Draft Relief Well Plan For Cratered Well

Draft Relief Well Plan for Cratered Well http://www.jwco.com/relief_well_plan_cratered_well.
htm
The following document is an example of the kind of relief well planning reports John
Wright Company would produce prior to starting a project. Detailed support work product,
normally included in an appendix, is not shown in this example.
Workscope. Mr. Smith, VP-Operations for Black Oil

Corporation (INC), requested John Wright of the John Wright
Company (JWCO) to assist INC to evaluate a course of action
for cratered well, located in block 125. This well began
flowing gas uncontrolled early the same morning after the
apparent rupture of the 9-7/8" casing and subsequent 13-5/8"
and possible 20" strings. The flow was observed through a
sheared 4-1/16" side outlet and through numerous craters around and in the cellar. This
evaluation resulted in the conclusion that the only viable control option was to drill a relief
well to stop the uncontrolled flow. This report outlines the strategic plan for the relief well.
John Wright and Jim Woodruff of the John Wright Company, as experts in relief well
design, performed the analysis and this report documents the first iteration of the strategy.
Dr. Ole Rygg of Well Flow Dynamics, an expert in multiphase flow, analyzed the hydraulic
kill requirements with the use of the OLGA-Well-Kill two phase flow simulator. Dr. Steve
Grindrod analyzed the surveying requirements. The results have been incorporated into the
iterative design process. Halliburton Energy Services was contacted and provided
information on directional drilling equipment, X wellbore survey data, kill plant equipment
and pumping operations.
Background. The cratered well is a HPHT gas well. It’s objective was to evaluate
Formations X&Y sequence of sandstones. After drilling ~2’ into the top of the X
Formation at 18173’ MD/ 18167’ TVD and the dropping of a magnetic singleshot
directional survey tool, the well kicked which ultimately resulted in collapse and parting of
the drillpipe and loss of primary control. The wellhead pressure was in excess of 11,000
psi. Various control options where evaluated at this time from bullheading to relief well, but
due to calculated risks (high temperature and excessive pressure) it was decided to put the
well on emergency production and observe the pressures and flowrates over time. A
detailed relief well contingency plan and bullhead hydraulic analysis was made by JWCO
and submitted on April 20.
The gas is clean, consisting of approximately 95% methane, 3% ethane, 2% CO2 and
nitrogen, there is no H2S. Water rate was +/- 70 bpd. The initial FWHP was in the order of
~10600 to 11000psi at a flow rate of ~35-40MMscfd and surface temperature of 220 F.
The flowrate just prior to the casing rupture, on August 13, was reported at 44.5 mmscf/d
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Draft Relief Well Plan for Cratered Well http://www.jwco.com/relief_well_plan_cratered_well.htm
at a FWHP of 8900 psi and 222 F. During production, +/- 6 months, the surface conditions
remained mechanically stable.
Current Situation Cratered Well. While pressure was being bled from the 13-3/8" x
9-7/8" annulus (pressure was 3200 psi) a loud noise was heard coming from the cellar.
Immediately this was followed by the observation of the entire BOP stack, wellhead and
20" casing moving upward and crashing into the substructure of the rig (a total vertical
movement of +/- 15’). This movement sheared a horizontal flowline attached at a 4-1/16"
flanged outlet releasing high velocity gas to the atmosphere. The BOP stack stayed in this
vertical position for an indeterminate amount of time. Several hours later, after dawn, the
stack was observed back on the ground. Gas flowing craters were observed around the rig
for a radius of +/- 100 ft. The ground immediately around the rig appeared to be uplifted
+/- 1 ft. The largest crater forming at the NW side of the substructure, facing the reserve
pit. The majority of the gas appeared to be venting from this crater. No water or steam was
observed from the vent at the side outlet, small amounts of water were observed in the
large vent in the form of chunks of X surface soil being thrown into the air out of the vent.
The rig was listing +/- 15 degrees to the NW.
A local safety company was immediately called in and secured the area. LEL readings
were monitored at various areas around the location. Blowout firefighters were called to
evaluate control options. They concluded that a relief well would be required for control
and declined to attempt rig removal. Wilfred Baker Engineering was called in to evaluate
the fireball and subsequent overpressure hazards associated with accidental or voluntary
ignition.
Due to limited emergency production options, no surface control options and potential
accidental ignition hazards (an active railroad track runs just west of the location) INC
management determined the venting gas would be voluntarily ignited for safety reasons.
The pros and cons of attempting to move the rig off the wellhead before ignition were
evaluated. Five plus days were estimated as the time required to remove the rig. After
evaluating risk/consequence of moving the rig INC management determined the gas would
be ignited with the rig in place.
The gas was ignited using a 12 gauge shotgun with flare cartridges from a safe upwind
distance. Seven shots where reportedly required before ignition was achieved. The fireball
was contained to the immediate rig area with only minor shock wave reported by
witnesses. The sustained fire was estimated as 40 to 70 ft high and 100 ft in diameter. The
rig substructure collapsed to the NW in approximately 43 minutes. A video was taken of
the ignition from two prospectives.
Method of Analysis. The relief well design method utilized in this investigation reflects
the planning strategy the John Wright Company has developed and refined over the past 15
years. The relief well strategic planning process is based on an iterative procedure. This
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report is the result of the initial phase of the design for the X relief well intervention
project.
The "design process" steps, in generic terms are the following:
1. Gather relevant data

2. Make on-site assessment
3. Perform diagnostics to define the problem
4. Define relief well constraints
5. Define the relief well objective(s),
6. Define the kill point(s),
7. Define the hydraulic communication method/intersection strategy,
8. Evaluate the position uncertainty,
9. Evaluate the geologic conditions,
10. Define the attack angle,
11. Develop an electromagnetic ranging strategy,
12. Determine the surface location(s),
13. Develop the relief well trajectory,
14. Define the relief well casing program,
15. Define the survey program,
16. Evaluate the kill hydraulics,
17. Determine the number of required relief wells,
18. Define the kill equipment and kill procedures
Click here to see Relief Well Planning Flow Chart
Results of Analysis
4.1 Gather Relevant Data. Some key well/reservoir data are found below.
Table -1 Well & Reservoir data
Reservoir depth, X
ft tvd 18 173
Initial Reservoir gradient, X

