Drilling Problems

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DOP 204

Drilling Problems

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 PURPOSE............................................................................................................. 2 1.1 SCOPE............................................................................................................. 2 1.2 RESPONSIBILITIES...................................................................................... 2

3.1 Senior Toolpusher.................................................................................................. 2

4.0 4.1
4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8

DEFINITIONS....................................................................................................2 PROCEDURE.................................................................................................. 2
Drilling Problems....................................................................................................... 2 Lost Circulation......................................................................................................... 5 Drill String Sticking.................................................................................................... 7 Freeing Stuck Pipe.................................................................................................. 12 Bad Weather Operations........................................................................................ 18 Sour Gas Wells....................................................................................................... 22 Shallow Gas............................................................................................................ 25

4.9 4.10

REFERENCES............................................................................................... 29 ENCLOSURES............................................................................................ 29

Rev No 3 4

Date 16.07.97 12.03.99

Prepared by: AMO IMI / LVA

Verified by: WVE ICO

Approved by: QA and Safety Managers AMO AJE / BNO

Reason for Revision As Per Revision Request No. 009 As per Procedural Review Scheme

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The purpose of this procedure is to describe and give guidance on the most common problems that can arise during a Drilling Operation.

2.0

SCOPE
This procedure applies to all of Stena Drillings units.

3.0
3.1

RESPONSIBILITIES
Senior Toolpusher
The Senior Toolpusher is responsible for the implementation of this procedure.

4.0

DEFINITIONS & ABBREVIATIONS

Ref. DOP 208.

5.0
5.1
5.1.1

PROCEDURE
Drilling Problems
Hole Instability Hole problems develop over a period of time and careful observation of certain trends can give advance warning that conditions are deteriorating. Remedial action taken early enough can avoid the drill string becoming stuck and possible loss of the well. The essential parameters to monitor are drag, torque, character of cuttings at shakers and pump pressure/stroke relationships. A record of these parameters is kept on the Drillers drilling parameters log (Ref. DOP 202Section 3 Enclosures).

5.1.2

Drag This should be recorded at each connection. It should also be recorded during each trip so as to be able to compare with drag on previous trip. In directional wells, drag will of course increase with depth and angle but at any given point the drag should remain the same on successive trips.

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5.1.3 Torque

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Changes in this should be compared with drag trends. Fluctuating torque may be the result of formation change but consistent high torque should be viewed with suspicion. 5.1.4 Cavings Changes in shape and character of cuttings at the shakers may be an indication of formation changes and pressure. 5.1.5 Pressure An increase in pump pressure with the same strokes (assuming it is not due to a blocked nozzle) could be due to a bridging formation, balled-up BHA or a simple hole cleaning problem. We shall consider several forms of wellbore instability with indicators and remedial procedures. 5.1.6 Shale Problems Indicators 1. 2. 3. 4. Fill on connections and after trip. Increasing pump pressure. Excessive cavings coming across shaker screens. Torque and drag on connections and trips.

Mechanical Conditions Contributing to Shale Problems (Erosion due to turbulence shown by mixed sizes and shapes of cavings). Pressure differential shown by narrow pointed shale splinters and gas cut mud (gas bearing shales). Pipe whip shown by numerous small mixed shapes of various formation types. Swab/surge pressures shown by large quantities of fill or debris and lost circulation. Chemical conditions/shale hydration. This will result in two distinctly different problems: 1. Swelling/expansion of the clays due to water intake from the drilling mud.

2. Dispersion - the disintegration of a shale body due to water contact. Remedial Procedures 1. Use inhibitive muds to reduce interaction with water phase.

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2. 3. Use chemical additives to help seal fractures.

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Reduce turbulent erosion by changing mud properties or reducing annular velocities.

Pressure differential problems can be solved by raising mud weight to balance formation pressure. Change weight distribution to bring drill pipe into tension to cancel pipe whip. Pull/run pipe more slowly or condition mud to reduce yield point and gel strengths to counter problems due to swab and surge pressures. 5.1.7 Unconsolidated Formations These consist of sands, gravels etc. which are not bound together'. Indicators 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Rough drilling. Fill and excessive torque and drag on connections and trips. Frequent Packing-off and bridges at specific depths. Large amounts of cavings across shakers following trips. Continual re-drilling of footage. Mud losses.

Procedures Increase viscosity and gel strengths to improve hole cleaning and suspension. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. If possible increase mud weight. To control losses use viscous pills with fibrous LCM material. Consider erosion effects and annular velocities in problem zone. Squeeze cement into the zone. Case off the zone.

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5.1.8 Evaporate Deposits

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These are salt formations and may occur as stringers and massive salt sections. Problems associated with evaporate deposits: Excessive washouts may cause: 1. 2. 3. 4. Reduced hole cleaning. Undermining (causing caving in). Chemical contamination of mud due to dissolved salts. Unwanted side-tracking of the hole may occur.

Indicators 1. 2. 3. 4. Increasing chloride concentrations without volume increases. Increasing plastic viscosity and hardness. Decreasing amounts of cuttings T shakers due to a continually enlarging washout. Flocculation of fresh water muds.

Remedial Procedures 1. 2. 3. Convert to an inhibitive mud system, e.g. suitable oil base mud or saturated salt system. Increase the viscosity and gel strengths to improve hole cleaning and suspension. Drill evaporate formations and then case them off.

5.2

Lost Circulation
This is the result of pressure exerted on the formation exceeding the formation pressure and openings in the formation being bigger than the largest particles in the drilling mud. It is important to identify and contain losses as there is always the possibility that a reduction in the mud hydrostatic will allow another formation's fluid to flow into the well. Circulation losses can be considered in the 3 categories below, each in turn showing increasing severity of losses.

