Kick User Guide

Kick_ U S E R M A N UA L
V E R S ION 5
be dynamic ®
Drillbench Kick User Guide Page i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1. GENERAL 1
1.1 Overview 1
2. MAIN ENVIRONMENT 2
2.1 Overview 2
3. CREATING A CASE FILE 4

3.1 Overview 4
3.2 The data model - DEML 4
3.3 New session (.dml) file 5
3.4 Editing an existing session (.dml) file 6
3.5 Converting legacy session files 6
3.6 Library 7
3.6.1 Library editor 9
4. INPUT PARAMETERS 10
4.1 Summary 10
4.2 Description 11
4.3 Survey 11
4.4 Wellbore geometry 14
4.5 String 17
4.6 Surface equipment 18
4.7 Fracture pressure 21
4.8 Mud 22
4.9 Reservoir 29
4.10 Temperature 34
5. EXPERT INPUT PARAMETERS 36

5.1 Model parameters 36
5.2 Sub-models 39
6. MENUS AND TOOLBARS 40

6.1 File 40
6.1.1 New 40
6.1.2 Open 40
6.1.3 Reopen 40
6.1.4 Save 40
6.1.5 Save as 40
6.1.6 Save as template 41
6.1.7 Save library 41
6.1.8 Import 41
6.1.9 Export 41
6.1.10 Exit 42
6.2 Edit 42
6.2.1 Cut 42
6.2.2 Copy 42
6.2.3 Paste 42
6.2.4 Undo 42
6.3 View 42
6.3.1 Well schematic 42
6.3.2 Survey plot 43
Drillbench Kick User Guide Page ii
6.3.3 Log view 45

6.3.4 Navigation bar 45
6.3.5 Input 45
6.3.6 Expert input 45
6.3.7 Simulation 45
6.4 Simulation 45
6.4.1 Start/Pause 46
6.4.2 Step 46
6.4.3 Reset 46
6.4.4 Load state from file 46
6.4.5 Save state… 47
6.5 Results 47
6.5.1 Keep previous results 47
6.5.2 Export results 48
6.5.3 Import results 48
6.5.4 Add page 48
6.5.5 Rename page 48
6.5.6 Remove page 48
6.5.7 Load/save layouts 49
6.6 Tools 49
6.6.1 Take snapshot 49
6.6.2 Report 49
6.6.3 Validate parameters 51
6.6.4 Edit unit settings 51
6.6.5 Options 51
6.7 Help 55
6.7.1 About 55
7. RUNNING A SIMULATION 57
7.1 Overview 57
7.2 Controlling a simulation 57
7.3 Simulation window 57
7.3.1 Graphical output 58
7.3.2 Plot properties 60
7.3.3 Print and export 60
7.3.4 Import data 62
7.3.5 Zooming 62
7.4 Interactive simulation mode 62
7.5 Batch simulation mode 65
7.6 Kick tolerance simulation 67
7.6.1 Tolerance: Maximum kick size vs. kick intensity 69
7.6.2 Tolerance: Casing shoe position vs. kick intensity 71
7.6.3 Tolerance: Degasser capacity vs. kick intensity 73
8. WORKING WITH KICK 75

8.1 Multiple runs – keep results 75
8.2 Improved results view 76
8.2.1 Time plots 76
8.2.2 Profile plots 77
8.3 Well schematic 78
8.4 Add external data 79
8.5 Create presentation graphics 81
9. RHEOLOGY MODELS 83
9.1.1 Generalised Newtonian models 83
Drillbench Kick User Guide Page iii
9.1.2 Frictional pressure loss model 85
10. COMPOSITIONAL PVT MODEL 87

10.1 Overview 87
10.1.1 Under-saturated liquid compressibility 87
10.1.2 Two-liquid formulation 88
10.1.3 Influx characterisation 88
10.1.4 Mud characterisation 90
11. LOST CIRCULATION 91

11.1 Overview 91
11.2 Fracturing 91
11.2.1 Fracturing the formation 91
11.2.2 The Fracture Volume 92
11.2.3 Fracture Closing 92
11.2.4 Mud mixing 92
12. KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS 93
13. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 94
Drillbench Kick User Guide Page 1
1. GENERAL
1.1 Overview
Drillbench is an advanced software suite for design and evaluation of all drilling
operations. It is a result of more than 15 years of drilling research and has unique features
in dynamic simulation of the wellbore flow process.
As a software suite Drillbench is a compilation of several individual applications focusing

on different challenges encountered in a drilling operation. All the applications are based
on the same design basis and they have a lot of tools and features in common, but each
application has a user interface that is tailored to the tasks the application is designed for.
The combination of a common look and feel and tailored interfaces ensures that it is very
easy to move from application to application for analyzing various phases of the drilling
operation.
Kick is one of the applications in Drillbench. It is a unique software program for well control
engineering, training and decision making support. The program includes the results
of activities like flow modelling, laboratory and full-scale experiments and simulator
development. The simulator uses advanced mathematical models in order to produce
realistic simulations. A great number of special and complex well conditions can be
handled. Kick is a result of extensive R&D within well control performed at Scandpower
Petroleum Technology and Rogaland Research during the last decades.
The prevention and control of kicks are of great concern to the petroleum industry. Most
kicks are brought under control, but the occasional blow-out may result in danger for rig
crew and great losses of economic and environmental character.
The tool can be used for:

 Pre-evaluation of potential well control problems
 Post-evaluation of kick incidents
 Evaluation of well control procedures
 Evaluation of the effect of base oil type and mud composition on kick development
 Evaluation of the effect of well geometry, pump rate, reservoir properties, mud
density, etc.
 Evaluation of pressure conditions in the well during the control phase
 Evaluating the effect of horizontal wells
 Evaluating the effect of deep water well; long choke/kill lines, narrow operating
window with fracture pressure gradient near formation pressure gradient
 Evaluating handling of an underground flow situation
 Evaluation of degasser (poorboy) capacity when circulating out a kick
The simulator can assist in the design of an optimum well program for a given geology,
wellbore configuration and surface equipment. It can help to determine optimum well-
control procedures, and serve as a remedy for post-analyses of kick cases. The simulator
is also a tool for training rig crew by simulating “what if" scenarios before drilling into new
sections.
2. MAIN ENVIRONMENT
2.1 Overview
The Kick installation creates by default a Kick entry under Programs  SPT Group in
the Start menu. Kick is started either by selecting this shortcut, by clicking a desktop
icon or by selecting from the Windows Explorer.
Regardless of the start-up method, the program will look similar to Figure 2.1 when
starting up. The contents of the parameter display may be different depending on
parameter group and selected window.
Figure 2-1. Typical view when starting Kick. A summary page shows the most
important parameters to give the user an overview of the case
The environment consists of 4 main areas; the menu line and the toolbar at the top of
the window, and in the main Kick window there is a navigation bar to the left and a
data entry window to the right.
Main environment
Menu line
A standard menu line with File, Edit, View, Simulation, Results, Tools and Help
entries. File operations, selecting views and simulation control may be done from
here.
Toolbar
Standard commands like File  New, File  Open, Save, Copy, Cut, Paste and
Undo, are placed in a toolbar for easy access. These commands can also be
accessed by standard Windows keyboard shortcuts (ref. Chapter 12). A toolbar for
controlling the simulation with start, pause, one-step and reset buttons is placed next
to the normal toolbar. The user can also select the desired type of simulation,
interactive, batch or kick tolerance.
Navigation bar
The navigation bar contains:
- Input for specification of the most frequently used input parameters
- Expert input for specification of optional or expert features
- Calculation for calculation and output of results
Data entry window

Displays either input parameters or calculated output parameters depending on the
current selection in the navigation bar
Main environment
3. CREATING A CASE FILE
3.1 Overview
This section briefly describes the data model in Drillbench and how a new case can be
created. All Drillbench applications share the same data model, therefore this section is
therefore similar for all applications.
A new case can be created either by building a new file or by editing an old file. The
data needed for a simulation may be selected from the library or specified in the input
parameter sheets. Details about the input parameter sheets and the library are
presented in more details in section 3.6 and chapter 4.
If you have used older versions of Drillbench, you can open your input files as normal
and you will be notified that your input has been upgraded. Note that this upgrade is
irreversible – files saved from this version cannot be loaded in older versions of
Drillbench.
3.2 The data model - DEML

The data model illustrated in Figure 3-1 handles all internal data transfer between the
user interface and the numerical models and store all the information in XML files.
The data model is the same for all Drillbench applications, but most applications only
use a subset of the full model. When switching from one application to another, all
available data will be used and the user must add only the data specific to the
application in use.
Figure 3-1 Data model in Drillbench
Data can be collected from several sources. In many cases the companies have some
standards, guidelines or common practices that will remain unchanged from case to
case. Also vendors of tools and fluids may be the same in many cases.
Creating a case file

The total amount of data needed to run a Kick session may therefore be divided into
case specific data and more standard data that will remain unchanged or only slightly
modified from case to case. The standard data can, as before, be defined in the Library
to simplify the case definition phase.
Among the case specific data are well trajectory, geometry, operational conditions and
temperature. Typical library entries are fluids, pipes and tools.
3.3 New session (.dml) file

To create a new session file, select File  New from the menu line. The new file
dialog offers choices of starting with a blank file or with predefined templates.
Templates can be defined either for specific well types (i.e. HPHT, deep-water,
extended reach) or for specific fields. The idea behind the templates is that the input
process should be simplified. All the predefined data is available from the user interface
so it is easy to review the data and verify that it fits the case you want to simulate.
Figure 3-2. New file dialog
The path to the templates is configured in the Tools  Options dialog.

3.4 Editing an existing session (.dml) file

Existing input files are opened by choosing File  Open and selecting the file. A recent
used file can also be opened from the File  Reopen list. The edit process is very
similar to what you do when you open a template file. After editing the input file,
choose File  Save as… from the menu line and give the input file a new name. The
input file can be saved in any directory.
3.5 Converting legacy session files

Drillbench has since version 4 used a new data file format and files created with older
versions of Drillbench (3.X) need to be converted for use in Drillbench 5 applications.
There are two tools for converting old files:
 Convert file - converts a single file or database
 Convert folder - converts all files in a folder and (optional) subfolders
To convert a file:
Open the convert file application (Start  [Program location]  Tools  Legacy 
Convert file).
The application shown in Figure 3-3 is opened. By clicking the folder symbol, an
explorer window is opened for selection of files to convert. The corresponding new file
(.dml) will be located in the same folder as the original file.
Figure 3-3 Tool for converting session and database files from Drillbench 3.X.

To convert a folder:
Open the convert folder application (Start  [Program location]  Tools  Legacy 
Convert folder)
Figure 3-4 shows the convert folder tool. Just select the folder you want to convert and
all old session files including those in subfolders will be scanned and converted. This
can be performed at the root (C:\ or any other location where you have Drillbench files),
but note that if you have many files, this command can take some time to complete.
Figure 3-4 Tool for conversion of all session files in a folder (including subfolders).
A log file is created for each file that is converted to the Drillbench format (.dml). The
log file is automatically stored together with the file and contains any messages and
warnings that may have been generated during the conversion to the new format.
3.6 Library
All data is entered in the parameter input section. For some data that is typically
entered based on data-sheets or from handbooks, an optional library function is
included. The default installation of Drillbench contains a library with values for pipes &
tubulars, tools, fluids etc. The user can also very easily add information to the library to
define new items.
The entries from the library are selected in the parameter input sections for Wellbore
geometry, String and Mud. The library can be accessed by clicking on the Name field
for the item/component. The items/components that can be found and stored in the
library are:
 Riser
 Casing/Liner
 String components

 Bit
 Mud (Drilling fluid)
Figure 3-5. Library browser and filter dialog for casings
To find a specific item or component in the library, there is a filter option to help you
search for the item or component you need. You can set up several different filters to
make your library search more detailed if preferred. Click the Add button to add a line
in the filter dialog or press remove if you want to remove a line. Remember to click
Apply filter – no filtering is performed before this button is clicked.
To select an item from the list of matching components you can double click on the
element. You will then return to the input screen and can continue to specify other data.
If you do not find a suitable item or component in the library, you can specify all the
properties of the item or component manually in the input parameter window. The item
or component can then be added to the library by right-clicking on the line in the table
and choosing add item to Library.
.

