Application of The Technique MPD Using Automated Systems for Non-Conventional Wells Drilling with Narrow Operating Window in the Neuquén Basin

Abstract

For many years it has conducting the drilling of unconventional wells looking for optimize the operation looking for reduce risks and operational problems, additionally increasing the staff security in the complex operations of the Neuquén Basin. New technologies applied to extremely demanding scenarios contribute to reach these goals, and the MPD technique together with automated pressure control systems are a sample of these applications.

Despite the remarkable progress in the drilling of unconventional wells, through the application of UBD and MPD techniques it is observed that with the use of manual equipment continue to have operational problems, which are often associated to difficulty to maintain a proper annular pressure profile for a very narrow operating window and complex geology, which in most cases is due to human factors added to operating conditions of the equipment. As a result of this improper handling of the pressure profile while drilling or during the control of an influx, there are problems of severe admissions, collapses, trapping and presence of cross flows, generating excessive NPT and in some cases the loss of the well with the associated costs that this entail.

The content of this document will show the results of the drilling operation of horizontal wells in the Fortin De Piedra field, where is drilling by applying the MPD technique with automated systems and will demonstrate the difference with wells where techniques MPD or UBD were used with manual or semi-Automated equipment.

This article is considered of interest to those involved in drilling wells in shale gas areas with complex geology and narrow operating windows, especially Neuquén Basin, particularly for design and drilling engineers wishing to evaluate other technologies to apply to optimize drilling operations.