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5.2.1 Seepage Losses

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These are continuous and gradual losses which occur in highly permeable formations and the rate of mud loss is dependent upon the degree of permeability. Sands are normally associated with this type of mud loss but it may also be due to pea gravel, shell beds or reef deposits. Remedial Procedures are: Treat system with fine lost circulation materials. Increase mud viscosity. 5.2.2Partial Losses These are severe but not complete loss of returns. They develop slowly and increase with penetration of the loss zone. They are associated with highly porous formations (shell and gravel beds and unconsolidated zones) OR fractured formations. Natural fractures may be indicated when losses occur during or immediately after rough drilling or sudden formation change. Induced fractures are indicated where losses occur while tripping, breaking circulation or raising mud weight. This is caused by exceeding the fracture gradient of exposed formations dynamically (ECD or swab/surge pressures) or statically (mud density). 5.2.3Remedial Procedures Are: Treat mud system with LCM of various sizes and shapes. different sizes and shapes are often quite effective. Mixtures of

When losses are severe, mix a pill containing 30 to 40lbs/bbl of various LCM types, spot this opposite the loss zone, pull back into the casing and wait 6 to 8 hours. Squeeze the zone with a high filtration slurry. When applying a high filtration slurry, squeeze slowly at to 1 bbl / min with pressure not exceeding 50 to 100psi. Final squeeze pressure should not exceed 0.1 psi / ft of depth. 5.2.4Total Loss Of Returns These occur in cavernous and vugular formations and may be accompanied with bit drop in cavernous formations. These losses are usually predictable at certain depths in areas with significant drilling history. Formations which typically exhibit this type of loss are limestone reefs, dolomite and other formations with fissures.

Remedial Procedures Are:

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Drill blind without returns until loss zone can be cased off. This can be dangerous as large cavities may be created or the well may kick with no easy means of control. Cement loss zone with: neat or bentonite cement slurries for densities of 14.5 to 15.5lbs/gall: Squeeze the loss zone with soft plugs, oil-bentonite - cement, oilbentonite (gunk squeeze) slurry. Drill with air, stiff foam or aerated mud. In all cases of lost circulation, it is important to maintain control of the well (Ref. Well Control Manual WCO 200). The above remedial procedures are for guidance only. Listen to the people on the spot, Mud Engineer and Geologist and form a plan of action to deal with the problem. The Mud Engineer has the training for preparing specialist pills so use that knowledge. It is better to avoid lost circulation problems by proper preventative procedures than to cure it after the formation has been broken down. Preventive Measures

Use the minimum mud weight allowable by exposed formation pressures. Plan to set casing at a suitable depth to protect low or sub-normally pressured formations from high mud weights. Minimise swab and surge pressures by proper mud treatment and controlling trip speeds. Minimise pressures when breaking circulation on critical wells. Utilise stand-pipe choke (where fitted) to break circulation with a slow gradual increase in pressure. Upward movement and rotation of the drill string will also help reduce pressures. Minimise annular restrictions by: 1. 2. Using inhibitive muds to prevent balling of bit and drill collars. Control drilling rate to minimise loading of annulus with cuttings.

5.3

Drill String Sticking

The most common causes of sticking problems are: Differential sticking (wall sticking). Key seating. Hole instability. Insufficient hole cleaning and resultant cuttings accumulation.

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Running into a bridge, tight spot or undergauge hole. assembly changes. Junk in the hole or collapsed casing. Plastic salts. Drilling or reaming without the mud pump.

Bottom hole

Most sticking problems develop over a period of time and it is important to observe trends in drag, torque and pump pressure/stroke relationships, (Ref. Section 5.1) to identify and conditions are deteriorating. 5.3.1Differential Sticking This problem is caused by excessive differences between the mud hydrostatic and formation pressures. The pipe is literally pushed against the side of the hole. This condition is usually associated with a thick and spongy wall cake. The symptoms of differential sticking are easily recognised and should not be confused with other types of sticking. These are: Severe overpull each time the pipe is stopped. If the pipe has become stuck whilst stationary and normal circulation is possible without any pressure increase. Factors Affecting Differential Sticking

The following factors affect the possibility of getting wall-stuck. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Permeable zone, with spongy filter cake. Hydrostatic / formation pressure differential. Type and concentration of solids. Lubricating properties of the mud. Collar and pipe size in relation to hole size. Hole deviation.

Precautions Against Getting Wall-Stuck

There are several precautions we can take to minimise the chances of becoming wall-stuck: 1. Keep pipe moving and minimise time spent with pipe stopped against the side of the hole.

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2. 3. 4. 5. 5.3.2

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Keep the mud weight and solids content as low as possible. Reduce the contact area between collars and filter cake by using spiral collars and string stabilisers. Reduce the friction factor with oil, emulsifiers, detergents or lubricants. Control filtration rates to maintain a thin, slice wall-cake.

