain may be accompanied by chemical modification of
the attached groups. The two primary reactions responsible for polymer

breakdown are oxidation and hydrolysis. Both of these processes can be
controlled, to some degree, by the maintenance of a pH in the range 9.5 - 10.5
and by the use of oxygen scavengers.
5.2.3 Oil Based Mud’s

The polar interactions between charged clays and polymers that take place in a
water-based fluid do not occur in the non polar continuous phase of an oil mud.
Only relatively weak hydrogen bonding can occur. These weak forces are readily
broken by increases in temperature so thermal gelation of oil based muds is not
common.
5.3. Temperature Limits

Table 5 give approximate decomposition
temperatures, or practical thermal application
limits, for water based mud products and
systems. Correctly formulated oil based mud’s
can perform effectively on wells with bottom
hole temperatures as high as 450F (230C).
5.3.1 Extending Temperature Limits

To increase the thermal stability of mud
products and systems it is necessary to inhibit
the mechanisms that cause product failure
and/or to substitute the constituent parts of a
system that are the first to lose product function.
Minimising the reactions that cause severing of

the polymer chains can extend the life of
polymers. Primarily these reactions are
hydrolysis and oxidation. Hydrolysis can be
minimised by maintaining a pH in the range 9.5
- 10.5 and oxidation can be avoided by the use
of an oxygen scavenger. This approach alone
will extend the thermal stability of most systems
by approximately 25F. Some heavy metals
are believed to catalyse the breakdown
Table 4; Decomposition reactions and products are available that “mop
temperatures, WBM products
up” these elements.
Recent work has shown that when polymers

are used in formate brines their thermal stability is increased by as much as 50F.
This is largely due to the formate brines being powerful antioxidants.

5.4 Mud Properties
Both temperature and pressure can have significant effects on mud properties.
5.4.1 Density
It is important to recognise that mud weight can vary significantly with
temperature. This variation is represented by a decrease in density with
increasing temperature and is due to the volumetric thermal expansion of the
fluid phase. This is particularly true of oil mud’s as the oil continuous phase has
a greater coefficient of expansion than water.
5.4.2 Rheology and Gel Strength

In commonly utilised oilfield drilling fluids all rheological properties decrease with
increasing temperature. However, under down-hole conditions this effect may be
reduced by increased pressures and may be completely reversed i.e. viscosity will
increase by the increased hydration and flocculation of commercial clays and
drilled solids. The presence in the wellbore of contaminants such as calcium,
magnesium and carbon dioxide can, under high temperature conditions, because
the rheology of water based mud to increase to such an extent that it cannot be
pumped. The viscosity of oil based and synthetic fluids also increases with
applied pressure.
5.4.3 Filtrate
Both API and HT/HBT filtrate will increase with increasing temperature. This is
largely due to loss of product function, and to changes in filter cake
compressibility with changing temperatures.
Above differential pressures of 100 psi pressure increases alone have little effect
on clay based mud filtrate indicating the effects of compressible filter cakes. In
general, polymers maintain their filtration control function well beyond the
temperature at which they lose any viscosifying capabilities. This is due to the
fact that even short, broken polymer chains are capable of functioning as filtrate
control agents but not as viscosifiers.
5.4.4 Alkalinity
Temperature increases the rate and extent of most chemical reactions. The
increased yield of clays results in more sites being available for reaction with ions,
particularly hydroxyl ions. The end result of this is a reduction in alkalinity and an
increase in flocculation. In oil mud’s the increased reaction of lime with
surfactants greatly increases with temperature and reductions in mud alkalinity
are common, particularly after lengthy trips. Often the performance of the mud
will be hindered by the lack of a good excess of lime.

5.4.5 Methylene Blue Test (MBT)
When using a water based mud the MBT is one of the most meaningful tests
available to indicate the general condition of the mud. The results of this test
indicate the amount and size of active clays in the mud. In normal wells a non-
dispersed polymer mud should for example, have an MBT no greater than 20
lb/bbl. In high weight mud’s 15 should be considered the upper limit. High
temperatures can rapidly increase the yield of commercial bentonite and reactive
solids; this in turn will produce a rapid increase in values obtained from the
Methylene Blue Test. Mud’s with high MBT’s are susceptible to contaminants
that would not normally cause problems in low solids mud’s e.g. calcium
carbonates etc.
5.4.6 Flash Point

When using an oil based mud on HT/HBT wells, the flow-line temperature can
approach the flash point of the base oil particularly when drilling deep 12¼
intervals. Usually bottom-hole temperatures are too low to case a problem in
17½ hole and circulation rates in smaller wellbore diameters allow the mud time
to cool as it comes up the annulus. High return mud temperatures can have
adverse effects on elastomers, can produce undesirable volumes of fumes and
present a fire risk. Careful management of surface pits can facilitate cooling of
the mud but the overall effect is usually minimal. Some Operators advocate the
use of mud coolers (heat exchangers) and there is some evidence that, in the right
application, this approach can prove effective.
5.5 HP/HBT mud problem Symptoms and Remedial Action

5.5.1 Symptoms
Typical symptoms of problems associated with high temperatures are:
 High viscosity and gel strengths
 Increased fluid loss
 Decreased alkalinity
These problems may manifest themselves as:

 Difficulty in breaking circulation
 Difficulty running tools to bottom
 Difficulty in degassing circulated mud
 Differential sticking tendency
The first indications of thermal deterioration of the mud system will be seen in
bottoms up samples after trips. Trips tend to be lengthy on HT/HBT wells and
the mud will have been exposed to near bottom-hole temperature for long
periods. It is important that bottoms up mud is tested and the results used as an
indicator of future problems should remedial treatment not be made.

5.5.2 Remedial Action - Water Based Mud
Increased Rheology and Gels:

 Add water - due to increased surface area of clays, increased downhole
filtration and surface evaporation mud’s at high temperature rapidly become
dehydrated.
 Decrease solids content - reducing the percentage of low gravity solids in

the mud will facilitate the control of rheology and improve product performance.
 Add deflocculants - If bottoms up samples indicate that the mud is becoming

excessively viscous it may be beneficial to increase the concentration of
deflocculant/dispersant. Alternatively, substitute the existing product with one
better suited to the bottom-hole temperature. Care must be exercised when
increasing product concentration. Most chemicals will take up free water and
this can negate any beneficial affects of deflocculating.
 Adjust pH - maintenance of adequate alkalinity will decrease flocculation of

clays, ensure that deflocculants function effectively and minimise hydrolysis if
polymers. For most water based mud’s a PH in the range 9.5 - 10.5 should be
targeted.
Increased Filtrate
 Add HT filtrate reducer - if it is apparent that the filtrate cannot be controlled
economically with existing products a more thermally stable product should be
used. Often this appears an expensive option but usually proves cost effective.
5.5.3 Remedial Action - Oil Based Mud
Increased Rheology and Gels

 Add Base Oil - Increased filtrate and surface evaporation reduces the total oil
content of the mud and, if not replaced, will in effect “dehydrate” the system.
 Add Oil Wetting Agents - by ensuring that all solids are oil wet the inter
particle reactions between them are reduced. This results in reductions in
viscosity and gel strengths. Care must be taken when adding wetting agents.
They are usually concentrated products that prove very effective thinners for
clay based rheology in oil mud’s. Over treatment can reduce suspension
characteristics to levels that will promote inefficient hole-cleaning and may
allow barite sag to occur.

