SPE-169220-MS

Measurement While Drilling, Logging While Drilling, and Rotary Steerable

Systems Performance, Benefits, and Challenges in Managed Pressure
Drilling and Underbalanced Drilling
Sajjad Hussain, Yvon Huelvan, and Waleed Adams, Schlumberger

Copyright 2014, Society of Petroleum Engineers

This paper was prepared for presentation at the SPE Bergen One Day Seminar held in Grieghallen, Bergen, Norway, 2 April 2014.

This paper was selected for presentation by an SPE program committee following review of information contained in an abstract submitted by the author(s). Contents of the paper have not been
reviewed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers and are subject to correction by the author(s). The material does not necessarily reflect any position of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, its
officers, or members. Electronic reproduction, distribution, or storage of any part of this paper without the written consent of the Society of Petroleum Engineers is prohibited. Permission to
reproduce in print is restricted to an abstract of not more than 300 words; illustrations may not be copied. The abstract must contain conspicuous acknowledgment of SPE copyright.

Abstract
Drilling engineers have been calculating hydrostatic pressure greater than reservoir pressure in almost all conventional
drilling applications. This has resulted in various drilling challenges, such as reduced rate of penetration, differential sticking,
mud losses, formation damage, wellbore stability, and formation fracture and associated cost. Managed pressure drilling
(MPD) and underbalanced drilling (UBD) have played a vital role to significantly minimize these drilling problems onshore
as well as offshore. Since most of the wells being drilled today include measurement-while-drilling (MWD), logging-while-
drilling (LWD), and rotary steerable system (RSS) tools, the interface between these tools with MPD and UBD technologies
has become extremely critical not only to understand but also to execute. These logging and steering tools have huge proven
combined benefits in both MPD and UBD environments. The performance of all these tools in MPD and UBD environments
is influenced by different challenges in terms of data transmission (mud pulse telemetry), hydraulics, steerability, and
maintenance.

Introduction
Conventional drilling operations have their own merits and their own limitations. Over the years, the main challenges
associated with conventional drilling are overbalanced drilling, wellbore breathing, and narrow mud weight window.
Generally, overbalanced drilling may result in stuck pipe, low rate of penetration (ROP), and formation damage. Wellbore
breathing/cycling includes ballooning and wellbore instability. Similarly, lost circulation, kicks, and additional casing strings
are problems associated with narrow mud weight window wells. Industry has successfully handled these conventional drilling
problems after development of underbalanced drilling (UBD) and managed pressure drilling (MPD) techniques. MPD is
defined as “an adaptive drilling process used to precisely control the annular pressure profile throughout the wellbore. The
objectives are to ascertain the down hole pressure environment limits and to manage the annular hydraulic pressure profile
accordingly. MPD is intended to avoid continuous influx of formation fluids to the surface. Any influx incidental to the
operation will be safely contained using an appropriate process.” [IADC Definition]
Industry uses different variants of MPD, but we will mainly focus on the constant bottomhole pressure technique in this
paper. MPD is drillability-driven technology. In MPD, the approach is to maintain near-balanced condition all the time (even
during connections in some cases) by using certain mud weight/flow rate combinations and, in some cases, using surface
backpressure with choke. In narrow mud weight window wells, it becomes very critical to keep constant bottomhole pressure
all the time, including during connections. This creates serious issues and requires attention at the planning stage for
downlinking downhole tools, if required. UBD technology is driven by reservoir characterization and focuses on avoiding
reservoir damage. It is a technique in which we intentionally maintain hydrostatic pressure in the wellbore less than reservoir
pressure and help the reservoir fluid to flow into wellbore. This minimizes reservoir damage, helps early reservoir
characterization, and avoids stuck pipe issues and lost circulation. An increase in ROP is also a big advantage of UBD. UBD
does not always use conventional mud pulse telemetry to achieve underbalanced conditions. Typically, nitrogen gas
(generated on site), with some additives such as foaming agents, corrosion inhibitors, etc., is used, resulting in serious
telemetry and hydraulic requirement issues for downhole tools. It has always been a challenge to industry to apply different
technologies on the same project, develop an interface, and understand how one technology will affect another one at the
same time. Development of new technologies always challenges existing technologies in terms of using them in combination,
2 SPE-169220-MS

and the same has been the case with rotary steerable systems (RSS), measurement while drilling (MWD), and logging while
drilling (LWD) once we use them in combination with MPD and UBD. RSS, MWD, and LWD are proven technologies and
have been successfully used in conventional drilling applications (both water-base mud (WBM), and oil-base mud (OBM),
systems). Industry has been used to using these tools in conventional mud pulse telemetry. But, at the same time, we forget
that use of these tools in MPD and UBD environments is not as simple and conventional as we think. Aggressive attention
and a composed approach are required when planning MPD and UBD wells with RSS, MWD, and LWD tools. This paper
highlights the main planning and execution considerations for MPD and UBD wells in combination with RSS, MWD, and
LWD tools.

Conventional Drilling and Use of RSS, MWD, and LWD Tools

Conventional drilling operations have extensively used these RSS, MWD, and LWD tools over the years without problems.
RSS has become the first choice of operators because it reduces drilling risks and enables operators to drill complex 3D
wells, wells with complex well placement, tight anticollision scenarios without compromising on hole cleaning, long lateral
and extended reach wells, and performance drilling. One of the main challenges in the use of RSS is optimum hydraulics and
downlinking. Downlinking is a process of sending commands to the RSS tool downhole by changing flow rates from the
surface in a defined sequence. This downlinking is either manual or automated by using computer. Automated downlinking
can be from offshore or from a remote onshore centre. The performance of RSS tools in conventional drilling operations is
proven, and many SPE publications attest to this. MWD is the oldest magnetic surveying tool, and over 90% of the wells are
being drilled worldwide using MWD as a primary surveying tool. MWD uses mud pulse telemetry to communicate downhole
information (inclinations, azimuth, vibrations and shocks, etc.) with a surface computer. Pressure pulses from the MWD tool
downhole are detected by dynamic pulse sensor at the surface and are translated into directional information and drilling
dynamic outputs. Each MWD tool operates within certain flow range, which is normally imposed on the RSS flow kit as
well. Lost circulation materials (LCM) concentration, quality of mud (free of debris), and shocks and vibrations are normal
challenges industry faces today with MWD tools. LWD tools are one of the most advancing and growing technologies today
because not only does LWD speed up the decision-making process, it also saves time and reduces risk. LWD tools have
proven performance and benefits in conventional drilling, both with WBM and OBM. LWD in combination with MPD/UBD
can further help to establish optimized drilling solutions for the industry. Now we shall discuss each of these tools in detail in
MPD/UBD environments.