ppg 14.9
Initial Pressure, reservoir

psi 14 067
Reservoir depth, 1st Y

ft tvd 17 058
Reservoir gradient, 1st Y

ppg 14.9
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Pressure, reservoir
psi 13 204
Reservoir temperature,
°F 290 to 310
Initial open flow potential,
estimated from X zone, gas MMscfd 340
Initial GWR
Sm3/Sm3 98900
Flowing fluid. The well is producing a gas with ~95% methane and some associated and free
water. The gas density at standard conditions is 0.7084 kg/m³ or 0.58 sg (rel air).
Table -1 Composition of produced gas
Fluid composition
Gas
Component
mole %
nitrogen
N2 0.690
carbon dioxide
CO2 1.260
hydrogen sulfide
H2S 0
methane
CH4 94.950
ethane
C2H6 2.960
propane
C3H8 0.100
iso-butane
iC4H10 0.020
n-butane
nC4H10 0.020
A PVT characterization was made using the PVTsim fluid characterization software from
CALSEP, based on the gas composition and fluid properties given above. The
characterization of the fluid is used in the simulations presented.
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Gas production. Figure 1.1 show the gas production, measured flowing wellhead pressure
and the water rate. The initial production of 40 MMscfd was reduced to 25 MMscfd due to
high content of water for gas sale production. The gas rate was later increased to 35
MMscfd. In early May the rate was again increased to about 44 mmcfd and kept constant
until the day of well rupture. The water production increased also slightly at this point with
an average of 160 bwpd estimated. The water production is believed to be condensed
water (approximately 75%) and free water coming from the Y zones.
Figure 1 also shows the wellhead pressure during the production period. The wellhead
pressure decreases from the initial 11150 psi to 8900 psi at the time of the blowout. The
wellhead pressure drop is believed to be due to reservoir depletion.
Figure 1 Gas production until time of blowout.
4.2 Initial Onsite Assessment. Initial observations, by two witnesses, report the entire
BOP stack, wellhead and 20" casing were projected upward with great force into the
underside of the substructure. Damage to the substructure and sheared flowline, at a side
outlet flange, support this observation. The stack reportedly stayed in this position for a
short time and then settled back down to near its original position. Clean gas was venting at
high velocity out of the 4-1/16" side outlet and numerous vent holes around the wellhead.
The largest vent was just outside the NW side of the substructure (+/- 15 ft from the
wellhead), the farthest observable vent (small amount of bubbling) was in the reserve pit
(100+ ft to the NW of the wellhead). Other smaller vents were observed in the cellar, and
on the NE and east side of the substructure. A pressure reading taken off the choke
manifold (open to the wellhead) indicated low flowing pressure inside the wellhead
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(pressure reading +/- 30 psi with a 0 to 5000 psi gauge). Production data prior to the
incident were: 44.5 mmscf/d @ 8900 psi FWHP. Pressure was being bled off the 13-3/8" x
9-7/8" annulus which had climbed to 3200 psi when the rupture occurred.
4.3 Diagnostics. For the BOP stack to move 15 ft vertically, while still attached to the
wellhead and 20" casing, would require the complete severing of the 9-7/8" and 13-5/8"
casing strings. The 20" casing, set at +/- 352 ft and cemented to surface, may have severed
or pulled the entire 20" string with the wellhead. The location of the severed pipes is
unknown but above the estimated TOC on the 9-7/8" x 13-5/8" annulus at 7000 ft. One
theory is the 9-7/8" may have parted at the same depth as the severed drillpipe (which
parted during the original well control incident in February). This induced by mechanical
wear by flow erosion and/or wear by vibrating pipe end. The exact depth of the drillpipe
severe is unknown but is thought to be between 3000 and 4000 ft by INC based on pump
tests after the pipe parted. The top of the bottom drillpipe fish may have additionally cork
screwed down the hole some unknown distance.
As the 9-7/8" casing burst the 9-7/8" x 13-5/8" annulus (which is cemented to +/- 7000 ft)
immediately saw 8900 psi and the 13-3/8" burst (which would have the highest loading
near the surface) probably above the 20" shoe at 352 ft. At this point the force from the
pressure x cross section would only be held by the 20" cement and the combined weight of
the casing, drillpipe and BOP stack. This force was great enough to lift the entire mass and
slam it into the substructure. If the 13-3/8" burst below the 20" shoe it would be less likely
to hydraulic the BOP stack into the air, as fracture to surface would occur almost
immediately.
4.3.1 Well flow diagnostics. The wellhead pressure during the emergency production
from March until the day of the rupture has dropped from 11134 psi to 8909 psi. The gas
production in the same period was an average of 36 mmcfd for the two first months and
increased to 44 mmcfd for the last for months. The water production in the same period
increased from 80bwpd to 160bwpd of which a major part has been estimated to be
condensed water.
Correlated with two shut-in tests carried out on May 29 and June 6, the initial static
reservoir pressure was calculated to drop from the 14067 psi (14.9ppg) when taking the
initial kick in February down to 11450 psi (12.13ppg) at the time of the rupture.
INC calculated the projected reservoir depletion of the X reservoir zone 90 days from
rupture to be 2400 psi, 3450 psi and 4250 psi based on an average loss of reserves of 100
mmcfd, 150 mmcfd and 200 mmcfd respectively. This will reduce the estimated reservoir
pressure to the corresponding 9050 psi, 8000 psi and 7200 psi on the projected day of the
relief well intersection and subsequent kill. The flowing bottom hole pressure will be even
lower, in the range from 4750 psi to 3600 psi.
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Based on these calculations, the total outflow of gas at surface when assuming no
restrictions (total rupture) appears to be around 180 mmcfd at August 12, and drops off to
100 mmcfd at the time of intersection depending on depletion. These numbers appear to be
on the conservative side judging from the flow of gas seen at surface of cratered well. But
visual observations of gas flow through surface ruptures are often unreliable and additional
flow path obstructions, both due to parted drillpipe in the well and surface restrictions,
might be present. The pumping of kill fluid from the relief well could potentially open up
some of these restrictions during the kill process, and a conservative approach is therefore
preferred with respect to the outflow rate estimate.
Pressure prognosis. The main inflow zone, X, and the higher Ys appear to be naturally
fractured. For the simulations a high productivity is therefore assumed. The flowing bottom
hole pressure at the inflow zones will therefore be fixed by frictional and static pressure
drop inside the flowing wellbore. Based on data from nearby wells the pore pressure and
fracture pressure throughout the flowing zones (i.e. from 17 058 to 18 175 ft) are assumed
to be 14.9 ppg and 16 ppg respectively. The resulting absolute pressures and gradients in
the different zones are presented in Figure 2 and 3.
Figure 2 Estimated pore pressure with depletion estimates.
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Figure 3 Estimated pore pressure gradient with depletion estimates
Reservoir depletion. Correlated with two shut-in tests carried out on May 29 and June 6,
the initial static reservoir pressure was calculated to drop from the 14067 psi (14.9ppg)
when taking the initial kick in February down to 11450 psi (12.13ppg) at the time of the
rupture. INC calculated the projected reservoir depletion of the X reservoir zone 90 days
from rupture to be 2400 psi, 3450 psi and 4250 psi based on an average loss of reserves of
100 mmcfd, 150 mmcfd and 200 mmcfd respectively. This will reduce the estimated
reservoir pressure to the corresponding 9050 psi, 8000 psi and 7200 psi on the projected
day of the relief well intersection and subsequent kill. The flowing bottom hole pressure
will be even lower, in the range from 4750 psi to 3600 psi, see Table 3-1.
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Figure 4 Estimated reservoir pressure and projected reservoir depletion.
Reservoir inflow. Only limited data exists that can be used to estimate the reservoir
inflow parameters, such as average porosity, permeability and the net pay interval of the
flowing zones.
The simulations were defined with an injectivity based on the drawdown calculated for
flow both in annulus and drillpipe with 40 MMscfd gas flow rate (i.e. 14 067 psi – 13 210
psi = 857 psi), see previous report on "Down hole flow diagnostic and bullheading
analysis", reference 1.
Matching an inflow production curve to these data can give the inflow relationship shown
in Figure 5. This inflow performance is used for the full open blowout to surface giving an
outflow 250 mmcfd when the well control started in February reduced to 180 mmcfd on
the time of the rupture due to depletion, see section 1.5. The open flow potential is reduced
further until the projected day of relief well intersection as shown in Figure 5.
Please note that the inflow estimates are based on limited data of the reservoir zone and a
conservative approach with respect to inflow estimates is therefore recommended.
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Figure 5 Estimated gas inflow from X zone.
Flowing temperature. The reservoir fluid in the X zone is expected to have a