3.6.1 Library editor
There is also a standalone library editor that can be opened from the Start menu (Start
 [Program location]  Tools  Library editor).
Figure 3-6 Library editor
In the Library editor all the information that is stored in the library can be reviewed. It is
possible to add new items or edit the specification of existing items.

4. INPUT PARAMETERS
The input parameters are divided into ten main groups.
Summary A brief summary of the most important input data

Description Information about the present study/case
Survey Describes the well trajectory
Wellbore geometry Defines the wellbore completion
String Configures and defines the drill string and bit
Surface equipment Defines the rig environment
Fracture pressure Defines fracture pressures with depth
Mud Defines the drilling fluid
Reservoir Defines the reservoir and influx fluid
Temperature Defines temperatures and temperature model
4.1 Summary
The summary window is an overview of the most important information entered for the
case.
Figure 4-1 Summary window
Input Parameters
4.2 Description
Use the Description window to describe the main purpose and key parameters of the
current case. The input is self-explanatory and consists of the most important
parameters needed to identify the case. Use the Description field to distinguish several
computations performed for the same case.
Figure 4-2 Description window
4.3 Survey
The input data for the survey are Measured depth, Inclination and Azimuth. The
simulator calculates the true vertical depth (TVD) by using the minimum curvature
algorithm. The angle is given as deviation from the vertical, which means that an angle
of 90 indicates the horizontal. The angle between two points is the average angle
between the points. The simulator handles horizontal wells, but angles higher than
100 are not recommended. This window is optional and the well is assumed vertical if
no data is entered.
The survey data can be entered manually, copied from a spread-sheet or imported
from an existing survey file. Figure 4-3 show the survey data table and a 2D sketch of
the well trajectory.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-3 Specification of survey data
Inclination data can also be imported from file (Ref. Figure 4-4) by choosing File 
Import  Survey data or RMSwellplan data.
Figure 4-4 Menu option for survey data import
The RMSwellplan option opens a File open dialogue and a *.dwf file can be selected.
The Survey data import is different as this option opens a file import tool shown in
Figure 4-5.
The import tool is very general and can handle different units, different column order or
delimiters. It can also handle any number of header or footer lines.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-5 Survey Import window
The survey profile can be previewed in 3D, by selecting View  Survey plot.
Figure 4-6 3D survey plot
Input Parameters
4.4 Wellbore geometry

The wellbore geometry section contains the specification of the actual hole. A typical
window appearance is shown in Figure 4-7. The wellbore is divided in two parts:
 Riser (if applicable)
 Casing/Liner
Figure 4-7 Specification of riser, casing and liner data
Riser
Figure 4-8 Riser
The Riser is specified by the length (sea floor depth) and dimensions. Name and
dimensions can either be typed directly in the table or a predefined item can be loaded
from the library. The library is accessed from an ellipsis button in the Name column.
The library functionality is described further in Chapter 3.6.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-9. Library browser for Casings and Risers (database)
Kick is able to simulate flow in the riser after the BOP is closed. This is important
especially for deep-water wells, in case gas has entered the riser before the BOP is
fully closed. Calculation of flow in riser after the BOP is closed is activated from an
ellipsis button that appears when clicking in the Properties column. Enable the
checkbox for Riser calculation as shown in Figure 4-10. One needs to specify the
length and inner diameter of the divertor.
Figure 4-10 Activation of riser calculation, i.e. simulation of flow in riser after BOP is
closed
Input Parameters
Casing / Liner
Figure 4-11 Casing and liner specification
Each row in the casing and liner window is used for specifying the information
necessary for one casing string. In the computations, only the annulus open for mud
flow need to be known. Thus only dimensions for the innermost casing layers need to
be defined and casings outside can be left out.
The first column contains the casing/liner name. The Name fields contain an ellipsis
button that can be used to reference the casing and liner library. All the information
about dimensions and properties can be taken from the library. The library functionality
is described in Chapter 3.6. Note that you don‟t have to pick the information from the
library. If the dimensions are more readily available from other applications or reports,
the information can easily be pasted into the table. Right clicking on a line in the table
will allow you to store new elements to the library.
Hanger depth is the starting depth for the casing string. For the uppermost casing/liner,
the hanger depth will often equal the depth of the BOP, i.e. rig floor (hang-off from
rotary table is usually ignored) or sea floor depth.
Setting depth is the casing shoe depth or depth for cross-over to another casing
dimension.
In the fourth and fifth column the inner and outer diameter of the casing are specified
(these values will be taken from the library, but can be manually updated as well).
All depths are metered depths with reference to RKB.
To append lines to the table, just use the down arrow key. To add or remove lines
within the table use either Ctrl+Ins or Ctrl+Del.
A schematic of the casing diagram can be viewed from the menu View  Well
schematic. A visual inspection of the well can reveal errors in the input data.
Input Parameters
4.5 String
Figure 4-12 String configuration
String
Select components from the library browser to configure the drill string. The selection is
performed using the filter dialog, launched using the ellipsis button in the first column of
the table. The library functionality is described in Chapter 3.6.
The first row in the table is the component next to the bit, i.e. all components, including
the bottom hole assembly (BHA), are defined from the bit and upward in this table.
It is possible to create items with custom dimensions by modifying diameters of an

already defined item or by entering all the information manually. To add new items to
the library, right click on the component.
To append lines to the table, use the Arrow down key. To add or remove lines within
the table use either Ctrl+Ins or Ctrl+Del.
Bit
The bit is defined separately. Select the bit from the library browser by clicking the
ellipsis button. It is possible to edit the bit dimensions and properties by adjusting the
values in the window. The flow area through the nozzles is defined either by entering
the Total flow area (TFA) or by entering the diameter of each nozzle. To add a newly
created bit to the library, click on the Add to library button.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-13 Bit configuration
If nozzle diameter is selected and it is necessary to specify more than four nozzles, the
extra nozzles can easily be added by pressing the down arrow key at the last line in the
table, or alternatively by pressing Ctrl+Ins.
4.6 Surface equipment

The surface equipment window, Figure 4-14, defines the rig equipment and some
operational parameters influencing a shutin and kill operation.
Figure 4-14 Configuration of rig equipment and operational parameters

