Primary well control is the most important barrier while drilling and completing any wells so it is imperative to ensure that the primary well control is effectively maintained.
When various precautions and procedures have been followed, effective primary well control can be achieved. These procedures can be seen below;
Tripping Procedures
Using a trip sheet (an accurate log), it is possible to maintain tripping both in and out of the well. A trip sheet can help to record the volume of mud that not only enters the well but also that is displaced when tripping. During tripping, the changes in mud volume can be measured using a calibrated trip tank.
For any steel removed, a specific amount of mud is entered into the well when the tripping pipe or drill collars from the hole. To ensure proper well monitoring, tripping may need to be stopped whenever the volume of removed steel significantly outweighs the volume of mud required. After stopping, consideration should also be made towards returning back to bottom in order to condition the mud (and find the cause of the issue). At all times, the drill floor should have the required crossover subs and a full opening safety valve readily available. Continue reading