Key Seating A keyseat is formed over a period of time by the drill pipe wearing into the low side of a dog leg. The large diameter of the drill collars is then unable to pass freely through this point. Indications of a keyseat forming are: Common tight spot on successive trips. Associated with increasing overpull at same spot. Dog legs should be thoroughly reamed as soon as possible after they are formed and found from directional surveys. If this is not fully effective, then consider running a keyseat wiper or string reamer in the drill pipe to wipe the dog leg. The reamer must be larger than the drill pipe tool joint and smaller than the collars. 5.3.3Insufficient Hole Cleaning Indicators of Hole Cleaning Problems If cuttings are not removed from the well, they will settle around the drill string causing the hole to pack off and the string to become stuck. The problem is exacerbated in over-gauge sections where annular velocities are reduced. Cuttings will build up and eventually slump into the hole. High angle wells are more difficult to clean then vertical ones, because of the tendency of drilled solids to fall to the low side of the hole. In a vertical well, provided the circulation rate is higher than the slip velocity of the cuttings, then the hole will be cleaned. In highly deviated wells, the cuttings have only a short distance to fall, before they lie on the low side of the hole. Beds of cuttings will be formed which are not easily removed. Problems can be caused when tripping out of the hole, as the BHA will be pulled into the cuttings beds. The cuttings will be dragged up in front of the top collar or stabiliser until the hole packs off or the pipe is pulled tightly into a plug of cuttings. Indicators Of Hole Cleaning Problems are: 1. 2. Excessive overpull on connections and trips. Reduced overpull when pumping.

5.3.4

3. Excessive fill after trips. Precautions To Minimise Hole Cleaning Problems

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There are several precautions we can take to minimise hole cleaning problems: Do not permit the flow rate to drop below the minimum required to clean the hole. If a mud pump goes down, then stop drilling until it is repaired. Trip back into the shoe if the delay is going to be a long one. Do not drill ahead, expecting to clean the hole at a later stage. It may be too late. Modify viscositys and gel strengths to improve fluid flow properties. Prior to starting a trip, the hole should be circulated until it is as clean as practically possible. A minimum circulating time should be pre-determined, but a trip should not be started if there are still significant quantities of cuttings coming over the shakers at that time. It may be beneficial to rotate and reciprocate the string while circulating in inclined wells as the movement assists hole cleaning by disturbing cuttings beds. There are situations where circulation alone could be maintained for days without the hole being completely cleaned. This may often be the case with cuttings beds or wells with severe over-gauge sections. Special procedures may need to be used. Solutions such as pumping and back-reaming out or the use of under-gauge stabilisers in the drill pipe to disturb cuttings beds have been used with success. 5.3.5Under-Gauge Hole And BHA Changes These will lead to the chances of the string becoming stuck during a trip in the hole. It will suffice to mention appropriate precautions to take to minimise the chances of the string becoming stuck: Always gauge bits and stabilisers before and after every trip. Note and report equipment going under-gauge and replace same as required. Careful examination of torque records may show the point at which the bit gauge became worn. This may enable planning a depth at which to expect under-gauge hole and the need to ream. Extreme caution must be taken when tripping into a hole which is thought to be under-gauge. It is better to err on the safe side and ream than to force the new bit into under-gauge hole and damage it or worse get the string stuck. 5.3.6Junk In The Hole Or Collapsed Casing Junk in the hole will be shown by erratic drag and torque readings. The only course of action is to work the string up and down, rotate if possible and attempt to force the junk clear. Friction reducers probably will not help.

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Collapsed casing will result in sudden resistance, usually spotted on trips out. To free the string, it will be necessary to work it down but the long term solution requires specialist tools. 5.3.7Plastic Salts In this case, formations extrude over time and invade the well bore to stick the pipe. In the case of a well being drilled in a known area, then certain steps can be taken to minimise the problems created by these. Eccentric bits have been used successfully. These bits drill a hole which is greater than its nominal diameter, typically by 1/8. With the larger hole, the salt has to move further, before it stick the pipe. This gives more time to drill the section before a stuck pipe problem will occur. These bits have been used effectively in the Southern North Sea. 5.3.8Staying Out Of Trouble Many instances of stuck pipe could be avoided by paying close attention to changing parameters and observing good drilling practices. Maintaining good communications between Driller, Mud Engineer, Mud Loggers and Geologist will help identify trends and signs of impending problems and their type. Circulate and clean up the hole before tripping out. Be alert when tripping through open hole, the problem formation may be time dependent and so dont assume that since there were no problems on the last trip out that its clear this time. When tripping through tight hole, be patient and steady. Working through a tight spot may be more effective than attempting to jar through. You can jar yourself into trouble more quickly than you can jar yourself out of it. When working through a tight spot, check frequently that the string will go back down. Monitor trip tank to ensure that swabbing is not occurring. It is good practice to keep the overpull used less than the BHA weight. This will ensure that it should always be possible to work the string down. It is possible to make good progress through tight spots by wiping down through the length of a stand occasionally. This may help prevent the build up of cuttings/cavings on the collars and stabilisers. On the first signs of tight hole, the Toolpusher and Operators Drilling Supervisor should be alerted (assuming that they are not already on the rig floor). At any stage, if little progress is being made through the tight spot, then the DDM/Topdrive should be made up and used to pump out, rotate and generally help clear the BHA. If there is swabbing, then it will be necessary to pump out to ensure proper mud displacement for steel removed. Any tight spots and bridges should be reamed carefully on the trip in. Monitor torque and pump pressure closely and ensure string is free to work up. Keep the problem below the bit.

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When reaming sloughing shales, there is the danger of loading the annulas if penetration rates are too high. Consider the need to get the hole clean and if necessary periodically wash back a single or stand to give time to clean the hole. Do not wait until the string is stuck before calculating the maximum overpull. This should be known at all times and a suitable safety margin considered (e.g. 80% of maximum load specified in IADC Manual). When running directional surveys etc. where it is necessary to have the string stopped for an appreciable length of time without circulation, try and position the pipe to be able to move down and dislodge any loose material that may have accumulated above the collars and stabilisers. When circulating, avoid rotating pipe in one place off bottom as this can create a washed-out area in soft formation and it will also increase wear in dog legs leading to keyseats. Try and reciprocate pipe over as great a distance as possible. Varying speeds will help clean up BHAs before trip out of hole.