Input Parameters
Chokeline
The input data required for the Chokeline is shown in Figure 4-15.
Figure 4-15. Input data for chokeline
Specify the length and inner diameter of the chokeline. The Duration of choke closure
is the time required to close the choke from fully open to fully closed. Pressure after
choke is the backpressure of the choke. When a poorboy degasser (see Chapter 5.1
Model parameters) is not included in the model, this is typically representing the
operating pressure of the separator. Number of kill and chokelines refers to the number
of lines used for circulating out a kick. In case of more than one choke/kill line, the
lines are assumed to have the same length and inner diameter, and they are assumed
to be operated at the same choke pressure. The flow is split equally between the lines.
The pressure drop across the choke is calculated based on the total flow rate.
Pump
Input Parameters
Figure 4-16. Pump parameter input
The Liquid pump rate change defines how fast the pump can be shut down, and how
fast a new rate is achieved when the circulation rate is altered. Example: a Liquid pump
rate change of 2000 l/min² means that when circulating at 1000 l/min it takes 0.5 min
from the pump is starting to shut down until it stops flowing.
Delay until pump shut down defines how long it takes from a kick is detected and until
the pump is starting to shut down. It represents a human factor in the process of
shutting in the well. When running a simulation in the Interactive simulation mode, the
user will be given a message when it is time to shut down the pump. This message will
appear when the delay period after kick detection has elapsed. During a batch or kick
tolerance simulation, the pump shut in is initiated automatically after the same
predefined time.
The Volumetric output is the pump capacity. This is used to compute the number of
strokes during a wait & weight (kill sheet) well control simulation mode.
BOP
Figure 4-17 shows the input data for the BOP.
Figure 4-17. Input data for BOP
The Duration of closure is the time required to close the BOP from fully open to fully
closed.
The Delay until BOP closure represents the time from the pump has stopped flowing
until the BOP starts to close. It represents a human factor in the process of shutting in
the well.
In the Interactive simulation mode the user will be given a message when it is time to
close the BOP. This message will appear when the delay period after the pump shutin
has elapsed. During a batch and kick tolerance simulation, the BOP closure is initiated
automatically after the same predefined time.
The Duration of choke closure, Liquid pump rate change, Delay until pump shutdown
and Delay until BOP closure defines the rig operational parameters. Together these
parameters define the time to shut in the wellbore after a kick is detected. They are
important when investigating the impact of operational parameters on the development
of a kick incident and provide a basis for preparing operational procedure. A hard shut
in of a kick is modeled by minimizing these parameters in the input data.
Input Parameters
4.7 Fracture pressure
Fracture pressure can be specified for various depths. The fracture pressure refers to
formation strength (point of elastic deformation). This is an optional window and can be
left empty. However, the given data will be used as reference values in pressure plots
for evaluation of shoe strength, and it is therefore very useful to enter the expected
profile. The window is shown in Figure 4-18. As soon as depths or gradients are
entered or modified in the tables, the plot on the right hand side will be updated.
Measured depth and the corresponding fracture pressure data are defined in the table.
Either the Fracture pressure gradient or the fracture pressure is specified. If the
gradient is specified, the corresponding fracture pressure at the given depth is
automatically calculated, and vice versa. The corresponding TVD values are
automatically displayed for information purposes.
To append lines to the table, just use the down arrow key. To add or remove lines
within the table use either Ctrl+Ins or Ctrl+Del.
Figure 4-18. Fracture pressure input window
The columns Initiation pressure and Closing pressure are optional and refers to
modeling of a lost circulation scenario. The columns are only important if losses to the
formation are to be modeled, if not the values can be disregarded. At fracture initiation
pressure, fluids are actually lost into the formation. Moreover, when the fluids have
returned to the well, the fracture closes at the fracture closing pressure. The simulator
Input Parameters
automatically suggests an initiation pressure of 1.2 times the fracture pressure, and a
closing pressure 17 bar below the fracture pressure. The values should be updated if
more accurate information is available. See also Chapter 5.1 Model parameters for
further description of input parameters connected to modeling of lost circulation.
The simulator gives a message when the pressure in the well exceeds the fracture
pressure. Lost circulation is only activated when the simulator is run in the standard
interactive mode (see Chapter 7.4). Mud will be lost to the formation if the fracture
initiation pressure is exceeded anywhere in the open hole section during the
simulation.
The lost circulation model is closer described in Chapter 11.
4.8 Mud
In Figure 4-19 the specification of mud properties are illustrated. Fluids can either
be selected from the library or a new fluid can be defined by entering relevant data in
the window. A fluid can be selected from the available library fluids by clicking on the
button in the Fluid name field. This will open the select fluid dialog shown in Figure
4-20.
If a fluid similar to the actual fluid is not found, it can be created. This is done by
entering data in the relevant input fields for Component densities, PVT and Rheology.
The newly created drilling fluid can be added to the library by using the Add to library
button in the upper right corner.
The mud window can contain several pre-configured muds. The list on the left side
shows the list of current contained fluids. All pre-configured muds are available for
selection in the simulation window to easily switch mud system.
When specifying a new fluid, either by selecting from the library or creating a new,
press the Add button to add it to the list. Muds can be deleted from the list with the
Delete button.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-19 Mud window
Figure 4-20 Library browser for fluids
Input Parameters
Component densities
Below the drilling fluid entry, the fluid component densities are displayed.
Unless the fluid density is calculated based on data from a field mud, ref. Measured
PVT model below, a component density model is used. The p, T dependency of each
phase will then be treated separately and a resulting density will be calculated based
on the weight fractions of each phase and the density of the mud at standard
conditions.
Base oil density is specified at standard conditions (1 bar,15°C / 14.7 psia and 60 °F).
Solid density is the density of the weight material. A solid density of 4.2 sg is suggested
by default, which corresponds to the density of barite. In these calculations, the
compressibility of solids is assumed to be negligible, an assumption that in most cases
is fairly correct.
Density refers to the density of the whole mud phase and must be specified at the
correct reference temperature and atmospheric pressure.
The last parameter to be specified is the mud Oil/water ratio. The ratio is specified as
'oil volume%/water volume%' (e.g. '80/20').
Figure 4-21 Component densities
PVT model
The PVT section defines the variation in mud properties with elevated pressure and
temperature. There are three alternative ways of estimating these properties:
Measured, Black oil and Compositional. The method is selected in the expert input
section Sub-models. The currently selected model is listed here as a hyper-link which
can be clicked to quickly jump to the model selection page. Each method have different
input properties which are specified here.
Measured
Input Parameters
The Measured PVT model is recommended if experimental PVT data are available for
different pressures and temperatures. The measured values can be specified by
clicking the Properties button in the PVT section.
Clicking the properties button open a sub-window with three tab-sheets; one for density
of the whole fluid, one for density of saturated base oil and one for specification of gas
solubility in the base oil.
All tab sheets contain spreadsheet tables that support copy and paste between other
programs and Drillbench.
The Measured PVT model is suitable only for dry gas influx.
Figure 4-22 Entries for experimental values for Measured PVT model
Mud density
The table for Mud density consists of a spreadsheet component with temperature data
in the first row and pressure in the first column. The densities are the density of the
whole mud for a saturated base oil phase, and are filled in for each pair of pressure
and temperature. This table is not needed unless Measured PVT is chosen as PVT
model
Saturated oil density
The table for Saturated oil density consists of a spreadsheet component with
temperature data in the first row and pressure in the first column. The densities are
filled in for each pair of pressure and temperature. The densities entered are the
density of base oil saturated with gas. This table is not needed unless Measured PVT
is chosen as PVT model
Input Parameters
The Density slope is used to compute the density of undersaturated oil. That is, the
compressibility of saturated base oil beyond the pressure where all the gas is
dissolved.
This is done by first calculating the density of saturated oil at the bubble point pressure
that corresponds to the actual amount of gas dissolved in the oil. Furthermore, it is
assumed that the oil is compressed with the given density slope to the actual pressure.
Since the density slope is not constant with pressure, the entered density slope must
be specified at the actual well pressure where the oil is undersaturated. An example is
the density slope of a 0.750 sg oil. Measurements performed at Rogaland Research
has shown that the density slope is 9.5 kg/m3*bar from 1 to 500 bar, while it is 75.8
kg/m3*bar from 500 to 1000 bar.
Oil solubility
The Oil Solubility table is used for entering measurements of the solubility of gas in the
oil phase of the mud. Temperature data are entered in the first row and pressure points
in the first column. The solubility for each pair of pressure and temperature is entered.
The table should cover the whole range of pressure and temperature relevant for the
simulation. If the temperature and pressure during simulation goes beyond those
covered in the table, the solubility values will be extrapolated from the table. This can
cause large inaccuracies.
The first row in the table should always contain data at 1 bar. This is used as a
reference point in the computations.
This table is not needed unless Measured PVT is chosen as PVT model
Black oil
For the Black oil PVT model, the mud properties for elevated pressure and temperature
are based on empirical correlations. There is no requirement to base oil chemical
composition. This option is suitable mainly for dry gas influx.
Figure 4-23 Selection of Black oil PVT model
The black oil model is not suitable in cases with excessive amount of dissolved gas,
which typically occurs around 5-600 bar for dry gas influx. However, this limit is case
dependent and not absolute.
Input Parameters
Compositional
For the Compositional model, the mud properties as function of pressure and
temperature are calculated based on Equation of State (EoS). The compositional PVT
model is recommended when experimental data are not available. The compositional
model is suitable for influx types ranging from dry gases and condensing gases to oils,
and is reliable also for extreme (HPHT) conditions.
Figure 4-24 Selection of Compositional PVT model
The Properties button activates a window for selection of base oil composition.
Figure 4-25 Selection of base oil composition
Compositions for common base oils are predefined; Diesel, Paraffinic, and Low
Toxicity. The user can either select one of the predefined compositions, or if more
specific data for the base oil composition is available, it can be entered by choosing
Custom.
Input Parameters
The density of the base oil is now calculated by the compositional model, and the Base
oil density, ref. Figure 4-21, is no longer required input. Once the simulation is started,
the calculated base oil density is written to the log window.
The EOS used is Soave-Redlich-Kwong with Peneloux volume correction term.
Rheology
Three rheology models can be selected; Robertson-Stiff, Power Law and Bingham.
Robertson-Stiff is the recommended model for most situations.
Figure 4-26 Rheology input
The rheology curve can be specified as a table of shear rate vs. shear stress (Fann
reading). The rheology table is a spreadsheet table and it is possible to use copy and
paste between other programs and Drillbench.
If Robertson-Stiff is chosen as rheology model, where applicable, the table should

contain at least three Fann readings.
Rheology data can also be given in terms of plastic viscosity (PV) and yield point (YP).
It is assumed that the rheology data entered is valid at atmospheric pressure and 50 °C
(122 F).
Input Parameters
4.9 Reservoir
The reservoir and type of influx fluid are defined in the Reservoir input window, as
shown in Figure 4-27.
Figure 4-27 Reservoir window
Reservoir zone
The name of the reservoir zone is entered in the column Lithology name. Lithology is
used as a term for the material in the surroundings of the well. The columns Top and
Bottom define the upper and lower boundary of the reservoir zone and are given in
metered depth from RKB. Reservoir top must be between last shoe depth and the
bottom of the well. In case a drilled kick is to be simulated, it can be a good approach
to set the reservoir top at the bit depth. Then the bit penetrates into the reservoir at
simulation start-up (remember to choose a rate of penetration (ROP) above zero). Top
pressure and Top temperature is the pressure and temperature in the reservoir at the
top depth.
The Influx column defines the rate of influx into the well. Clicking in the Influx column
activates the cell for edit and a button appears in the right end of the cell. Pushing this
button opens a window as the one shown in Figure 4-30.
Input Parameters
Figure 4-28 Specification of influx rate
Two models are available, Reservoir model or Constant.
 Reservoir model: influx rate depends on Permeability, Porosity, the length of the
reservoir exposed to the well and the drawdown (i.e. the difference between
bottomhole and formation pressure). The Reservoir model is typically used for
simulation of drilled kick
 Constant: influx is injected into the borehole at a constant rate specified by the
user, regardless if there is underbalance or not. The rate is determined by a
Volume injected over a certain Duration of time. The Volume refers to gas influx at
reservoir conditions. If the reservoir fluid is heavier, the kick size may differ from
the specified volume due to volume conversion. The influx stops when the
borehole is shut in. If the bore hole is not shut-in when the Duration period is
exceeded, the influx model automatically switches to Reservoir model and a
further influx rate is calculated based on the conditions in the wellbore. Constant
model is typically used for simulation of swabbed kick.
It is possible to specify two reservoir zones at different depths and with different influx
models.
Reservoir fluid
Type of influx fluid is selected from the dropdown list in the reservoir fluid section.
Figure 4-29 Selection of influx fluid
If more than one influx zone is defined, the influx fluid is the same for both zones.
What type of input information is required for the reservoir fluid depends on which PVT
model is selected in the Sub-model window. The available PVT models are Measured,
Black oil or Compositional. The label showing the currently selected model is a hyper-
link which can be clicked to quickly jump to the model selection page.
Input Parameters
Measured or black oil PVT model
The type of fluid is selected from the dropdown list. The user can choose between
predefined fluids for common fluid types; Methane, Dry gas, Volatile oil or Black oil.
The fluid properties are listed in Table 1 below.
If more specific data for the reservoir fluid is available, the user can choose Custom
from the dropdown list. By pressing the properties button, a window is opened where
the user can specify data for the fluid, as shown in Figure 4-30.
Figure 4-30 Customized reservoir fluid properties for Measured or Black oil PVT
model
The user must select whether the influx fluid is to be regarded as gas only. This is done
by enable the Is gas checkbox. Only very lean gases should be regarded as gas only,
i.e. gases like dry gas or leaner. All other fluids should be treated with possibility for oily
components as well. With condensing influx (i.e. not dry gas), the reservoir oil will mix
with the mud and can significantly alter the mud properties. This is an irreversible
change, in contrast to dissolved reservoir gas, which is released from the mud when
approaching surface conditions. Generally, all fluids with the exception of very lean
gases should be treated as “oil” to capture this effect.
The density of the influx gas is specified at standard conditions. If any contamination is
present, the amount of contamination is specified as well (on molar basis). The
available impurity gases are: Nitrogen N2, Carbon Dioxide CO2 and DiHydrogen
Sulphide H2S. The gas density should include the contaminations.
For fluids heavier than very lean gases, both properties for the influx gas and influx oil
must be specified. Oil density, compressibility and Gas oil ratio (GOR) are given at
standard conditions, while oil formation volume factor and oil viscosity are given at
reservoir conditions.
The properties for the predefined fluids are listed in the tables below.
Table 1 Properties for predefined fluids

Input Parameters
Gas Oil Oil volume

Oil density density GOR Compressibility factor Viscosity
Reservoir fluid [kg/m³] [kg/m³] [Sm³/Sm³] [1/bar] [-] [cp]
Black oil 839 1.235 106 1.623E-04 1.341 0.536

Volatile Oil 830 1.041 486 3.165E-04 1.787 0.245
Dry Gas - 0.680 - - -
Methane - 0.659 - - -
Gas Oil Oil volume

Reservoir Oil density density GOR Compressibility factor Viscosity
fluid [lbm/ft³] [lbm/ft³] [scf/stb] [1/psia] [-] [cp]
Black oil 52.38 0.0771 595 1.119E-05 1.341 0.536

Volatile Oil 51.82 0.0650 2729 2.182E-05 1.787 0.245
Dry Gas - 0.0425 - - -
Methane - 0.0412 - - -
Note: Reservoir conditions for the predefined fluids are assumed 180 bar (2611 psi)
and 70 °C (158 F). The oil formation volume factor and oil viscosity should be updated
according to the current reservoir conditions.
Input Parameters
Compositional PVT model
If Compositional model is chosen in the Mud input window, ref. section 0, the reservoir
fluid composition needs to be specified.
Predefined influx compositions are available from the dropdown list. The predefined
influx compositions cover the range of typical North Sea fluids, such as Methane, Dry
gas, Lean condensate, Rich condensate, Volatile oil and Black oil. See Chapter 10.1.3
for further information about the predefined fluids.
If detailed information about the reservoir fluid is available (e.g. from gas logs, PVT-
reports for wells in the vicinity, etc.), the compositional data can be entered by
choosing Custom in the dropdown list. The input window is then available from the
Properties button, as shown in Figure 4-31.
The reservoir fluid is characterized by mole fractions of hydrocarbons grouped into

single carbon number groups C1 to C19. All heavier compounds are to be lumped into
the C20+ fraction (molar basis). These are the data commonly available from gas
chromatography (GC) and fractional distillation. If any contamination is present, the
amount can be specified for: Nitrogen N2, Carbon Dioxide CO2 and DiHydrogen
Sulphide H2S.
Figure 4-31 User defined reservoir fluid composition

