Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Subsurface Pressures in Drilling

• Understand the significance of subsurface pressure prediction in drilling operations.
• Differentiate between key pressure types:

2. Pore Pressure Prediction Techniques

• Learn the geological and geophysical factors influencing pore pressure.
• Utilize traditional and modern methods for pore pressure estimation, including:
• Interpret drilling data such as mud logging, cuttings, and gas shows for pressure detection.

3. Fracture Gradient and Wellbore Stability Analysis

• Understand the mechanics of rock stress and its influence on drilling.
• Predict fracture pressure using:
• Develop safe mud weight windows for wellbore stability.

4. Real-Time Pressure Monitoring and Detection

• Identify warning signs of abnormal pressure conditions such as kicks and lost circulation.
• Use Measurement While Drilling (MWD) and Logging While Drilling (LWD) tools for real-time pressure monitoring.
• Apply wellsite pressure surveillance techniques using mud weight, gas readings, and torque and drag analysis.

5. Well Control and Blowout Prevention

• Understand the causes and consequences of kicks and blowouts.
• Implement best practices for kick detection and mitigation.
• Apply well control methods including:

6. Drilling Fluid Selection and Pressure Management

• Choose appropriate mud types to balance subsurface pressures.
• Adjust mud weight, viscosity, and rheology to control pressure variations.
• Use managed pressure drilling (MPD) and underbalanced drilling (UBD) techniques for pressure control.

7. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world case studies of pressure-related well failures.
• Work on practical problem-solving exercises for pore pressure and fracture gradient prediction.
• Develop strategies for mitigating subsurface pressure risks in drilling projects.

Target Audience

• Drilling engineers and supervisors
• Wellsite geologists and mud loggers
• Petroleum and reservoir engineers
• Rig personnel and drilling operators
• Safety and well control specialists