Increased HT/HBT Filtrate
 Often increases in HT/HBT filtrate can be readily and economically, remedied
by the addition of sufficient lime to restore a good 2-3 lb/bbl excess in the mud.
If this is not effective, increased levels of emulsifiers may be required.
Ultimately, the addition of a dry powder filtrate reducer e.g. amine lignite, Soltex,
gilsonite may be required. Prior to the addition of this type of product their
compatibility with producing formation must be established.
5.5.4 Planning
The successful application of a fluid in an HT/HBT environment is greatly
influenced by pre job planning. Prior to drilling an HT/HBT interval contingencies
must be in place to ensure that the potential fluid problems common on HT/HBT
wells, can be anticipated and corrected.
5.5.5 Mud Selection

The type of mud that will be chosen for a particular application will depend very
much on factors other than just the ultimate bottom-hole temperature.
The location of the well may have an influence on selection. E.g. If the well is to be
drilled in a particularly remote or environmentally sensitive area the use of an oil mud,
the commonly preferred option for high temperature applications, may be restricted.
The anticipated formations and contaminants are important factors in mud

selection. High dispersed water based mud’s may not, for example, be
appropriate to drill reactive shale’s or formations where CO2 or brine flows are
predicted. CO2 can have dramatic negative effects on water based mud’s that do
not contain lime. However, water based mud’s, heavily treated with lime can be
particularly difficult to stabilise at high temperatures.
Polymer based mud’s are subject to degradation by various means at high

temperature.
It can be seen that neither clay nor polymer based mud’s are ideal for high
temperature environments. However, by careful choice of materials, relative to
the anticipated environment, water based mud’s can be run, with some difficulty
on wells with BHT up to 450ºF.
It is, therefore, essential that an appropriate mud system is selected for HT/HBT
applications and that, as part of the planning process, the formulation of the
chosen system is optimised for anticipated downhole environment and
contaminants.

5.5.6 Barite Sag
If the well to be drilled is of high deviation (> 30º) part of the fluid formulation
optimisation must include testing for barite sag potential. The prevention of barite
sag represents a major challenge on high angle HP/HBT wells. The risk can be
minimised by laboratory testing and by the selection of the most appropriate
blend of viscosifying agents.
5.5.7 Solids Removal Equipment

Drilled solids are the major contaminant from all drilling fluids. The adverse
effects of high solids content are amplified in HT/HBT mud’s. This type of mud
already has a high solids content made up, largely, of weighting agent. There is
little free liquid phase available to wet the solids and inter-particle action is high.
This produces high levels of attrition that reduce particle size and rapidly
compounds the problem. Any contamination from, for example, carbon dioxide
or calcium, will be exacerbated by the presence of large quantities of fine drilled
solids. It can be seen that effective solids removal is essential to the
performance of high temperature conditions. Primary separation by shale
shakers is usually effective. The highest mud weights are usually encountered in
small wellbore diameters where low flow rates are prevalent. This allows the use
of fine shaker screens, although a loss of significant amounts of barite must be
anticipated if screens finer than 200 mesh (74u) are utilised. Hydro-cyclones are
rarely effective when dealing with very high solids mud’s as they tend to rapidly
become blocked. Centrifuges can be effective, when correctly set up.
5.5.8 Mud Engineers

It is absolutely essential that the mud engineers supplied to HT/HBT wells are
familiar with the mud system to be run. They must also be familiar with all the
engineering techniques and contingencies that are required to successfully drill
such a well. In particular they must be aware of and be familiar with:
 The necessity to keep all relevant personnel aware of all mud transfers and mixing operations.
 When using water based mud’s, the techniques required to treat the affects of all possible
contaminants and thermal gelation.
 The use of hot rolling ovens and Fann 70 rheometer
 H2S detection, analysis and treatment
 The formulation and placement procedures for barite plugs
 General lost circulation techniques and those specific to induced fractures.
5.5.9 QA/QC
It is important that a quality control programme is established for barite and,
when applicable bentonite. This is particularly important if water based mud is to
be used. Contaminants in barite, particularly carbonates, can cause huge
problems by flocculating bentonite and drilled solids. If bentonite is to be
required endeavour to use only sacked Wyoming grade material. Most bulk

bentonite has been peptised to meet specification. The chemicals added during
this process can have disastrous effects on a high solids water based mud.
5.6 Operational Considerations
When running a water based mud, bottoms up from trips must be carefully
observed by the mud engineer. As discussed above, this mud will usually be the
worst part of the circulating system. It may well be extremely viscous due to clay
hydration and loss of product function of deflocculants. If environmental
constraints allow, this mud should be dumped. If allowed into the main body of
the circulating system it will do untold damage in respect of increased MBT,
rheology and gels.
Drilling fluids in HT applications generally benefit from frequent addition of base

fluid be it water or oil. Loss of base fluid occurs as downhole filtration and as
surface evaporation resulting from high flow-line temperatures.
Notes:
1. When in HT/HBT intervals any additions to the mud system should normally be made
when circulating but not when drilling. Close monitoring of mud levels for losses or
gains is essential while drilling and the addition, even closely controlled addition, of
fluid to the active pit can cause confusion and doubt.
2. When running a dispersed water based mud it is vital that the low gravity solids
content be kept under control. There is a tendency among many mud engineers to
control increasing gel strengths which chemical thinners thus allowing solids to
increase to a point where the mud becomes unmanageable.
3. The availability of a hot rolling oven and or a Fann 70 rheometer at the rig site will
allow “look ahead” rheologies and gels to be run. The reaction of the current mud to
anticipated temperatures can be studied and pre-emptive treatments made.
4. Particularly in water based mud’s, be sure to monitor closely for hydrogen sulphide
which may come from the formation or from the breakdown of mud products. Suitable
treatment products must be on hand at the rig site to render H2S harmless to rig
personnel and equipment.
5. Suitable lost circulation products must be on hand to cure losses particularly losses to
induced fractures.

6.0 Gas Hydrates in HPHT wells
6.1 Introduction
The potential for hydrate formation when circulating out a high pressure
influx is more likely to be associated with the temperature drop downstream
of the chokes generated by pressure reduction (Joule Thomson effect) hence
potential hydrate blockage of the pipe work between the choke manifold and
the degasser; or in the choke/kill lines of the subsea riser due to the low
surrounding ambient temperature of areas particularly in areas e.g. such as the
North Sea and the possibly lengthy retention time of the influx gases in these
choke/kill lines due to a slow SCR.
6.1.1 Primary prevention, removal & mitigation

The primary removal method required after the formation of a hydrate plug is
the application of heat, however clearly this may not always be possible
therefore in certain circumstances it is essential that preventative action is
taken to avoid hydrate formation, the normal method being the addition of
glycol or methanol into the flow stream upstream of the chokes. While this is
usually fairly simple during testing operations it needs more careful
consideration to prevent hydrate formation while circulating out a kick.
6.2 Properties of Hydrates

6.2.1 Hydrate properties
Hydrates are one of a group of
substances known as clathrates (ref.
figure 21) since they consist of "host"
molecules (water) forming a lattice
structure which acts like a cage to
surround and entrap "guest" molecules
of gas. Methane, ethane, propane,
butane, hydrogen sulphide and carbon
dioxide produce hydrates with water.
Hydrocarbons larger than n-butane
cannot form hydrates with water due to
limited "host" molecule cage size.
Figure 21; Clathrates
Of note is the amount of gas which can be entrapped in a given volume of
hydrates. A cubic foot of hydrates can contain as much as 170 SCF of gas.
Thus when hydrates decompose they can produce a large volume of gas.

Figure 22; A formed hydrate
Hydrates are only a problem if they are
allowed to agglomerate into "plug" form
and thus restrict or stop flow (Ref. figure
22.) Due to the nature of the hydrate
structure, even after having formed a
solid plug, the gas molecules can pass
through the structure resulting in a
continued growth of the hydrate plug.
Turbulent flow in association with other
liquids will reduce the effective hydrate formation point below that indicated
by the curves. In multiphase flow the liquid can keep the hydrates from
attaching themselves and growing.
Thus hydrates may only be a problem when flow stops.
6.3 Hydrate Formation