Input Parameters
Properties for the reservoir fluid are calculated based on the Soave-Redlich-Kwong
EoS with Peneloux volume correction term. Once the simulation is started, the density
and GOR calculated for the reservoir fluid is written to the log window.
The Compositional PVT model is closer described in Chapter 10.
4.10 Temperature
Figure 4-32 Temperature input window
There are two temperature options available, Measured or Holmes and Swift. Which
option to use is selected from the drop down list.
Measured
If Measured data for the mud temperature along the borehole is available, the data are
entered in the two tables. There is one table for mud temperature inside the drillstring
and another table for mud temperature in the annulus. Measured depth is entered
together with the corresponding temperature. The number of pairs may be different for
annulus and drill string. The first data points in the tables are the mud temperature at
surface.
The program interpolates linearly between the given temperature points when
computing the temperature profile. Thus, in deep water wells, the annulus temperature
at the BOP depth should always be given.
Input Parameters
Note: If measured data is not available, it is recommended to calculate the mud

temperature profile by using the dynamic temperature model in Drillbench® Presmod
and copy the result into the tables in Kick. A Kick input file can be opened and run in
Presmod. It only needs to be updated with data connected to the temperature
calculations.
Holmes and Swift
The Holmes and Swift model is a fairly basic temperature calculation based on
geothermal gradient and heat transfer to the surroundings. The ambient temperature at
surface, geothermal gradient and outlet temperature from the chokeline must be
specified. In offshore wells, the surface temperature is the sea water temperature. HTC
across drillpipe is the heat transfer coefficient between the drillstring and annulus, HTC
across wellbore is the heat transfer coefficient between the annulus and the formation.
Suggestions if thermodynamic parameters are not known:
 Heat transfer coefficient across drillpipe: 170 W/m2.K

 Heat transfer coefficient across wellbore face: 5.6 W/m2.K
Input Parameters
5. EXPERT INPUT PARAMETERS
5.1 Model parameters

The model parameters window defines mathematical correlations and numerical
parameters for the simulation.
Figure 5-1 Model parameters window
Number of grid cells
The number grid cells is a numerical parameter. The user specifies the number of grid
cells used to create the underlying mathematical model. More specifically, it defines the
level of detail at which drillstring and annulus is discretized. Increasing the number of
grid cells will increase the accuracy of the simulation but at the cost of the computation
time. The computation time will at best increase linearly with respect to the grid cells.
To avoid the simulation becoming too time-consuming, the recommended value for this
parameter is around 90. Maximum number of cells is 2000.
Expert input parameters

Observation points
Five positions can be specified in the well where pressure, ecd and temperature can be
observed. The measured depth of the observation point is specified together with a
specification of point type. The points can either be moving or fixed. A moving point is a
point that is “attached” to the drillstring moves together with the string. A fixed point
refers to a fixed depth, independent of string movement or bit position.
Lost circulation
The lost circulation input data group refers to modeling of mud losses to the formation
and a possibly lost circulation situation. Formation initiation and closing pressures are
defined in the Fracture pressure window, see Chapter 4.7.
Figure 5-2 Specification of lost circulation parameters
The Amount of fluid returned is the fractional amount of fluids lost in the fracture that
will return into the annulus when the fracture closes. A value of 1 means everything will
re-enter annulus. The default is set to a value of 0.5.
The Secondary fracture initiation factor (SFIF), sets the fracture initiation pressures for
a second time fracture. If the well should fracture a second time during a simulation,
the difference between the fracture pressure and the fracture initiation pressure is
reduced by a factor of SFIF. So a value of 1 means that the initiation fracture pressure
is unchanged, a value of 0.5 means that the initiation pressure will be reduced by half
the difference between the fracture pressure and the old initiation pressure. The
formula is:
Second frac.init.pr. =Frac.init.pr. + (Frac.init.pr. - frac.pr.) * SFIF
If the amount of fluid returned is set to zero, the closing pressure should be set equal to
the fracture pressure.

Separator
A poorboy degasser can be included in the simulation by enable the Separator

checkbox.
Figure 5-3. Input for poorboy degasser
The geometrical parameters, such as Height and Diameter must be given. It is

assumed that the separator is cylindrical. If the horizontal cross section is not circular,
specify diameter such that the cross sectional area is correct. Level is the vertical level
of the separator inlet relative to drill floor.
Flare and Pit line dimensions are also defined in the Separator section. The entry fields
are only needed when a poorboy degasser is modeled. Pit line liquid seal is the highest
vertical level of the mud line between separator and pit tanks. This is measured
relative to the mud outlet of the separator.
The gas separator calculations use very small time steps in order to calculate dynamic
effects. They therefore slow the calculation somewhat as soon as gas enters the choke
line.
Once the mud level exceeds the top of the separator or empties, a warning message is
given and the simulation continues with no gas separator calculations.
Results from the separator module are provided interactively, and not saved to files. It
is therefore automatically disabled in batch and kick tolerance calculation mode.

5.2 Sub-models
Two-phase pressure loss model
Two options are available for calculation of Two-phase pressure loss; Beggs and Brill
and Semi-Empirical. The Semi-Empirical is the recommended choice in most cases.
PVT model
The PVT section defines the variation in mud properties with elevated pressure and
temperature. There are three alternative ways of estimating these properties:
Measured, Black oil and Compositional. The method is selected from the PVT model
drop-down list.
Figure 5-4 Selection of PVT model
When using the Compositional model you can optionally specify the PVT range.
Default range is 10ºC to reservoir top temperature, and 1 bar to reservoir top pressure
+ 100 bar. The user can override these values by clicking the check box and entering a
different value.

6. MENUS AND TOOLBARS

Menus and toolbar icons have standard Windows functionality. We assume that Kick
users are familiar with Windows operations, and will only describe the menu and
toolbar functions specially designed for Kick.
6.1 File
6.1.1 New
Use File  New to create an input file from scratch. This dialog offers choices of
starting with a blank file or with predefined templates. The template path is configured
in the option dialog.
Figure 6-1. New file dialog
6.1.2 Open
Open a file using a standard file selection dialog.
6.1.3 Reopen
Reopen one of the last used files.
6.1.4 Save
Save a file using a standard file selection dialog.
6.1.5 Save as
Menus and toolbars
Save a file under a new name using a standard file selection dialog.
6.1.6 Save as template
Save the file as a template-file.
6.1.7 Save library
Save all data in the library.
6.1.8 Import
Use File  Import to import either a survey file in some ASCII format or survey data
from the RMSwellplan application. When the survey data file has been selected, the
survey data import dialog appears. Select the appropriate column delimiter, the units
used in the survey file and the number of header/footer lines to be skipped.
Figure 6-2. Survey import
The survey file must be in ASCII format with columns for measured depth, inclination
and azimuth. By default, the program assumes that the first column is used for
Measured depth, the second column is for Inclination and the third for Azimuth. If this is
not the case, the column headers can be rearranged by drag and drop: Click and hold
the left mouse button on the column header, drag to the correct position and release
the mouse button.
6.1.9 Export
Menus and toolbars

Use File  Export to save the survey data in the RMSwellplan (*.dwf) file format.
6.1.10 Exit
Exits the application.
6.2 Edit
Standard windows functionality.
6.2.1 Cut
Standard windows functionality. In complex input tables the Edit option is not available.
A field must be active for edit before this option is active. To select and cut a range of
spreadsheet cells – highlight the cells and press Ctrl+X.
6.2.2 Copy
A field must be active for edit before this option is active. To select and copy a range of
spreadsheet cells – highlight the cells and press Ctrl+C.
6.2.3 Paste
A field must be active for edit before this option is active. To select and paste a range
of spreadsheet cells – highlight the cells, or alternatively the starting cell for the area to
paste, and press Ctrl+V.
6.2.4 Undo
Standard windows functionality.
6.3 View
Used to switch between Input, Optional Input and Calculation on the Navigation bar.
The Navigation bar and Log view can be displayed and hidden by checking or
unchecking their tag in the menu.
6.3.1 Well schematic
A schematic plot that includes the riser, seabed, casing/liner program, open hole and
the drill string is shown by selecting View  Well schematic. A visual inspection of the
well can reveal errors in the input data. The well schematic has a view properties
window to toggle items and labels to be drawn, which can be opened from the popup
menu item Properties… .
Menus and toolbars

The well schematic will provide live feedback on changes done in the well specification
by highlighting the well component currently selected for modification, and by updating
geometry changes as they happen.
Figure 6-3. Well schematic view
6.3.2 Survey plot
To view a three-dimensional representation of the survey, select View  Survey plot.

The default view is in front of the XY-plane. To rotate the view around the well, move
the mouse in the direction of desired rotation while pressing the left mouse button. To
zoom in, move the mouse up while pressing the right mouse button. To zoom out,
move the mouse down while pressing the right mouse button. To move the figure,
move the mouse while pressing the left mouse button and the shift key. There is a
menu line in the survey plot with a File and a View menu. To reset the view, select
View  Reset camera from the plot‟s menu line. The plot can be saved in a variety of
formats by selecting File  Save As… from the plot‟s menu line.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-4. 3D-survey plot view
Menus and toolbars

6.3.3 Log view
By default, the log view is located in the lower part of the main window. It displays
errors, warnings and information messages concerning input data and calculations.
Use the checkbox on the View  Log View menu to display or hide the log window.
Double-clicking an error or warning leads the user to the input page that caused the
problem. Clicking the right mouse button over the log displays a popup menu offering
the following commands:
Clear messages
This command empties the log.
Save messages
This command lets you save the log contents to a text file for later review.
Show timestamp
This check box toggles the use of timestamps for the lines in the log. This feature can
be used to distinguish messages from various runs and can be helpful when the
content of the log is saved to a file.
6.3.4 Navigation bar
Toggle the navigation bar on/off. Hiding the navigation bar can be useful to make more
room for the main input or simulation window. The state of this selection is saved
between sessions.
6.3.5 Input
Switch to an Input window.
6.3.6 Expert input
Switch to an Optional input window.
6.3.7 Simulation
Switch to a Calculation window.
6.4 Simulation
The simulation control panel can be found both in the menu bar and as a separate
toolbar.
Figure 6-5. The simulation control panel toolbar.

