Kingdom Drilling Well Control Problems

Section 1:
Key rules highlight common well control problems
PA Page 1 6/13/2009
SECTION 1
General
A lot has been learned about well pressures in the last 30 years. Blowout control has been developed until
it is now accepted as a basic supervisory and crew responsibility. Since control of a well is so critical, the
industry trains its crews on the essentials of blowout control. Schools are held throughout the world, using
wells and rig equipment as well kick conditions to teach and practice these procedures.
However, as with any skill learned but not used for a time, these procedures must be reviewed
periodically if they are to be maintained.
This series of practical problems in pressure control, beginning with this first section, will serve as a review
of well killing and control procedures. Since the problems are actually used in teaching rig crews, all of
them have reasonable solutions. Also every situation described has occurred enough in actual wells to
constitute a typical blowout situation.
No abbreviated set of rules or procedures can take the place of primary instruction in blowout control.
In-depth training and on-site practice are essential.
The following pressure control rules serve as a refresher and are organized to highlight everyday problems
of well control.
Each problem will illustrate at least one of the following well-pressure control rules.
SECTION 1
Well bore pressure management rules contents

Section 1: Key rules highlight common well control problems
Section 2: Driller's Method
Section 3: Don't rule out pump troubles during a kick
Section 4: Graphical method plots pump strokes
Section 5: A Kick can be handled without pre-recorded data
Section 6: Analysis chart keeps track of mud weight
Section 7: Second kick can occur without drilling more hole
Section 8: Time is the enemy when drilling deep wells
Section 9: Records are important when killing deep wells
Section 10: Kill offshore kicks quickly
Section 11: Killing a kick from a Floating Rig
Section 12: Kick In deep water looks different
Section 13: Handling lost circulation requires judgement
Section 14: Checklist of kills is a good troubleshooting guide

SECTION 1
Table of contents
Section 1:..........................................................................................................................................................................1
Key rules highlight common well control problems ........................................................................................................1
General .............................................................................................................................................................................2
Well bore pressure management rules contents ...............................................................................................................3
Section 1: Key rules highlight common well control problems ...................................................................................3
Section 2: Driller's Method ..........................................................................................................................................3
Section 3: Don't rule out pump troubles during a kick.................................................................................................3
Section 4: Graphical method plots pump strokes.........................................................................................................3
Section 5: A Kick can be handled without pre-recorded data......................................................................................3
Section 6: Analysis chart keeps track of mud weight ..................................................................................................3
Section 7: Second kick can occur without drilling more hole......................................................................................3
Section 8: Time is the enemy when drilling deep wells...............................................................................................3
Section 9: Records are important when killing deep wells ..........................................................................................3
Section 10: Kill offshore kicks quickly........................................................................................................................3
Section 11: Killing a kick from a Floating Rig ............................................................................................................3
Section 12: Kick In deep water looks different............................................................................................................3
Section 13: Handling lost circulation requires judgement ...........................................................................................3
Section 14: Checklist of kills is a good troubleshooting guide ....................................................................................3
Section 1: Key rules highlight common well control problems .......................................................................................5
1.1 RULE 1: Shut in the well kick as soon as possible ....................................................................................................5
1.2 RULE 2: Determine the shut in drillpipe pressure .....................................................................................................6
1.3 RULE 3: Circulate using the choke............................................................................................................................7
1.4 RULE 4: Reduce pump rate .......................................................................................................................................8
1.5 RULE 5: Increase mud density ..................................................................................................................................8
1.6 RULE 6: Constant casing pressure...........................................................................................................................10
1.7 RULE 7: Maintain a margin value ...........................................................................................................................11
1.8: Problem series .........................................................................................................................................................12
1.9 Bibliography.............................................................................................................................................................13
1.10 The first problem....................................................................................................................................................14
Problem 1-0................................................................................................................................................................15
Problem 1-1................................................................................................................................................................15
Problem 1-2................................................................................................................................................................15
Problem 1-3................................................................................................................................................................16
Problem 1-4................................................................................................................................................................16
Problem 1-5................................................................................................................................................................16
Problem 1-6................................................................................................................................................................17
Problem 1-7................................................................................................................................................................17
Problem 1-8................................................................................................................................................................17
Problem 1-9................................................................................................................................................................18
Problem 1-10..............................................................................................................................................................18
1.11 Answers..................................................................................................................................................................19
SECTION 1
Section 1: Key rules highlight common well control problems
1.1 RULE 1: Shut in the well kick as soon as possible

A potential blowout is signalled by a sequence of events that starts with increased flow at the flow line.
This is followed by an increase in pit volume, and finally by the arrival of gas or water at the surface. By
the time pit volume increase or gas at the surface is detected, the well kick may be dangerous due to the
size of the influx.
Obviously, the proper way to detect a well kick is by observing the flow increase at the flow line.
If there is any question whether the well is flowing, the pump should be shut off. Continued flow at the
flow line indicates gas or other material is entering the well bore. Since turning off the pump reduces
bottom wellbore pressure (BHP) by the amount of the annular pressure drop, the simple flow check is an
extremely good procedure.
Occasionally an exception to the significance of the flow check may occur. When the mud density is being
increased, the mud in the drill pipe may exert more pressure than the column of mud in the annulus.
Under this condition, the drill pipe mud acts as if it had been slugged for a trip. The mud level in the drill
pipe drops until the pressure between drill pipe and annulus is equalized. This may cause a false
indication of flow. However, this condition produces a very small flow and dies away quickly. If in
doubt, shut off the pump and see if the hole will flow. If still not sure, shut the well in and see if any
pressure develops on the drill pipe.
As the kick size increases, the problems of well control become more critical. As a general rule well kicks
of less than 15 bbl may be killed with very little difficulty. Well kicks of 15 to 30 bbl become rather difficult
to control without losing circulation. When a well kick becomes greater than 30 bbl it may be impossible
to bring the bubble to the surface without causing lost circulation.
Theoretical models indicate that, with a gas kick, maximum casing pressures increase as the square root of
kick size. For example, a 100 bbl kick will have three times the maximum surface pressure of 10 bbl kick.
SECTION 1
1.2 RULE 2: Determine the shut in drillpipe pressure

When the well is shut in, the drillpipe (pump) pressure gauge and the casing (annular) pressure gauge
are indicators of down-hole conditions. The drillpipe pressure is the amount by which the reservoir
pressure exceeds that exerted by the column of drilling mud inside the drill pipe.
The casing pressure is the amount by which the reservoir pressure exceeds that exerted by the column of
fluid in the annulus. It is usually greater than the drillpipe pressure because reservoir fluid in the annulus
is lighter than the drilling mud. The column of mixed fluid in the annulus exerts less pressure than the
column of uncut drilling mud in the drill pipe. If it can be assumed that the drill pipe is full of drilling
mud of a known density, then the reservoir pressure can be calculated from the shut in drillpipe pressure
(SIDPP):
Pres = (MW x D) + SIDPP
W
Where:
- P res = reservoir pressure (psi)
- MW = Mud Weight (psi/ft)
-D = depth of the reservoir (ft)
- SIDPP = shut in drillpipe pressure (psi)
Then mud density increase is:
SIDPP
density = xf
D
Where:
f = units conversion (19.12 ppg, 144 lb/ft², 10 kg/lb)
If drillpipe pressure appears to be incorrect, pump slowly for about 1 minute, holding the annulus
pressure constant with the adjustable choke. Then, stop the pump and close the choke. If drillpipe
pressure has changed, repeat this procedure until the drillpipe pressure holds constant.
This same technique can be used if there is a float in the drill pipe, but it is sometimes better to use the
procedure discussed in Rule number 3 (Annulus pressure).
If drillpipe pressure rises very slowly but continuously when the well is shut in, it may be either low
formation permeability or gas rising in the well bore.
SECTION 1
1.3 RULE 3: Circulate using the choke

To kill a well, maintain bottom wellbore pressure (BHP) slightly in excess of reservoir pressure. A
reduction in BHP allows the reservoir to flow, and excessive BHP could cause lost circulation followed by
reservoir flow.
The best way to hold a constant BHP is to circulate the well using drillpipe pressure as a control. Two
pressures are used in this method:
1. The excess of reservoir pressure over mud pressure (SIDPP)

2. Circulating pressure or system pressure loss (SCR).
The initial circulating pressure (ICP) for killing a well is the sum of SIDPP and circulating pressure at a
given pump rate.
System Ploss + SIDPP = ICP
To determine normal circulating pressure at a fixed rate, use one of these three approaches:
1. Calculate circulation pressure at given rate. This is an excellent theoretical exercise but is generally less
accurate than the others.
2. Check circulation pressures. Lower the pumping rate to about one half the normal circulating rate. A
slow rate circulating pressure (SCR) can thus be established. It is best to do this for both pumps. When a
kick occurs, calculate the ICP as above, then circulate at the slow rate and maintain the ICP with the
constant pump rate and using the adjustable choke. Do not change the pump rate. This is the most accurate
technique and it allows the crew to become accustomed to the idea of a slow circulating rate when a kick
occurs.
3. Annulus pressure. This approach, first proposed by Goin and O'Brien (1957), has the advantage of
flexibility. When the pumps are started, hold annulus pressure constant using the adjustable choke. Once
a circulating rate for the well-killing procedure is reached, ignore the annulus pressure and use instead the
drillpipe pressure as the ICP with the adjustable choke. Do not change the pump rate.
An advantage of this approach is that it can simply be repeated if pumps are changed. Also, it can be used
even when there is no pre-recorded circulating pressure. However, this method may cause a change in
BHP from annular pressure drop, gas expansion, and hole geometry changes, and could possibly
contribute to lost circulation.
The period of constant annulus pressure must be kept as brief as possible, probably 5 min or less. When
gas is near the surface, the constant annular pressure causes a decrease in BHP at a rate proportional to gas
volume/pressure relationship.
The best way to determine the ICP is a make a check on the SCR pressure every tour and keep record of it.
When a kick occurs, add the SIDPP to the SCR pressure to obtain an ICP value. Then start the pump
holding the annulus pressure constant. When the pump is up to the slow rate, the calculated and actual
ICPs should be quite close.
SECTION 1
1.4 RULE 4: Reduce pump rate

During a well-killing procedure use a reduced horsepower or pressure rating. The reduced circulating
rate should be half the circulating rate while drilling. Half rate is generally appropriate because using only
an eighth of the available horsepower, it develops a quarter of the maximum pressure and thus relieves the
mechanical stress on the rig. It also allows enough pressure reserve for SIDPP to be imposed upon
circulating pressure. The lower circulating rate improves control of mud density using barite and allows
longer reaction time when controlling the choke.
The half-pressure rule is not absolute by any means. However, field experience indicates the slow
circulating rate when killing a well will increase reliability of rig machinery, and allow better reaction time.
1.5 RULE 5: Increase mud density

