COURSE OVERVIEW:

Lost circulation remains the single largest contributor to non-productive time (NPT) and cost overruns in the global drilling industry. This course provides a comprehensive guide to identifying, preventing, and remediating the loss of drilling fluids into the subsurface. Participants will learn how to distinguish between different types of losses—from seepage in permeable sands to total losses in cavernous carbonates—and how to apply the most effective engineering solutions for each scenario.

The scope of this training involves the integration of geomechanics, fluid chemistry, and drilling operations. We will examine the physics of fracture initiation and propagation, and how the management of Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD) is critical for preventing induced losses. The curriculum focuses on both mechanical and chemical solutions, including the design of specialized Lost Circulation Materials (LCM), cement plugs, and wellbore strengthening techniques that allow for drilling through narrow pressure windows.

Coverage includes the evaluation of pre-drill geological risks and the use of real-time monitoring to detect the early signs of a loss event. Participants will explore the decision-making process for selecting the right "pills" and squeeze techniques, as well as the operational procedures for "drilling blind" when necessary. Through this intermediate study, drilling engineers and supervisors will gain the tools to minimize the economic impact of lost circulation and ensure the safe delivery of the well.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Define the primary causes and types of lost circulation in various formations.
2. Differentiate between natural fractures, induced fractures, and matrix permeability.
3. Quantify the economic impact of mud losses on the total well cost.
4. Calculate the maximum safe Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD) for a given formation.
5. Identify the early warning signs of lost circulation using real-time rig data.
6. Select and size Lost Circulation Materials (LCM) for specific loss rates.
7. Design and place effective LCM "pills" and specialized squeeze treatments.
8. Describe the principles and applications of wellbore strengthening.
9. Outline the procedure for setting cement plugs in loss zones.
10. Manage drilling operations in total loss scenarios, including "blind drilling."
11. Implement preventative measures during casing and cementing operations.
12. Use geomechanical data to optimize the casing seat selection.
13. Develop a site-specific Lost Circulation Contingency Plan (LCCP).

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Drilling Engineers, Wellsite Supervisors, Mud Engineers, and Drilling Managers who need to effectively manage and mitigate fluid losses during drilling and cementing.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.