Menus and toolbars
The toolbar has buttons for start/pause, single step and reset of a simulation. You can
also choose from a drop down menu which type of simulation you are going to run:
Interactive simulation, Batch simulation or Kick tolerance simulation.
The simulation is started by clicking Star, and it will continue to run until it is stopped by
the user. When the simulation is started, this button changes to Pause (Figure 6-6).
The simulation can be stopped temporarily by clicking Pause and continued after a
pause by clicking Start. By clicking One step, one time step is performed and the
simulator pauses until Continue or One step is chosen again. To start the simulation
from the very beginning, the Reset button has to be clicked.
Figure 6-6 The simulation control while running a simulation
By using Pause, changes in the operational conditions can be made at any time during
the whole simulation.
6.4.1 Start/Pause
Start a simulation and to pause a simulation. Continue a simulation after a pause.
6.4.2 Step
Run the simulation one step forward. The step length can be specified to a max length
in the simulation window.
6.4.3 Reset
Reset the simulation. All previous simulation results will be blanked out on the plots
and the simulation will start from the beginning.
6.4.4 Load state from file
Load a previous run simulation that was saved as a state file. If keep previous results
enabled the simulation resumes as new simulation run, i.e., all plot results will populate
new curves; otherwise the plot curves are truncated to the time stamp the state was
saved.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-7, Resuming simulation as a new simulation run
6.4.5 Save state…
The current simulation state may be saved at any time during a simulation. This way,
the simulation can be continued at a later occasion. To save the state, choose
Simulation  Save state. A save dialog appears asking for a file name. By default,
the state file is given the extension .pr. Later, the simulation can be continued by first
opening the same input file, then choosing Simulation  Load state file. Load the
previously saved restart file and continue the simulation by pressing Start or Run one
time step.
6.5 Results
6.5.1 Keep previous results
You can choose to keep the results from previous simulations and run a new
simulation. The new simulation will be plotted together with the previous simulation(s).
This makes it easier to compare different scenarios or procedures. Starting a new
simulation run with disabled keep previous results will clear out all previous simulation
results.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-8 Results of running two simulations with keep results option “on”.
6.5.2 Export results
The simulation results may be saved at any time during a simulation. To save the
results, choose Results  Export results. A save dialog appears asking for a file
name. By default, the result file is given the extension .dbr. Later, the results can be
imported independently of the input file and among all Drillbench application supporting
export and import of results; by choosing Results  Import results. The loaded results
will be added as the oldest runs in the simulation result stack.
6.5.3 Import results
Imports simulation results that were saved by export results. The loaded results will be
added as the oldest runs in the simulation result stack. The simulation results can be
imported across other Drillbench application and do not depend on the input file, i.e., to
compare the bottom hole pressure run with Kick and Presmod.
Figure 6-9, Import of result across Presmod and Kick
6.5.4 Add page
If you want to add more result pages for custom plots or special plot setups, you can
add a page where you can add new plots.
6.5.5 Rename page
You can rename the custom plots pages to organize your plots. Pages can also be
renamed by double-clicking on the page tab.
6.5.6 Remove page
You can remove a plots page by selecting from the menu or by typing Ctrl-F4.
Menus and toolbars

6.5.7 Load/save layouts
Custom chart layout and properties are stored in the DML file. All open plots and
customizations to plots are automatically restored when DML file is opened. Plot and
layout customizations can also be stored and loaded separately to override the defaults
or customizations in a DML. This function can also be used to create templates for
typical plot configurations used in different types of simulations.
6.6 Tools
Tools for functionality like reporting, data validation, screen capture of the graphics
window, changing unit settings and program options can be found in the Tools menu.
Some of these tools are used frequently. These have been given a separate Toolbar
icon for easy access.
Figure 6-10. Toolbar.
6.6.1 Take snapshot
The snapshot feature places a snapshot of the active plot window on the Clipboard,
which can then be pasted into reports or presentations. Combined with customized plot
layouts this is a very useful tool for presentation of simulation results.
6.6.2 Report
The reports are opened by selecting Tools  Report from the menu bar. All reports
use the HTML format. The Input report is a summary report showing the most
important input data. The Current results report includes some input information and
all the result plots that are selected for viewing in the results plot pages in the
simulation window. The tabular results report shows most of the result data as columns
in one big table. Another report, tabular results (printable), shows the same information,
but with the table divided into multiple tables and the table formats specifically adjusted
for printing. Use your web browser‟s commands to save or print the report.
Figure 6-11: The Tools menu – Report
Menus and toolbars

The reports use standard HTML style sheets (CSS) to define the visual layout. This
makes it easy to customize the format (fonts, colors etc.). Kick provides a default style
sheet (ircss.css) which can be edited or replaced to match the user‟s preferred report
style. Figure 6-12 shows the layout of an excerpt from the input report using the default
style sheet. The other reports behave similarly and use the same layout.
Figure 6-12: Layout of the Input report
The format of the reports makes it easy to export data to other applications like
Microsoft Excel. The reports can be opened by Excel directly, or the tables can be
copied from the reports to an Excel worksheet by standard copy and paste. However, if
you are using Internet Explorer to view the report, an even simpler way is available.
Data can be exported directly to an Excel sheet by right-clicking on a table and
selecting Export to Microsoft Excel. An Excel sheet will be opened, containing the data
from the selected report table.
The format of the reports makes it easy to export data to other applications like
Microsoft Excel. The reports can be opened by Excel directly, or the tables can be
copied from the reports to an Excel worksheet by standard copy and paste. However, if
you are using Internet Explorer to view the report, an even simpler way is available.
Data can be exported directly to an Excel sheet by right-clicking on a table and
selecting Export to Microsoft Excel. An Excel sheet will be opened, containing the data
from the selected report table.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-13: Export of Survey data from a report to Excel
6.6.3 Validate parameters
Validation and documentation of input parameters are important to work efficiently.

Drillbench has a parameter validation tool. It can be started either by pressing:
on the toolbar or by selecting Tools  Validate parameters from the menu bar.
6.6.4 Edit unit settings
To edit the unit setting, you can select Tools  Edit unit setting from the menu bar, or
click on the unit name in the status bar to pop up the unit menu.
Figure 6-14: Unit menu

The unit menu is allows quick change of unit sets and access to the unit edit page.
6.6.5 Options
Menus and toolbars
To open the options tab window, you can select Tools  Options from the menu bar or
clicking on on the toolbar.
This is a dialog that controls the Drillbench program settings. This window is divided in
3 sheets: General, Appearance and Unit definitions, which are described below.
Figure 6-15. The Drillbench option dialog.
General
Library path
Fluids, casings and string components are selected from a library. The location of the
library file is entered in this field. The library selected here is shared among all
Drillbench applications. Use the arrow in the right corner of the field to select from a list
of previous paths.
Template path
Path to Drillbench default template files.
At program startup
Reload last used file resumes the session you were working on when exiting Kick the
last time.
Menus and toolbars

Remember last selected page
Start at the page you were on when exiting Kick.the last time.
Reports
Option to indicate if you want to include the default results in all results reports. Default
is to include.
View
Option to control if log window should open automatically when new messages are
produced by Drillbench. Default is to automatically open log.
Input file
Show input read diagnostics
This is an option to enable diagnostic messages when loading an input file. This should
normally not be used. It is only to be used when having trouble loading an input file.
You may be asked by Drillbench support to turn this option on.
Load plot layout(s)
Custom chart layout and properties are now stored in the DML file. All open plots and
customizations to plots are automatically restored when DML file is opened. Plot
customizations are also preserved when using separate layout files. This option
controls if Drillbench will load and use the last saved custom result plot layout and
restore all open plots.
Load plot style
Drillbench will automatically save to the input file all custom changes to the plots styles,
e.g. line thickness, background colors etc. This option controls whether the last saved
changes are restored.
Appearance
Allow the user to modify color theme, icon style and tab layout in Kick according to
personal preference.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-16 The Kick summary window with different color settings
Unit definitions
The unit settings can be changed by selecting the Unit definitions tab found under
Tools  Options in the menu bar, see Figure 6.11. Each unit is defined separately and
saved in a specified unit file. However, predefined sets of units can be selected from
the drop down menu. By default, SI units, metric (European) units and field units are
available. You can create your own set of units by selecting the preferred units and
save to file with a new name.
Menus and toolbars

6-17 Unit definitions
6.7 Help
To open the Help window in Kick you can select it from Help  Help topics or you can
open it by pressing F1.
The Help window will give you a short description and explanation of all the different
windows in Kick.
By pressing F1 from an input window, the help page for the current window will be
displayed.
6.7.1 About
The About option gives you information about Kick‟s version number and the expiry
date of the current license.
Menus and toolbars

Figure 6-18. The About window in Kick.
Menus and toolbars

7. RUNNING A SIMULATION
7.1 Overview
Three different types of simulation can be performed:
 Interactive simulation: This runs a single simulation and allows the user to modify
the operational parameters manually. During the simulation, messages from the
simulator are given to inform about events. The user may change the control
parameters during the simulation
 Batch simulation: The changes in operational conditions are specified before
starting the simulator. The whole simulation is performed without any interaction
from the user
 Kick tolerance simulation: This mode is used to run a kick tolerance analyses for
a predefined set of operational parameters. A kick tolerance simulation can be
run to investigate the maximum kick size, the casing shoe position or the
degasser capacity
7.2 Controlling a simulation
Three buttons for controlling the time elapse of the simulator is found on the toolbar.
The simulation is started by clicking Start, and it will continue to run until it is stopped
by the user. Immediately after the simulation is started, this button changes to Pause.
Clicking Reset resets all operational parameters so the simulation can be started from
the very beginning. The simulation is stopped temporarily by clicking Pause and
continued after a pause by clicking Start. By clicking Run one time step, one time step
is performed and the simulator pauses until Start or Run one time step is chosen again.
The simulator proceeds one step at a time with variable time-step length. The step
number and simulated time is updated after the computation in a particular step is
finished. The length of each time step is normally decided by the simulator. The default
is approximately 90 seconds, but can vary depending on the calculations.
The simulation type is selected from the dropdown list on the toolbar
7.3 Simulation window

The simulation window is selected by opening the Calculation menu in the navigator
bar.
Running a simulation
Figure 7-1 Simulation window
The Simulation window is divided into two sections:

 Simulation control: The upper part is a panel for information and control of
operational parameters. This panel will change according to which type of
simulation is selected.
 Simulation results: The lower part is a section with several views for display
of results as graphical plots or numerical values.
7.3.1 Graphical output
The different plot windows can be used for displaying the results as the simulation
runs. The results can be viewed both graphically and numerically.
The graphical section in the Simulation window is divided into different sections or
views, which are easily configurable. Kick provides a set of commonly used default
plots in the first window. It is possible to customize the plots view according to personal
preference and also to add new custom plots windows.
To view a plot, click on the right mouse button in one of the views. A menu will then
appear with selections for adding plots, removing one or all plots, as well as some
options for printing, saving, renaming and customizing the plots.
There are several ways to add new plots. If there are currently no plots visible, select
the Set in the menu. A new submenu will then appear with all the available plots listed.
If you want to add new plots, select add in the menu (when rightclicking). A new
submenu will appear with several options for placement and with available plots listed.
Above the first separator line the plots against simulation time are listed, below the first
separator line the parameters versus depth are listed.
Figure 7-2. Menu showing all plots available during simulation.
You can add as many plots as you want. You can also use the vertical splitter in a
window that has already been split horizontally. The split windows can be resized by
dragging the splitters to the desired position.
You can save the set of simulations in the active plot page by selecting Save layout to
file from the right-click menu. The plot page layout can then later be used in other
simulations by adding a new plot page and select load layout from file from the right-
click menu. In order to save all custom simulation plot pages select Save all layout(s) to
file; select Load all layout(s) from file to load or restore all custom plot layout pages.
7.3.2 Plot properties
Some plot properties can be modified for a plot by clicking the right mouse button on
the plot and selecting the Properties option. The following window appears:
Figure 7-3. The plot properties windows.
It is possible to modify plot title, axis settings, horizontal and vertical grid lines, line style
and point style. In case of a plot with multiple curves, these modifications can be made
for all curves.
7.3.3 Print and export
Using a plot‟s right click menu, it can be printed directly from the plotting part of the
program, it can be copied to the clipboard or it can be saved as a file for inclusion in
reports or further manipulation in other programs. Saving to file is accomplished by
selecting Export, which opens the dialog shown in Figure 7-4.
Figure 7-4. Exporting results as picture
There are several different file formats used for saving the plots:
 Windows bitmap
 Windows metafile
 VML
 PNG
 PDF
 PCX
 JPEG
These file formats are widely recognized by Windows programs, and the exported plot
picture can be included in word processors, web pages and desktop publishing
programs.
There is also an option to save the contents of the simulation plots as numerical data.
The formats available are:
 Text
 XML
 HTML table
 Excel
Figure 7-5. Exporting results as data
7.3.4 Import data
There is an option to import data into the plots. This selection is available by choosing
Import from the plot‟s right-click menu. An open file dialog box opens up and you can
import the data from a text file into your plot.
7.3.5 Zooming
There is an option to zoom in and out on plots to investigate the results in further detail.
To do this, left-click, hold and drag the cursor to the right to zoom in, and left-click, hold
and drag to the left to zoom out
7.4 Interactive simulation mode