The mud density can be increased after the well kick and before circulating, while circulating, or after
the intruding fluid has been circulated out of the hole using one of these methods:
1. The Wait and Weight method. To minimize well-bore pressure the mud density should be increased
before circulating. However, a long period of no circulation in soft-formation drilling might result in stuck
pipe. High casing pressure due to bubble migration might also result from long periods with no
circulation.
2. The Concurrent method. To kill the well kick in the minimum amount of time and reduce the chance of
pipe sticking, increase mud density concurrently with mud circulation. Of these operations, this is the
most complicated.
3. The Drillers' method. Increase mud weight after the intruding fluid has been circulated out of the hole.
This is the simplest technique, but it requires a maximum amount of time and maximum use of surface
preventer equipment. It also causes maximum pressures.
Since all of these methods use constant drillpipe pressure to control the well a correction must be made
when the new mud enters the drill pipe. When circulating, the drillpipe pressure is the sum of the
pressure required to dominate the reservoir and the circulating pressure in the system at a given rate (ICP
above). As the new mud density starts down the drill pipe, less and less impressed pressure is required to
dominate the reservoir.
From the time the new mud enters the drill pipe until it teaches the bottom of the hole, drillpipe pressure
must be gradually reduced. This reduction is about equal to the original SIDPP value.
Kill MW
Original SPPx = FCP
original MW
Once the new mud starts up the annulus, no further correction is needed.
The calculation of surface-to-bit pump strokes and surface-to-bit circulating time at the given pumping
rate should be made each day and kept available for this purpose. The correction in the drillpipe pressure
can be made by a simple graphical representation as figure 1-1.
SECTION 1
For a final check to surface-to-bit time or pump strokes, stop the pump and shut the well in. The new
SIDPP will be zero if the drill pipe is full of the proper weight mud.
SECTION 1
1.6 RULE 6: Constant casing pressure

Casing pressure can be used to avoid calculating the system pressure loss and required drillpipe pressure
reduction. However, constant casing pressure can cause changes in BHP.
Casing pressure techniques should not be used with wells that have a large annular pressure drop. These
are generally very deep, slim holes. Do not use casing pressure techniques if the gas is near the surface.
Under these conditions, the potential change in BHP is too great to use casing pressure methods to kill the
well.
To obtain ICP, the casing pressure is held constant by use of the choke until the pump rate is at some
agreed upon value. Then the pressure showing on the drillpipe gauge will indicate the ICP.
When a change in mud density occurs in the drill pipe, the casing pressure will stay constant if there is
neither gas expansion nor change in the length of the invading fluid column in the annulus. Under these
conditions, it is possible to hold casing pressure constant while new mud weight is going down the drill
pipe. As soon as the new mud weight reaches the bit the drillpipe pressure will be the final circulating
pressure (FCP) and this should be used instead of the casing pressure. Maintaining constant casing
pressure while changing mud weight in the drill pipe requires good judgment. Errors can be induced by
gas expansion, annular pressure loss, and hole geometry.
Therefore, the constant casing pressure method should never be used when gas is near the surface or in a
deep, slim hole.
SECTION 1
1.7 RULE 7: Maintain a margin value

Circulation can be continued with the reservoir dominated by the ICP for as long as desirable. Eventually,
however, the density of the drilling fluid must be increased until the mud column dominates the reservoir.
The mud weight increase required has already been derived.
To this must be added a margin to compensate for the movement of the mud while withdrawing the
drill pipe from the hole (trip margin). This margin may be expressed as the resistance to flow of the mud.
The resistance causes a BHP reduction when the drill pipe is raised. The annular pressure drop, converted
to equivalent mud density, should be used as the margin value. If this is not available, the Bingham
expression for this annular pressure drop is generally satisfactory and easy to use. Using the first half of
the term, a general value based on the mud properties and hole diameter can be derived to express a
reasonable margin value:
YPxf
Margin =
Dh - D p
Where:
-Margin = minimum safety factor for coming out of the hole

- YP = Yield Point
- Dh = hole diameter
- Dp = pipe OD
-f = units constant
This value, added to the mud density increase, yields the minimum mud weight required to dominate the
reservoir when pipe is moving up with the pump off.
Often , casing setting depth is where the mud weight approaches the fracture gradient. Well kicks that
occur just before setting pipe are very critical. In these cases minimum margins must be used to avoid lost
circulation. Also, the margin value should be calculated with the best available techniques and added to
the mud density after the well is killed, but before the trip.
SECTION 1
1.8: Problem series

Beginning with the problems in this section, and continuing with those in subsequent sections, a standard
choke control panel will be used with each problem.
Pressures will be shown in English and metric terms, for example, psi(kg/cm2).
Pump rate will be given in strokes/min, and pump strokes will be given in total strokes since the problem
began unless otherwise indicated.
Elapsed time will be the time since the problem began and mud density will be given as ppg (SG, lb/ft3).
Pit volume increases will be given as bbls (m3).
In each of the upcoming problem series, possible answers to the problem will be listed in the
"What should you do?" column, and the correct answers will be given at the end of each group of
problems.
In cases where two answers are appropriate, it is necessary to choose the step to be performed first.
SECTION 1
1.9 Bibliography
AAODC - University of Texas, "Blowout Control Manual"
API Standard 6A, Well Head Equipment, 1968.
Butler, W.R., and Coppers, Johan, "Shell Uses Simulator to train Drillers in Pressure Control", Oil and Gas
International, January 1969.
Goins, W.C., "Blowout Prevention", Gulf Publishing Co., 1969.
Goins, W.C., "Guidelines for Blowout Prevention", World Oil, October 1968
Goins. W.C., and O'Brien T. B., "Blowouts and Well Kicks and What You Need to Know About Them" June
20, 27, and July 4, 1960: October 15, 1962. OGJ
Godby, John K., "New Charts Speed Mud Circulation-Time calculations". OGJ June 13, 1966
Griffin, Phil, "A Graphical Method of Blowout Control", Petroleum Engineer, March 1966.
Griffin, Phil, "Kick Control", Petroleum Engineer. 1966.
Griffin' Phil, "A Method of Killing Threatened Blowouts Using the Adjustable Choke", The Drilling
Contractor, March - April, 1966
LeBlanc J.L., and Lewis, R. L., "A Mathematical Model of a Gas Kick", SPE paper No 1860, 1967
Moore, Preston L., "Understanding the Mechanics is the key to Well Control Procedures" OGJ, May 1971.
Moore, Wesley W., "Blowouts Are No-No", Drilling Magazine 1969.
Moore, Wesley W., "Lets Ban Blowouts",Drilling Magazine, September, October, November, December
1966
Moore, Wesley W., "We must Ban Blow-outs" Drilling Magazine April 1970
Record L.R.,"Effective Well Control Must Begin When the Well is Planned",OGJ, July 6 1970.
Rehm, William A.,"Abnormal Pressure Control-Maximum Casing Pressure from Gas Kicks" SPE Paper No
1705, 1967
Rehm, William A., "Pressure Control in Drilling",12 articles in OGI, August 4 1969 to February 16, 1970.
Rehm William A., "What the Drilling Man Should Know About the Origin Prediction and Control of
Formation Pressures", Oil and Gas International, March, April 1969.
University of Texas Petroleum Extension Service. "Blowout Prevention" Unit III Lesson 3
White Alvin V., "Simple Method Controls Kicks" World Oil May 1970
White, R.J. "Bottom Hole Pressure Reduction Due to Gas Cut Mud" Journal of Petroleum Technology, July
1967.
SECTION 1
1.10 The first problem

This first problem group illustrates the procedure for circulating a kick out of a well when no system
pressure loss has been pre-recorded by the drill crew.
Important points
The reservoir pressure is balanced when the well is shut in and the pressure on the drillpipe gauge
stabilizes. When the correct ICP is maintained at the proper pump rate, the situation is similar to a shut in
well (ie the reservoir pressure is balanced). To eliminate the chance of error, the system pressure loss
must be recorded once per tour at some convenient slow pump rate (although there are other methods to
determine system pressure loss and ICP).
Once the ICP is established at some pump rate, this pressure must be kept constant until the mud density
is changed.
When pressure or pump rate rules are violated, either too much or too little pressure is exerted against the
formation. This may cause lost circulation or increased fluid flow.
Other comments
The oil-field term "Constant drillpipe pressure" is somewhat misleading. It means that as long as mud
density inside the drill pipe is constant, the pump pressure is constant. Pump pressure must be allowed to
change when mud density is changed in the drill pipe. Pump rate must always be constant.
SECTION 1
Problem 1-0
A kick has occurred and the well has been 2000 2000
1.0
shut in. The system pressure loss at 30spm is 1000 1000
740 psi (52 kg/cm2). 3000 3000
700
600
Now calculate the initial circulating pressure 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
and use that pressure to control the well. Do
not plan to increase the mud density at this 20
30
40
time. Ignore any other pressure
considerations. Pump Rate SPM
000
0 hr, 0 min
What is the initial circulating pressure at Pump strokes Elapsed time
30spm?
Problem 1-1 2000 2000

1.1
The pump has been started and choke is 1115
1000 1000
partly open. 3000 3000
700
What should you do? 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
1 Increase choke size? 20

30
40
2 Decrease choke size?