RSS and M/LWD in MPD Operations

In this section, we consider RSS and M/LWD in MPD operations in terms of performance and benefits, well planning and
execution, challenges in designing and well planning, and new technologies. We also describe special approaches that can be
used in MPD environments and challenges related to those approaches.

Performance and Benefits of RSS and M/LWD in MPD.

RSS and M/LWD performance in MPD operations has been same as in conventional drilling operations as long as mud pulse
telemetry is used, which is normally the case in constant bottomhole pressure MPD. Performance of these tools is only
affected in nitrified mud and pressurized mud cap MPD operations (discussed in detail in the MPD special techniques section
below). RSS and M/LWD tools in combination with MPD operations have provided the operators a luxury to drill complex
wells with a narrow mud weight window with optimum performance and early records of logs, which speeds up the decision-
making process. LWD improves and helps optimization of MPD operations in real time. For example, pore pressure
measurements by sonic tools can help in real time to optimize bottomhole pressure in MPD operations by
increasing/decreasing surface backpressure on the MPD choke if we are keeping near-balance conditions with the help of a
surface choke. This may help in mud weight optimization on future wells and can make MPD operation more efficient.
Experiences show that directional drilling with positive displacement mud motors results into more pressure balance
complications in an MPD environment due to continuous changes in equivalent circulating density (ECD) in sliding and
rotary mode. These changes in ECD are due to the fact that in sliding mode cuttings accumulate at low side of the hole
causing cuttings buildup. This cuttings buildup results in an ECD increase which may be detrimental in well with a narrow
mud weight window. Since RSS gives us luxury to rotate the drillstring all the time, it further enhances the effectiveness of
an MPD operation. The success of an MPD operation also requires minimum trips to drill the section, and RSS helps
considerably to reduce number of trips, enabling the operators to complete the section in one run. Annular-pressure-while-
drilling (APWD) is also very beneficial in MPD operations. It monitors real-time ECD and equivalent static density (ESD) in
the downhole environment and helps the MPD engineer in optimization of MPD parameters. This is particularly very useful
in wells with a narrow mud weight window in which a slight increase or decrease in ECD/ESD may result in losses or gains.
APWD measurements also help in calibration of an MPD model and can provide a good data set for future wells. On
exploration and appraisal wells, formation pressure while drilling (FPWD) provides a direct pressure measurement while
drilling to set the lower boundary, and dynamic formation integrity tests (DFIT) with MPD provides the upper boundary of
pore and fracture pressures, respectively. This integration of FPWD with MPD can lead to valuable information resulting in
optimization of the decision-making process. A dynamic inflow test in MPD operations can also be verified and calibrated in
combination with LWD tools downhole. Information from LWD tools on lithology and formation boundaries also help in
SPE-169220-MS 3

wellbore stability knowledge, which is one of the important objectives of MPD operations. Washout detection in an MPD
environment is difficult due to surface backpressure (SBP) applied. Use of MWD may help in washout detection because of
the decrease in MWD turbine RPM if washout is above the MWD tool.

MPD Well Planning and Execution.