Hydrates are created by the reaction of natural gas with water under certain
conditions of temperature and pressure, the water initially existing as "free"
water in the flow stream Ref. figure 23. These hydrates form particularly with
the lighter hydrocarbons C1 - C3. The presence of H2S or CO2 will
accelerate the formation of hydrates (at high temperature) as will areas of
high turbulence (when only the hydrate components are present) such as at
elbows, tees which cause mixing of the hydrate components. However liquid
hydrocarbons inhibit their formation, therefore the presence of OBM is
advantageous in this respect.
The combinations of
temperature and pressure
which allow natural gas
and water to form hydrates
have been determined and
can be predicted by the
use of charts such as that
developed by Katz and
others. It can be seen from
figure 21 that the higher
the gas pressure, the
higher the temperature at
which hydrates form. The
other major determining factor Figure 23; Hydrate formation
is the composition of the
natural gas such that the higher the specific gravity of the gas, the higher the
temperature at which hydrates will form (for the same pressure). Note when

using these charts that it is the density of the gas at atmospheric pressure and 60F
i.e. standard condition compared to that of air at the same conditions.
If the gas contains appreciable quantities of H2S (2% or more) the use of this
chart gives major errors in hydrate production. Also this method is subject to
inaccuracy at pressures above about 70 bar. (1000 psia) although
predictions are reasonable up to 138 bar. (2000 psia) providing the hydrogen
sulphide content is low.
6.3.1. Summarising
Summarising, the conditions which promote hydrated formation are as
follows:
Primary Requirements
1. The gas must be at or below its water dew point and
2. be in association with "free" water.
3. Low temperature.
4. High pressure.
Methanol
The for, against and ideal use for using Methanol are summarised below.
For: Low cost, very effective as "trouble-shooter" (ie to

clear blocked lines and equipment) because of low
melting point and viscosity, compared to glycols. Low
molecular weight, so more effective per pound.
Against: Not economically recoverable (in most cases); much

methanol i.e. 50% or more may be vaporised into the gas
stream, and can cause trouble in liquid and gas treatment
downstream; less suited to low pressure systems.
Ideal Use: In border line conditions i.e. where hydrates encountered

only sporadically, in winter, say or where capital cost must
be minimised but operating cost extras can be tolerated.
Glycols
The for, against and ideal use for using Glycol are summarised below and
presented in table 5.
For: Low vapour pressure, almost all glycol recoverable

(in gas-only systems).
Against: High cost (about 3-5 times that of methanol per lb).

Less effective as molecular weight increases. Care needed
to avoid mechanical losses and emulsification in liquid
hydrocarbons.
Ideal Use: Where hydrates likely all year round. Where downstream
gas-drying plant uses glycol, so recovery costs greatly
reduced (obviously, use same glycol for both services).
Choice of Glycol EG where hydrate inhibition only required (cheaper and

most effective), also less soluble in hydrocarbons; DEG if
moderate subsequent drying, and TEG if stringent dryness
specifications required (and if TEG is practicable for
hydrate inhibition at conditions prevalent.)
Table 5 ; Glycols and Glycerols

Secondary Considerations
1. High gas velocities.
2. Pressure pulsations.
3. Agitation such as turbulence created at bends, tees and constrictions
in pipelines.
4. The presence of nucleation centres such as entrained particulates
(especially small hydrate crystals).
These secondary considerations serve only to nucleate or initiate

crystallisation once the primary requirements are such that solid hydrate and
gas can exist in equilibrium.
6.4 Water Vapour in Gas
Water may be present in an oil reservoir in the form of "connate water",

which is held in the pores of the reservoir by capillary forces. Any produced
water may be present in the well stream fluid as droplets of free water or as
a water-in-oil emulsion, and it is frequently present in both forms. The water
may vary from nearly fresh water to extremely salty brine.
As hydrocarbons contained in oil and gas reservoirs have usually been in

intimate contact with this formation water, they are therefore normally
saturated with water under reservoir conditions of temperature and pressure.
The water vapour carrying capacity of natural gases is a function of pressure

and temperature. For example at a reservoir pressure of 2000psia and a
temperature of 150F gas will have a water content of approximately 130 lb/million
standard cu ft of gas. As the pressure of this saturated gas is reduced at
constant temperature the water required to saturate the gas increases. If the
water saturated gas is expanded in the well bore out of contact with liquid
water, the water content of the gas will remain constant while the amount of
water required to saturate the gas at the reducing pressure in the wellbore
will increase. At the wellhead therefore the gas, which was saturated with
water at reservoir conditions, will no longer be saturated at the lower
pressures prevailing, assuming gas temperature remains constant, and
hence no free water should exist in association with the gas.
In practice when natural gas is produced from reservoirs, some liquid water
flows to the wellbore with the gas. This derives either from the pores of the
rock in which the gas was contained or from water being sucked up from the
water column on which the gas normally sits. In either event, the gas is in
intimate contact with liquid water sometimes called "free water" in the

wellbore during production. As the pressure reduces from bottom hole to
wellhead, if temperature remains constant, some of this water will vapourise
to possibly maintain the gas in a water saturated state.
It is normal therefore to assume in the design of surface production facilities

that the produced gas in water saturated at wellhead conditions and that
some free water will also be present.
As water is virtually insoluble in liquid hydrocarbons its presence in natural

gas systems does not significantly affect the hydrocarbon phase equilibrium.
The phase behaviour of natural gas systems are therefore normally
presented on a water-dry basis and the water present in the vapour and
liquid phases treated separately. Water in natural gases can cause
operational problems from the bottom of the well through to the end-use
facilities. These problems are associated with the ability of water to form gas
hydrates, which can block pipes, and to promote corrosion in association
with acidic gas components which can be present in natural gases.

7.0 Appendices
7.1 Appendix 1; abnormal pressure process help charts
The following pages provide an illustrated help chart to predict, detect and
understand abnormal pore pressures.

7.2 Appendix 2; HP/HBT Well Control Equipment
7.2.1 Physical conditioning monitoring
A well control equipment checklist would be along the lines of the following.
Date prepared :
Compiled by :
Carried out :
Performed by :
Copied :
Point Number yes/no
1. Are circulation subs fitted with seals rated for high-temp?
2. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the fixed pipe rams?
3. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the variable pipe rams and in the shear rams?
4. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in fail safe packings and seals?
5. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the lining of choke and kill lines?
6. Are any of the coflexip hoses ‘Rilsan’ lined? (They should all be ‘Coflon’ lined - to be
compatible with high-temp Methane gas!).
7. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the kill and choke line stab connector lip seals?
8. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the packings and seals on the 15K valves on
the choke manifold?
9. Are high-temp elastomers fitted in the bladders on the pressure transducers on

the choke manifold? - The mud logger’s pressure gauges at the choke manifold are
rated for 22.5 K and high temperature. The rig’s pressure gauges on the choke manifold
are rated for high-temp. The pressure gauge in the mud/gas separator is to be changed
out for a high-temp sensor.
10. Are hydraulic actuators fitted on the choke manifold valves and chokes, that are
likely to be used under high pressure well kill situations?
11. Are there Glycol injection points upstream of the chokes?

12. Is there a 250 psi pressure relief valve fitted to the buffer chamber on the choke
manifold lines? (To protects the liquid seal on the mud/gas separator and vessel itself -
i.e. if plugged in vent line and dip tube.).
13. Does the pressure relief valve in point 12, vent via the overboard lines?
14. Are the overboard lines rated to at least the pressure rating of the buffer
chamber? What are the respective pressure ratings? -
15. What is the pressure setting on the device which protects the liquid seal of the dip
tube? (Should not be more than the height of the dip tube*0.3. With 0.3 psi/ft wellbore
fluid assumed throughout the dip tube).
16. Is the device in point 15 automatic or manually operated?
17. Are the following readouts available:

 Temperature upstream and downsteam of the choke?
 Pressure upstream and downstream of the choke?
 Kill manifold pressure?
 Choke manifold pressure?
 Mud/gas seperator temperature?
 Mud/gas seperator pressure? Also have standpipe pressure and
flowline temperature.
18. Where are the readouts for each of the gauges in point 17:
 Temperature upstream and down steam of the choke?
 Pressure upstream and downstream of the choke?
 Kill manifold pressure?
 Choke manifold pressure?
 Mud/gas separator temperature?
 Mud/gas separator pressure? All readouts are located in the driller’s
doghouse.
19. Are both the fluid ends of the cement/kill pump rated to 15K?
20. Are both fluid ends fitted with liners and pistons rated to 15K?
21. Are additional 15K liners and pistons available onboard, as backup?
22. Is there a 15K kill line permanently hooked up to the cement/kill pump?
23. Are there at least 2 valves separating the cement/kill pump from the kill line? (To
avoid cement contamination of the kill line).
24. Is there a dedicated 15K kill (coflexip) hose onboard? Is it rigged up to the kill
manifold permanently?

