Redefining Technical Limit – Managed Pressure Directional Drilling Solution in Mexico Zaap Field

This paper will discuss the Managed Pressure Directional Drilling fit for purpose solution deployed to meet the drilling challenges in Mexico offshore Zaap field. This innovative solution integrates a new state-of-art Rotary Steerable System (RSS) with Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) technology. Drilling hazards such as total losses, wellbore instability and stuck pipe were mitigated, and an improved drilling performance with reduction of NPT as compared to other directional drilling systems. The solution requires the integration of two highly technical disciplines, MPD and Directional Drilling (DD). Hence, a Joint Operating & Reporting Procedure (JORP) and a defined communication plan are crucial for the effective execution. The solution is based on a rigorous Drilling Engineering process; including detailed offset wells analysis to deliver a comprehensive risk assessment & mitigation plan in collaboration with the operator to tackle drilling hazards without compromising the directional drilling requirements. The paper will also discuss the effective communication plan between the directional drilling services, MPD services and rig contractors to ensure safe operational alignment. Also, the paper includes a planning and operational blueprint to reduce NPT related to total losses, stuck pipe & wellbore instability, increase drilling performance (ROP improvement) and quality wellbore for liner run afterwards in the Middle Cretaceous formation. Drilling challenges in the Zaap field requires the utilization of both Directional Drilling technology and MPD techniques to improve drilling performance and reduce NPT respectively. Through processes, best practices and lesson learned, this paper hope to serve as the bellwether for the combined solution to achieve technical limit drilling performance in the Zaap field, offshore Mexico.