Well planning is the most critical phase of MPD operation in combination with RSS and M/LWD tools. This paper does not
discuss independently the well planning for MPD or RSS and M/LWD; rather it discusses well planning considerations for
MPD operation in combination with RSS and M/LWD. The main points that an operations drilling engineer must keep in
mind while planning a well with this combination of technologies are described below.
Main Concept. The main concept that drilling engineers should understand is that the MPD operation is no simpler than
it is in the absence of these RSS and M/LWD tools. Going to the basics of MPD operations, the objective is to keep constant
bottomhole pressure. To achieve this, we cannot change flow rates and SBP so frequently. The pump ramp-up and ramp-
down schedule is already planned and should be followed strictly to keep bottomhole pressure (BHP) constant all the time.
All RSS and some of the LWD tools require downlinking for communication and sending commands for different operations.
This downlinking is achieved by changing the mud flow rate in a predefined sequence. For example, to get different steering
responses from RSS tools and to record pressure using FPWD tools, downlinking is required. Normally, flow rate is reduced
by 15 to 20% and is then increased, in a defined time pattern to achieve a successful downlinking operation. The tool
response is transmitted uphole by MWD using mud pulse telemetry. Effectiveness of downlinking also depends on depth of
the well and mud weight being used. Deep wells using heavy mud weights are always challenging for downlinking
commands to transmit to downhole tools. These changes in flow rate for downlinking may result in varying BHP. This is
particularly important in wells with a narrow mud weight window in which slight increases and decreases in BHP may result
into loss and gain, respectively, as in deepwater high pressure/high temperature (HP/HT) wells with a 0.5-ppg mud weight
window. To avoid this, the pump ramp-up and ramp-down schedule must take into consideration the downlinking process.
Fig. 1 shows a typical table developed and followed for CBHP MPD using sequential pump ramp-up/ramp-down and SBP.
Communication. The operations drilling engineer’s premier responsibility is to ensure excellent and clear mutual
communication of MPD and RSS and M/LWD contractors well in advance so that during the complete planning and
execution phase, all stakeholders know their objectives and their roles in achieving those objectives. Communication is the
key in these combination drilling operations. All stakeholders must understand the impact of their activity on each other’s
planning and execution phase so that they act accordingly. A detailed meeting involving the mud engineer and the
directional, LWD, and MPD contractor must be planned to discuss all the risks and procedures so that everyone understands
the gravity of situation. Close communication between the driller and directional, LWD, and MPD operator is extremely
important during the execution phase of the well. The driller and MPD operator/engineer should be informed before
executing downlink commands. All downlink commands should be executed as per the pumping schedule and in close
coordination with the MPD operator/engineer who might need to change the SBP from the choke.
MPD Hydraulic Program and Tools Selection. The hydraulic program is the key to success of these operations. This
hydraulic program depends upon the type of MPD being used. The hydraulic program should be clearly discussed with the
directional, M/LWD, and MPD contractor. Mud flow rates, SBP at choke, ramp-up/ramp-down procedures and the
downlinking sequence should be clearly understood and discussed to keep BHP constant all the time. Flow rates selected
must be verified by the MWD specialist who must make sure that the MWD does not turn off during the 15 to 20% reduction
in flow rate during the downlinking process. The MWD flow rate range should be carefully selected to ensure bidirectional
communication throughout the drilling process.
Proper total flow area (TFA) of bit nozzles must also be selected in coordination with MPD and RSS contractors.
Standpipe pressure (SPP) as well as bit pressure drop depends upon TFA, which means flow rate will also be limited by SPP.
In some of the cases, especially at old production platforms, this becomes critical due to limited size of mud pump liners. So
it is very important to integrate the hydraulic program in such a way that the MPD contractor is happy with the flow rate
(ECD to keep near balanced condition), and bit pressure drop to achieve optimum steering response from the RSS, and SPP is
still within limits. It must be noted that not all RSS require bit pressure drop for steering (like point the bit system), so in
MPD operations, the choice of type of RSS is also critical. RSS independent of bit pressure drop should be given priority for
MPD operations to simplify the hydraulic program. Maximum allowable SBP applied from MPD choke is also a critical
parameter, which is normally driven by the dynamic pressure rating of rotating control head rubber elements sealing around
drillstring.
Survey Frequency. Survey frequency is also an important consideration in these combination operations. Normal MWD
survey frequency is 30 m (Kelly down) on most of the rigs. Sometimes, because of critical wellbore positioning or collision
risks with nearby wells, directional drilling engineers may set the survey frequency to 10 m, or even less depending upon the
situation complexity. The current technology of mud pulse telemetry MWD requires holding the pumping rate to zero for
approximately one minute, which will affect BHP. So, in an MPD operation with survey frequencies other than at connection
length (Kelly down), a complete risk analysis must be done. The pumping schedule should also include these downlinks for
shorter survey frequencies (if any) and should be properly communicated to the MPD contractor.
Flow-Actuated Underreamers. Drilling engineers must also consider the downlinks or flow changes required for
operation of underreamers and other special downhole tools. Some of the modern underreamers are flow actuated and require
4 SPE-169220-MS

downlinking in the same way as RSS and some of the LWD tools do. Flow-actuated underreaming in MPD operations also
requires proper attention and planning in the same way as for RSS and must be clearly discussed with the MPD and
underreamer contractors. A float valve above the underreamer is an absolute requirement in MPD operations to avoid
pressure communication to the drillstring. Consideration of fishing any source in LWD tools is also an important factor in the
planning stage, especially once the float valve is above the LWD tools.
Staging in High-Temperature Environment. All RSS and M/LWD tools may require staging in a high temperature
environment while tripping. Normally, while tripping in MPD operations, SBP is maintained with the MPD choke and
drillstring is pulled out through the rotating control head keeping BHP constant. The MPD pump is used to pump at the
wellhead to trap pressure in the annulus while tripping. If staging needs to be done, then SBP is reduced and gradually the
flow rate is increased inside the drillstring. This also varies BHP if not done properly. So, in the planning as well as the
execution phase, it is important to perform staging calculations and integrate these with the MPD operator/engineer plans to
develop a proper pumping schedule.
Shallow Hole Test (SHT). Normally, a shallow hole test of the MWD/RSS is conducted either at surface or at the first
filling of pipes downhole. This SHT gives the real pressure drop at the MWD and other tools in BHA, and this information
must be shared with the MPD engineer for MPD hydraulics optimization.
Deep Wells and Downlinking Considerations. RSS/LWD downlinking is not easy in deep wells with heavy mud
weights, so particular attention must be paid in these wells. More than one attempt may be required for successful
downlinking in deep wells. In an MPD operation in which the drilling engineer is thinking to have minimum downlinks, this
may result into varying BHP. This must be discussed and a complete risk assessment must be done prior to the start of the
operation.
Drilling Parameters. Some of the drilling parameters must be reconsidered with MPD, RSS and M/LWD. Normally in
MPD, less mud weight is used than in conventional drilling, which may result into increased rate of penetration (ROP). So, if
an MPD section calls for an LWD program, then ROP must be within the limits of the LWD tools. Weight on bit (WOB) is
another consideration as sometimes it has been observed that some string weight remains hanging at the rotating control
head.
LWD Program and Downlinking Considerations. The logging program for an MPD drilled section must be critically
discussed with both LWD and MPD contractors. Currently, FPWD and formation fluid sampling while drilling (FSWD) are
two LWD tools that require downlinking for their operation. If the logging program includes these two tools in combination
with an MPD operation, then it is better to discuss it with both LWD and MPD contractors. Complete risk assessment and the
pump ramp-up and ramp-down procedure must be discussed to minimize impact on BHP. The rest of the LWD tools require
no particular attention in an MPD operation.
For seismic LWD tools, it is advisable to contact the MPD engineer to confirm the connection procedure before
programming the tool. It is important to have good communication with the MPD engineer during the connection as the
engineer will need to advise when the flow has stopped and the system is static, to ensure that a quiet recording period for the
seismic acquisition.
Annular Pressure While Drilling in MPD Operations. APWD helps to calibrate the MPD system. This tool makes
maximum, minimum, and average static pressure measurements once pumps are off. Once pumps are turned on, these
measurements are sent uphole for gross calibration of the MPD system. This calibration is normally carried out in casing
during in-casing test to avoid problems in open hole. The APWD tool uses two sensors— one internal and the other external.
The internal sensor measures pressure inside the drillstring while the external sensor measures pressure in the annulus.
Interpretation of these internal and external pressures dictates the effects of increasing and decreasing surface flow rates, and
hence provides best flow rate at which SBP is applied from the surface choke during connections. If pressure is applied too
quickly, the formation may be fractured; if pressure is applied too slowly, formation stability may reach its threshold.
Reliability and robustness of APWD is paramount for a successful MPD operation. Annular pressure may be examined post-
run to evaluate the effectiveness of the MPD system during connections.