Figure 7-6 shows the simulation window when running an interactive simulation.
Changes in the operational conditions can be made prior to simulation start or
whenever the simulation is paused.
Figure 7-6 Interactive simulation
By default, a simulation starts using the mud defined in the Mud window in the input
parameter section, the current mud density is shown in grey font. If a heavier or lighter
mud is to be circulated, it is possible to alter the mud density by enable the checkbox in
front of the mud density field, both prior to simulation start and during a simulation.
Reservoir pressure is the pressure in the formation at TD. The value specified in the
Reservoir input parameter group is automatically suggested as initial value. The user
may for instance want to temporarily change the reservoir pressure in order to impose
influx into the borehole when simulating a swabbed kick.
The Rate of penetration indicates how fast one is drilling into the reservoir and
determines the length of the reservoir that is exposed to the well in case of a drilled
kick. The penetration stops when the pump is shut down.
The Pump can be turned on or shut down by using the radio buttons. The circulation
rate can be modified during a simulation by entering the new rate.
The BOP and Choke status can be set to Open or Closed. The choke opening can be
manually controlled by the user if the simulation mode is set to Manual (see below).
The Pit alarm level is indicating when the kick is detected at surface. The simulation is
automatically stopped when a kick is detected and a message is given in the log
window, leaving the user free to do the appropriate action, i.e. a shut in procedure.
Other kick detection criteria may be used, but the simulator stops automatically only on
pit gain level.
After the kick has been taken, the well can be shut in and the kick circulated out at a
rate specified by the user. The Circulation mode is related to the pressure control
during circulation of the kick. The circulation mode field is a drop down list, which offers
the user four choices; Manual, Constant bottomhole pressure, Reference depth and Kill
sheet.
Manual
In this mode, the user has full control of the process. During circulation, the user can
manually change the choke opening, the BOP status, the pump rate, the mud density
etc. Thus, the user can control the kick by manipulating the same control as in real life
well control.
Constant bottomhole pressure

In this mode, the choke pressure while circulating the kick is computed automatically by
the simulator in order to keep the bottom hole pressure constant. The bottom hole
pressure during circulation will equal the bottom hole pressure immediately before
starting the circulation of the kick, plus an additional safety factor defined by the user in
the field Dynamic safety margin. In this mode, the user does not have to worry about
the choke opening during kill at all.
Reference depth
In this mode, the choke pressure while circulating the kick is computed automatically by
the simulator in order to keep the pressure at a certain well position constant. The
depth and the corresponding pressure at this depth are given by the user.
Kill sheet
Circulation is performed according to a kill sheet computed by the simulator. The kill
sheet can be opened by View  Kill sheet from the menu bar after the simulation is
started, a kick is detected and the well is shut in. The circulation is performed
automatically according to this curve.
Figure 7-7 Kill sheet
The low circulating pressure is the Shutin casing pressure and Shutin drill pipe
pressure is the choke and stand pipe pressure at shut in. The kick circulation rate is
specified by the user in the Low circulation rate field. The static safety margin is
representing how large safety factor to the pore pressure is required. The kill mud
weight is then calculated automatically to meet this requirement. Alternatively, the user
can specify the kill mud weight directly. The curve is illustrating the development of the
stand pipe pressure that will be observed during circulation of the kick when following
the outlined procedure. The time and number of strokes required to circulate the kick is
calculated and displayed above the plot.
7.5 Batch simulation mode

The Batch simulation mode gives the user an opportunity to run one or several
simulations without any interaction from the user. The operational conditions are
defined prior to simulation start and the well control procedures are performed
automatically. Several operational scenarios can be predefined. On the Calculation
navigator bar there is an icon for Batch configuration, as shown in Figure 7-8. Each
simulation has its own set of operational data, and more simulation scenarios are
added by using the Add button at the bottom of the window. A simulation scenario can
be deleted by using the Delete button.
A set of batch simulations are stored as part of the case file when using the File 
Save option from the menu bar. All the simulations defined in one batch are based on
the same input file.
Figure 7-8 Set of batch simulations
Pre-kick circulation period defines the circulation rate before a kick is taken. Up to two
circulation periods can be defined, with different pump rates and duration. After the pre-
kick circulation periods, the kick is taken at the circulation rate specified in the
Interactive simulation control panel. If no pump rate is specified in the Interactive
simulation control panel the kick is taken without circulation.
The Kick intensity defines the degree of underbalance and thereby also defines the
rate in which the kick is taken, ref. illustration below in Figure 7-9. The corresponding
formation pressure is determined by the specified kick intensity and the reservoir
pressure defined in the Reservoir input parameter window is not used.
Formation pressure
Pressure gradient
underbalance kick intensity
Flowing bottomhole pressure
Hydrostatic head
Time
Figure 7-9 Definition of kick intensity
The pit alarm level is indicating when the kick is detected at surface and the simulator
should start the shut in procedure. The shut in procedure is performed according to the
operational times given in the Surface equipment group in the Input Parameter section.
It is possible to perform a flow check after the pumps are stopped. The flow check may
continue a certain time, or until a certain volume increase in the pit is achieved. The
selection is made from the drop down list.
After the well is shut in, the wellbore pressure can be allowed to stabilize. The shut in
time is either set by the user, or the well can be kept shut in until the bottomhole
pressure equals the pore pressure and the influx has stopped. This is selected from
the Shut in period drop down list.
Circulation rate is defining the pump rate when circulating the kick.
The circulation of the kick can be performed in three different modes; Drillers method,
Wait and weight and Reference depth.
Drillers method
The bottomhole pressure during circulation of the kick is controlled according to the
shutin pressure plus a pressure margin to pore pressure defined by the user in
Dynamic safety margin and the kick circulation rate. After the kick is circulated out, a
kill mud is circulated at a given Kill mud circulation rate. The kill mud weight is
calculated based on the Static safety margin.
Wait and weight
Circulation is performed according to a kill sheet computed by the simulator, with pre-
determined pump pressure versus time. The static safety margin is taken into account
in the computation of the kill mud weight.
Reference depth
In this mode, the choke pressure while circulating the kick is controlled in order to keep
the pressure at a certain well position constant. The depth and the corresponding
pressure at this depth is specified by the user.
The Batch simulation can be started and controlled by selecting Batch simulation and
using the control buttons in the toolbar. The simulator runs through all the pre-defined
scenarios, one by one. The results are viewed in the Simulation window. Figure 7-10
shows the Simulation window when a batch simulation is running.
The Simulation window shows the first of the current set of batch simulations in the
upper part. This section has full edit features and it is not necessary to go to the batch
configuration window to modify the batch job.
The lower part of the window shows the standard graphics display. The plot
functionality is described in detail in section 7.3.1
Figure 7-10 Running a batch simulation
7.6 Kick tolerance simulation

The kick tolerance simulation is a tool for running a number of sensitivity simulations.
The well control procedure is defined up front and the sensitivities are run automatically
without any interaction from the user. Three different sensitivity scenarios are available:
 Maximum kick size vs. kick intensity

 Casing shoe position vs. kick intensity

 Degasser capacity vs. kick intensity
The kick intensity is a measure for the degree of underbalance, ref. Figure 7-9 in
section 7.5.
The Kick tolerance mode is selected from the dropdown list on the toolbar, and the
simulation is controlled by using the control buttons in the toolbar.
The simulation parameters are defined in the upper part of the Simulation window.
These will vary according to which type of kick tolerance simulation is selected. Figure
7-10 shows the Simulation window when running a maximum kick size vs. kick intensity
simulation.
The lower part of the window shows the standard graphics display. The plot
functionality is described in detail in section 7.3.1
Figure 7-11. Kick tolerance simulation
When pressing Start, the simulator runs through the well control scenario for each of
the sensitivity simulations, i.e. taking a kick, shut in the borehole, stabilize and circulate
out the kick according to the defined well control procedure. The shut in procedure is
performed according to the operational times specified in the Surface equipment group
in the Input section.
Graphical output can be viewed during the simulation course. Graphs summarizing the
results for the sensitivity is found on the bottom of the plot selection menu, as shown in
Figure 7-2 . The plot selection menu is opened by the right mouse button.
7.6.1 Tolerance: Maximum kick size vs. kick intensity
The kick tolerance is defined as the kick size which gives zero differential pressure
between the well bore and the formation at the casing shoe. This mode investigates the
maximum kick size that is possible to handle for a range of kick intensities.
Figure 7-12 Control panel for Max. kick size vs. kick intensity sensitivity
The range of kick intensities to be investigated is specified by the user. Number of

steps is the number of simulations to be carried out within the given kick intensity
range. Correspondingly, the range of pit detection levels is specified together with the
number of simulations to be carried out. In the above figure, 4 kick intensities and 3 pit
detection levels are to be investigated, leading to a total of 4 x 3 = 12 simulations.
The kick is taken at the circulation rate specified in the Interactive simulation control
panel. If no pump rate is specified in the Interactive simulation control panel the kick is
taken without circulation.
If required, it is possible to perform a flow check after the pumps are stopped. The flow
check may continue a certain time, or until a certain volume increase in the pit is
achieved. The selection is made from the drop down list.
After the well is shut in, the wellbore pressure can be allowed to stabilize. The shut in
time can is either set by the user, or the well can be kept shut in until the bottom hole
pressure equals the pore pressure and the influx has stopped. This is selected from
the Shut in period drop down list.
Circulation rate is defining the pump rate when circulating out the kick.
The circulation of the kick can be performed in three different modes; Drillers method,
Wait and weight and Reference depth.
Drillers method
The bottomhole pressure during circulation of the kick is controlled according to the
shutin pressure plus a pressure margin to pore pressure defined by the user in
Dynamic safety margin and the kick circulation rate. After the kick is circulated out, a
kill mud is circulated at a given Kill mud circulation rate. The kill mud weight is
calculated based on the Static safety margin.
Wait and weight

