SMART Kick Detection; First Step on the Well Control Automation Journey

Abstract

Abstract In 2010, based on the safety performance results achieved through the automation revolution in its oil & gas downstream business, an operator set out to initiate the same revolution in its upstream business. Automating the initial well control response to an influx was identified as the initial focus area with the goal of assisting rig personnel to identify and stop any influx without delay. This led to a well control automation collaboration project being initiated between an operator, a rig contractor and a rig equipment supplier. The first phase of the project was to develop a system that could detect an influx across a broad spectrum of well construction related rig operations. This paper describes the development, deployment, and field testing of the first upgraded kick detection system from this collaboration. To understand where to focus the kick detection system upgrade efforts, a fault tree style sensitivity analysis of kick detection and well shut-in procedures was undertaken. The results pointed to the high value of improved sensor data (both accuracy and reliability) and of improved detection software for alarming (both in terms of coverage and how the driller is alerted to respond to a confirmed kick condition). Based on this sensitivity analysis, a kick detection system upgrade functional specification was created and used to develop a trial upgrade plan for a deepwater rig. Initial implementation operational performance results are presented to demonstrate that most of the kick detection system upgrade objectives were achieved. Operational feedback from using the upgraded kick detection system is included which highlights the new, “SMART”, features that were designed to provide easily understood alerts to the driller; including unique pop-up kick alarm windows for drilling or circulating, making a connection, and tripping in or out.