Challenges in Designing and Well Planning for MPD Operations.

There are different challenges in designing, planning, and executing MPD operations in the presence of RSS and M/LWD.
Communication interfaces and downlinking are the two major challenges in executing a successful MPD operation integrated
with RSS and M/LWD.
Communication between rigs and the MPD, RSS, and M/LWD contractors is the key to success of these operations. At
planning and during the execution phase, all involved personnel should understand their responsibilities towards each other.
For example, all downlinks must be performed with prior notice to the MPD engineer on site so that the engineer can keep
BHP constant by compensating for ECD losses during downlinks, if necessary. Communication gaps at any stage may result
in catastrophic events such as inflows and gains, depending on the mud weight window available. This communication
becomes extremely challenging if downlinks are being performed remotely from onshore centers. The trend to minimizing
the personnel on offshore rigs has pushed RSS and M/LWD contractors to develop downlinking systems that are operated
remotely from onshore centers. Automated downlinks through which the RSS and M/LWD engineer takes the control of the
mud pumps to execute downlinks is another potential communication threat for MPD operations. Although this automated
downlinking system increases the efficiency of downlinks, it adds another communication requirement.
SPE-169220-MS 5

Keeping BHP constant during MPD is another challenge in the presence of RSS and LWD tools that require downlinks
for trajectory control and recording different logs. Minimum downlinks must be planned during MPD operations, and a
proper risk assessment must be in place. RSS downlinkings normally require 15 to 20% flow rate reduction in a defined
sequence and may take approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Some of the LWD tools may require 10 to15 minutes pumps-off
during downlinking, which must be discussed and evaluated with the MPD contractor.

New Technologies in MPD Operations.

With the increasing demand for MPD, RSS, and M/LWD in rapidly increasing drilling activity, some new technologies have
evolved in the recent times. These new technologies have not only optimized downlinking processes to have minimal impact
on operations, but also have substantially increased communication rates. A remotely controlled automated pump system has
helped to enhance downlinking efficiency. With this system, the directional driller (DD) sits in the operator’s office and has
the ability to control mud pumps remotely. If a downlink is required to change RSS settings, the system remotely controls the
mud pumps to execute downlink commands. This system allows experienced DDs to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
and allows supervision of less-experienced DDs on the rigsite. This new system increased the number of successful
downlinks from 70% to more than 90% by eliminating human errors. Rig crew training is vital to understand this system, so
that at least the driller must understand how to take the control of rig pumps by just switching off the remote system in
emergency scenarios like kicks.
Wired drillpipes provide solutions to traditional data transmission problems observed in deep wells, especially in nitrified
mud environments. Wired drillpipes provide real time bidirectional communication at very fast rates using drillstring
telemetry. This increases the efficiency and reliability of downlinks dramatically. High data rates and transmission speed
enables downhole conditions to be measured, evaluated, and acted upon in real time.
The use of wired pipe has allowed a new level of understanding of drilling dynamics, wellbore integrity, and hydraulics.
The transmission is obtained in any conditions, including pumps off. Wired drillpipe technology can transmit data from
downhole tools to the surface more quickly and reliably than conventional mud-pulse telemetry. The technology incorporates
broadband-networked drillpipe that transmits data at the rate of 57,600 bps, more than three orders of magnitude greater than
the transmission rates afforded by other MWD techniques such as mud pulse, acoustic, or electromagnetic telemetry systems.
Additionally, networked drillstrings offer a vast increase in data volume at high resolution and over greater distances. With
the broadband network, annular pressure can be measured every 2 seconds and is available without the latency associated
with a wireless telemetry system. This allows for much tighter control of bottomhole pressure, and it helps to mitigate drilling
hazards that may be encountered during multiphase MPD and UBD operations.