Circulation is performed according to a kill sheet computed by the simulator, with pre-
determined pump pressure versus time. The static safety margin is taken into account
in the computation of the kill mud weight.
Reference depth
In this mode, the choke pressure while circulating the kick is controlled in order to keep
the pressure at a certain well position constant. The depth and the corresponding
pressure at this depth is specified by the user.
The kick intensity is increased from minimum to maximum value with the specified
number of steps. For each kick intensity investigated, the pit alarm level is varied to find
the maximum kick size that can be circulated without fracturing the casing shoe.
The first two simulations use the specified minimum and maximum pit alarm level. If the
formation fractures at the casing shoe at maximum alarm level, but not at minimum
alarm level, further simulations are carried out to find the exact kick tolerance. If the
formation is fractured for the minimum pit gain, the larger pit gains are skipped. A
simulation is then performed for a pit gain lower than the minimum. The maximum
number of simulations for each kick intensity is specified by the number of pit gain
steps.
Two summary plots are generated; a plot showing the pressure difference at casing
shoe as function of kick size for each kick intensity investigated, and a graph showing
the maximum kick size vs. kick intensity. Nothing is plotted for the kick intensities
where the kick tolerance is outside the kick sizes investigated for the specified pit alarm
level range.
Figure 7-13 Kick tolerance summary graph
One line is drawn for each kick intensity. The shoe is fractured for kick sizes where the
pressure difference is > 0.
Figure 7-14 shows the maximum kick size possible for a certain kick intensity. It is
extracted from the kick tolerance summary graph, plotting the values intercepting the 0
bar line, ref. Figure 7-13.
Figure 7-14 Plot of maximum kick size vs kick intensity
Note: If the kick intensity and kick size range is too narrow, a situation may occur
where all kick sizes for a given kick intensity are either fracturing or not fracturing. The
consequence might be that there is not enough data to draw the Max. kick size vs. kick
intensity curve. It is therefore recommended to specify large variation both in kick size
and kick intensity.
Two datafiles are created in this mode. The data from the the pressure difference at
casing shoe as function of kick size graph is written to a datafile called „summary.dat‟
and the data from Max. kick size vs. kick intensity graph is written to a file called
„kickintensity.dat‟. These files are located in the same directory as the input file.
7.6.2 Tolerance: Casing shoe position vs. kick intensity
The kick tolerance is defined as the casing shoe position which gives zero differential
pressure between the well bore and the formation at the casing shoe. This mode
investigates a different casing shoe setting depths to identify the deepest position that
is possible for different kick intensities.
Figure 7-15 Control panel for casing shoe vs. kick intensity sensitivity
Refer to section 7.6.1 for a description of the input parameters.
For each kick intensity, the simulator goes through one simulation to determine at what
depth the fracture pressure at the shoe is exceeded. This value indicates the minimum
depth for the casing shoe to avoid fracturing. The geometry of the well is not modified
prior to these simulations, hence effects of geometry changes due to the new casing
are not considered.
A plot of “Casing Shoe Position vs. Kick intensity” is generated, as shown in Figure
7-16.
Figure 7-16 Plot of the casing setting depth versus kick intensity.
The depth plotted indicates the minimum depth (or the maximum open hole) that can
safely circulate the kick, for the current well depth, circulation rate and kick intensity.
The results from the Casing shoe position vs. kick intensity are written to a file called
„kickintensity.dat‟. This file is located in the same directory as the input file.
7.6.3 Tolerance: Degasser capacity vs. kick intensity
The kick tolerance is defined as the maximum circulation rate that can be handled
without exceeding the degasser capacity.
Figure 7-17 Control panel for degasser capacity vs. kick intensity sensitivity
Refer to section 7.6.1 for a description of the input parameters.
The kick intensity is varied from minimum to maximum value with the specified number
of steps.
For each kick intensity, the slow circulation rate (SCR) is varied to find maximum rate
that can be handled by the degasser without exceeding degasser capacity. The first
two simulations use specified minimum and maximum flow rate. If degasser capacity is
exceeded between these two rates, further simulations are carried out to identify the
maximum flow rate more accurately. The maximum number of simulations for each
kick intensity is specified by the number of circulation rate steps.
The difference between maximum gas flow rate at surface and the degasser capacity is
plotted against SCR for each kick intensity. The circulation rate that gives a flow rate
difference of zero is the maximum flowrate that can be used without exceeding the
degasser capacity for the actual kick intensity.
Figure 7-18 Plot of maximum gas rate out of the well minus degasser capacity for the
investigated circulation rates and kick intensities.
A plot of “Degasser capacity vs. kick intensity” is also available. This is a plot of the
maximum SCR that is possible for a given kick intensity without exceeding the
degasser capacity.
The summary graph contains a plot of maximum gas rate (degasser capacity) as a
function of circulation rate.
Figure 7-19 Plot of degasser capacity versus kick intensity.
Nothing is plotted for those kick intensities where the degasser capacity is not
exceeded within the specified range of SCR.
Two datafiles are created for this mode. The data from the summary graph is written to
a datafile called „summary.dat‟ and the data from degasser capacity vs. kick intensity is
written to a file called „kickintensity.dat‟. These files are located in the same directory as
the input file.
Only constant influx model should be used for this mode.
8. WORKING WITH KICK

Kick includes tools and features that are very valuable for day to day engineering as
well as operation decision support.
8.1 Multiple runs – keep results

A very useful feature in Kick is the ability to use the interface directly to compare results
from different runs and slide back and forward in time (important for depth plots). This
is extremely useful for sensitivity analysis. It can be multiple runs with the same case
file only with minor differences, it can be different case files or it can be imported
results from other Drillbench applications. The example plots given below are taken
from Presmod, and illustrate the effect of changing mud system. The same possibilities
as shown in these figures are available in Kick.
To perform multiple runs:
Go to Results  Keep previous results. When the Reset button is pressed the time is
set back to zero, but all the old results in the plots are still in place. When a new run is
started (either from the same or from another case) the new data is running on top of
the previous run. The effect of changed parameters is therefore easy to see in the
graphics. Furthermore, plots have a menu property to toggle the visibility of all curves
of previous runs.
Figure 8-1 ECD as function of mud system.
Figure 8-1 shows the ecd plot as function of ROP, RPM and circulation rate. The
operational parameters are included below the ecd plot to study the connection
between input system and the actual results.
Working with Kick

8.2 Improved results view

During a simulation the current results of each time step are stored historically on a
result stack and the results can at any time be exported and imported, also across
other Drillbench applications. Previous time snap shots of plots can be access by a
time slider. For time plots an optional time line is drawn according to the position of the
time slider. In case of depth plots the according profiles are shown in respect to the
time sliders position. By default the check box to follow the simulation is checked to plot
the results at the current time step.
Figure 8-2, Time slider, showing previous time snap shot
8.2.1 Time plots
Time plots have an optional time line showing the time in respect to the position of the
time slider. Beside the time axis, time plot curves can presented in respect to pumped
volume or bit depth. The time and value axes can flipped, e.g., useful in conjunction
with time axis as bit depth to present the plot familiar from profile plots.
Working with Kick

Figure 8-3, Left: Pit gain in respect to pumped volume, right: x and y axis flipped
8.2.2 Profile plots
While running a simulation the previous profile curves of the current simulation can be
shown as faded curves. The faded curves will only be visible if the checkbox follow
simulation is checked. Depths plots can also calculate and draw the minimum /
maximum curve(s) of the whole current simulation run. There is an option to show the
casing shoe depth, which is represented by horizontal thin line
Figure 8-4, Left: fading out curves of previous time steps; right: minimum and maximum
of free gas during the whole simulation
Working with Kick

8.3 Well schematic
The flow areas of the well schematic can be colored in respect to the values of a profile
plot by selecting Results  <Value of interest>; select None to switch off the coloring.
The values to be colored depend on the actual position of the time slider such that one
can slide backward and forward in time or animate the values during a simulation.
Figure 8-5: Selection of the profile to be visualized
The colors for minimum and maximum and the value range to be colored can be
customized in the data properties window.
Working with Kick

Figure 8-6: Well schematic showing actual free gas
8.4 Add external data

It is possible to import external data sets and add these in the Kick plots. This way it is
very easy to compare simulation results with measured data or with results from other
simulations.
Working with Kick

Figure 8-7 Example of result from exporting and importing data
Figure 8-8 Export dialogue – select Excel format
Figure 8-7 shows an example of what we can achieve when using the advanced
options in Kick. The temperature curve – the red line - has been exported to an Excel
file. The Export dialogue is shown in Figure 8-8. Note that to export the data to Excel
the Data-tab has to be selected. In Excel the data has been manipulated by adding
“synthetic” noise by using a random number. This is just one example of another data
set – it could just as well have been from a logging tool or another data source.
To import the data to Kick again, the file has been converted to a text file (copy and
paste to Notepad). By selecting Import from the plot menu a standard Windows file
selection box is opened, and an Import dialogue as in Figure 8-9 is opened. The
Import tool shows the data-columns, the units as well as headers and footers. Dragging
the column header Temperature (Celsius) to column number 3 switch the data column
from number 2 to 3. Pressing OK will import the curve in the plot as in Figure 8-7.
Working with Kick

Figure 8-9 Data file import
8.5 Create presentation graphics

Plots such as the one created in Figure 8-7 can easily be manipulated and modified, by
including legend, adding text and comments, changing background or other colors,
fonts etc. There is a large number of options. In the following we have illustrated a few
examples.
Working with Kick

Figure 8-10 Reconfigured temperature plot
In Figure 8-10 we have altered the plot in Figure 8-7. Legend has been added, the line
color of the modified temperature data has been changed from green to blue and the
line thickness has been increased. Also the font size has been modified.
Figure 8-11 Plot properties menu

9. RHEOLOGY MODELS
The rheology model defines the shear stress of the fluid as a function of shear rate.
This in turn defines the frictional pressure loss.
9.1.1 Generalised Newtonian models
There are many rheological models to describe the non-linear proportionality between
shear stress and shear rate. Most of the drilling fluids behave like yield-pseudoplastics,
that is a minimum force must be applied to impart motion to them. This force is known
as yield-point. In the following the actual models will be described.
Bingham model
This is a two-parameter model with direct proportionality between  and  , in addition

to a yield-stress y.
The equation is
   y   p ,   y (1)
  0    y
where p = plastic viscosity. p is the slope of the curve relating  and  .
The weakness of this model is that it does not contain the non-linear relationship
between  and  .
Power law model
This model is the most used for different oil based muds. It describes fluids without
yield-stress by a non-linear flow curve
  K n (2)
Where
K = consistency index
n = flow behaviour index; n  1.
If n = 1, the equation becomes identical to the equation of flow of a Newtonian fluid

having the viscosity K.
Robertson-Stiff model
This is a three-parameter model which includes Bingham and power law as special
cases.
  A (   C ) B (3)
Rheology models
where A, B and C are constants. The Robertson-Stiff model may be regarded as a

power law model where the shear rate is replaced by an effective shear rate   C .
This introduces a yield stress equal to
 0  AC B (4)
The model simplifies to the Bingham model if B  1 , or to the power law model if
C  0.
Pressure and temperature dependent rheology
The pressure and temperature dependence of rheology is described by correlation

based models that have been developed by Rogaland Research. It is assumed that
the rheology curve that is specified by the user is valid at atmospheric pressure and 50
C. The correlation describes the rheology of:
WBM below 50 C
WBM above 50 C
OBM above 50 C
The form of the correlation reflects the fact that rheology at high and low shear rates
behave differently.
In the kick simulator, all correlation are normalised to unity at atmospheric pressure
and the temperature which the user specifies in the rheology input window.
Friction factor
Friction factor in laminar flow
The friction factor defines a generalised Reynolds number NRe by
16 (5)
f 
NRe
Friction factor in turbulent flow
Turbulent flow behaviour is usually described in terms of the two dimensionless groups,
Fanning friction factor f and Reynolds number.
The Fanning friction factor is calculated following Reed and Pilehvari [47]. An
expression that combines the Colebrook function [19] and Dodge & Metzner equation
[12] is used when the flow is turbulent.
Transition from laminar to turbulent flow
Turbulence starts for Newtonian fluids when the Reynolds number is approximately
2100. For Non-Newtonian fluids the onset of turbulence is depending on the value of
Rheology models
n, the flow behaviour index. If n is 0.4, turbulence would not start until the generalized
Reynolds number NRe reached approximately 2900. The dependence of n is
expressed in following relation for the critical generalized Reynolds number [13]
NRe,cr  3470  1370n (6)
9.1.2 Frictional pressure loss model
Single phase flow
The general equation for the frictional pressure loss gradient is [13].
 P  2 f v 2 (7)
  
 L  f Deff
where f is Fanning friction factor and Deff is the effective hydraulic diameter of pipe or
annulus. The Fanning friction factor is calculated according to the rheological model
chosen, and the prevailing flow regime.
Two phase flow
A number of correlation have been developed for the two-phase frictional pressure
losses and two of these are available in the simulator. These have been developed for
Newtonian fluids in vertical pipes.
Beggs and Brill correlation with angle correction for liquid hold-up [18], [19].
This is developed using a Newtonian medium. To use this on a Non-Newtonian

medium, we introduce the following changes:
1. We use a friction factor correlation that is developed for Non-Newtonian fluids.

