Enhancing Safety in Drilling Operations

This case study highlights the collaboration between AkerBP, a leading oil and gas company, and 4Subsea, a provider of advanced digital monitoring solutions and analytics, to address and overcome a critical washout incident during the drilling of a satellite production well. Engineering expertise was instrumental in interpreting the collected data, conducting detailed simulations, and formulating precise mitigating actions.

Challenges

Three days into the drilling of a satellite production well, AkerBP encountered an unexpected washout incident that posed significant risks. The Blowout Preventer (BOP) exhibited alarming movements, and the erosion of soil support in the upper soil layers led to the exposure of critical points on the conductor to intense loads. This resulted in a rapid accumulation of fatigue, threatening the well’s structural integrity and safety.

Solution

An elite team from 4Subsea was dedicated to collaborating closely with AkerBP to evaluate the situation and devise effective mitigation strategies. By integrating SWIM™ measurements with detailed local analyses, expert engineers at 4Subsea were able to emulate the well’s in-situ conditions accurately. This approach provided critical insights into the well’s structural integrity and assessed the effectiveness of potential remedial strategies. Utilizing this detailed simulation, we created a ‘window of operations’— a precise framework that guides the execution of drilling activities under current conditions, ensuring both safety and efficiency. These included measures such as gravel dumping and the installation of Wellhead Load Reliefs (WLRs) to stabilize the affected area. The continuous monitoring and simulation efforts facilitated the development of precise operating guidelines and fatigue predictions, crucial for the safe continuation of drilling operations.

Objectives

The primary goals were to assess the structural impact on the well caused by the drilling operations and subsequent washout, verify the effectiveness of initiated actions to mitigate the washout around the conductor, and provide AkerBP with operating guidelines and fatigue predictions to ensure the safe resumption of drilling activities.

Results

Thanks to the strategic collaboration between 4Subsea and AkerBP engineers, as well as the innovative use of SWIM™ measurements and simulations, AkerBP successfully navigated the challenges presented by the washout incident. The company was able to safely complete the drilling operations and commence production through the well, demonstrating resilience and the capacity to maintain operational integrity under adverse conditions.

Conclusion

This case exemplifies the importance of swift, informed response to unforeseen challenges in drilling operations. The collaboration between AkerBP and 4Subsea showcases how advanced digital monitoring and simulation technologies can play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and success of drilling and well intervention operations.