temperature in the range from 290° F to 310° F, resulting in a flowing temperature at
surface of approximately 200-225° F depending on rate. The temperature measurements at
surface are taken at the wellhead and are believed to be relatively uncertain, and are
therefore not directly used in evaluation of the down hole flow conditions. The fluctuations
seen on the temperature curve is due to day and night variations. The increase in
temperature also reflects the water cut throughout the period.
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Figure 6 Temperature at wellhead, gas and water production.
Down hole flow path. A detailed study of different potential blowout flow paths was
presented in the report prepared in March.
Based on the flow conditions seen at surface we assume flow is coming from the X up a
fully open annulus to surface. Flow is also through the drillpipe and out into annulus
assuming parted and open drillpipe at 3000 ft. This is also a conservative approach with
respect to the total outflow rate.
Additional work will be required on studying the down hole flow conditions in detail prior
to the relief well kill intersection. The flow inside the drillpipe can potentially influence the
final kill operation by making a flow path for the gas, inside the mud column. It might be
required to drill through the drillpipe or perforate to be able to get the #1-29 well statically
killed.
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Figure 7 Well is flowing uncontrolled to surface. Kill intersection below 9 7/8" casing shoe.
4.4 Relief Well Constraints
4.4.1 Surface Constraints to Rig Placement. Two rigs were drilling in the same field as
the cratered well. Both of the these well were evaluated for conversion as a relief well. The
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first was well, located +/- 4410 ft to the southwest, and the second well, located +/- 3850 ft
to the northwest. Both of these rigs were drilling vertical hole just at the 20" casing shoe.
Both of these locations were evaluated and proved acceptable based on trajectory
constraints for intersection with the cratered well below the 9-7/8" casing. Using one of
these locations could potentially save +/- 45 to 60 days from building a new one.
Constraints for a new location are: surface topography, a railroad track to the north, and
prevailing wind from the west.
4.4.2 Geologic Considerations. The broach of the cratered well is close enough to the
surface that underground supercharging of shallow formations is not considered to be a
hazard. For drilling considerations, it is desired to set the 13-3/8" casing below the vertical
dipping shales. The top of this formations is reached at +/- 5200 ft on the first well and at
+/- 7500 ft on the second well. The farther proximity of the first well requires a kick-off at
5500 ft to reach the desired intersection depth with maximum 3°/100’ build and 1.5°/100’
drop. The second well due to its closer proximity can reach the desired intersection point
with lower build and drop rates than the first. Three or more fan type faults would require
penetration during the drop if the first location was chosen. This feature is known to cause
severe directional control problems. The trajectory from the second location avoids these
faults. The Y sandstone sequence, from 17,060’ to 17,630’ is gas bearing and a
problematic loss of circulation zone consisting of massive fractures. The primary flowing
reservoir (X) is also massively fractured. The temperature at the 9-7/8" shoe is estimated to
be +/- 260° F and the top of the X is +/- 300° F.
4.4.3 Position uncertainty of cratered well. Cratered well was drilled as a vertical well,
however, due to strong formation tendencies to build angle extensive motor work was
required to maintain a low inclination. Magnetic single shots were utilized from surface to
402’, MWD was used from 420 to TD. Hole sizes were 17-1/2" to 8641’, 12-1/4" hole
from 15,448’, 8-1/2" hole to TD. No north seeking gyro surveys were taken. To estimated
the borehole position uncertainty of the cratered well requires a judgement call on error
sources relative to the individual MWD surveys taken at depth. These error sources
include, e.g.; relative depth error, sensor accuracy, calibration errors (e.g. magnetometer
and accelerometer bias and scale factors over temperature), misalignment of sensors to the
MWD housing, misalignment of the MWD to the wellbore axis, flexure of the MWD
housing, magnetic interference (e.g., BHA, hot spots on MWD housing, motor, external
source), depth and azimuth reference system (e.g. magnetic declination error, depth
reference in error), etc. In near vertical wells the majority of position uncertainty is caused
by inclination and misalignment error.
Many of the surveys taken in the cratered well were taken behind directional bent housing
motors which may introduce a larger sensor misalignment to the wellbore axis than would
be experienced with a rotary BHA. However, due to the large number of survey stations
taken a different tool face positions with different MWD tools in different hole sizes, the
systematic effect of individual readings tends to become random over the course of the
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entire wellbore.
Assuming this to be correct and the MWD tools are within manufacturers specification and
were operated using standard QA/QC procedures, the estimated uncertainty of the cratered
well bore will be on the order of 1.1ft/1000ft of along hole depth (at one standard
deviation). This would translate to an uncertainty of +/- 16.5 ft (one sigma or +/- 43 ft for
95% CI) at the ranging depth.
Dr. Steve Grindrod is checking the raw data from the MWD surveys to determine if this
assumption is correct or if the uncertainty cone requires expansion.
4.5 Primary and contingent relief well kill objectives. The primary kill objective chosen
for this plan is a direct intersection in the cratered wellbore followed by a standard
hydraulic kill using weighted mud. If this process proved unsuccessful, contingent methods
would be: (1) staged kills using heavier muds followed by lighter static kill muds: (2) a two
part reactive plug kill, one part pumped down drillpipe and second part pumped down
annulus; or one followed by the other with a spacer down drillpipe (e.g., DOBC gunk and
mud or sodium silicate and cement). (3) Dynamic kill using water, followed by static kill
mud (if the flowrates and pressures are sufficiently drawn down).
4.6 Kill point(s). The primary kill point is in the open wellbore below the 9-7/8" shoe of
the cratered borehole, by a distance of +/- 200 ft (+/- 15,600’ tvd relative to cratered rkb).
Contingent kill points are deeper, but above the Y formations (+/- 16,800’), and finally
below the Y and above the top of the X formations (+/- 18,000’). A high kill point was
below the 13-3/8" shoe was also evaluated (+/- 9000’ was also evaluated).
4.7 Primary and contingent methods for hydraulic communication. Primary - direct
intersection in cratered well open hole annulus with relief well bit. Contingent - sidetrack.
If flow is going through the drillpipe as well as the annulus and mud cannot be easily
circulated through the pipe from the proposed intersection point, then the drillpipe may
have to be penetrated (either with perforating guns or mills).
4.8 Attack angle and proximity at kill point. Direct intersection required with both
primary and contingent communication methods. The relative attack angle (angle between
cratered and relief well at intersection depth) is planned at 3-5°. A high kill point would
require a parallel intersection and either milling or perforating into the cratered well casing.
4.9 Electromagnetic ranging. Basic ranging strategy for primary and contingent kill
targets is to use electromagnetic instruments for a triangulation bypass and drop to vertical
without a plugback. Initial ranging zone is at a center to center distance of 130’ proximity
from relief well to 1-29 (+/- 14,165’ tvd). This will be in an oil base mud section.
Additional ranging fixes (9-18) will be required to make final intersection depending on the
relative position of the two wells.
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Background Information. The recommended primary casing locating and search

