Abstract

Overpressure regime in deepwater formations pose drilling challenge with narrow stable mud weight window due to lower fracture gradient in relatively softer sediments as compared to onshore wells. In such scenario, casing shoe depth plays crucial role to manage proper hole condition. Apart from pore pressure analysis, assessment of kick tolerance plays critical role in designing such wells and is often misunderstood in the industry. Confusion and lack of standards regarding kick tolerance often prevents effective use of concepts to assess the risks while drilling.