Recently, our team faced an important challenge from AkerBP: to evaluate MudSim’s accuracy by simulating and calculating key drilling parameters. The goal was simple yet critical—compare our results with AkerBP’s established data, focusing on Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD), Equivalent Static Density (ESD), and standpipe pressure. 

Project Overview: Gekko North Well – 25/4-B-1 AY1H 

AkerBP’s well, located in the Gekko North field and drilled using the DeepSea Nordkapp rig, provided a robust dataset for this evaluation. This well, with a total depth (TD) of 2729 meters, had already undergone extensive calculations by AkerBP. Our task was to replicate these calculations using MudSim to verify the tool’s accuracy and pinpoint areas for further development. 

Key Drilling Parameters and Input Data 

The following key drilling parameters were provided by AkerBP: 

• Section Length: From the 13 3/8’’ shoe to TD at 2729 meters.
• Flow Rate: 3850 liters per minute (lpm).
• Rotary Speed: 150 revolutions per minute (rpm).
• Boost: 1000 lpm. 

In addition to these parameters, we utilized a comprehensive set of inputs. This included the well schematic, end-of-well report, pore pressure plot, lithological description, wellpath, and drilling fluid data. 

Simulation of Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD)

We used MudSim to simulate the ECD based on the provided data. The simulation employed the Herschel-Bulkley fluid model, which used parameters derived from a data-fitted procedure utilizing Fann data at 20°C. This model also included calculations for wall shear stress, friction factor, and an interpolation between laminar and turbulent flow regimes, guided by Reynolds number and effective viscosity. 

Results: The simulation results closely matched AkerBP’s original calculations. This alignment demonstrates MudSim’s potential accuracy in replicating real-world drilling scenarios. 

Adjusting for Pressure and Temperature: Equivalent Static Density (ESD) 

Next, we turned our attention to ESD, which accounts for changes in drilling fluid density due to pressure and temperature variations. Our model incorporated factors such as thermal expansion and compressibility of the drilling mud. 

Findings: The simulation revealed that while thermal expansion has a minor effect on the pressure profile, it remains a critical factor, especially in pressure-sensitive formations. The results were consistent with AkerBP’s data, reinforcing MudSim’s reliability in this context. 

Standpipe Pressure Calculation 

To calculate standpipe pressure, we simulated the pressure drop from the pump to the drill bit and back to the surface. This included pressure losses in the drill pipe, drill bit, and annulus. 

Simulation Result: The standpipe pressure was calculated to be 132.05 bar. This calculation mirrored AkerBP’s results, further validating MudSim’s accuracy. 

A Milestone in MudSim’s Development

MudSim’s outputs for the Gekko North well were within expected limits. However, this evaluation highlighted some areas for improvement. Specifically, enhancing the ESD model by incorporating fluid flow energy transport could improve accuracy. This enhancement would be particularly valuable in challenging drilling environments, where even minor improvements can significantly impact safety and efficiency. 

The successful replication of AkerBP’s drilling parameter calculations marks a significant milestone in MudSim’s development. These positive results confirm MudSim’s potential to become a reliable tool for optimizing drilling operations. As we continue to refine the software, we aim to further enhance its capabilities to meet the complex demands of modern drilling operations. 

Approval of IPN project from the Research Council of Norway

We are thrilled to announce that MudSim has embarked on a transformative 2.5-year R&D project, generously supported by the Norwegian Research Council. This endeavor is driven by our unwavering commitment to push the boundaries of digitization and harness the cutting-edge advancements emerging from the forefront of research and technology.

Our project aims to reduce non-productive time and emissions by 5% while aligning drilling practices with industry standards. To achieve these objectives, we’re developing an integrated simulation tool that optimizes drilling planning and operations by leveraging common parameters to identify the most efficient drilling fluids for each planned well, promoting efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Stay connected with MudSim on LinkedIn to follow our journey of innovation and progress. 

Many, and sometimes confusing, requirements for drilling operations makes it complicated to map environmental consequences for different types of drilling fluid.

MUDSIM-ECO, a cloud-based planning and simulation tool, provide the industry with documentation of the drilling mud’s effect on the environment, and relates environment effects to other important drilling properties. MudSim-Eco is well suited for companies that work with sustainability and the environment that want to:

• Estimate waste, cuttings and waste water
• Estimate waste from lost circulation
• Circular Economy; Reuse of drilling fluid
• Calculate carbon footprint
• Simplify application and reporting to authorities
• Carry out and document impact assessments in accordance with government requirements for continuous development of more environmentally friendly drilling fluids.

MUDSIM-ECO simulates the consequences for different drilling fluids, compare them and report how the various drilling fluids impact important drilling mud decision parameters, such as:

• Environmental effect from the drilling fluid
• Equivalent Circular Density (ECD)
• Hole cleaning
• Rate of penetration (ROP)
• Drilling fluid consumption
• Handling of cuttings
• Lost circulation
• Hole stability