StatoilHydro sticks with MPD technology for future Kvitebjorn

The field has pressure of 770 bars (11,200 psi) and 150 C (300 ), and simultaneous drilling and production were planned. StatoilHydro’s stragety was to combine several technologies:

• MPD to provide control of the induced downhole pressure profile;
• National Oilwell Varco’s Continuous Circulation System (CCS) to maintain a constant equivalent circulating density throughout;
• Balanced Mud Pill (BMOPa to rbing the well to overbalance for BHA handling and for reduced ECD compared to displaying a heavy mud at TD;
• Fracture Gradient Enhancement to increase the drilling window.

The paper will be more fully presented in a future edition of DC.

This animation details corrective action during a twist-off incident.

Photos and animations courtesy of StatoilHydro.