3 Increase the pump rate? Pump Rate SPM
4 Decrease the pump rate? 0hr, 1 min

30
5 Everything is OK - continue? Pump strokes Elapsed time
6 Stop the pump and close the well in?
Problem 1-2 1450 2000 2000

1.2
Notice the pressures, the pump rate, and the 1000 1000
time. 3000 3000
700
What do you think has happened? 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

40
20
1 Increase choke size?
2 Decrease choke size? Pump Rate SPM
3 Increase the pump rate? 0 hr, 5 min

4 Decrease the pump rate?
150
Pump strokes Elapsed time

5 Everything is OK - continue?
SECTION 1
Problem 1-3
Everything is going fine - or is it? The casing
pressure has not changed very much.
2000 2000
What should you do:

1340 1.3
1000 1000
2 Decrease choke size? 3000

700
3000
3 Increase the pump rate? 0 0
4 Decrease the pump rate? Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
30
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? 20 40
Pump Rate SPM
450
0 hr, 15 min
Problem 1-4
What can you do now? You are letting more
gas in the bottom of the hole! 2000 2000
What should you do: 1.4

1000 1000
1000
3000 3000

500
0
Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
3 Increase the pump rate?
4 Decrease the pump rate? 30
5 Everything is OK - continue? 20 40
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? Pump Rate SPM
1350
0 hr, 45 min
1600
Problem 1-5 2000 2000
1.5
What should you do to decrease drillpipe 1000 1000
and casing pressure: 3000

740 3000
0 0
1 Increase choke size? Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure

3 Increase the pump rate? 20
30
40
4 Decrease the pump rate? Pump Rate SPM

6 Stop the pump and close the well in? 1660
0 hr, 55 min
SECTION 1
Problem 1-6 1340 2000 2000

1.6
Now the casing pressure is going up. Maybe 1000 1000
the pump rate should not have been changed. 3000 760 3000
What needs to be done now - quickly:
0 0
20 40
5 Everything is OK - continue? 1 hr, 6 min

1968
Problem 1-7 1800

2000 2000
Drillpipe pressure and casing pressure are both 1260 1.7

going up! Has something been done wrong? 1000 1000
What should you do: 3000 3000
1 Increase choke size? 0 0
2 Decrease choke size? Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure

30
4 Decrease the pump rate? 20 40
5 Everything is OK - continue? Pump Rate SPM

1 hr, 17 min
2320
Problem 1-8
You increased the choke size in the last
problem and the drillpipe pressure went down 2000 2000
too far. 1200 1.8
When you started to close the choke, the casing 1000 1000
pressure came up. 3000 880 3000
0 0
What should you do: Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure

30
40

4 Decrease the pump rate? 1 hr, 27 min
5 Everything is OK - continue? 2620

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 1
Problem 1-9
The casing pressure gauge has started to 2000 2000
1340
fluctuate radically. 1.9
1000 1000
0 0

30
40

1 hr, 39 min
1340
Problem 1-10 2000 2000
1.0
1000 1000
Notice what the casing pressure has done. 3000

600
3000


30
40

5 Everything is OK - Continue? 4300 2 hr,23 min
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? Pump strokes Elapsed time
SECTION 1
1.11 Answers
Problem 1-0: The initial circulating pressure is 1340 psi (94 kg/cm2) at 30spm.
Problem 1-1: Increase the pump rate. The pump speed must be 30spm to use the calculated system
pressure loss.
Problem 1-2: Decrease the pump rate. The pump rate is too fast and the choke size cannot be controlled
until the pump is controlled. At 5 minutes into the control of the well, things should be settled down.
Problem 1-3: Everything is OK. The casing pressure is not a control pressure in this problem. Hold
drillpipe pressure and pump strokes constant.
Problem 1-4: Decrease choke size. This will increase the drillpipe pressure.
Problem 1-5: Decrease pump strokes - pump rate should be 30spm. This will lower drillpipe pressure. Do
not worry about casing pressure - it is not a control in this problem.
Problem 1-6: Everything is OK. Casing pressure can be expected to rise if this is a gas kick. Control is
drillpipe pressure and pump strokes - keep them constant.
Problem 1-7: Increase choke size. Remember that drillpipe pressure and pump strokes must be kept
constant.
Problem 1-8: Increase pump rate. The pump has slowed and lowered the ICP. Increase the pump speed
and see if the drillpipe pressure increases. The well is not being controlled with the casing pressure.
Drillpipe pressure and pump strokes must be kept constant.
Problem 1-9: Everything is OK - continue. The gas is at the choke and heading. Send one of the crew
members to see that the degasser is operating properly.
Problem 1-10: Either option 5 or option 6 is correct. In the case of 5 the gas has been circulated out of the
hole. The casing pressure now shows 600 psi (42 kg/cm2), the amount by which the reservoir pressure
exceeds the mud column pressure. This is the original shut in drillpipe pressure.
If the pump is stopped and the well closed in, the drillpipe pressure would go to 600 psi (42 kg/cm2), the
same value as the casing pressure.
Section 2:
Drillers Method
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Introduction
Introduction
This series of problems in pressure control illustrates the procedure for pumping
a kick out of the hole, and then increasing the mud density by using a pre-
planned pressure control worksheet (Fig 2-1).
The same circulating system is used as was used in the problems in section 1.
Table of contents
Section 2:........................................................................................................................................................ 1
Drillers Method .............................................................................................................................................. 1
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 2
Key points................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 PROBLEM 2 .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Problem 2-0 Problem facts: ........................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 2-1 ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 2-3 ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 2-4 ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 2-5 ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 2-6 ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 2-7 ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Problem 2-8 ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Problem 2-9 .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Problem 2-10 ............................................................................................................................................ 10
2.1 Answers.................................................................................................................................................. 11
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Key points
This is the procedure generally described as the driller's method. The kick is
first circulated out of the hole, then the mud density is increased.
The use of extra mud density as a margin for tripping or as a safety margin is
shown in these problems. The annular pressure loss is converted to mud
density as the proper margin.
If margin values are chosen arbitrarily, they may induce extra pressures and
cause lost circulation. Alternatively, they may not be adequate for pulling the drill
pipe. So it is usually best to calculate the annular pressure loss as a mud
density term, or use some value related to the mud flow properties and hole
geometry.
Notice the relationship between pump rate and system pressure loss is
2
2 2
SPP2 = SPP1xSPM 1
SPM
If you compare the casing pressures in the problems in the preceding section
with those in this group you will see the relative difference that occurs with
increasing gas volumes (compare kick intrusion volumes). Maximum casing
pressure tends to increase as the square root of the kick size.
SECTION 2
Drillers method
SECTION 2
Drillers method
2.1 PROBLEM 2
Problem 2-0 Problem facts:
1. During crew change the flow sensor and pit volume totalizer showed a kick,
but it was 20 min before the well was shut in. Kick size is 50 bbls (8 m3).
2. Company policy is to pump the

gas or water out, shut down and 2000 2000
2.0
increase the mud density in the 1000 1080 1000
pits, then circulate the new mud. 3000 3000
570
0 0
3. Policy requires that you use the Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
pressure control work sheet using

pump strokes on graphical 20
30
40
analysis. Pump Rate SPM
- Depth = 10000 ft (3050 m) 0 hr, 20 min
- Hole = 8½" 0000
Pump strokes
Elapsed time
- Drill pipe = 4½"

- Mud density is 9.6ppg (1.15
SG, or 72 lb/ft3)
Pump rate to be 40spm and system pressure loss at 40spm is 1420 psi (100
kg/cm2)
800 pump strokes to fill drill pipe
2800 pump strokes to displace annulus
3600 pump strokes to circulate the hole
Annular pressure loss = 0.3ppg (0.04 SG or 72 lb/ft3)
Complete the pressure control work sheet.

SECTION 2
Drillers method
Problem 2-1
While you were filling out the
pressure control work sheet the 2000 2000
driller got nervous because the 2.1

1070
1000 1000
casing pressure was rising and 3000 3000
started to kill the well. You heard 710
the pumps start and came up to the 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
floor in a panic.
30
20 40
What should you do: Pump Rate SPM
1 Increase choke size? 0 hr, 37 min

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
3 Increase pump rate?
4 Decrease pump rate?
Problem 2-2
Casing pressure is starting to rise.
1990
2000 2000
1420 2.2
3 Increase pump rate? 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

5 Everything is OK-continue? 20
30
40
6 Stop the pump and close the well Pump Rate SPM
in? 1 hr, 20 min

20 00
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Problem 2-3
Watch what is happening. All the
gauges are moving in different 1850
2000
1660
2000
2.3
directions. 1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do?
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
4 Decrease pump rate? Pump Rate SPM
5 Everything is OK-continue? 1 hr, 35 min

6 Stop the pump and close the 2 6 00
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
well in?
Problem 2-4
Now what has happened?
1990
According to the procedure in 2-0, 2000 2000
2.4
what is next? 1000 1000
3000 3000

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
5 Everything is OK-continue? 2 hr. 15 min

6 Stop the pump and close the well 4000
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
in?
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Problem 2-5
It took 35 min to increase the mud
1910
density in the pits. You reset the 2000 2000
pump strokes on the stroke counter, 2.5

1000 1000
started the pump and brought the 3000 3000
initial circulating pressure to 1990psi 570
(140 kg/cm²) at 40spm. 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
Now look what is happening. 20

30
40
Check the graph on the pressure Pump Rate SPM
control work sheet. 2 hr, 50 min

0160
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
What should you do?
5 Everything is OK-continue?
Problem 2-6
After awhile, you see this. The
1990
drillpipe pressure is a familiar 2000 2000
2.6
number. Should you feel better 1000 1000
now? 3000 3000
740
What should you do: 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
3 Increase pump rate? Pump Rate SPM
4 Decrease pump rate? 2 hr, 58 min

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
6 Stop the pump and close the well
in?
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Problem 2-7
There are two things that you could
1620
do now. If you are confident of what 2000 2000
2.7
you are doing and your graphical 1000 1000
analysis looks good, you should . 3000 3000
570
If you are confused and not sure, 0

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
you should......
30
20 40

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 2-8
Panic! The vice-president for drilling
and exploration is on the phone. He 2000 2000
thinks you are all wrong. To prove 2.8

1000 1000
the point, you stop the pump and 3000 3000
close the well in. This is what you 570
see. 0
0 Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
1 Increase choke size? Pump Rate SPM
2 Decrease choke size? 3 hr, 10 min

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
in?
SECTION 2
Drillers method
Problem 2-9
It looks as if we might have lost
circulation-or have we? The casing 1620
2000 2000
2.9
pressure has been coming down. 1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
400
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40

6 Stop the pump and close the well 1200
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
in?
Problem 2-10
The choke is wide open and the
casing pressure is zero. Should we 1620 2000 2000
2.10
put a little pressure on the choke to 1000 1000
be sure? 3000 3000