5.4 Freeing Stuck Pipe

The first actions taken when the drill string becomes stuck have the greatest chances of success. It is important to make the correct response immediately. Points to consider are: If the pipe was moving immediately prior to becoming stuck, always try to move in the opposite direction. Use the jars as soon as possible, jarring in the opposite direction to the pipe movement before becoming stuck (know the maximum limits of the jar in advance). Work pipe to the limits specified by Toolpusher. Make up DDM/Topdrive as soon as possible after initial attempts to jar free. Establish circulation, this will help cool hydraulic jars and maximise working time of same. Working the string with right hand torque will now be possible as well, If differential sticking is suspected and the pipe cannot be pulled free, work in right hand torque and slump the pipe. If the bit is on bottom, continue working the pipe by pulling up to the maximum and by jarring (ensure jar has tripped before pulling above its maximum capacity). Have the chemicals and mud pits ready to make up a pill.

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During the earliest stages of trying to free the pipe, decide what caused it to become stuck. This may well be obvious from the conditions which have existed previously. It is important to take this diagnostic process seriously as an incorrect identification of the problem, lowers the chance of successfully freeing the pipe. The following examples are the types of questions which should be considered before determining a course of action:

Is there a potential well control problem? This could occur if hydrostatic head is reduces to free differentially stuck string, for example. Safety considerations? Equipment available on the rig. Additional equipment/chemicals required? Free point tools, back-off tools. Pipe freeing chemicals. Acids. Any information available from past wells drilled in the field? Formation at stuck point: 1. 2. 3. Sloughing shale. Plastic salt. Limestone or chalk.

5.4.1

General Safety Operations to free stuck pipe will stress equipment with greater and more frequent load cycling than day to day drilling operations. There are several points to consider during these operations: Minimise risk to personnel by keeping rig floor and derrick areas clear. Ensure personnel are properly briefed and if necessary rope off areas and make PA announcements to keep non-essential personnel clear of dangerous areas. Keep personnel required to a minimum. Hoisting equipment, draw-works, blocks, DDM/Topdrive, elevators and drilling line will be subject to above normal stress. Pay particular attention to: 1. 2. Overheating of brakes and build up of cooling water temperatures. Schedule rest breaks as required. Maintain correct adjustment of brakes to compensate for wear and tear.

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3.

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Regular inspection of blocks, DDM/Topdrive, derrick structure and pipehandling equipment of signs of bolts working loose. This can be done during rest periods, (Ref. Manufacturers Operating Manuals). It is recommended that DDM/Topdrive is made up to the string for working right hand torque into the string. This gives the greatest amount of control and flexibility in working the string up and down with torque held in. Where it should be necessary to use slips to turn the pipe, tie the handles to prevent slips being thrown around rig floor area if the string should lift. Ensure that torque has been released from string and string picked up off the slips before sending personnel to pull the slips. In the event of string parting or pulling free and causing blocks/DDM/Topdrive to jump, ensure that crown sheaves are inspected before continuing operations. This is to ensure that drilling line has not jumped off a sheave(s). It is vitally important to inspect the drilling line for damage.

4.

5.

6.

7. 8. 9.

It is safer to slip and cut off the damaged line than to risk a parted line, with its catastrophic consequences. Inspect the drilling line at regular intervals, particularly in the areas of greatest wear. (Ref. Section 1.4). Be alert for any potential well control problems. torque is applied

10. Effects on maximum pull on pipe when simultaneously, (Ref. Formulae Section 8). 5.4.2 Stuck Pipe In Limestone Or Chalk

These formations may be dissolved using an inhibited hydrochloric acid pill spotted around the stuck point. If the pill is going to be successful, then freeing will take place quickly as the formation is dissolved by the acid. The maximum time for a pill to work is 2 hours. Ideally the pill should be spotted with a large water spacer ahead and behind it, as the acid can cause severe mud problems. It is essential to include well control considerations in determining spacer size. It is important to consider the effects of the ac id corroding high strength steels, tubulars should be inspected after the pipe is freed. Safety procedures must be followed when handling acids.

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5.4.3 Plastic Salts

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Stuck pipe in a salt section can usually be freed using a fresh water pill, spotted around the stuck point. The stuck point will usually be in the BHA and typically a fresh water pill, large enough to spot across the BHA with extra volume (approximately 20bbls) left in the string could be pumped. With oil based muds, a spacer should be pumped ahead of the pill containing water and detergent. After the pill is spotted, maximum pull should be kept on the pipe so that it will come free when sufficient salt has dissolved. Periodically pump a couple of barrels to move more fresh water into hole. This should free the pipe within 2 hours. If no success, use a second pill where possible. Well control must be preserved when using unweighted spacers. 5.4.4 Keyseat Stuck Attempt to work the string down, it is probable that the jars may be ineffectual as the string will be stuck above them. This is of course dependent on type and placement of jars. Working in right hand torque and slumping the string may get the string free and then it may be possible to backream and pull the string out past the obstruction. The bowen surface jar is a tool designed to be installed at surface to deliver a heavy downward blow against a stuck string. This tool is unusual in that in order to strike downward blows, the operator pulls upward against the tool. The tripping force of the surface jar is adjustable, but it should be set so that the pull necessary to trip it does not exceed the weight of the drill pipe between the surface and the stuck point. This is necessary to avoid pulling a stuck drill collar further into the keyseat. Failure to free the string may mean that the string will need to be backed above the stuck point. A fishing string with up and down jars, string reamer, drill collars could then be run. Once the fish is engaged, downward jarring with rotation and circulation should free the string and then the reamer could be worked through the keyseat to clear a path to pull the string out of the hole. 5.4.5 Differentially Stuck There are several techniques available to free differentially stuck pipe, these will have a better chance of success with the string in compression. Spot oil containing surfactant around the drill collars, allow this to soak. This works by breaking up the wall cake. Reduce mud hydrostatic by circulating and cutting back system mud weight. Reduce mud hydrostatic using a U-tube method. Release overbalance using a DST packer. 5.4.6Surfactant Pills