25. Are sufficient 15K Kelly cock’s for the drilling stand (3), kick single assy (2) and
for stabbing (1) available? – No on rig x. Need minimum of x.
26. When was the last time the BOP and associated well control equipment was
pressure tested and accepted by the rig’s certifying authority? - (e.g. To 22.5 K
when new). The BOP’s were certified and last tested by xxxx on xxxx for the 5 yearly
requirement.
27. What is the required frequency of the test outlined in point 26?
28. When was the last time the cement/kill pump was pressure tested and certified?
(e.g. To 22.5 K when new).
29. Was the kick single assy pressure tested when made up?
It should be pressure tested to 15000 psi when first made up and then subsequently every
21 days along with the BOP and associated well control equipment.
30. Has the automatic MAASP control system been disconnected?
31. When was the last calibration of gauges and chart recorders? - The mud loggers
gauges are check-calibrated weekly against the rig’s gauges. Cement chart recorder and
gauges were last calibrated on xxxxx.
32. How do the different gauges compare for consistency between similar readouts?
33. When was the flow-show last checked/inspected? - .
34. Is the flow-show located upstream of the trip tank outlet? - Both rig’s and
mudlogger’s flow-shows.
35. When was the last calibration of the gas sensors onboard?
Rig’s total gas? - (Monthly PMS for calibration and checked operationally weekly?)
Rig’s H2S? - (Monthly PMS for calibration and checked operationally weekly?)
Mud logger’s total gas? - Done on a weekly basis?.
Mud logger’s H2S? - Done on a weekly basis? (Including chromatograph).
36. When was the last time the Glycol injection system was function tested? - .
37. What H2S ancillary equipment will be onboard? -
38. Is the magnetic single shot equipment rated for high-temp?
39. Is the following service company equipment rated for high-temperature?
Drilling Jars - Subcontractors informed of high-temp requirement.
Accelerators Jars - Subcontractors informed of high-temp requirement.
RTTS? - Yes, checked onboard by Halliburton engineer.
MWD? - Yes, solar 175 tools specified in the drilling programme.
Wireline tools? - Yes, checked by logging engineer with town.
HDIS - subs - Yes. (Rig equipment)
Circ subs - Yes. (Rig equipment)
40. Do the drillpipe tool joints have smooth hard facing, which is flush with the bodies
of the tool joints?
41. Have the tru-weight mud balances been accurately calibrated onshore recently?
42. Is there a ‘master’ calibrated tru-weight balance onboard for re-calibrating the
balances which are used at the pits and shakers?

7.2.2 Well Control Procedure Checklist
(To be followed when in the HPHT section).
Point Number yes/no
1. Are circulation subs drifted with tools that are to pass though them? (i.e. Survey
barrel, etc).
2. Is the HDIS sub physically drifted with the circ sub opening ball?
3. Is a written procedure in place to flush the kill line after every cement job? -
Deemed to be common practice.
4. Is a high-pressure kick single assy rigged up for connecting the high-pressure kill
hose, from the kill manifold to the drillstring?
5. Is the minimum stock of Barytes onboard? (xxx MT).
6. Is the minimum stock of cement onboard? (xx MT).
7. Are there sufficient cement chemicals for setting contingency plugs? (To fill the
entire open hole section).
8. Are there suitable contingency plug back recipes onboard?
9. Are there sufficient stocks of LCM onboard?
10. Are there sufficient stocks of Glycol onboard? (xxx gallons min). -
11. Will kill mud be available onboard? -
12. Have all of the tubular and sub ID’s been accurately checked recently? - .
13. Are all tubulars’ and subs drifted to ensure that the HDIS dart will pass through?
14. Check that the HDIS dart will pass through all of the kelly cock’s?
15. In case of a power failure, does the emergency generator have the capacity to
allow the well killing operations to continue? (i.e. Start mechanism on cement/kill
pump). -
16. What is the procedure for isolating the mud/gas separator and venting wellbore
fluids? - .
17. What is the procedure for releasing/relieving pressure on the choke/kill manifold
buffers and venting wellbore fluids? - .
18. Will there be 2 mud engineers onboard for the duration of the HPHT section? -
19. Are there any trainee mud loggers onboard for the HPHT section? - Fully,
experienced loggers only.
21. Have onsite H2S/BHA refresher courses been run for all personnel? -.
22. Have all supervisory contractor staff down to AD’s attended Volumetric stripping
course and HPHT course? -

23. Will a pre-HP/HBT section meeting be held?
24. Is a procedure in place for establishing the SCR’s for the cement/kill pump via the
kick single assy and down the string? -
25. Is a procedure in place to ensure that circulation is broken every 12 hours down
the kill and choke lines? - .
26. Can the top drive be disconnected at all times with the well still closed in via an
IBOP, and without the string striking bottom, due to the heave effects? (i.e. Can
part of drilling stand be removed with well secured to ensure the string is off bottom with
heave effects?).
27. HDIS to be run above the HWDP in all BHA’s?
28. Minimise restrictions in BHA, apart from Totco, jars and HDIS - i.e. MWD, nozzle
size, etc - to ensure can pump LCM without plugging off.
29. Lag time * ROP not greater than 30 ft. (Only one ‘bottom’s up connection gas’ in the
well per connection). - can this be increased to 90 ft for top drive drilling? .
30. No tripping out of hole when losses greater than 10 bbls/hr.
31. What will be the accepted background gas level before work permits are 5%?
withdrawn and the standby vessel notified?
32. Close in valves immediately upstream of the choke? (i.e. Always the nearest valve
upstream of the choke - to provide maximum contingency valves to be able to close
further upstream of the choke, in the event that a valve washes out, etc).
33. Always equalise pressure across valves prior to opening to prevent washing of
the valve!
34. Do you know the correct shut-in method? -
35.

7.2.3 Additional comments and action points
_________________________________________________________________
Ensure correct figures for the displacement and capacity for the drillstring.
New trip sheets need to be printed up based on the correct figures.
i.e. Pipe Capacity O/E Displ C/E Displ

5” grade-S #19.5 with NC50 TJ’s 0.01722 0.008218 0.025421
5” HWDP 0.0087 0.018 0.0267
NB - All measurements in bbls/ft.
State reference temperature that the programmed mud weight based upon? On
what is the temperature actually based? (i.e. Average expected flow line temp?).
The following are just some general points raised from other rigs and HP/HBT
operations.
Further Points
1. H2S scavenger chemicals will be onboard prior to drilling into the

potentially over pressured, H2S bearing zone. (Zinc-oxide).
2. A Garret-gas-train set of testing equipment is on-site.
3. Density/temp profiles are available on the rig to determine the downhole

pressure and temperature effects on the mud weight.
4. Surface mud weight will be measured at the flow line temperature and
then corrected to a reference temperature, via charts.
5. A holder constructed to keep the dart and overshot, in the driller’s

doghouse. This will ensure that the HDIS dart is continuously submersed
in oil and also kept free from damage.
6. The mud logger’s trip tank sensor has been calibrated and now known to
be accurate.
7. The rig floor’s trip tank indicator continues to show a hole fill of 4.5bbls per
5 stands, whilst the theoretical fill for 5” grade-S 19.5 lbs/ft premium
drillpipe is 3.9bbls per 5 stands. The 4.5bbls is the accepted norm for the
rig floor’s system. (As such, any deviation from this accepted ‘norm’ can
immediately be ascertained).

8. Whilst filling or dumping the trip tank, the string will not be allowed to be
pulled or run into the hole simultaneously. (To ensure accurate volumetric
control over the well is maintained at all times).
9. Composition of drilling stand - KC/single/KC/single/KC/single/pup jt/TDS.

(Saver-sub to be run directly below the lowest KC?). The pup joint run at the
top of the drilling stand will allow connections to be made with the TJ
closer to the drill floor than normal. This will then allow easier stabbing of a
kelly cock in the event of a well control situation whilst not connected with
the TDS.
10. Composition of kick assy;

a. Option A: single/KC/side-entry-sub/KC/drillpipe pup joint
b. Option B: single/KC/side-entry-sub/KC/single/single
i. (With a lo-torque permanently attached to the side entry sub. i.e. Only
connection requiring retesting, after installing the kick single to the string,
to 15K is the connection between the lo-torque valve and the high-P
hose).
ii. Option B permits the kick assy to be permanently racked back in the
derrick and would permit easier stabbing and make up to the drillstring -
however this then requires the derrickman to go up the derrick, whenever
the kick assy is required.. (Whereas option A would merely have to be
kept in the V-door).
KC = Kelly Cock IBOP
Signatures
Company rep………………………………………
Tool-pusher………………………………………..