Special MPD Approaches and Related Challenges. In this section, we discuss three special MPD approaches that are
nitrified mud MPD, pressurized mud cap drilling (PMCD), and concentric injection MPD.
In concentric gas injection MPD, gas injection is done thru casing to casing (liner tie back) annulus at a certain depth.
This gas is normally nitrogen produced onsite. This gas injection reduces bottomhole circulating pressure (BHCP) and, in
combination with MPD, near-balance situation may be achieved. The luxury in this technique is that there are no additional
considerations on the use of RSS and M/LWD as normal mud is still used in drillstring. So, in this technique, standard
considerations are applied to RSS and M/LWD, tools as in standard MPD operations.
In PMCD, sacrificial fluid (normally sea water) is pumped in the drillstring and high viscosity fluid is pumped in a
sequence in the annulus. This technique is used to drill fractured carbonates in complete-to-heavy losses situations in which
cuttings are expected to seal the fractures above. The reservoir borehole condition developed during PMCD makes wireline
logging operations extremely dangerous for the equipment. The required petrophysical/formation evaluation information can
possibly be obtained with LWD tools. Running radioactive sources should be avoided, if possible. If absolutely necessary,
running of these sources should be performed only after having evaluated the actual downhole conditions (corrosion from
H2S attack, risk of differential sticking, etc.) from previous runs performed with conventional equipment. If required, a full
logging suite can be recorded during the last bit run, or, if reduced time of exposure is preferred, with a dedicated
reaming/logging session at total depth (TD).
In nitrified MPD, because of the increase in fluid compressibility and a consequential increase in the RSS and M/LWD
pressure signal attenuation, the possibility of achieving a full directional control in the reservoir section is reduced.
Bottomhole temperatures are also higher than in conventional drilling; because of the presence of high gas/liquid ratios, the
tool temperature limits are reached very quickly. Hydraulic and bit pressure drop required for RSS and the signal strength
needed for MWD is a big challenge in this environment. Therefore, many different considerations are made for RSS and
MWD especially. These considerations may include volume of nitrogen (ELV) being pumped and a flow restrictor in the
RSS to have sufficient bit pressure drop (for push the bit system). Many failed downlinks in a nitrified MPD environment
have been reported to date because of the multiphase compressibility environment. Electromagnetic MWD (EM-MWD) and
wired drillpipes may also be options for these applications. EM-MWD will be discussed in detail in the UBD section of this
paper. The wired drillpipes network utilizes individual modified drilling tubulars that integrate a high-strength coaxial cable
encapsulated within a pressure sealed, stainless steel conduit running the length of each joint to provide bidirectional, real-
time, drillstring telemetry at speeds upwards of 57 kbps (versus 10 bps for mud pulse) at a temperature of 302 ̊F.  
6 SPE-169220-MS

RSS and M/LWD in UBD Operations

In this section, we consider RSS and M/LWD in UBD operations in terms of performance and benefits, well planning and
execution challenges, and new technologies.

Performance and Benefits of RSS and M/LWD in UBD.

RSS and M/LWD have been successfully employed in many UBD operations, but certainly these operations require
extensive planning and particular attention to cope with related challenges. Point-the-bit RSS require no bit pressure drop for
steering; however, downlinking is still a challenge. Push-the-bit RSS rely completely on hydraulics for steering as well as
downlinking. Performance of both point-the-bit and push-the-bit RSS has been satisfactory in UBD operations and many SPE
papers relate success stories. RSS in a UBD environment have provided the luxury of drilling complex well profiles with the
UBD technique with improved hole cleaning and borehole quality. MWD performance in UBD environment is a big
challenge to industry and is probably the biggest constraint in implementation of UBD technology in many deserving areas.
Now after development Of Electromagnetic MWD (EM-MWD) industry is feeling the comfort breath. However complexity
& reliability of EM-MWD is still something being focused. LWD together with UBD can give extremely useful reservoir
characterization in real time & can help operators in making on time decisions. APWD is also very useful tool to maintain
underbalanced condition all the time.

UBD Well Planning and Execution.

Well planning is the extremely critical phase of a UBD operation combined with RSS and M/LWD tools. The following are
the main points that the operations drilling engineer must keep in mind while planning a well with these enabling
technologies.
Main Concept. There are different variants of UBD being used by the industry. One uses condensate/diesel (normally
being produced from the same well) inside the drillstring to achieve an underbalanced condition downhole. In this case, not
many additional considerations are required as compared to standard mud pulse telemetry except compressibility of
condensate being used as drilling medium. All hydraulics for M/LWD work in the same manner as in MPD discussed in the
MPD section of this paper. In this type of UBD operation, RSS hydraulics is the key; because of compressibility of
condensate/diesel, it is difficult to get the required bit pressure drop for a push-the-bit system RSS. Also, compatibility of
condensate/diesel with internal parts of RSS, for example, seals, is an important consideration. Steerability of a push-the-bit
RSS in this kind of UBD operation should be a top priority consideration. Concentric casing gas injection is another
technique to achieve underbalanced condition which includes pumping drilling mud inside drillstring while nitrogen gas is
injected thru the microannulus between the casing and tie back liner having a perforated joint close to the liner top. This
nitrogen injection reduces the bottomhole pressure and the well flows on its own. The biggest advantage to this technique is
that there are no limitations on RSS and M/LWD tools as it uses normal mud as a drilling fluid inside the drillstring. We shall
not further discuss this technique in this paper.
Another, and the most challenging, method (that is also the most commonly used technique) to achieve an underbalanced
condition in a reservoir is using a nitrified and foam mud system. In a nitrified mud system, nitrogen is pumped inside the
drillstring in a certain mud/liquid volume ratio, along with some additives such as foamers, corrosion inhibitors etc. This
multiphase environment inside the drillstring is the most challenging for RSS and M/LWD tools due to various reasons
discussed later in this section. In this paper, we shall only discuss this UBD technique in relation with RSS and M/LWD.
MWD Considerations. The concentric casing injection technique enables achieving the underbalanced condition without
having to pump Nitrogen in the drillstring. The beauty of this technique is achieving the underbalanced condition without
having to subject RSS and M/LWD tools to the excessive wear and tear of pumping nitrogen into the drillstring; it also makes
MWD signal demodulation much easier.
The presence of gas in the pumped fluid will affect tool and telemetry performance. Good MWD mud pulse telemetry is
seen with up to 25% nitrogen and, in some cases, up to 28% nitrogen. Electromagnetic telemetry has been used successfully
onshore, although there are issues applying this to the offshore.
In UBD, a two-phase fluid (a mixture of mud and nitrogen) is pumped down the well. The greater the percentage of
nitrogen pumped down the drillstring, the more difficult it is to decode the MWD signal at surface. Sometimes it is important
to minimize the amount of data transmitted; only the bare essentials are included in the frame. A major problem can be
encountered when taking surveys. When the pumps stop, the two phases in the drillstring separate. When the pumps are
switched back on again, it can take a considerable time for the flow to equalize, making signal detection very difficult. To
overcome this, the autosurvey function and the delayed survey function (which delays the transmission of the survey data for
a set period of time after the pumps have been cycled) can be used in some specific scenarios. Lowering the frequency of
transmission and changing the bit rate so that the ratio of signals to noise is increased is one of the modifications that can be
made on rigsite. Due to the tight constraint on the telemetry rate, it would be sensible to build a few different real-time frames
based on different combinations of tools to be run before the job. This is just to be more prepared should there be any
changes in the tool configuration to be run. SHT should be carried out at specific flow rates, making sure that tool is turned
on and signal strength is adequate at these maximum and minimum flow rates.
An important aspect of reliability is that each MWD tool is run only once in two-phase operations and, after tripping,
must be sent back to the shop for replacement of critical parts. This must be carried out regardless of the number of hours the
SPE-169220-MS 7