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These are made up of oil/diesel mixed with surfactant chemicals (pipe lax and suchlike) spotted around the drill collars to break down the filter cake. Use twice the drill collar annular volume and displace one volume around the collars. Pump 1-2bbls/hr to compensate for migration. Once the pill is in place, the string needs to be worked and it will probably be more effective to work in right hand torque and work the string down in compression. This technique may take up to 8 hours to free the pipe, so be patient. Well control must be maintained at all times. The effects of the unweighted oil pill must be considered. As the sticking problem is due to an excessive overbalance, it will be helpful but caution must be taken to ensure pill volumes are not excessive. 5.4.7 Reducing Hydrostatic

This method is to circulate the mud system while cutting back the mud weight. The minimum mud weight must be predetermined and the well must be monitored closely for flow. This method has several disadvantages: It is slow and the longer pipe is differentially stuck, the greater the chances of it becoming mechanically stuck. It may be difficult to spot a slow influx of formation fluids as the active volume is being increased continuously. Therefore extra caution is required. On floating rigs, depending on water depth and mud weight, the hydrostatic can be reduced quickly and safely be displacing the choke line to base oil or water. The well is then shut in using the annular preventer (minimum operating pressure) and the choke line opened, so reduce the overbalance. Any influx can be easily spotted and the well made safe immediately. The well would be killed by closing the choke line and opening the annular. If the pipe is not freed on the first attempt, then an equivalent mud weight can be calculated from the known, safe hydrostatic. The mud weight can be cut and the process repeated. This can be done until the pipe is free or the minimum hydrostatic reached. 5.4.8DST Packer This method relieves the overbalance immediately and it might be tried after the previous methods have failed. A back-off is made over the stuck point and a packer run with either open ended drill pipe or an overshot below it. Where to set the packer will be determined by the open hole condition above the fish, but it may be necessary to space out and set the packer in the casing. This is a specialised procedure and details would be supplied by the Fishing/Packer Engineer.

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5.4.9Free Point And Back-Off Determining Stuck Point

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When drill strings become stuck and other methods are unable to free them, it becomes necessary to determine the stuck point and then recover the free pipe above that point. This may be to run fishing equipment (washover pipe, jars and accelerators) or to minimise equipment losses before plugging back and side-tracking. There are two methods for estimating the depth at which the string is stuck: 1. 2. Locating the free point with a free point indicating tool run on electric line. Measuring the pipe stretch under tension and calculating the length of free pipe. This method has certain limitations and would not be accurate enough for determining the optimum back-off point. This would be determined using the free point indicating tool.

An example and procedures for this method, (Ref. DOP 205). Running Free Point Indicating Tools (FPIT)

The following below, considers procedures and general guidelines for running Free Point Indicating and String Shot Tools. (FPIT) (Ref. Rig Specific Work MethodsInstruction Manual for more detailed information). Constant communication is required between Driller and Logging Unit. It is recommended that the logging cable is run through the DDM/Topdrive as this offers several distinct advantages and this is the safer method offering fewer hazards to personnel. 1. Internal BOPs are available to shut in the string if it is necessary to close the well in. Ensure that wire cutters are on the rig floor when the logging cable is in the drill string. It is safer (and easier) to work in right hand torque for free point measurements and left hand torque for string back-off than using slips and back-up tongs.

2.

The procedures to run the cable will depend on the situation and equipment at hand, (Ref. Manufacturers Operating Manual for running wirelines through DDM/Topdrives). Should it be necessary to use slips and tongs to work torque into the string, it is recommended to (where possible): 1. 2. Rig up long safety and back-up lines on the tongs to allow high vertical movement. Make sure that tong and slip dies are in good condition. Check that tongs are of correct rating for torques anticipated. Use a joint of HWDP on top of the string, this will resist crushing damage from the back-up tong.

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3.

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Ensure that all personnel involved in working with the slips and tongs are fully briefed of the hazards involved and safety procedures to follow.

The jars must not be tripped whilst the FPIT are in the string. Free point readings are taken at various depths and both tension and torque are applied. The Logging Engineer will specify values of these to be used. A successful back-off depends on three main things: 1. 2. 3. Zero or slightly positive tension at the joint to be backed off. Sufficient left hand torque at the joint. A sufficiently large explosive charge accurately located at the point.

Do not make the back-off in any short subs, crossovers, stabilisers etc. as it may back-off at both connections. Check the torsional limit of the weakest part of the drill string and before applying left hand torque, work right hand torque (approximately 80% of this limit) into the string to ensure it is tightly made up to bottom. Set the neutral point at the back-off point. The required weight indicator reading can be determined when running the FPI tool. Apply left hand torque (approximately 60-80% of torque used to make up the string). It will be necessary to work the torque downhole by reciprocating pipe. It is customary to run the back-off shot only a short distance down the pipe (300400ft say), work in the left hand torque and then run the shot the remaining distance. This is to avoid the logging cable being cut if there is an inadvertent back-off further up the hole. Once the back-off has been successful, the wireline is retrieved. It is important to make sure that the string is moved as much as possible to ensure it does not get stuck again.