7.3 Appendix 3. HPHT rig procedures
7.3.1 Tour handovers
1. The oncoming tool-pusher will be briefed by the Company Drilling

Supervisor prior to going on tour.
2. The on tour tool-pusher will give the oncoming driller a breakdown of

ongoing operations.
3. The drillers will then handover as normal.
4. Prior to taking over the brake, the ongoing driller will brief his drill crew,
crane Operator and roustabout crew, assigning them their duties, and
explain special procedures in force at all time and safety precautions to
be taken in the course of their duties.
5. 3rd party personnel will hand over in a similar manner.

Tool-pusher’s HP and HBT Well control Tour Checklist
[ ] Receive and Verify all Department Tour Checklist

[ ] Driller
[ ] Mud Engineer
[ ] Assistant Driller
[ ] Derrickman
[ ] Mud Loggers
[ ] Ensure and/or fill out Kill Sheet
[ ] Verify Baryte Stock in Excess of 100 MT; Calculate/Verify:

[ ] Slug Requirements. 25 BBL of ______ PPG, w/gain ______ BBL
[ ] Pipe speed limits (surge/swab)
[ ] AMAASP _____ PSI
[ ] trip Margin _____PSI
[ ] Verify Mud Reserves are not significantly less than 400 BBLS.
[ ] Verify Active Volume at least 200 BBLs.
[ ] Verify Cement Stocks – 80T) _____ TON.
[ ] Verify minimum Cement Additives for CMT Squeeze through BIT.
[ ] Initiate a PIT/BOP drill.
[ ] Verify drop in dart position and condition.
[ ] Verify not more than one connection gas in annulus and its position.
[ ] Verify and check flow line temperature and trend.
[ ] Check when 7 day checklist required.
[ ] Check mud salinity trend (via Mud Engineer)

[ ] Check Mud salinity trend (via Mud Engineer)
Comments/Discrepancies:
Contingency Cement Plug Requirements :

Class G – 10.5 tonne
Silica Flour – 3.7 tonne
FL-32L – 98.2 Gal
CD – 31ll – 49.1 Gal
W – 10 – 6.8 tonne
FP – 9L – 2.5 Gal
Date: ____________________ Tool-pusher: _______________________

Assistant Driller’s HP and HBT Well Control Tour Checklist
[ ] Function test auto choke
[ ] Verify C & K manifold configuration valves are OPEN
[ ] Verify gauges on C & K and standpipe manifolds are in place and

operation.
[ ] Verify quantity of glycol and board. (200 gal)
[ ] Flush poor boy gas separator.
[ ] Verify HDIS Dart is on the rig floor.
[ ] Verify and function test 15K stabbing valves.
[ ] Verify drop-in dart and overshot location and condition.
[ ] Check run degasser.
Date: ____________________ Assistant Driller: _______________________

Driller’s HP HBT Well Control Tour Checklist
[ ] Check P.V.T. limit settings.
[ ] Ascertain position of last connection gas in annulus.
[ ] Verify Max. ROP. (30ft/ Lag Time)
[ ] Verify and changes in mud properties (wt/yp/pv), if so take SCR’s as soon

as practicably possible remembering if and where a connection may be in
annulus.
[ ] Update kill sheet after SCR’s.
[ ] Verify wind direction and decide upon overboard line to use.
[ ] Calculate the hydrostatic pressure in the standpipe.
[ ] Calculate the hydrostatic pressure in the standpipe.
[ ] Calculate or obtain BTM up to 2000 RKB.
[ ] Carry out a BOP drill.
[ ] Verify availability of last trip record.
Verify current calculations available for:

[ ] Slug size 25 BBL of _______PPG.
[ ] Trip margin ________PSI.
[ ] M.A.A.S.P. ________ PSI.
[ ] Pipe seed (surge/swab) ______/_______FT/MIN
[ ] Verify drop in dart position and condition.
[ ] Verify choke and kill lines circulated daily.
Date: ____________________ Driller: _______________________

Derrick man’s HP HBT Well Control Tour Checklist
[ ] Check all manual pit markers.
[ ] Fill surge tank with barite.
[ ] Blow down and check clear bulk transfer lines.
[ ] Test run degasser.
Verify with Mud Engineer:
[ ] Barytes stock in excess of 100 MT.

Barytes stock ___________M.TON
[ ] Slug requirements 25 BBL of ________PPG.
[ ] Slugged gain (theoretical of _________ BBL.
[ ] Mud reserves are not less than 400 BBL

[ ] Active volume at lest 200 BBLS.
Date: ____________________ Derrick man: _______________________

Mud Engineers HP HBT Well Control Tour Checklist
[ ] Verify barite stock in excess of 100 MT

Barytes stock ___________SX, _______M. TON
Calculate:
________Slug requirements 25 BBL of _______PPG.
________Slugged gain theoretical __________ BBL
[ ] Verify mud reserves are not significantly less than 400 BBLS.
[ ] Verify active volume at least 200 BBLS.
[ ] Verify LCM stocks capable of 15 PPB for a 50 BBL PILL.
[ ] Check mud salinity every ½ hr. Record and submit morning report.
Inform of any increase.
Date: ____________________ Mud Engineer: _______________________

Mud Loggers H.P.H.T. Well Control Tour Checklist
[ ] Checked limits on all monitored systems.
[ ] Calculated hole volumes and pump strokes: surface to bit, bit to surface,
bit to 2000 feet RKB and bit to surface while circulating on choke.
[ ] Continually monitored annular position of trip and connection gas events.

Informed Driller when event reached 2000 feet RKB.
[ ] Discussed trip displacement/fill results with Driller.
[ ] Calculated trip margin
[ ] Calculated maximum allowable shut in pressure.
[ ] Calculated maximum pipe speed (surge & swab report).
[ ] Recovered and recorded filing weight from ditch magnet. Recorded 24
hour total on morning report.
Date: ____________________ Duty Engineer: _____________________

7.3.2 HP/HBT Mud management
Mud measurement
It is critical that Mud weights are recorded accurately in HP HBT wells to prevent
kicks and losses downhole where it should be noted that even the slightest increase or
decrease in mud weight could lead to a well control situation. It is thus important to
standardise the procedures for measuring the mud weight so that all personnel
would get the same weight on the same sample.
Typical operating guidelines are;

1. Always take the sample of mud from the same place.
2. Record the Funnel Viscosity first – this also removes excess air or gas.
3. Make sure the mud balance is clean of mud and solids before filling with
fresh mud.
a. Pump up and weigh the mud as per mud companies instruction manual. After
two minutes pump up the balance again.
b. If this gives a higher reading report this figure.
4. Record temperatures.
Remember that since the mud is the primary blow out preventer for all well
control.
5.The balances should be checked by the mud engineer as least weekly with
distilled water for calibration.
6.Also check and replace O-rings as required.
7.During the HP HBT sections of the well the mud weight should be checked
every 15 minutes.
Mud transfer
During the drilling phase of any high pressure section the following guidelines are
also to be recommended when transferring whole mud.
1. Mud transfers kept to the absolute minimum during the drilling phase.
2. All transferring operations involving whole mud volumes to be kept to a
single transfer at any one time.
3. The procedure of any transfer to the active system will be as follows:
a. The Driller and Mud Logger to be informed of all proposed transfers including the
details of where the transfer is from, where the transfer is to, and the volumes
involved by the Mud engineer/Derrick man.
b. The Assistant Driller will confirm that the valves are correctly lined up.
c. The Driller and Mud Logger will switch their active systems to include the pit from
which the mud is being transferred.
d. The Drilling Supervisor and the Tool pusher will be informed of the proposed
transfer before any movement of mud takes place.
e. When the Assistant Driller and Derrick man is satisfied that everything is lined up
correctly the Driller will authorise the transfer.
f. Driller to pick up off bottom and circulate while transfer is carried out.