instrument to be utilized on this project is an electromagnetic ranging tool. This instrument
has a maximum range of approximately 150’ under the proposed conditions (resistivity +/-
7ohm-m). The predicted position uncertainty of well cratered well is within this range,
however, the relief well trajectory selected must be capable of reaching an intersection
target at the outside edges of the uncertainty zone. Of prime concern is sufficient TVD for
performing directional steering to the intersection point after the cratered wellbore has
been located.
Therefore, the primary factors in the initial search point will be relief well position
uncertainty, formation drillability, drilling fluid type and electrical conductivity, the
required directional path below the search point (i.e., will the well be plugged back and
sidetracked, or continue in a parallel approach), and the end point of the casing/drill pipe.
It is normally desirable to search at least 1000’ TVD above the kill point (more depending
on the position uncertainty) to allow enough depth for course corrections. Additionally, this
generally allows the blowout casing to be triangulated before setting casing on the relief
well. The items normally evaluated in establishing the casing search point are:
Blowout tubulars and sidetracked fish

Formation characteristics
Type of drilling fluid
Relative position uncertainty
Formation drillability near detection point
Well control considerations
Wellpath and dogleg considerations
Also, a "bypass" is recommended to (1) ensure locating the target casing and (2) initially
reduce the relative borehole uncertainty of the blowout due to ranging tool uncertainties.
See Vector Magnetics brochure. Logging may be required every 24 hours to 36 hours
during the bypass and drop to intersection. A 7-conductor wireline truck should be
dedicated as much as practical to the project during these times (if possible with dual
drums with one single conductor for running the gyros). Click here to see example plan
view electromagnetic bypass.
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Click here to see vertical section view of bypass
4.10 Surface location(s). Relief well trajectories were evaluated using 2 surface locations
and the 15,600’ tvd intersection target. A third location located 1500’ due west (just for
trajectory purposes) was also evaluated for a shallow intersection at 9000’ tvd. After
careful evaluation of the trajectories the second location was chosen as the primary relief
well.
The relative surface location between relief well and cratered well was resurveyed by Siek
Surveying Service. This survey was made using a local grid system with a true north
reference determined in the field from solar observations.
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4.11 Relief well trajectory. The relief well trajectory is planned from the kill point
(intersection attack angle and relative azimuth), back to the ranging zone (by-pass distance
and relative orientation to the blowout casing), to the relief well surface location (tie-in
point at +/- 5150’ MD). The trajectory includes contingencies for the combined
uncertainty of the relief well and blowout (i.e., maintain trajectory to reach kill target
regardless of relative position of the two wells through the ranging zone). It was desired to
keep the planned dogleg severity below 3º/100’ in the build section and 1.5º/100’ in the
drop section. The attack angle was to be between 3º and 5º inclination.
The azimuth was not critical as the target wellbore is basically vertical at the zone of
interest. The relief well trajectory crosses the 1-29 casing at +/- 15,350’ MD/14,412’ tvd at
+/- 5º Inclination at a distance of +/- 10’ to the southwest (this assumes the relative
proximity to the blowout wellbore is as surveyed). The relief well will be nudged in the
17-1/2" hole at +/- 5150’ at 0.5º/100’ building to +/- 16º Inclination and +/- 120º azimuth
at the 13-3/8" shoe (+/- 7500’ tvd). The well will continue to build at 2º/100’ up to 31º
Inclination at +/- 8300’ MD and then hold for +/- 5000’ and drop at 1.25º/100’ to the first
electromagnetic ranging depth at +/- 15,250’ MD/ 14165’ tvd.
The trajectory, from here to intersection, will be based on the relative position of the
blowout wellbore to the relief well. If the blowout position is as surveyed, the relief well
will continue to drop to vertical at +/- 15,750’ md/14,800 tvd. The relief well will then
parallel the blowout well bore to +/- 15,235’ tvd and then nudge toward the kill target at
2º/100’. The inclination will be 3º to 5º at the end of the build (+/- 15,400’) and should be
pointing directly at the kill target at +/- 15,600’ tvd. The 9-7/8" casing is planned to be set
at the end of this build/turn section. Slight corrections may be required in the 8-1/2" hole
section to achieve final alignment. Intersection is planned with a rotary assembly.
Click here to see relief well trajectory vertical section view
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4.12 Relief well casing program. Considerations. While conventional casing design
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criteria are employed when designing a relief well, several additional considerations must
be investigated. The first is to design the kill string diameter to assure the control fluids
could be pumped at the required rate without excessive surface pressure. The second, if
possible, is to allow for at least one additional emergency casing string to assure the
required kill string diameter can be set. A third is to establish strength requirements for the
casing strings that might be exposed to higher than normal burst and collapse forces during
kill pumping, well control or complete loss of circulation (gas to surface, complete
evacuation, maximum surface pressure during kill pumping). A fourth is environmental
considerations, such as hydrogen embrittlement on high strength casing and connections,
casing wear, high dogleg considerations for bending stresses, thermal loading and
temperature effects during kill operation (e.g., cold fluid being pumped down a hot well at
high rates will cause high thermal tensile stresses).
The basic casing plan is to set 13-3/8" intermediate casing at +/- 7500’ tvd at +/- 16º
inclination. The planned kill string is 9-7/8", 62.8 ppf, TAC-140, with New Vam
connections. This string is planned to be set approximately 200’ above the intersection
point at +/- 16,345’ MD/15,400’ tvd. A 7" liner will be used as a contingency kill string if
necessary..
4.13 Survey program. The surveying criteria for this relief well will be critical if
sidetracks are to be avoided. The initial ranging zone is just inside the 99% confidence
interval for the combined survey uncertainty of the relief well and blowout and the
maximum search radius of the Vector Magnetics ranging instruments. This will require
surveying techniques and instruments to minimize the position uncertainty of the relief well
from surface to the first ranging depth of +/- 15,250’ MD. The proposed intersection
scenarios require continuous steerable motor work in 3-D space from the ranging zone to
the intersection. This will require good quality control of the MWD data with cross checks
made with a through drill pipe north seeking gyro. A surveying specialist (Dr. Stephen
Grindrod) will be on location during critical phases to define surveying procedures (in
conjunction with the service company, HES, SDC or Gyrodata) based on the type of
instruments used (MWD or gyro) and QA/QC criteria for data acceptance.
It is extremely important to fix as accurately as possible the relative positions between the
blowout wellhead and the relief well. This was done by a local Surveying Service on
