Chapter

Managed Pressure Drilling and

Cementing and Optimizing with
Digital Solutions
Behzad Elahifar

Abstract

This manuscript provides a comprehensive examination of cutting-edge drilling

technologies and their implications for the energy industry. Managed Pressure Dril-
ling (MPD) and Controlled Mud Level (CML) are meticulously dissected, uncovering
their techniques, equipment, and operational intricacies. Additionally, Managed Pres-
sure Cementing (MPC) is explored, showcasing the ingenious application of MPD
during cementing operations. The chapter then ventures into the realm of digitaliza-
tion and automation, highlighting the role of Wired Drill Pipe as a conduit for high-
speed data transmission, transforming drilling through real-time monitoring and
decision-making. The convergence of digitalization and automation with MPD and
CML systems is unveiled, elucidating how these technologies can create semi or fully
automated systems that optimize drilling processes, enhance accuracy, and reduce
nonproductive time (NPT). This manuscript invites readers on a journey into the
frontier of drilling technology, where innovation knows no bounds, and the future of
energy exploration and production is being reshaped.

Keywords: managed pressure drilling, controlled mud level, managed pressure

cementing, pressurized mud cap drilling, controlled mud cap drilling, digitalization

1. Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of drilling operations, two pioneering technologies

have risen to the forefront, promising enhanced control, efficiency, and safety: Man-
aged Pressure Drilling (MPD) and Controlled Mud Level (CML). This chapter
embarks on a comprehensive exploration of these groundbreaking techniques, their
respective equipment, and operational intricacies, delving deep into the core princi-
ples that underpin their success. MPD, a transformative approach that manages
wellbore pressure throughout the drilling process, is meticulously dissected to
uncover its techniques and instrumentation, while CML, a novel method to manipu-
late mud levels in the riser, is unraveled to illuminate its unique operational strategies.
Additionally, the chapter delves into the realm of MPC, an ingenious application of
MPD during cementing operations to mitigate losses and ensure cement placement
accuracy.
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