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
0

30
40
3 Increase pump rate? 4 hr, 40 min

4 Decrease pump rate? 3 6 00
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
in?
SECTION 2
Drillers method
2.1 Answers
Problem 2-0: See completed pressure control work sheet (Fig 2-1).
Problem 2-1: Decrease choke size. Initial circulating pressure should be 1990
psi (140 kg/cm²).
Problem 2-2: Everything is OK - continue. Remember, someone made a
mistake and let the kick get big. You can expect high casing pressures. If the
casing string and surface equipment is properly designed, you should have no
problem.
Problem 2-3: Increase pump rate. Do not worry about casing pressure. You
cannot control casing pressure if you are going to keep BHP constant. Keep
pump strokes constant, and maintain a constant drillpipe pressure using the
choke.
Problem 2-4: Stop the pump and close the well in. The procedure was that the
well would be shut in and mud density increased after the bubble was pumped
out .
Problem 2-5: Everything is OK - continue. The ICP is coming down according
to the graph on your pressure control work sheet. Notice the casing pressure.
Problem 2-6: Increase choke size. Check the chart; drillpipe pressure should be
1850 psi (130 kg/cm²). Notice the casing pressure.
Problem 2-7: If you are confident that everything is OK - continue. If in doubt,
stop the pump and close the well in. The new mud weight (11.0 ppg) is at the bit.
The SIDPP should be zero.
Problem 2-8: Everything is OK - continue at 1620 psi (144 kg/cm²) and 40 spm.
The drill pipe is full of mud heavy enough to dominate the reservoir so the SIDPP
is zero. The casing pressure is starting to go down as the heavier mud starts up
the annulus. Be tactful with the vice-president.
Problems 2-9: Everything is OK - continue. The drillpipe pressure is OK and the
casing pressure is continuing to come down as the heavy mud is pumped up the
annulus. The clue is that the casing pressure is moving steadily. With lost
circulation, it would stop moving or possibly start to rise rapidly. Proof of lost
circulation would be reduction in pit volume.
Problem 2-10: Either 5 or 6 is a proper answer. Everything is OK and
operations can continue, or the pump can be stopped. The well should be dead.
If it doesn't flow when the pump is shut off, it is dead. If there is flow from the
choke line, pump some more.
Section 3:
Pump troubles
General
General
Problems in section 1 assumed that the system pressure loss had been pre-
recorded by the crew. The problems presented here illustrate another method of
determining system pressure loss.
While the pre-recorded method is more desirable, it may not always be available. In
this case, the annulus pressure may be held constant for a short period while the
pump is brought to some desirable circulating rate. At that time, the pump pressure
will be the sum of the system pressure loss and the shut in drillpipe pressure.
The circulating system is the same as that used in the previous sections.
Table of contents
Section 3:................................................................................................................................................................ 1
Pump troubles......................................................................................................................................................... 1
General ................................................................................................................................................................... 2
General ............................................................................................................................................................... 2
Key points........................................................................................................................................................... 3
Problem 3-0 ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem Facts: .................................................................................................................................................... 5
Problem 3-1 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 3-2 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 3-3 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 3-4 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 3-5 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 3-6 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 3-7 ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Problem 3-8 ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Problem 3-9 ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Problem 3-10 .................................................................................................................................................... 10
3.2 Answers .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
Key points
The key to killing a well is maintaining a constant bottom wellbore pressure using
constant drillpipe pressure and constant pump rate. The drillpipe pressure and
pump rate may be established in different ways. But however are determined, the
key to well control still remaining as constant drillpipe pressure and constant pump
rate.
In this problem, a washed-out pump valve is used to illustrate the method of

changing pumps.
The key to a pump problem in this case is the erratic movement of the kelly or top
drive vibrator circulating hose.
Do not assume that casing pressure will stay constant under any conditions. It is
best to use constant casing pressure for as short an interval as possible and only
when a pre-recorded pressure is not available.
Use of constant casing pressure is a "make-do" method and should be used only if it
is the only tool available.
Try always to use a pressure control work sheet. Without one, it is very difficult to
remember all the numbers during a well kick.
Problem 3-0
Problem Facts:
In problem 2 we saw that the casing 2000 2000
pressure was constant if the weight 3.0

1000 1000
of the mud column in the annulus did 3000 3000
650
not change. 600
0 0
We can use this fact to find the initial

circulating pressure or to check 20
30
40
calculations of initial circulating Pump Rate SPM
pressure. 0 hr, 0 min

000 0
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
We can also use it to check or
replace the graphical analysis.
The well kicked and is now shut in. Fill out the pressure control worksheet. Do not
raise mud density until the kick is circulated out of the hole.
Depth = 12000ft (3650m)

8.5" hole with 4.5" drill pipe
Kick size = 5bbl (0.8m3)
Mud density = 10ppg (74.8 lb/ft3, or 1.2 SG)
System pressure loss @ 30spm - 740psi (52 kg/cm2)
1050 pump strokes to displace drill pipe
2300 pump strokes to displace annulus
Use 0.3ppg (2.0 lb/ft3, or 0.04 SG) for annular pressure loss
Complete the pressure control worksheet.

Problem 3-1
When starting to circulate, you are
going to hold the casing pressure 2000 2000
constant until the pump gets up to 3.1

1000 1000
30spm. 3000 3000
740 650
Then you will check to see if your 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
calculated ICP and the actual ICP are

the same. If they are, continue. If not, 20
30
40
shut in the well and find the error. Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 15 min
Remember, we are not raising the mud 0 015
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
density.
Now after 15 pump strokes or half a

minute you see this.
What should you do:

Problem 3-2
While the driller is answering the radio
1700
look what happened. 2000 2000
3.2
1000 1000
0 0
3 Increase pump rate? 30 37

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 3-3
You are having trouble with the torque-
converter drive to the pumps, but look 1460 2000 2000
at this closely. 3.3

1000 1000
3000 3000

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
Pump Rate SPM

0 hr, 17 min
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 3-4
What is wrong now
- everything is going down. 1340
2000 2000
3.4
1000 1000
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 3-5
Everything looks OK, but the casing
pressure went down slightly. 1340
2000 2000
3.5
1000 1000
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 3-6
Pump strokes going up, pressure going
down. 2000 2000
3.6
The kelly and/or vibrator hose is 1000 1000
jumping. 1000 3000 3000
Make a decision! 0
600
0

30
40

Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes

Problem 3-7
You closed the well in and switched
over the No. 2 pump. 2000 2000
It has 6.5" liners instead of 6" liners. 3.7

1000 1000
You are ready to start up. 3000 3000
600 660
0 0
1 Start up to 30spm? 30
20 40
2 Calculate a new pump rate?
Pump Rate SPM
3 Start up and hold drill pipe pressure 1 hr, 2 min
constant 1230
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
4 Start pump and hold casing pressure
constant?
5 Call Halliburton and Red Adair?
6 Call the vice-president for drilling and production?
Problem 3-8
You and the toolpusher decide that the
circulating rate should be 28spm. 1500 2000 2000
3.8
Can you do that? 1000 1000
Have you got everything wrong? 3000 3000
660
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
4 Decrease pump rate? 1300
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 3-9
Have you done the wrong thing?
he casing pressure is going up. 1500 2000 2000
3.9
Should you do something else to be 1000 1000
safe? 3000
750
3000
0 0
What should you do:

28 30
40
1 hr, 38 min
Elapsed time
4 Decrease pump rate? Pump strokes
Problem 3-10
Casing pressure went to 600 psi
(42kg/cm2). 1500 2000 2000
3.10
What should you do? 1000 1000
Have we lost circulation? 3000 3000

600
The pit volume has decreased, but is 0 0
now holding constant.
28 30
20 40

3500
2 Decrease choke size? Pump strokes

Elapsed time

3.2 Answers
Problem 3-0: See completed pressure control work sheet (Fig 3-1).
Problem 3-1: Increase the pump rate to 30spm. Keep the annulus pressure
constant by changing choke size.
Problem 3-2: Decrease the pump rate. You had planned to run at 30spm. What
would be the ICP at 37spm if it was necessary to use that rate?
Problem 3-3: Decrease the pump rate. Then you may have to open the choke.
Notice that the pump rate is too high, but the annulus pressure has gone up. You
may have two problems, but solve them one at a time. Slow the pump first, then see
if you need to open the choke more.
Problem 3-4: Everything is OK. Notice that the calculated ICP and the actual ICP
are the same at 30spm. The annulus pressure is still at the shut in value. Good
show! Now switch to drillpipe press and use ICP as constant drillpipe pressure.
Problem 3-5: Everything is OK - continue. You are using constant drillpipe pressure
as your control now. If you do not understand why, go back and review.
Problem 3-6: Stop the pump and close in the well. You cannot kill a well if the pump
rate is not constant. The increase in pump rate and decrease in drillpipe pressure
means either a hole in the drill pipe or a bad pump. The jumping kelly hose indicates
the problem is at the pump.
Problem 3-7: Start No. 2 pump and hold casing pressure constant. If you do not
understand this key lesson, go back and review.
Problem 3-8: Everything is OK - continue. You keep casing pressure constant until
you reach a predetermined pump rate. The new "constant drillpipe pressure "is
1500psi (105 kg/cm²) at 28spm on no. 2 pump. You can pick any pump rate or
pressure provided the rig will operate smoothly under those conditions.
Problem 3-9: Everything is OK - continue. The casing pressure will rise as the
bubble comes to the surface. If you reduce the casing pressure, you will let more
gas into the hole. Remember, using this technique, we use a constant casing
pressure to get the constant drillpipe pressure. Casing pressure is not a "control" for
killing the well.
Problem 3-10: Everything is OK. You are now ready to increase the mud density; or
stop the pump and shut in the well. You should have the gas displaced out of the
hole. When the gas comes out of the hole and is displaced by mud, the pit volume
decreases. If you think you might have lost circulation, go see if the mud is still
circulating,
Section 4:
Graphical method for pump strokes

SECTION 4
Graphical methods for pump strokes
General
This group of problems continues from section 3.
It illustrates the use of the graphical procedure for deducing drillpipe pressure when
increasing mud density.
Table of contents
Section 4:................................................................................................................................................................ 1
Graphical method for pump strokes ....................................................................................................................... 1
General ............................................................................................................................................................... 2
Key points........................................................................................................................................................... 4
Problem 4-0 ............................................................................................................................................................ 4
Problem 4-1 ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 4-2 ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 4-3 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 4-4 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 4-5 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 4-6 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 4-7 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 4-8 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
4.1 Answers ............................................................................................................................................................ 9
SECTION 4
SECTION 4
Key points
When the graphical procedure is used, time and pump strokes should be plotted
against pump pressure. Pump strokes is the best term to use.
Notice that the casing pressure stays relatively constant while the new heavier mud
is filling the drill pipe. The assumption that casing pressure will always stay constant
under these conditions may be incorrect.
Problems discussed to date in this manual cover the basic elements of well control.
These problems should be completely understood before proceeding to solve those
in the remainder of the series. Problems in following sections will involve more
sophisticated versions of the information already presented.
Problem 4-0
2000 2000
You have pumped the gas kick out of 4.0
the hole in Problem 3. 1000 1000
3000 3000
600 600
Now it is time to increase the mud 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
density.
30
20 40
Use the pressure control work sheet