August 15 using conventional land surveying techniques (e.g., precision theodolites and
laser range finders). An independent north reference fix was also made using solar
observations.
The local magnetic field was also measured using a precision magnetometer theodolite.
This was performed to determine the onsite magnetic: declination, dip angle, and total field
values. Two or three true north reference bench marks are being set in the area of the relief
well site (at least 100 m from any steel pipe lines or steel surface objects) and will be used
to monitor the local field during the course of the project.
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After the blowout casing has been located with the electromagnetic ranging instruments,
several additional pipe trips may be required to survey the bottom of the hole. This is
necessary as the survey sensor in the MWD tool is too far behind the motor and bit
(+/-50’) to drill to the kill casing setting depth (intersection) without checking the actual
hole orientation at the bit.
Basic Surveying Program
Drilling 17-1/2" hole to 13-3/8" casing setting depth: MWD using MAC1 drillstring
correction software.
13-3/8" casing after shoe is drilled out: Gyrodata north seeking gyro survey inside casing
(7545’). Two radio active tags will be placed in the casing string (one at +/- 5000’ and the
other above the float collar) for depth referencing the gyros with a gamma ray.
12-1/4" hole: MWD using MAC1/MAC3 correction software. NMDC will include a 15’
pony between MWD and motor and a full 30’ NMDC above the MWD. Sensor spacing
will be approximately 40% up from the bottom of the pony NMDC. Check shots will be
made going in and coming out of the hole at +/- 7700’ MD (compared against drillpipe
gyro) with possible in-hole referencing to the gyro azimuth.
Through drillpipe north seeking gyro at the end of the build section (SDC). This survey will
be run through the drillpipe after the angle is built to 31º at a depth of approximately 8400’
MD. This survey will be run in the high speed mode back surface and compared with the
Gyrodata casing survey. Additional stations will be made at the MWD check point at +/-
7700’.
Through drillpipe north seeking gyro at +/- 12,500’ MD. This might be done with SDC or
with Gyrodata drop gyro at a bit trip before the PDC bit goes in the hole.
Contingent: Through drillpipe north seeking gyro at first ranging depth at +/- 15,400’
MD, if the cratered well casing is not detected.
Contingent: Through drillpipe surveys after the bypass if magnetic interference from
the cratered well casing is severe.
Contingent: Through drillpipe surveys of the bottom of the hole with the motor
removed prior to intersection to assure hole orientation.
4.14 Kill hydraulics.
Simulations of the blowout scenarios give estimates of the gas rates and flowing bottom
hole pressures. These simulations also define the starting point for the kill simulations.
The blowout rates for the well scenarios studied are a function of both the flow path
restrictions, reservoir productivity and flowing fluid type in these simulations. The results
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are included in Table 3-1.
Relief well kill simulations. For the kill simulations, pump rate is controlled, and the full
dynamic kill operation is simulated. Pump rate is governed by controllers set on bottom
hole pressure, maximum pump pressure and pump rate. The controller on the bottom hole
pressure was set to a target pressure just above the reservoir pressure.
This is done in the same way that an actual kill job would be controlled, by monitoring the
pressure using a water filled drillpipe, or a similar arrangement, to avoid fracturing and
losses during the kill operation. Opening a "choke" at the bottom of the relief well
simulates the intersection between the wells.
The simulation runs for these wells were set up as a network, with branch 1 as the relief
well, branch 2 as the lower section of the blowout well below the kill point, and branch 3
as the upper part of the blowout well.
Kill fluid. Several different kill fluids can be used in the kill process. Water, brine or
drilling mud can potentially be used for dynamically killing a blowout from this well. For
the simulations presented, 15ppg and water are used as kill fluids.
Higher mud weights may be advantageous, but can lead to fracturing at the kill intersection
point with subsequent high losses. The higher mud weights on the other hand give
advantages with respect to a reduction in kill rate.
If unloading of the blowout well appears to be a problem in the process of getting the well
stable, higher mud weights might be an option to achieve stable well an proceed with
cementing.
Water is often used initially to check on communication with blowout well. For the ongoing
uncontrolled flow to surface pump rates, pressures and power requirements for full
dynamic water kills may be impractical for the initial dynamic kill operation, but may be
used as a backup if high losses of mud is experienced resulting in pumping away all mud
available. The water will then be pumped at a low rate down the relief well annulus to
prevent gas for migrating up the relief well.
Relief well kill intersection. Based on the moderate kill pumping requirements and to
avoid drilling to the potentially fractured and possibly depleted Y zones, the planned relief
well intersection point is below the 9 7/8" casing. The 9 7/8" casing shoe of the relief well
will be set above the 9 7/8" casing shoe of the blowout well. An open hole intersection
through 8 ½" hole will be used from the relief well. For open hole intersections, all the
equipment and procedures needs to be ready to pump on making intersection.
Well kill summary. Table 3-1 summarizes the relief well kill simulations for pumping
using 15ppg mud or seawater. The dynamic kill using seawater is included for reference
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only and is not planned used for the initial dynamic kill operations. The simulations are
defined pumping down the relief well annulus, assuming the relief well drillpipe is used for
monitoring of pressures.
As can be seen from the summaries, the kill pumping requirements are reduced from the
initial estimates from March due to the estimated depletion of the X reservoir zone. After
stopping inflow from the reservoir, the section below the kill point as well as the upper part
of the well must be circulated and/or bull-headed free of gas. Both simulations and
experience show that this normally takes 2-3 hole volumes after inflow stops, in order to
prevent the blowout from restarting.
When the outflow stops, cement can be pumped to block the blowout well path. Pumping
LCM additives are recommended used to reduce and subsequent stopping losses, but
decisions will be made during the kill pumping operation based on the pressures and losses
experienced. The estimated volume to stop the reservoir inflow is 2500 bbls assuming a
depletion rate of 100mmcfd. For circulation to remove all remnant gas, three hole volumes
of the blowout well (1000bls) is recommended. With an excess volume of 2500 bbls, the
volume required adds up to a total of 9000 bbls of water based mud. As a minimum 6000
bbls should be available before intersection.
The required pump rate and volume might be reduced upon relief well kill intersection if
higher depletion is observed. A refined estimate of the total volume of mud needed to be
prepared upon relief well intersection is therefore recommended closer to the time of
intersection. Click here to see a vertical section summary of well intersection and kill.
Table -2 Relief well kill requirements for kill intersection below the 9 7/8" shoe
Blowout Well kill requirements
Case
Reservoir FBHP Max Gas Kill Pump Pump Mud P