4. The mixing hopper will be run all the time to allow additions of barites to
the active system. If the hopper stops the Driller and Mud Loggers must
be informed.
5. No mud transfers will take place whilst tripping out of hole till the bit is in
the last casing shoe.
6. No mud treatment to take place while drilling ahead.
7.3.3 HP/HBT Guidelines while drilling
Guidelines while drilling

1. Prior to starting shift each drilling contractor checklists is to be completed
and returned to TP (Driller, Mud Engineer, Assistant Driller, Derrick man,
Mud Loggers, Cementer). Refer to appendices.
2. Keep drilling parameters constant. i.e. to enable identifying over pressures,

drilling breaks etc.
3. Maintain active volume constant e.g. between 150 and 300 bbl. If adding
water then check addition rate hourly. Make allowance for additions and
wellbore drilled. Stop drilling when adding mud to the active.
4. Flow check all drilling breaks e.g. doubling of ROP for 5 ft, 1.5m over trip
tank until well is satisfied to be stable.
a. Drilling supervisor or Geologist to advise on any requirement for circulating
bottoms up, if needed.
5. TP. Driller and AD to be fully familiar with Operators well control

procedures for drilling and tripping e.g. fast shut-in procedure and choke
manifold line-up.
6. Follow stuck pipe recommendations don’t leave string standing still

unnecessary. Discuss top drive maintenance with Drilling Supervisor.
7. Follow H2S procedures.

7.3.4 HP/HBT tripping guidelines
Tripping guidelines
1. Circulate bottoms up and then a flow check of 15 minutes before tripping.
- Check shakers clean and gas levels reducing.
Under no circumstances will any tubulars be pulled out of the wellbore if the well is not
in a stable condition i.e. no losses or flow.
2. Flow check, plotting flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint.
3. Prior to any trip, a check trip of 10 stands or to the shoe (whichever is

greater) must be performed. Pull at a reasonable pre determined speed
(mud loggers to evaluate). Check well is not swabbing i.e. through correct
trip tank volume monitoring.
4. Then RIH to bottom, circulate bottoms up, circulating over the choke for the
last 2000ft (650m) or earlier as deemed necessary i.e. this will be well
dependent.
5. Flow check, plotting flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint.
6. Pull out of the hole, taking 15 minute flow checks as follows:

- At bottom prior to pulling out
- At casing shoe
- At a point halfway between the casing shoe and B.O.P.
- With the last stand of 5” drillpipe at the BOP.
7. Slugs will be pumped, and dry pipe pulled whenever possible.

- Ensure mud levels have stablilised after slugging and before commencing trip.
- Calculation of expected gain from slug pumped is required from Mud engineer,
Derrickman and Mud loggers.
8. Hole fill-up sheets will be submitted to the drilling supervisor each tour as
applicable. Any discrepancies during tripping must be brought to their
attention immediately.
9. The Drilling Supervisor and the Tool pusher shall remain on the rig floor
until the bit is inside the casing.
10. The Driller must receive instructions regarding:

- Pulling and running speed
- Dropping of dart sub
- Dropping of survey barrel
- What to do if problem occur, i.e. losses, kicks, stuck pipe.

HP/HBT Guidelines when dropping a single shot
1. Circulate bottoms up. Check shakers clean and gas level reducing.
2. Flow check. Plot flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint.
3. Pull 10 stands or to shoe (whatever is greater) at reasonable speed.

Check for swabbing.
4. Flow check. Plot flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint.
5. RIH. Circulate bottoms up. Confirm gas levels reducing.
6. Flow check. Plot flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint This will
confirm sufficient overbalance to trip out of hole.
7. Keep BHA stationary (no rotation) for 2.5mins. Check free. Keep BHA
stationary for 5mins. Check Free. This will simulate taking a survey.
8. Set dual MSS for Tmins (2.5 mins/1000 ft). Drop MSS (with heat shield).
9. Keep BHA compensated and stationary from T-2.5mins to T+2.5mins.

a. Report depth of survey instrument on IADC
10. Pump out 10 stands or to shoe (whatever is greater).
11. Flow check. Plot flow check trend on chart and overlay fingerprint
12. Pump slug (calculate volume of returns). POOH (check mud loggers and
Driller’s trip tank levels identical). Watch for swabbing.
13. Flow check halfway between shoe and BOP’s and with the last stand of 5”
drillpipe at the BOP. Plot flow check trends on chart and overlay fingerprint
14. Recover MSS with overshot when top of BHA is at surface/bit above Bops.

HP/HBT guidelines for drilling with a working stand
A working stand is typically used during the critical section of high pressure high
temperature well drilling and consists of a stand of drillpipe with full opening
safety valves inserted at each connection.
The purpose of using this working stand is so that a valve will always be within
easy reach above the rotary while drilling the stand down thus enabling securing
of the string and installation of the kill single. The following steps should be used
while drilling with the working stand.
1. Drill down as normal using the working stand.
2. Pull the stand and set the slips at the normal rotary level.
3. Break the working stand off and rack it back in the derrick.
4. Pick up a stand of pipe and make a connection.
5. Lower the stand and set it at the normal top drive connection height.
6. Pick up the working stand and make a connection.

HP/HBT shut-in guidelines
1. Pick up so that the shut in valve on the drilling stand is 5 ft above rotary
table.
2. Stop all pumps and line up to trip tank.
3. Check for flow. (if well flowing).

a. Close annular.
b. Open lower inner choke line valve, then lower outer valve.
c. Call Drilling Supervisor and Tool pusher.
d. Record drillpipe pressure and casing pressure every minute and
record PIT gain.
e. If it becomes evident that the shut in drillpipe pressure will exceed
2500 psi, then the kill single will be picked up in the following
manner.
i. Remove any tubulars from near mouse hole.
ii. Strip through annular to enable setting slips just below SHUT
IN valve and saver sub.
iii. Close the shut in valve and bleed off the standpipe.
iv. Break the top drive out of the working stand then break the
tool joint above the shut in valve and back out the working
stand from the closed valve.
v. L/Out the rest of the drilling stand.
vi. Pickup kill single with air hoist & latch into elevators.
vii. Stab the kill single into the closed shut in valve and torque
up tool jt and connect chicksans to cement test line.
viii. Verify the cement test line lined up to CMT unit and open the
shut in valve.
ix. Pick up on the string stripping through the annular until the
shut in valve is above the rotary table.
x. Close the pipe rams.
If a decision is made that the kill single will not be required, then skip
over items and proceed directly to steps ix.

Guidelines for picking up high pressure kill assembly
If the maximum drillpipe pressure exceeds 2500 psi, or is expected to exceed
2500 psi, during a well kill operation then the kill assembly must be installed.
The assembly will consist of:
1 10 ft x 5.1/2” drillpipe pup joint (good for the short bales only)
1 10,000 psi full opening safety valve
1 Side entry sub
1 Cross over sub 5.1/2” DSTJ Box x 4 1/2” Reg Pin
The connection between the side entry sub and the cross over sub will be hand
tight. This allows the assembly to be made up to the lower top drive IBOP by
leaving the sub attached or the assembly may be made up to the drill string by
leaving the sub out. If it becomes necessary to make up the kill single to the
lower IBOP and it is required to connect the top drive back to the kill assembly,
the installation of the SPACER SUB which replaces the lower IBOP, and a
replacement SAVER SUB to replace the original SAVER SUB will have to first be
installed.
All connections will be made up to the correct torque and the kill single will be laid
out on the catwalk pipe rack with a lifting cap installed in the pup joint. The kill
assembly will be painted WHITE as will all the rig floor BOP safety equipment
and the valve left in the open position. Remember that the cross over is only
hand held.
If the lower IBOP has been closed and disconnected and the top drive is to be
reconnected, make up the SPACER SUB and the SAVER SUB to top of the kill
single. Pick up the kill single and latch in elevators, stab in top drive and spin
and torque up the connections with the top drive. This will only leave the bottom
4 1/2” connections to be torqued up with the rig tongs.
If the top drive LOWER IBOP has not been disconnected, then remove the x/O
and make up the kill single directly to the 5 DSTJ connection as required.
Remember to torque up the top connection of the crossover. Make up the cement
hose to the side entry sub;
1. Side entry sub
2. 10,000 Psi Lo Torq v/v
3. 1502 swivel
4. 2” 1502 Chicksans to CMT manifold
The cement hose and chicksan unions will have to be pressure tested using the
cement unit after they have been installed. Correctly sized slings will already be
attached to the cement hose, these should now be connected to the bales to
support the weight of the cement hose. This will enable the pipe to work and/or
compensate without the need of an air hoist.