5.5

Bad Weather Operations

The decision to suspend operations and wait on weather will be taken by the OIM in consultation with the Senior Toolpusher, Barge Master and Operators Drilling Supervisor. Guidelines for safe operating limits are given in the Vessel Safety Case and respective Rig Specific ProceduresInformation/Procedures Manual. Factors to be considered when deciding to suspend operations are: Are maximum operating limits likely to be expected. Safety of personnel-risk to same when working with large rig movements. This will be the case when pulling out of the hole to get the bit inside the casing.

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Damage to equipment-this might hinder operations and endanger the unit (loss of well control). Weather forecast-is the weather going to get worse? forecast, wind shift and effects on sea state. Likely effects of

Anchor tensions-dependent on location, water depth, but these might be a deciding factor in deciding to unlatch and allow the rig to move off location. Time required-do not leave it too late. Allow plenty of time to pull back inside the casing shoe. A natural tendency for the Driller to pull too quickly plus the effects of large rig heaves may lead to swabbing and a possible kick situation later. 5.5.1Preparations Ensure that correct hang-off assembly is made up and stood back in the derrick before drilling next section. Check the following:

Hanger is correct for wellhead system in use. Load rating of wear bushing is adequate for anticipated hang-off loads (BHA plus drill pipe to suspend bit in casing as close to shoe as possible). Correct space-out between hanger and back-off assembly to allow a set of pipe rams to be closed around the slick joint, and shear rams to be closed above the back-off assembly once disconnected. This must also allow for checking pressure before opening the rams. All dimensions noted in case, it is necessary to fish portions of the assembly due to equipment failure. Threads are cleaned and inspected on back-off sub: usually 63/8 Acme left hand releasing thread with a 4 IF (NC50) box beneath for reengaging the hang-off assembly. Check clearance for pin connection to re-engage the sub. There have been problems due to the retrieving tool landing out on the Acme threads and being unable to make up to the 4 box. If this is a problem, it may be necessary to machine a saver sub to fit. Calculate landing string measurements required to land off and to ensure that hang-off assembly is not inside the BOP when the string is set in the slips. Plan so the DDM/Topdrive is made up to the string and then the Assembly is lowered through the BOP and landed off in one smooth operation. Arrange mud pits to receive riser displacement.

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Check with OIM if stability conditions will allow mud in riser to be displaced into mud pits. 5.5.2Suspending Operations And Hanging-Off

It has been assumed that the bit is on bottom and at the time the rig is drilling ahead when the weather conditions have deteriorated. Circulate to clean the hole if time permits. Pull the bit to the casing shoe PLUS the distance from the rotary table to the wellhead. In situations when the procedures outlined above cannot be followed, pull sufficient pipe so that when the drill string is hung off in the wellhead, the bit will be at least 5 stands off bottom. Pull back one joint and install a back pressure valve with an open kelly cock below it. Run the joint back in the hole. Remove the diverter insert packer. Pick up hang-off assembly and make it up to the string. Lower assembly and set slips below back-off sub. Check that left hand connection is only chain tong tight. Run the hang-off tool to just above the BOP stack. Make up the DDM/Topdrive, open DSC, run and land the string off in the wellhead. Confirm pipe figures and ensure that the tool is landed off in the correct point. Release running string with right hand rotation and pick up at least one single of drill pipe. Close pipe rams as required by BOP configuration, close with low pressure and check fluid volume required is correct, lock rams. Close shear rams with low pressure, and check fluid volume required is correct. Lock rams. Displace mud in the riser with seawater at maximum rate possible. (If not already done whilst running hang-off tool, consideration must be given to loss of hydrostatic pressure if displacing prior to closing the rams). Run and test subsea camera. Pull out and stand back the landing string. De-ballast rig to survival draft, if time permits. Prepare to disconnect at the Lower Marine Riser Package, (LMRP).

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5.5.3Disconnecting Marine Riser Make the following preparations for disconnecting: Install the riser spider on the rotary table. Install the diverter handling tool in the diverter. Close the elevators on the handling tool.

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Disengage the diverter lock down dogs and the diverter housing retainer dogs. Pick up the inner barrel of the slip joint about 0.6m (24). Set the inner barrel back down, keeping the elevators on the handling tool. Two watchmen should be posted at the moonpool. The Driller and one man should remain on the drill floor for continuous watch. Prior to unlatching the LMRP the Subsea Engineer/Driller should calculate the required riser tension necessary to achieve disconnect should that step be necessary. These calculations should be checked by the Toolpusher and Barge Master or OIM. The required tension will be that necessary to obtain pull equivalent to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The buoyant weight of the marine riser. Weight in air of rucker ring and slip joint outer bbl. Additional factor for fluid in riser. The lower marine riser package. Plus sufficient overpull (normally sum total + 25%) so the tensioners will lift the riser clear (e.g. 5m) (16.5ft) off the stack after disconnecting (but not so much as will create such momentum as to cause damage when the tensioners bottom out, although anti-slingshot valves should activate before damage would occur). Use only one or two air bottles on each pair of tensioners when disconnecting. Isolate the others.

6.

Disconnect marine riser.

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5.6 Sour Gas Wells

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General guidance on detection and breathing apparatus are given in the Safety Manual, (Ref. SAF 200), characteristics and hazards are also shown in this section. It is essential when drilling operations are planned in areas where there is the chance of penetrating formations containing sour crude/H 2S that thorough planning is carried out to: Minimise risk of exposure to personnel. Ensure integrity of drill string, casing and BOP equipment. 5.6.1H2S Plans Plans should consider the following elements: Sufficient emergency escape breathing apparatus on the rig for all personnel on board the rig (usually in the cabins). Spare sets to be located at the temporary safe refuge. Sufficient working duration breathing apparatus to be available to permit the well to be made secure in the event of a sudden unexpected release of H 2S.