Pressure rate Fluid rate pressure volume po
psi psi MMscf/d ppg bpm psi bbls# H
Initial estimate before reservoir depletion, March
0a 14067 7200 250 15ppg 75 6500 4000

mud
0b 14067 7200 250 water no kill - -
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Estimate at time of blowout, August
1a 11450 6260 185 15ppg 55 4100 3000

mud
1b 11450 6260 185 water no kill - -
Estimate at November, with an average of 100 MM scfd lost since rupture
2a 9050 4750 140 15ppg 40 <1000 2500

mud
2b 9050 4750 140 water 85 8100 3500 1
3a 8000 4090 115 15ppg 30 <1000 2000

mud
3b 8000 4090 115 water 75 5200 2250
4a 7200 3600 100 15ppg 20 <1000 1000

mud
4b 7200 3600 100 water 65 3600 2000
Estimate at November, with high depletion rate.
5a 5000 2125 70 15ppg 15 <1000 800

mud
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5b 5000 2125 70 water 30 <1000 1000
#) to stop inflow, additional volume required removing all gas (see discussion in text.)
Relief well kill pumping operations. Losses at the kill point are assumed negligible in
these simulations. Losses can be high, especially in the Y zones and this will be studied in
more detail prior to the relief well kill intersection.
Dynamic kill simulation results for pumping 15ppg mud down the relief well annulus are
shown in Figures 8 through 11. The presented results are for blowout rate estimate at the
time of rupture. Similar results are available for all simulations presented in Table 3-1.
Each result is split into 4 plots as follows: 8) Shows the pumping rate and the cumulative
volume of the kill fluid pumped. 9) Show the pump power and the pumping pressure at
wellhead of the relief well for the simulations. 10) Shows the bottom hole pressure in the X
zone compared to the inflow rate from the X reservoir. 11) This figures shows the gas
outflow and kill fluid outflow at surface, either produced or flowing uncontrolled out at
surface.
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4.15 Number of relief wells. Based on the assumptions of this blowout scenario, the
assumed kill hydraulics and position uncertainty of the cratered well, only 1 relief well is
required for control.
One of the components of the relief well planning process is the evaluation of the required
number of relief wells. The process for making this evaluation is to first define the
technical requirements for multiple relief wells. If it is determined that one relief well is
technically capably of controlling the well the next step is a risk management exercise
which evaluates the probability of success, over given time periods, verses economic and
HSE consequences if the single relief well fails or is substantially delayed due to
mechanical problems or changes in the blowout situation. This is an iterative process,
which next evaluates the probability of success, over a given time period, if two relief wells
are started verses the addition cost and resources required for an additional well, traded-off
against reduced economic and HSE consequences for a single relief well failure or delay.
Technical Requirements. The technical requirements for multiple relief wells are
primarily controlled by kill hydraulic requirements at the chosen kill point. Can the
blowout be controlled with the selected casing design and pumping equipment using a
single well? The required hydraulics calculated to regain control of the blowout may
require more than one relief well. Consideration must be given to worst case scenarios
using a single relief well, and include: maximum required hydraulic horsepower, maximum
injection pressure, mud volumes and mud density, mud storage and transfer, loss of
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circulation after or during the kill, plug and abandonment options, super charging of
shallow zones, multiple flow paths in the blowout wellbore and reservoir depletion while
drilling the relief well.
Technical Risks to Evaluate
Kill Risk. Uncertainty in achieving a successful kill (or being substantially delayed) can
be caused by various factors including:
Initial assumptions in designing the kill are inaccurate e.g., flowrates, pressures,
reservoir inflow performance, reservoir depletion, flowpath, fluid/gas properties, etc.
Changes in conditions during the drilling of the relief well e.g., changes in flowpath
(drillpipe), reduced back pressure, changes in open hole size, shallow formation gas
supercharging, poor hydraulic communication, etc.
Potential problems after intersection e.g., massive loss of kill mud into fracture
system, inability to kill both drillpipe and annulus, inability to set cement plug for
permanent P&A, equipment problems, etc.
Intersection Risk. Uncertainty in achieving a direct intersection (or being substantially

delayed) can be caused by the following:
Relative Borehole Position Uncertainty. The blowout wellbore and the relief
wellbore both have inherent uncertainties in there respective subsurface positions.
The magnitude of this uncertainty is based on a number of factors including; the
survey instruments used, wellbore trajectory, latitude, QA/QC of instruments and
running procedures, surface uncertainty, and other factors. The position uncertainty
at the ranging zone must be low enough to be within the search radius of the ranging
instruments being utilized to locate the steel casing.
Ranging Instrument Uncertainty. The electromagnetic ranging instruments being
utilized have an effective range which is controlled by the ability to flow electricity
on the target pipe adjacent to the sensor package. Under ideal conditions this range
can be +/- 200’ or even greater. Factors which can affect the range are; electrical
contact to the formation of the target, conductivity of the formation between the
relief well and target, relative approach angle, conductivity of the mud in the relief
well, etc. Once the tool is within range of the target there is additionally uncertainty
in the relative distance and direction given from the sensor to the target. This
uncertainty is a factor of; relative distance away from the target, approach angle,
dog-leg severity of the relief well, non-homogeneous conductivity of the formations,
fracture systems, steeply dipping beds, other fish within the effective range of the
tool, relief well mud system, etc.
Directional drilling limitations. To make a direct intersection into an 8-1/2" open
hole, thousands of feet away, requires precise directional control. After the
uncertainties of the surveying and ranging tools are taken into consideration, the
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intersection must be evaluated for probability of problems that would result in high
dog-legs, deeper intersection points, or plug backs to achieve the intersection, e.g.,
inability to hold precise tool face, sliding problems, temperature problems on motors
and MWD, unexpected dogleg rates, etc.
Potential for Drilling and Operational Problems. The probability of drilling or other
problems should be evaluated during the course of drilling the relief well. This might
be the result of shallow gas, high temperatures, lost circulation, stuck pipe, hole
collapse, well control, bad weather, rig equipment, crew mistakes, down hole tool
failures, etc.
Consequences to Evaluate
HSE Consequences. This risk must be weighed against HSE hazards that are posed by the
blowout every hour it is out of control that include e.g., ignition hazards, sour gas,
pollution, health hazards, etc.
Economic Consequences. The economic consequences of the blowout must be evaluated