7.4 Appendix 4; HP/HBT Well killing; thought considerations
7.4.1 Well killing essentials
1. Are pressures stabilised?
2. Are approximate gas expansion factors to be handled known?
3. When should PIT volume begin to change due to expansion if gas Kick?
a. OBM - After bubble point, which will be at or near choke. Could possibly have
liquid gas carry over downstream of choke to manage
b. WBM - If kick is in gas (vapour) state not much expansion before 75% of bottoms
up circulation. Majority of expansion will occur in last 2 of bottoms up circulation.
4. With a gas condensate kick with WBM the intrusion stays in liquid state
until bubble point is reached.
5. If intrusion is in liquid state liquid migration will not be seen on surface

gauges.
6. If free gas exist in annulus, migration rate will be:
a. Migration Rate (ft/hr) = [Pressure Increase (psi/hr) / Mud gradient (psi/ft) ]
7. What is your operating margin? (Kick tolerance).

7.4.2 Off bottom kill procedure
1. Record S1DPP, SICP, Pit Gain & Bit TVD.
2. Calculate KWM required with Bit TVD.

a. Kill Mw = OLD Mw + (SIDPP ÷ 0.052 ÷ Bit TVD] = ppg
or
b. Kill Mw = OLD Mw + [ ÷10+ Bit TVD] = S.G.
3. ICP = SCR + SIDPP (This is theoretical value guideline and is based on

homogenous mud column inside drillstring surface to pit) Use actual ICP
established when bring pumps up to speed plus safety factor. Note: If
swabbed in kick and kick is below Bit then SIDPP = SICP, providing no slug in
drill string.
4. FCP = SCR X KWM ÷ OLD Mw.
5. Is the formation strength capable of withstanding the hydrostatic head

increase in the mud column due to Kill Mw.
6. After Kill - prepare to-run in the hole possibly in stages to condition

remaining mud in hole. Note: Surge values while RIH need to be carefully
observed along with ECD figure while circulating so no loss circulation occurs.
Advantages – Off bottom kill

1. Shut in situation can be eliminated with increased hydrostatic head of Kill Mw.
2. Can RIH without stripping providing mud column hydrostatic head has added in safety
(trip margin) to cope with mud displacement while RIH.
Off bottom kill disadvantages

1. High top hole annulus hydrostatic mud pressure (Bit to Surface) may be required which
could lead to lost circulation.
2. Could result in getting differentially stuck when tripping and circulating in open hole
section
3. Gas or liquid migration is not eliminated until the final kill is performed at TD.
4. Different mud weights could be found in the annulus which could make the final kill
complicated.
5. Time required to RIH (possibly in stages) for circulating and conditioning mud to maintain
well control and overbalance.

7.4.3 Other well control considerations for decision making
1. Reaction times to manipulate and work choke valves.
2. Mud system compressibility and response.
3. Surge pressure when RIH especially when stripping in.
4. ECD values when circulating.
5. The possibility of free gas acting as a liquid in deep wells with BHP greater
than 8,000 psi (550 bar) and approximate temperatures of 300 degrees F
or 150 degrees C.
6. Liquid gas migration will not be detected by the surface gauges until
bubble point is reached. Migration not totally eliminated until final Kill at TD.
7. If RIH an increase in height of influx when entering influx with drill string. If
RIH with open annulus then this may reduce mud column hydrostatic
enough to allow well to flow. If RIH while stripping there will be an increase
in SICP When drill string enters influx.
8. After stripping to bottom and preparing for final kill, ensure homogenous
mud column exist surface to bit inside drillstring. If mud inside drillstring is
changing, adjustments to surface pressure will have to be made when
following drillpipe schedule during kill.

7.5 Appendix; Stuck pipe preparedness
7.5.1 HP/HBT stuck pipe risks
The biggest risks in the HP/HBT section are viewed as;

 PACKOFF DUE TO GEOPRESSURED FORMATIONS
 MECHANICAL PACKOFF DUE TO LOW CLEARANCES IN CASING
 HIGH MUD WEIGHTS -> DIFFERENTIAL STICKING
To avoid and mitigate against these the following aspects are recommended for
consideration and immediate drillers reaction:
a) TIGHT CONTROL ON MUD PROPERTIES
b) GOOD COMMUNICATION FROM SHAKER HAND ON TYPE OF CUTTINGS
c) KEEP PIPE MOVING AS MUCH OF THE TIME AS POSSIBLE
d) MAINTAIN CIRCULATION RATE OF 450 GPM.
7.5.2 Pack-off
a) SHUT DOWN PUMPS IMMEDIATELY
b) APPLY RIGHT HAND TORQUE
c) APPLY LOW PRESSURE (200 - 400 PSI)
d) WORK STRING UP AND DOWN
7.5.3 Differentially stuck

a) APPLY TORQUE & SLUMP PIPE
b) IF ABOVE FAILS, JAR ON STRING RIGHT AWAY.
7.5.4 Other considerations

1. MAX. ALLOWABLE PULL ON STRING:
a. 5” DP = 505,000 + BLOCK WEIGHT.
2. MAX. OVERPULL ON JARS:

a. 175,000 lbs. MAX RATED O/PULL BEFORE FIRING JAR.
3. MAX. ALLOWABLE OVERPULL ON TRIPS BEFORE CHECKING PIPE

IS FREE : 40,000 LBS.
4. MAX OVERPULL BEFORE CALLING TP + CO. MAN :

a. ON TRIPS: 50,000 lbs.
b. ON CONNS: 50,000 lbs

7.6 Appendix; Mud Gas definitions
7.6.1 General definitions
For definition HP/HBT purposes the level of gas in the mud is due to one or a
combination the following:
Background Gas
Background gas is the general level of gas carried by the mud purely as a
function of circulating in open hole.
Drilled Gas
Drilled gas is gas that enters the mud due to the actual drilling of the formation.
i.e. the gas contained in the matrix of the rocks which have been drilled.
Connection Gas
The connection gas is gas that enters the mud when a connection is made due to
reduction in hydrostatic due to loss of ECD and due to swabbing while pulling
back.
Swabbed Gas
Swabbed gas is gas that enters the well due to swabbing. This may be caused by
tripping or by simulating tripping.
Trip Gas
Trips gas is gas that enters the mud during a trip which is measured after a trip
has taken place.
Pump Off Gas

Pump off gas is gas that enters the mud due to turning off the mud pumps and
removing ECD from the hydrostatic pressure on the bottom of the well.
Notes;
- It is imperative for pore pressure estimation that the gas levels in a drilling mud
are correctly interpreted and the above definitions adhered to.
- Pore pressure can only be definitively assessed on the basis of observations of trip
gas , connection gas swab gas and pump off gas. If any of these are observed then
pore pressure levels are close to mud hydrostatic.
- Increasing background gas levels can indicate increasing pore pressure if

correctly determined and analysed - it is important that drilled gas level content
of background gas is understood.

7.6.2 Gas Levels
Gas enters the mud systems as the formation is drilled by the bit. If a differential
pressure is created on bottom by a combination of low density mud and higher
formation pressure, small amounts of gas will enter the wellbore and increase the
amount of background gas in the mud. Background gas normally increases
gradually in a transition zone.
Pixler (1945) recommended the use of gas measurements for the detection of
over pressure and for warnings of impending blowouts and Goldsmith (1972)
states that most impermeable shales contain some gas, while abnormally
pressured shales often contain large quantities of gas.
Ferti (1973) explains this by saying the comparatively free gas diffusion is
possible through clay as a function of the median pore size of clays or silty clays
and the varying diameter of gas molecules.
Since over pressured shales have high porosity diffusion will be enhanced,
resulting in shale gas to be found over long impermeable shale sections. The low
salinity and high pressures increase the amount of solution gas in formation
waters.
As these shales are circulated up the hole, gas pressure explodes the shale
particles, releasing gas into the mud. This shale gas is the source of most gas
cutting as gas may enter the mud from only two basic sources:
1. Gas flow due to under balance.
2. Gas evolving from drilled cuttings.
Increasing mud weight will only decrease this effect indirectly by sometimes
reducing the amount of shale sloughing.
Goldsmith states that gas flow into the wellbore with low formation permeability’s
can also occur. In such a situation, the degree of gas cutting can roughly be
correlated with the amount of under balance.
7.6.3 Connection Gas

This is gas produced when circulation is topped for short periods of time to make
a connection. when the pumps are shut off, the total fluid pressure will decrease
from dynamic to static mud column pressure. This decrease in pressure, coupled
with a further slight loss due to swabbing when the bit is raised off the bottom,
may allow some of the hydrocarbons to seep into the mud, thereby increasing the
amount of hydrocarbons in the mud at the point of the seepage. Connection gas
peaks are generally short and sharp, although this depends on the bottoms up
time, i.e. the longer the B.U. time, the wider the peak will be.