Pump Rate SPM
from Problem 3 (Fig 3-1). 4 hr, 0 min
0000
Elapsed time
Switch back to the No. 1 pump Pump strokes
- the valve has been replaced.
When the new mud is going down the drill pipe, hold casing pressure constant and
compare the drill pipe pressure with the graphical analysis.
Zero the pump counter.
You are ready to start when the mud density in the pits is 11.3ppg (85 lb/ft3, or
1.35SG).
SECTION 4
Problem 4-1
After 210 pump strokes (7 min) you
have this situation. 1250 2000 2000
4.1
1000 1000

0 0

20 40

0210
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? Pump strokes
Elapsed time
Problem 4-2
As the new mud goes down the drill
pipe, the drillpipe pressure goes down. 2000 2000
The casing pressure is going up. 1170 4.2

1000 1000
3000 3000
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes

SECTION 4
Problem 4-3
This is a critical point.
What must you do and why? 2000 2000
4.3
1000 1000

3000 3000
600
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
4 hr, 35 min
Elapsed time
Problem 4-4
Casing pressure is still holding
constant. 2000 2000
4.4
Are we still okay? 1000 1000
1000 3000 3000

600
30
40

2000
5 Everything is OK - continue? Pump strokes

Elapsed time

SECTION 4
Problem 4-5
You were drinking a cup of coffee - and
look what happened! 2000 2000
4.5
1000 1000
840

Drill pipe pressure
380 0
Casing pressure

30
40

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 4-6
Casing pressure is almost zero. The 2000 2000

4.6
mud man says the barite is almost 1000 1000
gone. It looks like we are in trouble. 3000 3000
Driller says slow the pump down to
make the barite last. 450 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
140
What should you do:
30
20 40
1 Increase choke size? Pump Rate SPM

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 4
Problem 4-7
The tool pusher is in a hurry to make
the short trip because the Wireline 2000 2000
logger is on the way. 4.7

1000 1000
Casing pressure is zero. 3000 3000
840
0 0

30
40

3700

Elapsed time
6 Stop the pump and see if the well will
flow?
Problem 4-8
You stopped the pump but the well
continued to flow a small stream. 2000 2000
4.8
You shut in and this is what the gauges 1000 1000
indicate. 3000 3000
0 0
0 Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
1 Make the short trip? 20

30
40
2 Circulate the hole with 30 strokes at Pump Rate SPM
840 psi (59 kg/cm2)? 6 hr, 6 min

3800
3 Increase mud weight in the pits? Pump strokes

Elapsed time
4 Decrease mud weight in the pits?

5 Increase mud weight slightly and
circulate as in 2 above?
6 Call for help?
SECTION 4
4.1 Answers
Problem 4-0: See pressure control work sheet (Fig 3-1).
Problem 4-1: Everything is OK - continue. Pump strokes is a more positive

measure than time. You know your calculations are correct because casing pressure
is 600 psi (42 kg/cm2), ie the shut in value, and the drillpipe pressure is the same as
on the chart, or 1250 psi (88 kg/cm2).
Problem 4-2: Open the choke. The casing pressure has gone up and you are above
the line on the graphical analysis. You are putting too much pressure on the
formation.
Problem 4-3: Everything is OK - continue; or the pump can be stopped and the well
closed in. The drill pipe is full of the heavy mud. If you stopped the pump and shut
the well in, the shut in drillpipe pressure would be zero. Now keep the drillpipe
pressure constant while the new mud goes up the annulus.
Problem 4-4: Open the choke. You should be keeping the drillpipe pressure
constant - not the casing pressure. When holding casing pressure constant, be sure
you know what you are doing and when you should do it.
Problem 4-5: Everything is OK - continue. The casing pressure is expected to come

down as the heavier mud fills the annulus.
Problem 4-6: Increase the pump rate. If you get sloppy now, you will get another
bubble in the hole and have to make another circulation. Better order more barite.
Problem 4-7: Stop the pump and see if the well will flow.
Problem 4-8: Either answer 2 or answer 5 is appropriate.

The hole can be circulated with 30spm and 840psi (59 kg/cm²), or the mud weight
can be increased slightly and circulated with a new circulating pressure.
The situation shown here happens often.
The SIDPP may not have reached its highest value because of low permeability.
It is also possible that you misread the gauge or that it was inaccurate.
On the other hand there may still be some gas in the annulus.
Too bad about the logging truck being on the way, but if you come out of the hole
now, you may have a blowout.
Section 5:
Kick management without pre-recorded data

SECTION 5
Introduction
Introduction
This problem illustrates how a constant circulating pressure and pump rate can be obtained when
faced with a situation where no pre-recorded information is available. i.e. Only shut in values are
available.
In this case, you will have to make do with information you can determine. The initial circulating
pressure “ICP” can be obtained by holding casing pressure constant until the pump is running at
some predetermined rate. The pump rate should be about half normal rate.
This problem also shows how quickly things happen when large amounts of gas reach the surface.
So once rules or procedures are established, chances of success are greatest if they are followed.
Table of contents
Section 5:................................................................................................................................................................ 1
Kick management without pre-recorded data......................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 2
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 2
Important points.............................................................................................................................................. 3
Problem 5-0 ............................................................................................................................................................ 4
Problem Facts: .................................................................................................................................................... 4
Problem 5-1 ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 5-2 ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 5-3 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 5-4 ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 5-5 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 5-6 ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 5-7 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 5-8 ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 5-9 ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Problem 5-10 ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
Problem 5-11 .................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 Answers .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
SECTION 5
Important points
Notice in 5-3 how the use of constant casing pressure to obtain the ICP could introduce an immediate
100psi (7 kg/cm2) error into the pressure necessary to control the well. In this case, the error was
small, but it could be larger with a deep, slim hole.
The original discussion in Section 1, under Rule 6, states that constant casing pressure should not
be used (or assumed) in deep, slim holes nor when there is gas near the surface. Furthermore, the
period of constant casing pressure when starting the pump should be as short as possible.
Problem 5-5 and 5-8 illustrate that there is often a time lag between opening or closing the choke and
the resulting change on the drillpipe pressure gauge.
The time lag varies from almost nothing to as much as a minute. A standard rule of thumb is to use 1
second per 1000feet. Remember to include downtime in this.
Problem 5-9 notes one of the problems involved in maintaining a constant pump rate is that large
pressure changes may change the pump rate.
Often there is confusion because it appears that the gas reaches the surface earlier than it should. It
is necessary to remember that the gas is constantly expanding and so we can expect it to arrive at
the surface early.
The constant expansion of the gas causes an increase in the mud volume in the pits. When the gas
is circulated out of the hole then the mud is pumped back in to replace it. Often the lowering of the
mud volume in the pits is mistaken for lost circulation.
SECTION 5
Problem 5-0
Problem Facts:
An increase in flow and pit volume was noticed
when the rig was shut down to change pumps. 2000 2000
1300
5.0
No pre-recorded spm, but use 36spm as kill 1000 1000
rate on pumps.
3000 3000
With the well shut in, the following is observed:
a pit volume increase of 50bbl (8 m3). 500 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
Do not increase the mud density until you

circulate the gas out of the hole. 30
20 40
Pump Rate SPM

Drill pipe = 4.5" 16.60 lb/ft 0 hr, 0 min
Depth = 10000ft (3048 m) 0000
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Hole size = 8.5"
Mud density = 13ppg (1.56 SG, 97 lb/ft3)
9 5/8" casing at 8000 ft (2438 m)
Trip margin = 0.3ppg (0.04 SG, 2 lb/ft3)
Drill collars = 6 5/8" x 1000 ft (305 m)
Pumps = 6.5" x 16"; 8.6 gal/stroke (32.6 l/stroke)
SECTION 5
Problem 5-1
The choke is opened and pump started, now
the choke is slowly being closed.
2000 2000
1400
30 sec after the pump is started, this situation 5.1
1100
exists. 1000 1000
3000 3000

30
40

Pump Rate SPM
4 Decrease pump rate? 0 hr, 1/2 min
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 5-2 1600

2000 2000
A short time later this is what was observed. 1300 5.2

1000 1000

30
20 40
Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 1/2 min
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 5
Problem 5-3
Five minutes after the pump is started this was
observed. 1600
2000 2000
Does the drop in casing pressure indicate lost 5.3
1200
returns? 1000 1000
The pit volume totalizer doesn't show much 3000 3000

change.
0 0
What should you do:
2 Decrease choke size? 20 40

Elapsed time
Problem 5-4
Are you choking up?
Remember the rules.
1300 2000 2000
5.4
1 Increase choke size? 3000 900 3000

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 14 min
0490
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 5
Problem 5-5
Look what happened just as soon as the choke
change was made.
2000 2000
1300
Don't panic - let common sense prevail. 1200
5.5
1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
5 Everything is OK - continue? o hr, 14 min

050 0
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 5-6
Things seem to settle down.
1600
2000 2000
1300 5.6
What should you do:
1000 1000

0 0
3 Increase pump rate? Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure

30
0 hr, 30 min
11 00
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 5
Problem 5-7
A lot of noise, kill line frosting up, pits flowing
over.
2000 1500 2000
The driller is unhappy. 1150
5.7
1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40

1800
Pump strokes
Problem 5-8
You made your adjustment in problem 5-7.
Why has the casing pressure not changed? 1600
1500
2000 2000
5.8
1000 1000
What should you do:
3000 3000
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
6 Stop the pump and close the well in? 0 hr, 50 min
1815
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 5
Problem 5-9
Iron begins to rattle, a weird noise is heard as
gas begins to go through the separator. 1700 1900
2000 2000
Everyone acts as if he were walking on egg 5.9
shells. 1000 1000
You check the pump throttle setting and it has 3000 3000
not been moved.