Recommended minimum quantities: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Drill Floor Control Room Toolpushers Office Operators Office Mud Room Spare 6 units 2 units 2 units 2 units 2 units 4 units

Remote H2S sensors (usually installed and monitored by mudloggers) to be positioned at the following locations: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Beneath rig floor, beside the flowline. On the drill floor, near the rotary table. Shale shaker house (at the return mud flowline and for house in general). Mud room (at the return mud flowline). At air intake to accommodation.

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Audible and visual H2S alarms(Ref. Station Bill).

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Portable H2S detectors are to be issued to personnel routinely working in high risk areas. These should have earphones in high noise areas to ensure that the alarm can be heard. Following personnel should be provided with this equipment as a minimum: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Driller Assistant Driller. Derrickman. Shaker Hand. Mud Engineer. Toolpusher. Operators Drilling Supervisor.

When installing cascade systems, the following points should be considered: Anticipated number of personnel needed in the working areas. Working areas which will need to be accessed by personnel whilst hooked up to the cascade system are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 5.6.2 Drill floor (doghouse, manifolds etc.). Monkeyboard area. Mud room (at pits, mixing areas and pumps). Shaker house. BOP and diverter control units. Control and radio rooms.

H2S Drilling Practices Drilling Fluids The drilling fluid serves as the primary barrier to the effects of H 2S. Maintaining sufficient hydrostatic overbalance will minimise or eliminate ingress of H2S gas. Oil base muds offer the most protection to tubulars and metallic surfaces by coating them with a thin oil film. These muds do not have adverse theological reactions to H2S scavengers.

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Water base muds require considerable treatment for H 2S inhibition and scavenging and unfortunately these treatments have an adverse effect on mud properties. Maintaining the pH above 11.0 with caustic or lime will neutralise the corrosive action of H2S. It is important to neutralise with a suitable scavenger following initial H2S detection. Action To Be Taken If H2S Is Detected

If measurable amounts of H2S are detected while drilling, then the following procedures should be adopted: 1. 2. Driller to pick up off bottom, shut down pumps and secure brake. All personnel in direct of indirect contact with the mud system should stop working and put on breathing apparatus (30 - 60 min duration sets or escape sets hooked up to cascade system). Shut well in at BOP stack by closing upper annular preventer. Space out and land off tool joint on designated pipe rams. Lock rams. Open annular and circulate riser through mud/gas separator until free of H2S gas. Treat mud with H2S scavengers as required. Circulate and condition mud, taking returns through choke to mud/gas separator until free of H2S. Treat mud with H2S scavengers as required. If presence of H2S gas was due to insufficient mud weight, then raise mud weight as required.

3. 4. 5. 6.

5.6.3

General Precautions Conduct H2S drills at frequent intervals to ensure correct crew response. All non-essential personnel are to stay clear of all hazardous areas when carrying out operations where the presence of H2S is possible. It is important that H2S is vented to atmosphere in a safe area or burned off through a flare line. It must not be vented in a confined area. When recovering a core from a zone possibly containing H 2S, all rig floor personnel are to use working breathing apparatus to pull and rack the BHA (when top of core barrel being approximately 1000ft below rotary table). Regular testing for H2S should be carried out on the drill string before this. Only when the core is at surface and has been checked and cleared for H 2S, should breathing apparatus be removed. During drill stem testing of H 2S zones, there can be considerable concentrations of H2S in the produced flow stream. Personnel involved in the operation must wear breathing apparatus at all times and personnel moving from one area to another (e.g. rig floor to test separator area) must be accompanied (work in

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pairs). Only essential personnel should be in the hazardous areas and MUST be wearing suitable breathing apparatus. When pulling tubing from an H2S well, it is important to test the tubing (with sniffer) for H2S. If H2S is present, then a suitable scavenger should be poured into the tubing. Testing and addition of scavengers should only be carried out by personnel wearing appropriate breathing apparatus.

5.7

Shallow Gas
In the context of this section, shallow gas is considered to be gas that is encountered in a well which cannot be closed in, i.e. well shut-in pressures combined with the hydrostatic head of the fluid in the well bore will probably result in formation breakdown and subsequent cratering of the well. If BOP protection and normal well killing procedures can be applied, then the gas is not considered to be shallow gas. Shallow gas is largely a hazard to drilling operations when drilling top hole and setting surface casings before BOPs are installed on the well. The following sections will describe: The Companys philosophy and approach to the problems posed by shallow gas accumulations offshore. Explain the need for adequate and thorough site investigation to identify shallow gas accumulations. Recommended procedures for drilling and casing top hole sections. The Companys approach is to avoid areas containing shallow gas at all times where possible. This approach relies on adequate knowledge of the proposed drilling site being obtained prior to the well being planned. This knowledge will be obtained from two main sources: Data from offset well drilled close to the proposed location. Data obtained from site survey(s) carried out by specialist contractors on the proposed location. This information should be made available by the Operator during precontract or pre-spud meetings to enable potential hazards to be identified and evaluated. The Company considers that riser-less top hole drilling in floating drilling operations is the preferred safe method. The Company recognises that surface diverter equipment is limited in its ability to withstand an erosive shallow gas kick for a prolonged period of time. Surface diverters are seen as a means of buying time to evacuate the drilling site.

