TAP-582-A Probabilistic Approach to Risk Assessment of Managed Pressure Drilling in Offshore Drilling Applications

Based on studies sponsored by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and Minerals Management Service (MMS) prior to 2008, between 25% to 33% of remaining undeveloped reservoirs were unfavorable using conventional overbalanced drilling methods due in large to the increased likelihood of well control problems such as differential sticking, lost circulation, kicks, and blowouts. The challenge before industry was to develop an efficient method to drill and develop these reservoirs in a manner that is no less safe than current drilling methods. The goal of this study was to study and develop MPD techniques that dynamically control annular pressures to facilitate drilling of what might otherwise be economically unattainable.