0 0
What should you do:

30
0 hr, 51 min
Elapsed time
Problem 5-10
The sound is now more of a shriek rather than
noise, and a blueish colour is coming out of the 1600 1900
2000 2000
gas separator. 5.10
Everyone has left the floor except you and the 1000 1000
driller. (Run is not on the answer sheet). 3000 3000
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 53 min
Elapsed time
SECTION 5
Problem 5-11
Iron has stopped rattling, everything seems
quiet. 1600
2000 2000
The derrick man says that mud density is 5.11
13.0ppg (1.56 SG, 97lb/ft3 ) at both suction and 1000 1000
degasser. 3000 3000
Do you go back to drilling? 0 0

Drill pipe pressure 400 Casing pressure
Has all intruding gas been pumped out of the
well bore?
30
20 40
1 hr, 22 min
Elapsed time
2 Decrease choke size? Pump strokes

7 Open BOP and see if the well flows?
SECTION 5
5.1 Answers
Problem 5-1: Decrease choke size. Keep closing choke slowly to bring casing pressure up to original
shut in casing pressure of 1300psi (91 kg/cm2).
Problem 5-2: Everything is OK - continue. At this point you have the same pressure against the
reservoir as with the well shut in. Now ignore casing pressure and go to constant drillpipe pressure
and constant pump strokes. What is your constant pump pressure? Constant pump strokes?
Problem 5-3: Everything is OK - continue. As the gas was pumped up away from the drill collars, the
annular area becomes larger and the gas column shorter. This happens once in a while when the
gas is in a large bubble on the bottom. ICP is 1600psi (112 kg/cm2). Constant pump stroke rate is
36.
Problem 5-4: Decrease choke size. The applicable rule is constant pump pressure and constant
pump strokes. Drillpipe pressure must be restored to ICP.
Problem 5-5: Everything is OK - continue. Give the pressure time to come around, it may take as
much as 1 min before the change shows up on the drill pipe gauge. Run around in tight circles, but
don't panic.
Problem 5-6: Everything is OK - continue. You're choking fine; if the casing pressure worries you,
put a sack over the gauge.
Problem 5.7: Increase pump rate and then adjust drill pipe pressure to 1600 psi (112 kg/cm²). If you
do it quickly enough you might keep another bubble from entering bore hole on bottom.
Problem 5-8: Everything is OK - continue. Casing pressure has not changed because there is also a
time lag from drillpipe pressure to casing pressure.
Problem 5-9: Increase choke size - back pressure is stalling the pumps. Opening the choke will let
the pump pressure drop and let the pump go back to 36 strokes per minute. "Everything is OK" could
be a correct answer because at this point you are steadily opening the choke and it is hard to keep
up.In some cases, especially when a large bubble has intruded, pump rate tends to change because
of the rapid change in back pressure against the pumps when bubble and maximum pressure are at
the surface. Well killing experts with practical experience advise that adjusting casing pressure to
keep drillpipe pressure constant restores the pump to the desired rate. Changing previously
established throttle setting here upsets all the parameters. NOTE: Most of the time, when control of
kicking well is lost, control is lost at this point because too many things are happening at the same
time.
Problem 5-10: Everything is OK - continue. Don't forget that there is a lot of gas that you need to
vent to the atmosphere. Don't light up a cigarette.
Problem 5-11: Well is not dead. Probably some gas is entrained in the mud but the bubble is out of
the hole. Notice that the circulating casing pressure is lower than you might think. Ordinarily, you
2
would expect it to be 500psi (35 kg/cm ). In this case, however, the annular pressure loss may be
causing an apparent lower circulating pressure.
SECTION 6
Analysis chart keeps mud weight on track
Section 6:
Concurrent Method 6-1 Ver. 1.0

SECTION 6
General
This problem illustrates how to proceed when the decision is made to start weighing up the mud
as soon as circulation is resumed - the concurrent method.
One of the ways to keep track of changing mud densities is to record mud density increase on
the first line on the graphical analysis chart. When each of these increments of density is reached
in the suction pit, the number of pump strokes it takes to displace the drill pipe is added to total
strokes displayed on the choke panel and recorded below each appropriate mud density. The
choke operator then knows when each mud density reaches the bit. This is the approach used in
this problem.
Other methods of keeping track of the mud density in the drill pipe and the resulting necessary
changes in the initial circulating pressure “ICP” are:
1. Using 3/4 the pump strokes to displace the drill pipe.
2. Adjusting the ICP for the actual mud density in the pits.
While it appears complicated, the method illustrated in this problem takes the least amount of
time. It therefore reduces the potential for all the problems with the hole and drilling rig that come
with increased elapsed time.
This is a typical oilfield situation about which there seems to be much confusion. But if the choke
operator follows simple rules the kick can be killed successfully.
Supervision is important - never let up when there is a well kick.
Table of contents
Section 6:........................................................................................................................................................ 1
Analysis chart keeps mud weight on track ..................................................................................................... 1
General ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
Problem 6-0 .................................................................................................................................................... 4
Problem 6-1 ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 6-2 ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Problem 6-3 ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 6-4 ................................................................................................................................................ 6
Problem 6-5 ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 6-6 ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Problem 6-7 ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 6-8 ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Problem 6-9 ................................................................................................................................................ 9
6.2 Answers.................................................................................................................................................. 10

SECTION 6
Figure 1: Well control worksheet

SECTION 6
Problem 6-0
The well was shut in after an increase in
pit volume of 50 bbl (8 m³). 2000 2000
1280 6.0
The well plan states that you will start
1000 1000
circulating immediately and at the same
3000 3000
time start increasing the mud density.
500
Trip margin (or safety margin) to be 0
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
used was given on the well plan as
0.3ppg (0.4 SG, 2 lb/ft3).
30
20 40
Fill out the blowout control sheet using Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 0 min
mud density on the graph.
0000
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Depth = 3048 m (10000 ft)

Casing = 9 5/8" at 2987 m (9800 ft)
Hole size = 8.5"
Drill pipe = 4.5"
Mud density = 13.0ppg (1.560 SG, 97 lb/ft3)
Surface-to-bit = 1400 pump strokes
Displace annulus = 3100 pump strokes
System pressure loss @ 38spm = 85 kg/cm2 (1200 psi)
Pumps run evenly at 38spm.

SECTION 6
Problem 6-1
The choke is opened and the pump has
started.
2000 2000
The derrick man is mixing barite and the 1070

1280 6.1
tool pusher has to go answer the radio. 1000 1000
3000 3000

30
40

Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 6-2
Everything is going smooth.
1700
The derrickman says that a mud density of 2000 2000
13.1ppg (1.575 SG, 98 lb/ft3) has been 1210 6.2

1000 1000
going in the hole since you started the
3000 3000
pump.
0 0
What should you do:

30
40
0 hr, 6 min
Elapsed time

SECTION 6
Problem 6-3
The drilling superintendent is calling.
Every time the derrickman informed you of 1630
2000 2000
the newer mud densities you faithfully 1280 6.3
added 1400 to the number of strokes 1000 1000
displayed on the pump stroke counter, and 3000 3000
recorded same on the work sheet because

0 0
the rules said to do it. Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
You wish everyone would shut up and let

you think. 20
30
40
Pump Rate SPM
What should you do: 0 hr, 34 min

1240
1 Increase choke size? Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 6-4
The derrickman calls and says the mud
density is 14.3ppg (1.715 SG, 107 lb/ft3).
1420 2000 2000
You have been watching your graph and 1280 6.4
keeping a general track of time. 1000 1000
You recheck - are you correct? 3000 3000
0 0
What should you do:
20 40
Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 46 min
Elapsed time

SECTION 6
Problem 6-5
You are taking a break and drinking tea.
Someone yells and says that the pits are 2060
2000 2000
starting to overflow. 1210 6.5
The derrickman is banging on the bulk 1000 1000
hopper. 3000 3000
The horn on the radio is blowing. 0 0

The driller wants to turn the water on the
engine exhausts because there is gas
30
under the floor. 20 40
Pump Rate SPM

2 6 00
1 Increase choke size? Pump strokes
Elapsed time

Problem 6-6
The pit volume is going down.
The casing pressure is going down. 2000
1420 2000
1320 6.6
Did we lose returns?
1000 1000
There is lots of gas at the choke and 3000 3000
separator.
0 0
What should you do:

30
40

290 0
4 Decrease pump rate? Elapsed time
Pump strokes

SECTION 6
Problem 6-7
Choking fine, drinking tea, small amount of
gas through separator.
2000 2000
1320
Mud density in suction pit has stayed at 6.7
14.3ppg (1.715 SG, 107 lb/ft3). 1000 1000
3000
Why has casing pressure not gone to zero? 3000
0 0
280
What should you do:
30
40

Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 6-8
You let a worm engineer take over the
controls so you could go to a safe place
2000 2000
and smoke a cigarette. 6.8
That took 5 minutes. 1000 1000
3000
Mud density going in the hole is still 710
3000
14.3ppg (1.715 SG, 107 lb/ft3). 0 0

Look what has happened. 0
You find out as soon as you left, casing 30
pressure was allowed to go to zero. 20 40
There is some gas at the choke and pit Pump Rate SPM
volume has stopped going down and has 1 hr, 36 min

3600
started to increase. Elapsed time
Pump strokes
What should you do:


SECTION 6
Problem 6-9
The boss has been called and told that kick
has been killed.
1320 2000 2000
6.9


20 40
Pump Rate SPM
6 Congratulate yourself on how smart you
2 hr, 0 min
are and go back to drilling. 4500
Elapsed time
Pump strokes

SECTION 6
6.2 Answers
Problem 6-1: Increase the pump rate to 38spm as required on the well program. Notice that you
could kill the well at 1070 psi (75 kg/cm2) and 26 strokes.
Problem 6-2: Everything is OK - continue. Notice that drillpipe pressure is OK while the annulus
pressure has gone down. It is not unusual for the annulus pressure to go down a by a small
amount after the kick gets above the drill collars. Record 1400 strokes under 1.575/13.2.
This is the number of strokes you will see on choke panel when that density mud is at the bit.
Problem 6-3: Decrease choke size. According to your graph the pressure should be about
1690psi (119 kg/cm2). "Everything OK" could be a correct answer because charts and graphs are
difficult to read that accurately.
Problem 6-4: Decrease choke size. Pressure control work sheet shows that at 1690 strokes,
pressure should read 115 kg/cm2 (1635 psi).
If "The Man" will stop calling you on the radio, you will be okay.
The derrickman has been able to call you on each increase in density and you have faithfully
been recording it on work sheet.
Problem 6-5: Increase the pump rate. You must keep pump strokes constant (or make
corrections for pump rate vs. pressure). Keep your cool! The radio will wait. The engine
exhausts should have had water in them long ago. Drillpipe pressure should be about 100kg/cm2
(1440psi) when the pump rate is 38spm.
Problem 6-6: Everything is OK - continue. Constant pump pressure and rate. Casing pressure
decrease is normal. Mud replaced the gas in the hole so the pit volume goes back down.
"Decrease the choke size" could be the correct answer because we have not quite reached the
3100 strokes. Under actual field conditions no changes would be made.
Problem 6-7: Everything is OK - continue. The formation is still exerting pressure above the
hydrostatic head. Notice that it will take about 4500 pump strokes to totally displace the hole.
2
Problem 6-8: Decrease choke size. The drillpipe pressure should go up to 1320 psi (93 kg/cm ).
You have let another gas bubble into the well.
Problem 6-9: Everything is OK - continue. "Congratulate yourself on how smart you are and go
back to drilling" is not correct. See problem and answer 6-8.