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The surveys should also include a review of all documentation and experience gained in the area, such as sub-sea inspection reports from platforms, and end of well reports of nearby wells. MWD (monitor while drilling) tools can be used to supply gamma ray and resistivity measurement information for pore pressure analysis whilst drilling the well. The use of pilot holes (12 or smaller) is recommended in areas where the chances of penetrating a shallow gas accumulation is high and the drill site cannot be relocated. This will reduce the exposure area of the hole to the accumulation and may enhance the chances of a dynamic kill being carried out. 5.7.1Company Philosophy The Companys shallow gas philosophy can be summarised as follows: Avoid shallow gas where possible. Move the drilling site and drill a deviated well if the site survey indicates a possible shallow gas accumulation. Optimise the preliminary site investigation in accordance with UKOOA Guidelines as expressed in the Seabed Survey Sub Committee Technical Report - December 1990. Drill riserless with floating drilling installations until formations are strong enough to allow BOPs to be installed and normal well control techniques can to be established. Surface diverters are seen as a means of buying time to evacuate the drilling site i.e. winching a floating rig off location. In cases where it is deemed necessary to drill using a riser (e.g. mud weight and viscosity is required to maintain the borehole) then a small diameter pilot hole of 12 or less should be drilled to casing point and then opened up to the required diameter. This will limit the potential gas flow in the event that a shallow gas accumulation is penetrated. 5.7.2Shallow Gas Kick Prevention A shallow gas kick may be the result of the following: Drilling into a shallow over-pressured gas zone (Ref: Rig Specific Work Methods, Section 6). Loss of primary well control (Ref. Well Control Manual, WCO 200). Drilling into producing well. Over-pressured shallow gas kicks are difficult to avoid once over-pressured gas zones have been penetrated. The best defence against overpressured gas is to attempt to minimise the risk by adhering to the following practices:

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Select drilling locations on the basis of expert interpretations of shallow geophysical and geological data. Examine offset well information for the area in question which gives useful pointers to shallow gas. Use a floating drilling vessel and drill riserless. To minimise the loss of primary well control, implement stringent top hole drilling practices and procedures (Ref. Section 5.7.4). Penetrating an adjacent well, may be a possible source of a shallow blowout. Producing wells with a collision risk should be closed and plugged in accordance with Company Policy, (Ref. Section 5.11 in DOP 202). A diverter system should always be employed if a collision risk exists, or if there is a chance of penetrating formations which are charged up by leaking or poorly cemented casing strings from nearby wells. 5.7.3Primary Well Control Primary well control as described in the Company Well Control Manual (Ref. WCO 200) is the only means to protect the well from blowing out because secondary well control techniques are not normally applicable in top hole drilling operations. However, due to the shallow depth and weakness of top hole formations, it is impossible to use the normal overbalance of 200 - 400psi. It is therefore most important that strict practices and procedures are followed at all times to maintain primary well control, (Ref. Section 5.7.4). There are four principal causes which may result in or contribute to the loss of primary well control:

Swabbing Failure to fill the hole properly Losses and insufficient mud weight These topics are examined in greater detail in the Company Well Control Manual (Ref. WCO 200). 5.7.4Recommended Drilling Practices

These are applicable to drilling with or without riser. A pilot hole should be drilled in areas with possible shallow gas. This will reduce gas production in the event of a shallow gas kick. Consider using MWD to provide early warning of increasing pore pressure. Restrict the penetration rate. Care should be taken to avoid an excessive build-up of solids in the hole leading to formation breakdown and losses. Restricted drilling will also minimise the penetration into the gas bearing formation which in turn minimises the influx rate.

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Every effort should be made to minimise the possibility of swabbing. Pumping out of the hole at optimum circulating rates is recommended for all upward pipe movements (making connections and tripping). This must be done for wells drilled riserless with returns taken at the seabed as there is not way of monitoring the well state during tripping operations. It is important that the circulation rate is sufficiently high and the pulling speed sufficiently low to ensure that no swabbing takes place, (this pump out tripping operation may be carried out in conjunction with displacing the hole to viscous mud). The use of stabilisers will also increase the risk of swabbing, hence the minimum number of stabilisers should be used. Flowchecks should be made before tripping, after an increase in penetration rate or pit level change is noted. It is recommended to flow check each connection whilst drilling the pilot hole in potential shallow gas areas. Measuring mud weight in and out and checking for seepage losses are all important practices which should be applied continuously. (The ability to monitor various parameters will be dependant upon whether or not riser is being used, without riser the ROV could be used to monitor the hole, its sonar may identify a gas plume). A float valve (NRV) must be installed in all bottom hole assemblies (BHAs) which are used in top hole drilling to prevent uncontrollable flow up the drill string. Large bit nozzles or no nozzles should be used to allow lost circulation material to be pumped through the bit in the event of losses. Shallow kick-offs should be avoided in areas of possible shallow gas. Top hole drilling operations in these areas should be simple and quick to see potential hole problems. Floating drilling installations which have to drill using a riser should run a fill valve on the riser immediately above the wellhead connector as this can be opened in the event of a shallow gas kick to keep the gas wet and minimise the chance of ignition, prevent evacuation and possible collapse of the marine riser. Detailed location specific procedures should be developed for installations drilling in possible shallow gas areas. These procedures should consider: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Monitoring for gas in water around the installation. Releasing and dropping the drilling string. Diverter procedures where applicable. Personnel assigned and trained for moving the installation off location (floating installations). Shutdown procedures for ignition sources.

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6. 7. 8. 9. 5.7.5

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Evacuation procedures for non-essential personnel in the first stages of diverting a well. Closing procedures for water-tight doors and hatches. Training should be carried out for all installation personnel and backed up with drills. Keep to a minimum, the number of personnel on board during this phase.

Emergency Procedures Each installation has Emergency Procedures detailed within the Rig Emergency Preparedness Manual. These procedures should be followed in the event that shallow gas is encountered.

6.0

REFERENCES
None.

7.0

ENCLOSURES
None.

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