every day it is out of control e.g., loss of hydrocarbon, reservoir damage, reservoir
depletion, ignition damage, adjacent asset damage (surface property, wells, etc.),
evacuation of third parties and control of exclusion zone (including roadways, railroads,
etc), shutdown of adjacent production, loss of resources for other budgeted projects
(human, equipment, rig, etc.), hydrocarbon contracts, pollution control and clean-up,
adverse public reaction (stock price, partners, environmental groups, future business
effects), lawsuits, regulatory fines, other knock-on economic effects both direct and
indirect.
Evaluate Available Resources to Drill Multiple Relief Wells. If multiple relief wells are
to be drilled the resources that are available to achieve the objectives must be carefully
evaluated. This will require additional personnel, supervision, planning, and equipment,
that if in limited supply, may actually reduce the probability of success of a single relief
well that could be efficiently managed alone.
Evaluate the Cost to Drill Multiple Relief Wells. The cost to drill a second (or more)
relief wells must then be evaluated against HSE and Economic Consequences. This is
generally an economic risk decision. Will the increased cost of a second well out weigh the
risk of possible long delays or loosing completely a single well? Historically, two redundant
intervention projects going simultaneously and independently has generally proved
sufficient. If a surface intervention is undertaken, and has a reasonable chance of success,
then a single relief well may be adequate. If serious pollution or other environmental
damage is being caused by the blowout, two relief wells might be considered regardless of
the surface intervention plans. Risk analysis and risk management methods should be
considered as a systematic approach to help make this decision.
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In more recent years (last 12) most gas blowouts that were successfully controlled by relief
wells were done with only a single relief well being started. This change from previous
procedure of automatically starting two relief wells, is primarily due to technology
improvements in ranging, surveying and directional drilling.
If two relief wells are to be started, the entire intervention strategy will change depending
on how the second well is to be used (e.g., as an integral part of the kill, as a back up, or as
a replacement for the blowout well. If it is possible to use the relief well as a replacement
(a secondary objective) a different design may be necessary and should be investigated
before hand.
4.16 Kill equipment. Based on the hydraulic calculations,

kill equipment requirements vary with respect to the blowout
scenario: The critical factors are: (1) maximum pump rate; (2)
maximum pump pressure; (3) pumping time at peak loads; (4)
maximum hydraulic horsepower (hhp) at peak loads; (5)
various kill mud densities required; (6) total mud volume of
each density including reserves; (7) location of high pressure
pumping plant; (8) location of mud supplies; (9) mud transfer requirements to feed high
pressure pumps; (10) contingency equipment for reactive plug storage and displacement,
(11) cement volume and displacement rate requirements.
Proposed equipment for the Relief well (for location sizing purposes).
Kill Mud volume: 6000 to 9000 bbls of 15 ppg
Mud rate: 60 bpm capability maximum
Injection pressure estimated to be < 1000 psi.
Will use 15ksi injection manifold.
Planned pumping truck is HOWCO 76TF (1000 HHP)