Section 7:
Second kick occurrence without drilling more hole

SECTION 7
General
This section is a continuation of Problem 6. The well was killed, but because supervision was
relaxed, another gas bubble was let into the bottom of the hole. The second gas kick arrives at
the surface to find everyone unprepared, and unloads the hole.
Table of contents
Section 7:.........................................................................................................................................................1
Second kick occurrence without drilling more hole........................................................................................1
General ........................................................................................................................................................2
Key points....................................................................................................................................................3
Problem 7-0 .....................................................................................................................................................3
Problem facts:..............................................................................................................................................3
Problem 7-1 .................................................................................................................................................4
Problem 7-2 .................................................................................................................................................4
Problem 7-3 .................................................................................................................................................5
Problem 7-4 .................................................................................................................................................5
Problem 7-5 .................................................................................................................................................6
Problem 7-6 .................................................................................................................................................6
Problem 7-7 .................................................................................................................................................7
Problem 7-8 .................................................................................................................................................7
Problem 7-9 .................................................................................................................................................8
Problem 7-10 ...............................................................................................................................................8
7.2 Answers.....................................................................................................................................................9
SECTION 7
Key points
When gas from a well gets to the surface before the well is shut in, very high casing pressures
can be expected.
It is also not uncommon for the drillpipe pressure to be high because some of the mud has
fallen out of it.
In the rules for pressure control, it was explained that if the drillpipe pressure did not seem
correct, open the choke a bit and pump into the drill pipe for several minutes. Then shut the
pump off and close the choke.
If the SIDPP is less than before you pumped, the drill pipe was partly empty of mud. It must be
filled before you will get correct values.
Problem 7-0
Problem facts: 1430 2000 2000
You are circulating and conditioning mud 7.0

1000
from problem 6. 1000
3000 3000
You have turned off the flowline sensor 3550
and pit volume sensor alarms because 0 0
they keep blowing.
The mud shoots up on the floor with a 30
roar, and the flow line blows off. 20 40
You shut the well in while it still is kicking. Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 5 min
The drillpipe pressure bothers you 0000
because you just killed a kick, but you Pump strokes
Elapsed time
haven't drilled any more hole.

What has happened?
SECTION 7
Problem 7-1
Before you do anything else, you decide to
check on the drillpipe pressure because it
2000 2000
doesn't seem right that you should have to 7.1
increase the mud density by 1.7ppg (0.204 1000 1000
SG, 13 lb/ft3). 3000 3000
You open the choke just a little and pump 3700

0 0
for 252 strokes. 100 Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure
They you shut the pump off and close the

choke. 20
30
40
What has happened? Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 10 min
0252
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 7-2
You got in trouble in Problem 6 for not
paying attention, so you are going to try
once more to see if the drillpipe pressure will
go to 0.
2000 2000
You open the choke a little and pump 18 7.2
strokes then turn the pump off and close the 1000 1000
choke. 3000 3000
The casing pressure is still going up. 0 3800

0
Now what is the situation? 0

30
20 40
What should you do:
1 Start the pump and hold casing pressure Pump Rate SPM
o hr, 15 min
constant?
027 0
2 Pump at 38spm and 1320 psi (93 kg/cm2) Pump strokes
Elapsed time
(the same as before this kick occurred)?

3 Increase the mud density to 15.7ppg
(1.884 SG, 117 lb/ft3)?
4 Wait on orders?
SECTION 7
Problem 7-3
Now what is wrong?
The casing pressure is going out of sight. 2000 2000
1320
Should you open the choke more? 7.3
1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
4000
20 40

Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 29 min
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 7-4
The casing pressure is still going up.
Should you slow the pump?
2000 2000
1320
7.4
3000


20 40
0 hr, 50 min
1448
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 7
Problem 7-5
Now things are a little confusing.
Everything is going down. You need to
2000 2000
increase or decrease something. On top of 1120
7.5
that, the pits are running over and there is 1000 1000
mud all over the location. 3000 3000
0 0
What should you do: Drill pipe pressure
4200
Casing pressure

30
40

Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 7-6
The derrickman says that the pits have
stopped running over, but there is no mud
1500 2000 2000
coming out of the separator - just gas. 7.6
3700
30
40
Pump Rate SPM
2119
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 7
Problem 7-7
The derrickman says that you are out of
mud in the pits. 1600
2000 2000
1320
Have you lost circulation? 7.7
1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40

3568
Pump strokes
Problem 7-8
You have mixed 300 bbl (48 m3) of mud
with a density of 14.3ppg (1.714 SG, 107
lb/ft3) and started circulating again.
2000 2000
1320
1200
7.8
The derrickman says that the mud level in 1000 1000
the pits is going down and no mud is 3000 3000
coming out of the choke/separator line.

0 0
What should you do:

30
2 hr, 55 min
Elapsed time
SECTION 7
Problem 7-9
The pits are still going down and so is
everything else. 2000 2000
7.9
1000 1000

0 0
2 Decrease choke size? Drill pipe pressure
100
Casing pressure

30
4 Decrease pump rate? 20 40
3 hr, 15 min
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 7-10
You have been pumping long enough to get
all the gas out of the hole.
The mud coming from the separator line is 1500 2000 2000
not gas cut. 7.10

1000 1000
What is wrong?
3000 3000
The annulus pressure is still not O.
0 0
180
What should you do:
30
40

5800
Elapsed time
SECTION 7
7.2 Answers
Problem 7-0: In the previous problem you were not paying attention and let another bubble in the
hole - a second kick. Now you have circulated it up to the surface and it unloaded the mud in the
hole.
Problem 7-1: The drill pipe is starting to fill up. Now you know that you probably don't have to
increase the mud density.
Problem 7-2: Pump at 38 spm and 1320 psi (93 kg/cm2). This was the FCP from the last
problem. This is the circulation pressure at 38 spm that you would have if the hole was full of
mud at 14.3 ppg (1.713 SG, 107 lb/ft3).
Problem 7-3: Everything is OK - continue. You let a lot of gas in the hole when it unloaded at the
surface. The casing pressure will get very high. Remember however, casing was set at 9800 ft
(2987 m) so the pressure below the casing is showing very little change.
Problem 7-4: Everything is OK - continue. You have a lot of gas in the hole - about 300 bbl (48
m3). Stay with it!
Problem 7-5: Increase the pump rate - you can only solve one problem at a time. Pump rate
must be constant.
Problem 7-6: Increase the choke size. No matter what happens you have to follow the basic
rules - constant pump strokes and constant drillpipe pressure.
Problem 7-7: Stop the pump and close the well in. You don't have any choice. If you are out of
mud you must mix more. With a large kick, the gas displaces so much mud out of the hole that
the pits will run over and often there will not be enough mud left to fill the hole again.
Problem 7-8: Everything is OK - continue. You still don't have all the gas out of the hole and
mud is still being pumped into the hole to replace the gas.
Problem 7-9: Increase the pump rate. Keep pump strokes and drillpipe pressure constant.
Problem 7-10: Increase the choke size. You are causing the annulus pressure by too small a
choke size.
Section 8:
Time is the enemy killing deep wells

SECTION 8
Time is the enemy in killing deep wells
General
This section illustrates the problems that occur during a well kick in a very deep well. Usually the
major difficulty is that it takes so long to kill the well and displace the mud that either someone
gets bored and does not pay attention, or some of the machinery breaks down.
Table of contents
Section 8:.........................................................................................................................................................1
Time is the enemy killing deep wells ..............................................................................................................1
General ........................................................................................................................................................2
Key points....................................................................................................................................................3
Problem 8-0 .....................................................................................................................................................5
Problem facts:..............................................................................................................................................5
Problem 8-1 .................................................................................................................................................6
Problem 8-2 .................................................................................................................................................6
Problem 8-3 .................................................................................................................................................7
Problem 8-4 .................................................................................................................................................7
Problem 8-5 .................................................................................................................................................8
Problem 8-6 .................................................................................................................................................8
Problem 8-7 .................................................................................................................................................9
Problem 8-8 .................................................................................................................................................9
Problem 8-9 ...............................................................................................................................................10
Problem 8-10 .............................................................................................................................................10
Problem 8-11 .............................................................................................................................................11
Problem 8-12 .............................................................................................................................................11
Problem 8-13 .............................................................................................................................................12
8.2 Answers...................................................................................................................................................12
SECTION 8
Key points
Annular pressure loss is a big factor in the deep well and can cause lost circulation if it is not
recognized.
The pressures at the surface get very high with slim holes. In this problem a triplex pump
capable of handling 4000 psi (280 kg/cm2) was specified. If a duplex rig pump was used, the
pump rate would have had to be reduced to 18 spm during the initial phases of the kill
procedures.
When in doubt, or if there are mechanical troubles, the well should be shut in until the problems
can be resolved.
SECTION 8
SECTION 8
Problem 8-0
Problem facts:
While drilling at 25000ft (7620 m) a
gain in pit volume of 15bbl (2.4 m3) 2000 2000
was noticed. 2600 8.0
1000
The well was closed in. 1000
2750
3000 3000
Do you know how to check to see if
the drillpipe pressure is correct? 0 0
Mud density = 13ppg (1.56 SG, 97 30
lb/ft3)
20 40
Pump Rate SPM

Casing = 7" at 22000ft (6705m)
0 hr, 5 min
System pressure loss at 30spm = 0000
1100psi (77 kg/cm2) Pump strokes

Elapsed time
Annular pressure drop at 30 spm =

400psi (26 kg/cm2)
There are 1500bbl (238m3) of mud in the standby tanks with a density of 15ppg (1.8SG,
112lb/ft3).
The pump is rated at 4000psi (280kg/cm2).
It requires 3550 strokes to displace the tapered string of drill pipe.
Fill out the pressure control work sheet.
Do not add a safety margin (trip margin) to the mud weight required.
SECTION 8
Problem 8-1
As you start the pump you notice that at
about 25spm, the annulus pressure is the
2000 2000
same as when shut in and the drillpipe 8.1
pressure is the proper value. 1000 1000
2750
You were planning to circulate at 30spm! 3000 3000
0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 6 min
Elapsed time
Problem 8-2
After a few minutes you notice that casing
pressure is 2350psi (165 kg/cm2). 2350
2000 2000
Why should the casing pressure come 8.2

down 400psi (28 kg/cm2) all of a sudden? 1000 1000
3000 3000

3700
30
40

Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 8
Problem 8-3
We are ready to switch the suction and start
the heavy mud down the drill pipe. The 2350
2000 2000
driller wants to know if he should 8.3
reciprocate the pipe. 1000 1000
You tell him ........ ! 3000 3000
0 0
What should you know: 3700
1 What is mud density? 30

