Warning Signs of High-Pressure Formations of Abnormal Contour Pressures When Drilling for Oil and Natural Gas

Abstract

When drilling to obtain hydrocarbons (oil and natural gas), we cannot underestimate the anomalously high pressures in the deposit layers, as these pressures can cause an uncontrollable eruption. Therefore, it is important to look for signs of anomalous high contour pressures over time, which, according to a detailed analysis, could be used to predict and quantify high formation pressures. These arise under conditions of intense vertical migration of formation fluids, where the liquids in the well have to carry part of the weight of overlying rocks and are often also related to tectonic activity. The main aim of the present study was to detect the emergence of a gas kick, which, as a result of an improper technological procedure, can cause an uncontrollable eruption, which can lead to a total accident of the well. In this article, we describe the use of modern drilling technology and sophisticated software that displays the current status inside the well. These can reveal impending pressure anomalies that can cause complications in managing the gas kick in oil and natural gas drilling. We analysed the most appropriate procedure for well control in a hydrocarbon well using the “driller’s method” and the “wait and weight method”. On the basis of theoretical background, we verified the correctness of the procedure for well control and compared it with the reaction to gas kick from a well drilled in Hungary. In the article, we highlight mistakes, as well as the particular importance of properly managing gas kick and its early prediction. Proper management of gas kick and its early prediction highlight the particular importance of implementing safe and effective procedures in well drilling.