IPC-MPD: Redefining Well Control by Overcoming Complex Challenges

In the ever-evolving oil and gas industry, precise well control is crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations. Vertechs IPC-MPD, based on Intelligent Pressure Control (IPC) technology, has proven itself in a wide range of challenging environments, from ultra-deep wells with slimhole to high-pressure, high-production wells.

Explore with us how IPC-MPD has tackled well control challenges in typical drilling operations.

MPD and Workover in an Ultra-Deep Oil Well with Slimhole

In a recent project in Northwest China, we supported an ultra-deep oil well with slimhole, reaching depths exceeding 8,000m (26,247ft). The complex well conditions and strict pressure requirements made precise pressure control critical.

IPC-MPD was deployed to ensure accurate pressure management throughout the operation. By using real-time, high-precision hydraulic modeling, we simulated the wellbore pressure window, enabling precise control during both circulation and non-circulation phases.

As a result, the operation not only met formation pressure requirements but also accelerated the well’s transition to production, demonstrating the efficiency and safety of the IPC-MPD system in ultra-deep slimhole well operations. 

MPD and Cementing in a High-Pressure, High-Production Gas Well

Working in a high-pressure, high-production gas well in Southwest China, we faced the challenge of safely managing multiple downhole kicks and loss events.

To address these challenges, the Vertechs IPC-MPD system was integrated into the operation, ensuring precise pressure control throughout cementing and MPD phases. Real-time pressure management allowed us to maintain constant bottomhole pressure circulation for 9 days, minimizing NPT and significantly shortening the well completion cycle.

The system’s high-precision manifold and rapid response to pressure fluctuations were crucial in resolving over 8 downhole kicks and losses across two sections, making this one of the most efficient operations we've conducted in such a challenging environment.

MPD and Cementing in a Gas Well in a Fractured Reservoir with High H₂S

The Sichuan Basin is one of China’s most important natural gas production areas, frequently encountering significant challenges in well control—especially during drilling and cementing operations in fractured reservoirs with high H₂S. Addressing these challenges requires advanced techniques to ensure both safety and efficiency.

The IPC-MPD’s intelligent pressure control capabilities allowed us to dynamically respond to real-time downhole changes, ensuring safe operations in such a volatile environment. This approach not only minimized risks but also set a new record, drilling 250m (820ft) deeper than the planned measured depth and making it the fastest exploration well. 

As reservoirs grow deeper and pressures intensify, traditional MPD systems are being pushed to their limits. Today, Vertechs IPC-MPD is redefining what’s possible in well control. 

The future of drilling is already here. Is your operation ready to lead the way?