tool has been used. A dual MWD tool is also an option in UBD operations to improve probability of successful
communication and as a mitigation measure against tool failure.
Temperature is another limitation in these operations. The more nitrogen volume is injected, the less fluid is in the hole;
therefore, the downhole temperature increases up to the tool specification limits very quickly, which is another tool
limitation.
When the high percentage of gas into drillstring does not allow receiving a good signal from the MWD tool, the
operational solution to the problem is pumping only liquid in short periods of not more than 5 to 10 minutes to get an
effective signal back to surface; however, it is not advisable to do this more than three times in a row since the risk of
destabilizing the multiphase system is very high, and it could take even more time to re-establish stable conditions.
MWD mud pulse technology represents a serious limitation for the application of multiphase (compressible) drilling fluid
MPD and UBD techniques. The use of more advanced signal transmission technologies such as electromagnetic transmission
(EM) or wired pipe is more suitable.
Connection Torque. It is also a good idea to additionally torque MWD and LWD connections. This additional torque on
the MWD tools will minimize washout chances in UBD by providing some additional sealing pressure on the faces. It is
always a good idea to consider premium gas-sealed tool joints in UBD operations.
Cavitation in MWD. Cavitation can occur while in two-phase operations. There is little that we can do to prevent it, but
we need to be aware of its effects. By understanding what is happening, we can try to alter drilling parameters in an attempt
to extend the life of the tool. The MWD tool generates power by utilizing the mud flow in the pipe to turn a high-speed
turbine. The rotor blade of this turbine generates vortices. The vortices can cause cavitation, the formation of vapor bubbles
within the fluid (mud). This occurs at the tips of the fast moving blades, when the fluid pressure falls below that of the vapor
pressure of the water. The bubbles are carried downstream by the flow, and when they enter an area of higher pressure they
collapse violently, causing erosion.
Flow Restrictor. With the higher compression of the fluid into the drillstring, it is fundamental to define the percentage of
gas into the drilling fluid system. For this reason, the inclusion of a flow restrictor (signal booster) installed below the MWD
is an important factor to increase the volume of nitrogen injected, as long as the flow area of the flow restrictor used is less
than the total flow area at the bit. The effect achieved using this restriction is to maintain a higher compression of multiphase
fluid inside the drillstring above the MWD to have good and reliable signal strength. The downhole temperature has no effect
over the transmission effectiveness of the signal from MWD. Always consider using flow restrictor sub (signal booster) for
good signal strength in UBD operations.
A jetting box (similar to a restrictor sub but run on surface in the standpipe) can also be used to enhance the MWD signal
strength according to some recent experiences.
LWD. LWD with azimuthal density/PEF, neutron porosity, and deep directional resistivity have been run in UBD
operations without any problems. The thermal neutron porosity LWD measure the hydrogen index of the formation fluid with
the borehole corrections applied. The use of nitrogen certainly affects the thermal neutron porosity response of the tool. This
must be discussed with the client petrophysicists, geologists, and reservoir engineers. It is important that the concentration of
the nitrogen needs to be mentioned clearly.
Seals/Rubber Elements Compatibility. Another important consideration with nitrogen is life of seals and rubber elements
in different tools. Rubber and seal elements deteriorate very quickly in the presence of nitrogen in UBD. It is very important
to minimize trips in UBD operations (to avoid well killing in some operations), so it is critical to consider the compatibility of
the seals and rubber elements in RSS and M/LWD tools.
Shocks and Vibrations. When a well goes into production in UBD, high shocks and vibrations (S&V) are seen because
there is no mud dampening effect. Once mud is in wellbore, then some of the S&V are dampened in mud and less is seen by
tools in BHA. During UBD production phase, more S&V are seen by RSS and M/LWD tools. These S&V reduce drilling
performance, affect data quality, and may result into tool failures. So, while planning a UBD operation with RSS and
M/LWD, it is very important to consider this aspect of drilling mechanics. Since UBD technology already poses challenges
of increased cost and equipment and depends on a good productivity index (PI), tool failure and extra trips will further detract
from its use.
BHA vibration analysis is critical in UBD operations. Proper BHA stabilization is very important in UBD to minimize
vibration count on MWD. Fig. 2 shows a typical chart showing ROP, WOB, and Torque for a Push-the-bit system in a
nitrified environment; the figure clearly shows stick/slip throughout the run.
RSS Hydraulics and Downlinking. We may face issues in downlinking RSS when nitrogen is used. One of the solutions
is to pump liquid only while downlinking, but so much that the stability of the mud system is not destroyed. The most
important part of a successful execution of RSS with gas injection is the analysis of the hydraulic system. It is critical to
obtain all relevant information about the rate of gas injection and liquid. The condition of the hydraulic system, including the
real rate of gas injection and liquid flow rate, must be monitored to not exceed the pressure limits of the seals of the RSS pads
and any additional components of the BHA. There exists a great difference between the pressure at the pads associated with
pumping low-density mud and low-density mud with nitrogen gas injection at the same flow rate. It is therefore critically
important that operating ranges for drilling parameters are defined during the initial design phase.
8 SPE-169220-MS

