An Analysis of the Design Loads Placed on a Well by a Diverter System
Author:
Beck F. E.1, Langlinais J. P.2, Bourgoyne A. T.2
Affiliation:
1. Nabors Drilling Co., Houston, TX 77067 2. Petroleum Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Louisiana State University, 3304 CEBA, Baton Rouge, LA 70803-6401
Abstract
Diverter systems, used as a means of well control while drilling surface hole, have a history of occasional failure. This paper addresses excessive back pressure, which can result in mechanical failure of surface equipment or foundation collapse. Flows at critical rates are shown both experimentally and theoretically to have a significant effect on back pressure. Critical flow is modeled by quantifying exit pressures and by including fluid acceleration pressure losses in back-pressure calculations. Experiments were then conducted in 1-in., 2-in., and 5-in. pipes to verify these mathematical models. A “systems analysis” approach was used for the diverter design, which allowed for consideration of wellbore and reservoir performance effects. This procedure allows the relationship of diverter vent line diameter, conductor depth, and drilling depth to be better identified, yielding improved design criteria.
Publisher
ASME International
Subject
Geochemistry and Petrology,Mechanical Engineering,Energy Engineering and Power Technology,Fuel Technology,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
Reference8 articles.
1. Beck, F., Langlinais, J., and Bourgoyne, A. T., Jr., 1986, “Experimental and Theoretical Considerations for Diverter Evaluation and Design,” SPE 15111, presented at the California Regional Meeting, SPE, Oakland, CA, April 3-5. 2. Beggs, H. Dale, 1991, Production Optimization Using NODALTM Analysis, OGCI Publications, Tulsa, OK. 3. Bourgoyne, A. T., Jr., et al., 1991, Applied Drilling Engineering, SPE Textbook Series-Vol. 2, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Richardson, TX. 4. Clark, A. R., and Perkins, T. K., 1980, “Wellbore and Near-Surface Hydraulics of a Blown-Out Oil Well,” SPE 9257, presented at 55th Fall Technical Conference, Society of Petroleum Engineering, Dallas, TX, September 21-24. 5. Dukler, A. E., Wicks, M., III, and Cleveland, R. G., 1964, “Frictional Pressure Drop in Two-Phase Flow: B: An Approach Through Similarity Analysis,” AIChE Journal, Jan.
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