with 4.5" fluid ends (33’ x 8’ ea.). Pump rate maximum
is 20 bpm @ 2500 psi. Will assume a nominal
maximum rate of 15 bpm. Total numbers of trucks will
be four to achieve 60 bpm. Will plan space for five (5)
trailers. If reservoir depletion is lower than expected we can replace the 76TF with 2000
HHP Grizzly FPR-SJ which will allow 10,000 hhp.
Will connect to wellhead with 3 x 3" 15k lines based on 18 bpm maximum through
3" ID lines.
Will make space for One batch mixer: for contingency for pumping gunk or other
reactive pills (36’ x 8’).
Space for 3 cement trucks to pump down drillpipe (may alternatively use mud pumps
to pump cement, but at least 1 cement truck), 8’ x 36’
1 additional 500 bbl tank for water storage (from ground pit to tank, then tank to
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pumps).
Bulk cement for +/- 600 bbls (yield and recipe to be determined, e.g., thixotropic >
15.7 ppg). Probably +/- 3 – 4 cement bins,
Cement mixing water tank (500 bbls, 40’ x 8’)
Computer/monitor van (8’ x 25’)
Portable shop (20’ x 8’)
Warehouse skid (20’ x 8’)
5 centrifugal pumps for mud/water transfer
Personnel meeting skid (20’ x 8’)
Electric generators
Diesel tank for trucks (150 gallons/hour at 2000 HHP) +/- 5000 gallon tanks
Suction manifold
Click here to see kill plant layout
4.17 Directional equipment for 12-1/4" Hole.
4.18 Operations Organization. The Source Control Director for the project will be the
VP-Operations for Black Oil INC. The Drilling Unit Leader will be the Drilling Manager
for INC, the surface unit leader will be the field operations manager for INC, the HSE
advisor will be the HSE manager for INC.
Relief Well Operations is divided into two functional groups one for routine drilling
services and one for non-routine relief well special services. The routine services
organization is called the Drilling Group. This group will coordinate all normal drilling
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activities for the relief well rig(s). The drilling manager will lead this group. This is a
functional position, he will be responsible for assisting the Special Services Group, initially,
in planning the relief well standard drilling program (e.g., casing design, wellheads, cement,
drilling mud, bits, etc.). After the relief well is spudded he will coordinate all normal
drilling activities between the relief well rig(s) and support the special services unit at the
rig site.
The Senior Drilling Supervisor will be the Unit Leader for his rig. He will maintain most of
his normal responsibilities during the drilling of the relief well. This will include all normal
drilling operations, cementing, casing, logistics including well control and emergency
response. If there is well control emergency on the relief well it will be his responsibility to
carry out appropriate response actions (the relief well special services unit leader will
provide emergency response guidelines before drilling begins).
The Relief Well Special Services Group is further divided into two units, the Intersection
Unit and the Kill Unit, John Wright will lead this group and will report to the drilling
manager. The Intersection Unit will coordinate the relief well intersection at the desired kill
point on the blowout well, Jim Woodruff will lead this group. The Intersection Unit Leader
will be responsible for making the intersection at the chosen kill point. He will supervise
the directional drilling, surveying (surface and borehole), and the homing-in services. He
will coordinate closely with the Rig Supervisor and the Drilling Group Leader to minimize
mis-communication (the Intersection Unit Leader will have final decision on field
procedures, for these services, if there are conflicts between service company personnel).
The Intersection Unit Leader has three functional Task Force positions under him. They
are: Directional Drilling Task Force Leader (Jim Woodruff), Surveying Task Force Leader
(Steve Grindrod) and a Homing-in Task Force Leader (Vector Magnetics Engineer – Rhan
Pitzer). These positions are functional with activities that must be addressed, however one
individual may address more than one function depending on the scope of the intersection
operations and the number of the relief wells drilled.
The Kill Unit Leader will plan (John Wright), coordinate and supervise: (1) the high
pressure pumping plant design; (2) low pressure kill mud pumping, storage and transfer; (3)
kill fluid design including any reactive chemicals or polymers usage; (4) obtaining
hydraulic communication between the relief well and the blowout; (5) the kill pumping
operations; (6) kill monitoring and diagnostics during pumping; (6) plug and abandonment.
The Kill Unit Leader has five functional Task Forces under his supervision. These are: High
Pressure Pumping; Low Pressure Pumping/Mud Storage and Transfer; Kill Cementing
(HOWCO team leader); Kill Fluids (Baroid team leader); and Kill Modeling and
Diagnostics (Ole Rygg). Click here to see top level orgchart.
Relief Well Branch- Special Services - Intersection Unit
The Special Services - Intersection Unit is shown in more detail in the following chart .The
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Special Services Group Leader acts as the special services project manager for the relief
well. He will coordinating the Daily Planning Cycle, Incident Action Plans, the
development of the General Plan and supervising its execution through the intersection, kill
and P&A.
The Kill Unit Leader and the Intersection Unit Leader Positions are functional. The Special
Services Unit Leader may fill one, both or neither of these positions depending on the
scope of the kill operations and the number of the relief wells drilled and his personal
experience.
The Intersection Unit Leader is a specialist in relief well type intersections with experience
in all aspects of trajectory planning, directional drilling, surveying and homing-in. He is
responsible for planning and supervising all intersection operations.
Below the Intersection Unit Leader are three functional Task Forces. One for Directional
Drilling, one for Surveying and one for Homing-in. These units each have a Unit Leader
positions. Someone must perform the function but they may or may not be separate
individuals (e.g., the Intersection Unit Leader may also take on the role of Survey and
Homing-in Task Force Leader positions). The size and critical nature of the project will
dictate the filling of these positions with dedicated individuals.
The Directional Task Force Leader is a specialist in precision directional drilling peculiar to
well intersection and homing-in requirements. Responsible for well placement as per plan.
He will coordinate the directional drilling activities of the service company. This is best
done through the contractors, directional drilling coordinator. If he is not available on a full
time basis, the Task Force Leader will work directly with the DDS for each rig.
The Surveying Task Force Leader will coordinate all the surveying activities through the
service company to include: MWD, drop magnetic multishots and gyros. He is a specialist
in borehole position uncertainty and QA/QC of the surveying instruments being used. He is
responsible for survey accuracy in the blowout and all relief wells. The coordination is best
done through the contractor’s MWD and survey coordinator. If this person is not available
full time he will coordinate directly with the operators.
The Homing-in Task Force Leader is a specialists in casing detection tools, their application
and QA/QC of data. He will coordinate with the homing-in service company to design the
ranging depths, procedures, relative well trajectories and uncertainty of calls. This position
is again functional and might be filled by the Survey Task Force Leader or the Intersection
Unit Leader if they are qualified.
Relief Well Branch- Special Services - Kill Unit
The Kill Unit is shown in more detail in the following figure. The Kill Unit Leader is an
engineering specialist in planning, preparing for and directing the kill operation from either
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the surface or from a relief well. The Kill Unit is shown as a single group for both Surface
Control and Relief Well as it is not common for both teams to working simultaneously on
both (there generally are not enough resources set up kill spreads on two relief wells and a
surface kill operation). Kills are usually planned in sequences (e.g., if a surface kill is
possible, several attempts may be tried before resorting to the relief wells). It may be
necessary, however, in cases where drilling is fast, that separate task forces may have to
mounted.
The Kill Unit is further divided into specific functional Task Forces. These Task Forces
may or may not require dedicated Leaders depending on the circumstances and scope of
the kill job (i.e., the Kill Unit Leader may fill one or more of the Task Force Leader
positions). The Task Force functions are:
High pressure pumping Task Force. This group will be responsible for planning, assembling,
testing and performing the high pressure kill pumping (based on simulated hhp
requirements). This may require resources from more than one service company and they
may have to be split between kill platforms or rigs. The Task Force Leader, if activated,
must be a specialist in this field. If more than one service company is utilized he should be
independent if possible.
Low pressure pumping, mud storage, mud transfer, and mud plant design/construction (if
necessary) Task Force. This group will be responsible for planning, assembling, testing and
performing the low pressure kill fluid storage and pumping to feed the high pressure
pumping plant. If liquid mud is not available then this team will also be responsible for
design and construction of a suitable mud plant. This may require resources from more
than one service company and they may have to be split between kill platforms or rigs. The
Task Force Leader, if activated, must be a specialist in this field. If more than one service
company is utilized he should be independent if possible.
Kill Fluid Task Force. This group will be responsible for designing the kill fluid(s) and their
recipes to be used. This will include: water, brines, mud, additives, LCM, special
chemicals, polymers, and reactive chemicals (e.g., gunk). The Task Force Leader, if
activated, must be a specialist in this field. If more than one service company is utilized he
should be independent if possible.
Kill Cementing Task Force. This group will be responsible for designing the kill cement(s)
and their recipes to be used; equipment selection and testing and performing the kill
cementing. This may require resources from more than one service company and they may
have to be split between kill platforms or rigs. The Task Force Leader, if activated, must be
a specialist in this field. If more than one service company is utilized he should be
independent if possible.
Kill Simulation and Monitoring Task Force. This group is responsible for: performing
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hydraulic simulations (using sophisticated software tools); assisting in blowout diagnostics;

monitoring the kill during the job providing feed back as required to the Kill Unit Leader;
performing diagnostics if the kill attempt failed for modifications to the next attempt.
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Draft Relief Well Plan For Cratered Well

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Draft Relief Well Plan For Cratered Well

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Draft Relief Well Plan for Cratered Well http://www.jwco.com/relief_well_plan_cratered_well.

Workscope. Mr. Smith, VP-Operations for Black Oil

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The "design process" steps, in generic terms are the following:

1. Gather relevant data

Click here to see Relief Well Planning Flow Chart

Initial Reservoir gradient, X

Initial Pressure, reservoir

Reservoir depth, 1st Y

Reservoir gradient, 1st Y

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Table -1 Composition of produced gas

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Figure 1 Gas production until time of blowout.

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Figure 2 Estimated pore pressure with depletion estimates.

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Figure 3 Estimated pore pressure gradient with depletion estimates

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Figure 4 Estimated reservoir pressure and projected reservoir depletion.

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Figure 5 Estimated gas inflow from X zone.

Flowing temperature. The reservoir fluid in the X zone is expected to have a

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Figure 6 Temperature at wellhead, gas and water production.

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4.4 Relief Well Constraints

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Background Information. The recommended primary casing locating and search

Blowout tubulars and sidetracked fish

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Click here to see vertical section view of bypass

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Click here to see relief well trajectory vertical section view

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Basic Surveying Program

4.14 Kill hydraulics.

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are included in Table 3-1.

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Blowout Well kill requirements

Reservoir FBHP Max Gas Kill Pump Pump Mud P

Initial estimate before reservoir depletion, March

0a 14067 7200 250 15ppg 75 6500 4000

0b 14067 7200 250 water no kill - -

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Estimate at time of blowout, August

1a 11450 6260 185 15ppg 55 4100 3000

1b 11450 6260 185 water no kill - -

Estimate at November, with an average of 100 MM scfd lost since rupture

2a 9050 4750 140 15ppg 40 <1000 2500

2b 9050 4750 140 water 85 8100 3500 1

Estimate at November, with an average of 150 MM scfd lost since rupture

3a 8000 4090 115 15ppg 30 <1000 2000

3b 8000 4090 115 water 75 5200 2250

Estimate at November, with an average of 200 MM scfd lost since rupture