It is very hard to calculate real hydraulics in a multiphase flow system. Models in certain drilling software applications
are available for hydraulics calculations in UBD systems. Sticking with industry accepted models and calibrating relative to
actual field examples during drilling is the best means to develop trust in the model.
Under conditions of mud losses, where it may be necessary to lower the drilling flow rate to conserve mud, the
inclusion of a flow restrictor is useful. An RSS flow kit may also be selected for low flow, medium flow, or high flow
depending on expected flow rate. This is of vital importance because RSS must always be operating while drilling on bottom
to correctly position and opens the pads (push the bit system) to maintain directional control. Once drilling has started and a
change is made to the programming of the RSS, a downlink should be sent from surface without nitrogen injection during the
complete downlinking cycle, which can last from 10 to 20 minutes. It is important to note that the use of nitrogen in the mud
system reduces the life of RSS; because of this, it is good practice to drill for no more than 80 circulating hours at a
maximum nitrogen concentration of 40 m3/min with the same tool before maintenance. The general procedure found
successful to send a downlink to RSS with nitrogen injection is explained in Fig. 3.
Industry has witnessed many downlink failures/missed surveys with dual-phase mud systems that were easily fixed
by changing mud to single phase during downlinks/surveys. So it is critical that the RSS should always be downlinked with
only water/mud (single-phase fluid) instead of a two-phase fluid (water + nitrogen).
Normally, equivalent liquid volume (ELV), which is combination of liquid and nitrogen is provided by UBD/MPD
contractors at different flow rate combinations of mud and nitrogen gas. Each set of ELV gives certain bottomhole circulating
pressure which is critical to maintain the underbalanced condition. Then, this ELV is used by the directional drilling
contractor to simulate hydraulics required for RSS, especially push-the-bit systems. The percentage of nitrogen gas in liquid
mud will decide the signal strength of the MWD tool as well as quality of downlinks. Fig. 4 shows the relation between
nitrogen injection rate, pump flow rate, and ECD for typical 10 5/8-in. hole section.
RSS and M/LWD tools can be used in a UBD environment to deliver consistent high dogleg severities under conditions of
severe mud losses using nitrified mud, real-time formation evaluation, well placement, less tortuous well path, and good hole
cleaning. Motors can still be considered as back up if the required doglegs are not achieved. Positive displacement mud
motors have also proved successful in nitrified UBD. However, motors with oil-sealed bearings are also available for such
applications.
Snubbing in MPD Operation. If snubbing of the BHA is planned through the rotating head during a UBD operation, then
it must be discussed with the underbalanced operations service company. Snubbing might not be the problem for MWD
(consider removing wear bands on the MWD tool, if applicable in specific scenario), but it can be critical for some of the
LWD tools. Stabilized LWD tools can also be snubbed through annular BOPs, but this requires specific procedures.
Float Valves. Too many float valves placed above the MWD may create signal reflection and distortion. It is good to
have two of them between the MWD tools and the RSS. There should also be one on surface for the ease of pressure bleed-
off during connection and well control. If an LWD tool with sources is run, the wireline retrievable type float valve must to
be used on surface for source fishing option.
Surveying. A delayed surveys or autosurvey mode is strongly recommended. The autosurvey mode really relies on the
expected ROP. If it is still impossible to obtain the survey with the delayed survey mode, then a request should be made to
the rig to pump just the mud without nitrogen until a survey is obtained.
String Washout Detection. The washout detection in a UBD environment is always a challenge, but MWD can help in
early washout detection if experienced people can sense it. The real- time update rate is normally very slow (2 minutes) and,
also, there are numerous significant pressure fluctuations (up to 1000 psi) in the string which make the washout detection
with the pressure readings a difficult task. The pressure fluctuations are due to the compression and expansion of the nitrogen
once the bit is on and off bottom.
Communication. Communication is the key to the success of a UBD operation. Clear communication is an absolute
necessity among all involved personnel and contractors, and especially between the rig and the directional and UBD
contractors. A “drilling the well on paper” (DWOP) meeting is must for a successful UBD operation. Client education is also
very important, especially for UBD.

New Technologies in UBD Operations.

Wired drillpipes and electromagnetic MWD (EM-MWD) are the latest technologies which have answered different telemetry
challenges discussed above. Table 1 shows different applications of wired drillpipes.
The EM-MWD transmits its downhole data by emitting an electromagnetic wave into the formation, which carries the data
to a surface antenna. Information received at the antenna is decoded (binary numbers) and sent to the EM-MWD unit on the
rig using a hard wire. Formation resistivity logs, casing configuration, well geometry, and drilling fluid data need to be
gathered to determine their effect on EM signal propagation. Based on these data and associated EM signal attenuation
simulations, it can be concluded that standard EM transmission are enough or that extended range EM-MWD is required to
ensure transmissions at a specific depth. An advantage of EM transmission over conventional mud pulse transmission is that
real-time updates are possible irrespective of the wellbore hydraulics. One reason for using EM-MWD in UBD operations is
to provide, at a minimum, real-time data for annular pressure (APWD sensor) and directional controls. The APWD real-
time ECD sensor is expected to help ensure that the well remains in an underbalanced condition while drilling.
SPE-169220-MS 9