Correlation of gas levels with changes in mud weight can give an accurate
indication of formation pressure e.g. if a small mud. weight increase suddenly
decreases high background gas levels with associated connection gas peaks,
then it is reasonable to assume that the formation pressure is only below that of
the new equivalent circulating density (ECD)
It is noted that there is a reduction in bottom hoi pressure at each connection due
to the swabbing effect of the pipe. When the pore pressure exceeds dynamic
mud column pressure, connection gas will appear as peaks of produced gas the
connection gas increasing as the pressure differential increases When the pore
pressure finally exceeds dynamic mud column pressure, total background
readings will also begin to increase as the formation is now under balanced and
is producing.
7.6.4 Trip Gas

This is produced by the same mechanism as connection gas although in this
case, the swabbing effect caused by pipe movement is generally more sustained,
as stands of pipe are pulled from the well. The width of a trip gas peak can give
an indication of conditions at the bottom of the hole. An early peak may indicate
that swabbing has taken place some way up the hole, usually due to insufficient
formation of mud cake.
This poor build up of cake can indicate that the pressure differential between
wellbore and formation has not allowed filtration and hence cake build up take
place. Therefore, the early onset of trip gas indirectly relate to the state of
balance in much of the open hole.
7.6.5 Other factors

Other Factors that may affect gas readings were:
Pay Zones
High gas readings in potential pay zones may diffuse into shales immediately
above.
Kelly Air
While making a connection air may be caught in the kelly. When this air reaches
the bit and especially if the drill collars are large with respect to the hole size,
there may be a slight loss of hydrostatic head and more gas may be evolved from
the formation. The gas will tend to diffuse from the mud or formation into the air
bubbles by density segregation, thereby concentrating gas levels within that
interval - this probably has a greater affect than most hydrostatic pressure.

Downtime
While tripping there will be an inflow of gas due to the same mechanism as
above, plus a continuous inflow from the permeable formations.
Hydrogen Sulphide and Carbon Dioxide Gases

These gases have a thermodynamic behaviour different from that of CH4. They
are both soluble in mud (especially oil muds). Expansion of H2S and C02 only
takes place at low pressures high in the borehole hence, there is ver little warning
of kicks resulting from these gases.
Degradation of Mud Additives

Gases such as H2S and C02 may originate from mud additives that degrade due
to high temperature. Lignosulphonates and other organic additives can degrade
at temperatures above 400 degrees F.
Lignite Zones
These are often associated with high gas readings.
Diagenisis of Volcanic Ash

Over geological time Diagenisis of volcamc ash results in three components
namely clay minerals, CH4 and C02. Drilling associated shales causes gas
cutting without directly reflecting formation pressure variations.
Shale Diapers
These can expel large amounts of solids, fluids and gases causing frequent gas
cutting but not necessarily over pressure.
Faults
These often channel gas causing localised gas flow into wells and thus the mud
may become gas cut.
Additives to Mud
The addition of diesel or crude oil and carbide for lag time determination could
cause gas levels to be affected.
Thermodynamic Processes
Clays exhibiting activity are present in both formation and drilling fluid. Field tests
show that hydrocarbon gases also originate as a result of the grinding action of
the bit and the subsequent temperature increase in the presence of a catalyst
(clay mineral) and organic matter in the rock. (Fertl 1976).

7.6.6 Other Factors Affecting Gas Readings
If pressure reduction from minor gas cutting is not significant, there are other
aspects which quite dangerous. Recycling of the cut mud through the pumps
decreases their efficiency. Enough gas will render the pumps to be ineffective.
The recycled gas plus the greater relative influx from a lower pumping rate may
cause a blow-out. Also, it should be remembered that gas cutting can be caused
by cavings. Many shales contain enough gas to cause continued gas cutting long
after they have been drilled. When these shales wash out, as they often do, the
mud will be gas cut. This often results in false concern.
7.6.7 Under-compaction (Sedimentary Loading)

Rapid deposition of sediments, with respect to geological time, can mean that
fluid flow has been so restricted that it has not yet escaped. The central North
Sea contains some highly over pressured Tertiary shale sequences, which have
been deposited to a depth of some 11,000ft (3350m) in about 60m. years.
However, actual sedimentation rates have been produced by Donato and Tully
(1981) showing maximum depositions of some 5 cm/l000 years. The dominant
rock type for this area is a soft grey clay (“gumbo’ Owing to the rapid
sedimentation and low permeability, the pore fluid has not yet escaped and has
given rise to over pressured shales (maximum pressures in the Oligocene often
correspond to the higher deposition rates). Given greater geological time it is
probable that compaction will continue and the fluid will be squeezed out
producing a normally compacted sequence.
Carstens (1978) and others have also noted how thin (1-3m) limestone bands
can act as seals to stop fluid expulsion in these Tertiary clays. These clays also
show abnormally high porosities which result in lowered densities, low sonic
velocity and low electrical resistivities. Often the limestone cap rocks act as
perfect seals
The greatest difference between shales which have a perfect seal and those
which are rapidly deposited and therefore have an imperfect seal is the increase
in pressure upon entering them. The imperfectly sealed formation will have a
gradual building up of pressure, lasting several meters to hundreds of metres,
while the perfect seals will have a rapid build up of pressure as soon as the zone
is penetrated.
Common in the North Sea are limestone’s capping the Kimmeridge clay which
quite often conceals large pressure changes.

Notes;
1. Please be aware and fully appreciate that it is imperative in pore pressure
estimation that the gas levels in a drilling mud are correctly interpreted and the
above definitions are strictly adhered to.
2. Pore pressure can only be definitively assessed on the basis of observations of trip
gas, connection gas , swab gas and pump off gas. If any of these are observed
then pore pressure levels are close to mud hydrostatic.
Increasing background gas levels can indicate increasing pore pressure if

correctly determined and analysed - it is important that the drilled gas level
content of background gas is understood.

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HP/HBT well control &

Drilling operations manual

Compiled by Peter Aird, CEng,

Kingdom Drilling Services Ltd

May 2004; Revision 1.1

www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk Page 1 Rev 1.1 April 2004

HP/HBT well control & Drilling operations manual..................................... 1

www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk Page 2 Rev 1.1 April 2004

www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk Page 3 Rev 1.1 April 2004

This documents purpose is:

1. To educate and develop a knowledge and understanding of DRILLING TEAMS as to the

www.kingdomdrilling.co.uk Page 4 Rev 1.1 April 2004

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1.1 Depth based

1.2 Source of abnormal pressure based

This however would be absolutely impossible if an Abnormally Pressurised Well

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2. Abnormal (Increasing); Transition Zone

3. Abnormal (High); Geo pressures Zone

See figure 1. Normal and abnormal pressure definitions

Figure 1; Pressure definitions

a. Recent sediments with very high rate of deposition:

* The pore fluid’s own density does not change.

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Pressure gradient: is therefore a pressure increase per depth unit;

Figure 2; Pressure zone definitions

Figure 3 further illustrates a typical normal and abnormal pressure profile

Refer to Fig 3 for a local example (Indonesia).

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1.4 Main features of HP zones

1. High pressure means; existence of a seal i.e. ‘Pressure Cooker’ principle.

2. The tightness i.e. porosity and/or permeability efficiency of this pressure

3. Higher porosity: as this is obviously needed to “house” the excess of

4. Higher associated temperatures often exist within the abnormally

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Methods to be used must therefore be analysed and interpreted both

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1.5.1 While drilling

2. Pore Water Salinity

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6. Shales Density and Resistivity

Figures 4 to 8 illustrate examples related to drilling detection and prediction

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Figure 7; Connection & background gas.

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Schematic responses of wire-line logs in an under-

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2. The purpose is to ensure that enough safety margin is granted

1.5.4 Quantitative methods

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1.6.1 Transitions zone

1.6.2 High pressure zones

Figure 10; Under compaction

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Although it should be stated that; * NORTH SEA and WORLDWIDE experience

In Conclusion w.r.t. to solubility;

2. Tight formations, even in under-balanced conditions, will deliver influxes

To combat the above;

a. Competence in proper kick control is required in Case 1).