20 40
2 Number of pump strokes to displace drill
pipe? Pump Rate SPM
0 hr, 8 min
3 Drill pipe pressure reduction schedule? 009 0
Elapsed time
4 Final circulating pressure? Pump strokes
Problem 8-4
After pumping 278bbls (44 m3) of 15ppg
(1.8 SG, 112 lb/cu ft) mud down the drill 2000 2250
2000 2000
pipe you see these pressures. 8.4
1000 1000
3000

30
40

Pump Rate SPM
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 8
Problem 8-5
Everything is going wrong.
2300
You have been closing the choke, but it 2000 2000
does not seem to raise the drillpipe 8.5

pressure. 1000 1000
1000 3000
On top of that, the kelly/top drive hose is 3000
trying to jump out of the derrick. 0 0


20 40
Pump Rate SPM
1 hr, 55 min
Elapsed time
Problem 8-6
You want to circulate with the #2 pump
while they repair the #1 pump. 2250
1500 2000 2000
It is not the same size as the #1 pump. 8.6
1000 1000
At 34spm you have this condition.
3000 3000

Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40

3350
5 Everything is OK-continue? Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 8
Problem 8-7
Everything was going OK.
1800
Then the pressures started to go down. 2000 2000
Have you lost circulation? 1170 8.7

1000 1000
3000 3000
What should you do:
Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure

30
40
5 Everything is OK-continue? 2 hr, 8 min

36 0 0
Pump strokes
Problem 8-8
You changed back to #1 pump.
2250
From your chart you expect the circulating 2000 2000
pressure to be 1270 psi (89 kg/cm2).

1270
8.8
1000 1000
If you shut the well in (Answer 6), what
3000
would you expect the shut in drillpipe 3000
pressure to be? 0 0

20 40
Pump Rate SPM
2 hr, 16 min
Elapsed time
4 Decrease the pump rate? Pump strokes
SECTION 8
Problem 8-9
The casing pressure is still going down.
Why? It looks like the casing pressure 1675
2000 2000
1270
should be down to 0 after 4 hours. 8.9
Why is it taking so long to kill the well? 1000 1000
3000 3000

30
40

Pump Rate SPM
5 Everything is OK-continue? 7200
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 8-10
You have pumped 840bbls (134m3). 2300
pump strokes more, but the casing
pressure only drops to 450psi (32 kg/cm2).
2000 2000
1270
8.10
The pit volume is remaining constant. 1000 1000
3000
What is wrong? 3000
0 450 0
What should you do:
30
40

Pump Rate SPM
3 Increase the pump rate? 5 hr, 30 min
4 Decrease the pump rate? 9540
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
SECTION 8
Problem 8-11
You see salt water at the separator line.
Is it time to do something else? 2000 2000
1270 8.11
1000 1000
What should you do? 3000 3000

0 0
2 Decrease choke size? Drill pipe pressure
250
Casing pressure

30
5 Everything is OK-continue? Pump Rate SPM
10400
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
Problem 8-12
The derrickman tells you that the mud
density at the suction is 15ppg (1.8 SG,
112 lb/ft3), and 13ppg (1.56 SG, 97 lb/ft3) at
2000 2000
1270
8.12
the separator. 1000 1000
3000 3000
The gland packing is leaking on a pump 0 0

rod. Drill pipe pressure
0
Casing pressure
Is it OK to shut down for about 15 min to fix

30
this leak? 20 40
Pump Rate SPM

12 4 6 3
1 Increase choke size? Pump strokes
Elapsed time

5 Continue circulating?
SECTION 8
Problem 8-13
Heavy mud is now returning at the flow line.
What do you do next? 2000 2000
1270
8.13
1000 1000

0 0
0
30
5 Everything is OK-continue? Pump Rate SPM
14 3 0 0
Elapsed time
Pump strokes
8.2 Answers
Problem 8-0: If you are in doubt about the drillpipe pressure, open the choke slightly and pump
for several minutes. Then turn off the pump and close the choke. The shut in drillpipe pressure
will be the same as before if the original pressure was OK.
Problem 8-1: Increase the choke size and increase the pump rate. Stay with your original plan
once you start to kill a well unless there is some compelling reason to change.
Problem 8-2: Everything is OK - continue. In this case you are seeing the effect of the annular
pressure drop or circulating density on the casing pressure. It is 400psi (28 kg/cm2) in this deep,
slim hole.
Problem 8-3: The casing pressure is too high to risk reciprocating the drill pipe. Also it will take a
long time to kill this kick and if you reciprocated the pipe with these kinds of pressures for a long
period you are very likely to have trouble.
You should be aware of the following numbers so that you will not get confused or lost during the
operation:
1 Mud density in the reserve tank is 15ppg (1.8 SG, 112lb/ft3).
2 Pump strokes to displace the drill pipe is 3550.
3 Drill-pipe reduction schedule on Figure 8-1.
4 Final circulating pressure = 1270psi (89 kg/cm2)
Problem 8-4: Increase choke size. The drillpipe pressure is not following the chart. It should be
about 1500psi (105 kg/cm2). At this time the top of the kick has been pumped up to about
12700ft (3870m).
Casing pressure decline is caused by a shortening of the annular column of intruding fluid as it
gets into a larger part of the hole, or lost returns. Check the pit volume to see if it is going down.
This would indicate lost returns.
Problem 8-5: Stop the pump and close the well in. You can shut any time you have a problem.
These conditions with a jumping kelly/top drive hose are sign of a pump problem; probably a bad
valve.
SECTION 8
Problem 8-6: Everything is OK - continue. Now switch back to the graph of drillpipe pressure,
but keep the pump at 34spm. The graph is not accurate now because the pump size is changed,
but it is all we have to work with. Switch back to the #1 pump as soon as practical. Notice that
the casing pressure from 8-4 (before the pump problem) was used to establish a new circulating
pressure at a new pump rate.
Problem 8-7: Increase the pump rate. Using the #2 pump, you must maintain 34spm. In this
case, no one closed the choke when the pump slowed so drillpipe pressure as well as casing
went down.
Problem 8-8: Everything is OK - continue. If you stopped the pump and closed the well in at this
point, the drillpipe pressure would be 0 because the drill pipe is now full of 15ppg (1.80 SG, 112
3
lb/ft ) mud that is heavy enough to dominate the reservoir. Shut in casing pressure (SICP) would
be 2250 + 400 = 2650psi (158 + 28 = 186 kg/cm2). This is the effect of the annular pressure
drop in a deep, slim hole. This is normally not too noticeable in a larger hole at shallower depth.
Problem 8-9: Everything is OK. This is a deep hole and takes a long time to circulate out.
Check the pits! If the mud level is holding up, you have a saltwater kick. If you are losing mud
volume you have lost circulation.
Problem 8-10: Everything is OK - continue. You have a saltwater flow. That is why the casing
pressure is not changing very much. If there was a gas kick, the casing pressure would have
changed a great deal more. This is a deep hole and it takes a long time circulate.
3
Problem 8-11: Everything is OK - continue. You should have only 15bbls (2.4 m ) of salt water to
contend with. Dump the salt water and continue circulating. The top of the heavy mud is now at
6300ft (1920m). Don't give up - keep circulating.
Problem 8-12: Continue circulating. You still have 3000ft (914 m) of light mud in the annulus.
Or: Stop the pump and close the well in. Then fix the pump if you think it is important.
Problem 8-13: Now you must add the trip margin to the mud density. It calculates to be 0.3ppg
(0.04 SG, 2 lb/ft3). Do you know how this number was obtained? You can either: Stop the pump
and close the well in, then raise the mud density in the pits, Or: Continue-everything is OK - and
increase the mud density while circulating.
In any case, the mud density must be increased so that the mud column exerts an additional
400psi (28 kg/cm2).

Kingdom Drilling Well Control Problems

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Kingdom Drilling Well Control Problems

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Section 1:

Key rules highlight common well control problems

In-depth training and on-site practice are essential.

Well bore pressure management rules contents

Section 2: Driller's Method

Section 3: Don't rule out pump troubles during a kick

Section 4: Graphical method plots pump strokes

Section 5: A Kick can be handled without pre-recorded data

Section 6: Analysis chart keeps track of mud weight

Section 7: Second kick can occur without drilling more hole

Section 8: Time is the enemy when drilling deep wells

Section 9: Records are important when killing deep wells

Section 10: Kill offshore kicks quickly

Section 11: Killing a kick from a Floating Rig

Section 12: Kick In deep water looks different

Section 13: Handling lost circulation requires judgement

Section 14: Checklist of kills is a good troubleshooting guide

Section 1: Key rules highlight common well control problems

1.1 RULE 1: Shut in the well kick as soon as possible

1.2 RULE 2: Determine the shut in drillpipe pressure

Pres = (MW x D) + SIDPP

Then mud density increase is:

1.3 RULE 3: Circulate using the choke

1. The excess of reservoir pressure over mud pressure (SIDPP)

System Ploss + SIDPP = ICP

1.4 RULE 4: Reduce pump rate

1.5 RULE 5: Increase mud density

1.6 RULE 6: Constant casing pressure

1.7 RULE 7: Maintain a margin value

-Margin = minimum safety factor for coming out of the hole

1.8: Problem series

Pit volume increases will be given as bbls (m3).

1.10 The first problem

Now calculate the initial circulating pressure 0

Problem 1-1 2000 2000

What should you do? 0

1 Increase choke size? 20

2 Decrease choke size?

4 Decrease the pump rate? 0hr, 1 min

6 Stop the pump and close the well in?

Problem 1-2 1450 2000 2000

What do you think has happened? 0

What should you do? 30

3 Increase the pump rate? 0 hr, 5 min

Pump strokes Elapsed time

What should you do:

2 Decrease choke size? 3000

3 Increase the pump rate? 0 0

4 Decrease the pump rate? Drill pipe pressure Casing pressure

Pump Rate SPM

What should you do: 1.4

2 Decrease choke size? 0

and casing pressure: 3000

2 Decrease choke size?

4 Decrease the pump rate? Pump Rate SPM

Problem 1-6 1340 2000 2000

5 Everything is OK - continue? 1 hr, 6 min

Pump strokes Elapsed time

Problem 1-7 1800

Drillpipe pressure and casing pressure are both 1260 1.7

What should you do: 3000 3000

1 Increase choke size? 0 0