The EM-MWD requires no modification of the rig’s drilling fluid system, no pulser, and no fluid circulation and does not
require drilling fluid in the hole to communicate information. The EM-MWD is powered by batteries and can operate during
all phases of drilling operations, including tripping, underbalanced drilling, and lost circulation. The qualities make the tool
particularly attractive for use in wells drilled with unconventional drilling fluids such as foam, mist, or aerated mud. When
conventional drilling fluid is used, the EM-MWD is not affected by the flow rate, rheology, solids contents, or other fluid
properties, as are mud pulse MWD systems. The cross sectional flow area of the tool’s nonmagnetic drill collar is equivalent
to that of a standard drill collar. Therefore, it creates no additional pressure losses and will not restrict the use of lost
circulation material in any way.
If the resistivity of the formations between the standard EM-MWD transmitting antenna and the surface receiving antenna
is too low, then detection at the surface of EM signals is not possible due to the signal attenuation. The extended range EM-
MWD system is used to extend the depth capability while drilling. The system employs one or more transmitting antenna(s)
deployed from the EM-MWD tool to a point higher in the drillstring. This increases the strength of the EM signals arriving at
the surface so that detection is possible. The MWD tool is run in a nonmagnetic drill collar, with an APWD tool. The EM-
MWD tool is made up in the BHA as it is being run in the hole. At the desired depth, a wireline antenna cable (monocore or
multicore normal cable) is run inside the drillstring using a wireline unit and latched onto the tool to establish communication
between the transmitting antenna and the EM-MWD tool. The wireline and latching assembly either fall freely due to gravity
or are pumped downhole. After latching communication with the EM-MWD tool is established, connectivity is confirmed
from the wireline unit and EM-MWD engineer cabin, the wireline is cut, and a landing assembly (antenna) is built and hung
off in the drillpipes, either in the hang off sub or in a landing basket designed to fit in the drillpipe box connection. This
becomes the downhole antenna for data transmission. Drilling operations can continue unhindered by the wireline antenna
system, and standard pipe connection procedures can be used. The extended range EM-MWD system does not involve the
use of a side entry sub, wireline sub, or cable to surface while drilling. Fig. 5 shows the working principle of EM-MWD.

Conclusions.
MPD/UBD and MWD/LWD/RSS are mutually exclusive well requirements that demand compatibility. Excellent and clear
communication of MPD/UBD, RSS and M/LWD contractors is the key to success of these Operations. Hydraulic program,
Tools limitations, capabilities, downlinking and telemetry challenges are of extreme importance for successful UBD/MPD
Operations with RSS/MWD/LWD.

Acknowledgment
The authors wish to thank Schlumberger for supporting this initiative and allowing publication of the information in this
paper.
References
Hussain, S. Saleem, S. Sabir, M., and Asrar, M. 2011. First Horizontal Well Drilled with Underbalance (Nitrified Stable
Foam), Downhole Deployment Valve and Extended Range EM-MWD Technologies in Middle East Region – Case Study
and Lesson Learned. Paper SPE/PAPG 156203 presented at the SPE/PAPG Annual Technical Conference, Islamabad,
Pakistan, 22–23 November.
Njoku, J. C., Husser, A., and Clyde, R. 2008. New Generation Rotary Steerable System and Pressure While Drilling Tool
Extends the Benefits of Managed Pressure Drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Paper SPE 113491 presented at the SPE Indian Oil
and Gas Technical Conference and Exhibition, Mumbai, India, 4–6 March.
Chase, C. and Zafar, S. H. 2010. Successful Application of RSS in a Highly Nitrified Mud System. Paper IADC/SPE 128194
presented at the IADC/SPE Drilling Conference and Exhibition, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, 2–4 February.
10 SPE-169220-MS

Fig. 1——[CBHP MPD using sequential pump ramp-up/ramp-down and SBP]

Fig. 2——[a typical chart showing ROP, WOB, and Torque for a Push-the-bit system in a nitrified environment; showing stick/slip
throughout the run]
SPE-169220-MS 11

Fig. 3——[general procedure found successful to send a downlink to RSS with nitrogen injection]

Fig. 4——[relation between nitrogen injection rate, pump flow rate, and ECD for typical 10 5/8-in. hole section]
12 SPE-169220-MS

Fig. 5—[working principle of EM-MWD]

SPE-169220-MS 13

TABLE 1—[DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS OF WIRED DRILLPIPES]

Description Challenge Application Value

Hole Cleaning Difficult to understand and manage Distributed annular pressure Early detection of hole cleaning
hole cleaning in high-angle wells measurements enable hole issues and location
conditioned to be monitored
Limited information available on across the entire wellbore in real Efficient implementation of hole
presence and location of hole time cleaning practices (off-bottom
cleaning issues circulation, back-reaming, ROP
limiting, etc.)

Narrow pore-fracture Defining pressure window in real High definition real-time leak off Greater definition of pressure
pressure window time tests (LOT) and formation window while drilling
pressure tests (FPT)
Limited data available on actual Enhanced ability to monitor and
BHP (delayed, infrequent and not High frequency APWD data maintain BHP
available at low/no flow) available in rea time with and
without flow

Formation evaluation and Limited LWD data available in real- Memory quality LWD logs in real- Greater understanding of
well placement time time reservoir while drilling
Data density requirements can Increased ROP limits for LWD Precise control of wellbore with
limit ROP data density RSS tools
Steering control requires constant Instantaneous and continuous Achieve higher ROPs/reduced
downlinks control of RSS tools drilling time

Borehole instability Limited data available in real time High definition borehole images Greater understanding of
to effectively understand borehole available in real time borehole condition and
instability degradation
Time effective multi-pass (time
lapse) logging Enhanced real-time decision
making on mud weights,
casing/liner points

Drillstring vibrations Limited drilling dynamics/vibration High speed drilling dynamics Maximize on-bottom drilling
measurements available in real- measurements enable effective performance (ROP)
time real-time drilling optimization
Mitigate vibration failure risk and
Delayed identification and increase tool life
ineffective mitigation techniques

High-speed tool Limited ability to communicate with Bi-directional communication with Rig time savings – rotational
Communication downhole tools downhole tools checkshots, LWD data
downloads, check surveys
Instantaneous steering
adjustments & verifications Tighter control of TVD with RSS
Faster and “on-demand” surveys Top of cement identification
while TIH

UBD and MPD Flow required to supply real-time Bidirectional telemetry regardless Ability to monitor ESD across all
down hole data of flow or fluid flow ranges - connections, MPD
operations, etc.
High definition formation
evaluation in all fluid
environments – enables geo-
steering
RSS control in underbalance
drilling conditions