2. The equivalent liquid viscosity is calculated according to a Non-Newtonian
equation.
Semi-empirical pressure loss calculation
In our simulator case we know the liquid hold-up at any time in the annulus. Therefore
basically we do not need any correlation for liquid hold-up. We can then calculate the
frictional pressure drop by the general equations for friction pressure loss using the
physical parameters of the mixture rather than one of the phases.
The two-phase friction factor is correlated to a generalised two-phase Reynolds

number
 m v m Deff ( 8)
N Re,tp  f n 
 mix
Rheology models
by an appropriate friction factor correlation.
Rheology models
10. COMPOSITIONAL PVT MODEL
10.1 Overview
Any mixing ratio of reservoir fluid and drilling mud can occur after influx in a well. The
objective of the model described here is to predict the physical properties of this mixed
fluid.
A finite amount of gas is soluble in a liquid, causing the liquid to swell. The gas
solubility is much greater at high pressure. This is the basis for a description of the
volumetric behaviour of gas-liquid systems in terms of volume factors and a solubility
ratio.
P UNDER-
SATURATED
LIQUID
FREE
GAS
SATURATED,
GOR=Rs or P=Pb
GOR
Figure 10-1. The regions determining the swelling behaviour of the liquid phase.
(Typical.)
The under-saturated liquid volume factor is a function of GOR as well as T and P,
whereas the saturated does not depend on GOR. An approximate treatment where
constant under-saturated compressibility is assumed therefore greatly reduces the size
of the PVT-data set. Such a simplified formulation is used in Kick. Further discussion
below.
10.1.1 Under-saturated liquid compressibility
When a liquid is pressurized in the presence of gas, it behaves radically different above
the pressure where all the gas is dissolved. This is the under-saturated region
corresponding to P>Pb or, equivalently, GOR<Rs. A simplified treatment of the under-
saturated oil volume reduces the amount of PVT-data that must be pre-generated.

Bo
UNDER-
SATURATED SATURATED
Pb P
Figure 10-2. Isothermal swelling and "ordinary" compression of the liquid phase. Fixed
GOR or overall composition. (Typical)
Approximations are justified because, when under-saturated with gas, the oil behaves
much like an "ordinary" liquid.
10.1.2 Two-liquid formulation
A general influx fluid can be split into two "components" by separation (flash) at
standard (atmospheric) conditions: Reservoir oil and reservoir gas. The reservoir oil
component will in general differ substantially from the base oil of the drilling mud, so
the flow simulator has to keep separate track of these three components. Kick uses
such a 3-component formulation.
The influx fluid is split into its two components by flash separation at atmospheric
conditions. The solubility of the influx gas in the influx oil and in the base oil is
calculated, along with the volume factors of these two liquids. This gives two sets of
PVT-data.
 Rsb, solubility of influx gas in base oil

 Rsr, solubility of influx gas in influx oil
 Bob, base oil volume factor when saturated with influx gas
 Bor, influx oil volume factor when saturated with influx gas

10.1.3 Influx characterisation
In the EOS model, a fluid is characterised by its chemical composition. Natural fluids
have a multitude of components, and computing speed prohibits a full representation.
Also, accurate chemical analysis are seldom available, particularly of the "heavy ends".
Excellent accuracy has, however, proven to be obtainable representing the real fluid
with a modest number of pseudocomponents.
Two pseudocomponents are used:
 intermediates, C2-C6, and

 heavy end, C7+.

The fluid is represented by a 3-component mixture of methane and these two

pseudocomponents.
This method was applied to real analyses of North Sea reservoir fluids gathered from
various sources. Although there is no unique composition corresponding to "rich
condensate" and the other fluid designations, a distinctive trend was observed from the
more volatile fluids through to the heavy oils. Because of limitations in the data base,
some interpolation and extrapolation was allowed to get a full coverage of the spectrum
of fluid types. The resulting representations are given below. Because detailed
analyses of the influx are, as a rule, not available in a drilling context, these are
implemented as defaults in the software.
Table 2. Default influx representations
Black oil
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 35
nC4 25
C17 40
Volatile oil
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 65
nC4 20
C16 15
Rich condensate
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 71
C3 26
C13 3
Lean condensate
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 80
C3 18
C11 2
Rich gas
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 90
C2 9
C10 1
Dry gas
Carbon no. Mole %
C1 96
C2 3,6
The GORs as derived from the EOS-model are given below. The 3-component
representations are favourable for computing speed and facilitate finding trends among
fluid types.
Table 3. Gas/oil ratios derived from the default reservoir compositions by the EOS.
Fluid type GOR (Sm3/Sm3) GOR (scf/stb)
Black oil 106 595
Volatile oil 486 2729
Rich condensate 3500 19651
Lean condensate 6383 35837
Wet gas 19570 109876
Dry gas  
10.1.4 Mud characterisation
In relation to gas kick, only the base oil of an OBM has non-trivial phase behavior. The
effect of brine and solids on gas solubility is negligible. (In a water base mud the
solubility in the brine is of course important.) The base oil of common oil-based drilling
mud consists of hydrocarbons with carbon numbers around 15. A base oil is
characterised by fractions of C8 to C20+. The properties of each is taken as averages
for naturally occurring fluids. The constituents of a refined product such as a base oil
might differ somewhat, and the input is easily modified to more specific compounds.
Detailed information about the composition of a particular mud is, however, often not
made available by the manufacturer. Therefore compositions of a selection of common
base oils are provided as defaults in the software. These are listed in the table below.
Table 4. Default base oil representations
Diesel fuel
Carbon no. Mole %
C12 42.8
C16 55.4
C20 1.8
Paraffinic
Carbon no. Mole %
C15 100
Low toxicity
Carbon no. Mole %
C14 1.2
C16 58.2
C18 33.7
C20 6.8

11. LOST CIRCULATION
11.1 Overview
The Lost Circulation module models the behavior of the well as a fracture develops in
the open hole section due to a well pressure higher than the formation fracture limit.
The module handles dynamically what is assumed as the most important parameters
for well control, namely pressure and flow distributions. This means that the users can
design different complex well scenarios and use Kick to test by simulation different
dynamic methods to control the well. The simulator can thus give the operator
information concerning the equipment needed for a successful kill, pump capacity
(power and pressure), mud density and volume.
It is possible to simplify and combine the features involved in fracturing in four values:
a) Fracture Initiation Pressure,
b) Fracture Propagation Pressure (defined here as the same as LOT),
c) Fracture Closing Pressure and
d) the fraction of returned fluid from the fracture when the fracture closes.
The module also allows for:
Simulating flow past a fracture after a fracture has opened, i.e. flow can split in two
simultaneous directions both into fracture and past the fracture.
Simulating flow from the fracture as the fracture closes.

The mud density is corrected as mud mixes.
Generating new kicks and if necessary new underground flow situation after the first
fracture has closed.
11.2 Fracturing
11.2.1 Fracturing the formation
The Lost Circulation module of the Kick simulator is activated when the pressure at any
position in the open section of the annulus exceeds the Fracture Initiation Pressure,
FIP. If more than one position has exceeded the FIP, the position with the largest over-
pressure is chosen as the fracture site. The simulator does not deal with the fractures
length or the width of the opening, these values are small compared to the wells total
dimension, and the important features for well control are pressures and the flow
conditions in the well.
The pressure at the fracture quickly drops (within 60 seconds) to the Fracture
Propagation Pressure, FPP. The pressure at the fracture remains at FPP as long as
the pressure condition at the outlet allows it. The fluid mix in the annulus at the fracture
site is the same mixture flowing into the fracture. If there is 30% gas and 70% mud in
the annulus, the same ratio will escape into the fracture.
Lost circulation
11.2.2 The Fracture Volume
The amount of fluid returned before the fracture closes is given by a ratio chosen
before the start of the simulation. This ratio tells the simulator how much of the fluid
going into the fracture will be pushed back into the annulus before the fracture closes.
If this ratio is 40% then 60% of the fluid going into the fracture will be lost in the rock
formation.
11.2.3 Fracture Closing
As mentioned above the fluid flowing into the fracture is the „excess‟ fluid mass, i.e. the
difference between the fluid mass flowing from the pump toward the fracture and the
fluid mass needed to keep the pressure condition at the choke. When this excess fluid
mass is less than zero the fracture starts closing.
In this situation, the fracture will push enough fluid from its buffer into the well such that
the pressure condition at the choke is satisfied while keeping the fracture site at the
appropriate fracture pressure. When half of the fluid in the buffer is used, the fracture
pressure will start moving toward the Fracture Closing Pressure, which will be reached
at the time of the closing.
When the fracture has closed, the simulator leaves the Fracture mode, and the fracture
ceases to exist.
11.2.4 Mud mixing
It is not unlikely that during an influx/fracture incident both „normal‟ mud and „kill‟ mud
has entered the fracture. The density of this mixture is thus different from the mud
flowing past the fracture site as the fracture empties.
If this new density is different enough from the density of the mud either downstream or
upstream from the fracture site, a new mud front will be introduced with a mud of this
new mud density.
The simulator keeps track of all the mud in the well. The mud which exits the well via
the riser or choke first is mud number one, the next one „upstream‟ is number two etc.
This renumbering is done automatically and it can cause the total number of mud
segments to both increase and decrease. The decrease occurs if two mud types
coalesce due to very similar densities.
12. KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS
Alt+F open File menu

Alt+E open Edit menu
Alt+V open View menu
Alt+S open Simulation menu
Alt+T open Tools menu
Alt+H open Help menu
Ctrl+N New file

Ctrl+O Open
Ctrl+S Save
Ctrl+C Copy
Ctrl+X Cut
Ctrl+V Paste
Alt+BkSp Undo
Ctrl+Ins Insert rows in a table

Ctrl+Del Delete rows in a table
F9 Start
F8 Step
Ctrl+F2 Reset
Ctrl+F12 Take snapshot
Ctrl+U Edit unit settings
Keyboard shortcuts
13. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Drillbench uses the following third-party tools:
 JEDI Visual Component Library (JVCL)

JVCL portions are licensed from Project JEDI, and the source code can be obtained
from http://jvcl.sourceforge.net/
 JEDI CODE LIBRARY (JCL)
JCL portions are licensed from Project JEDI, and the source code can be obtained
from http://homepages.borland.com/jedi/jcl/
 The Visualization ToolKit (VTK)
VTK is copyright © 1993-2004 Ken Martin, Will Schroeder, Bill Lorensen All rights
reserved. VTK is available from http://www.vtk.org/
 Nullsoft Scriptable Install System (NSIS)
NSIS is copyright (C) 1999-2006 Nullsoft, Inc. and is available from
http://nsis.sourceforge.net/
 TeeChart
TeeChart is copyright © David Berneda 1995-2006. All Rights Reserved.
http://www.steema.com/
 LiquidXML
LiquidXML is copyright ©2006 Liquid Technologies Limited. All rights reserved.
http://www.liquid-technologies.com/
 FLEXlm
FLEXlm is copyright ©2002-2006 Macrovision Corporation. All rights reserved.
http://www.macrovision.com/
 TMS Component Pack
TMS Component Pack is copyright © 2001-2009 by tmssoftware.com. All rights
reserved
Acknowledgement
www.sptgroup.com
A product by

Kick User Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Kick User Guide

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Kick User Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Kick_ U S E R M A N UA L

3. CREATING A CASE FILE 4

5. EXPERT INPUT PARAMETERS 36

6. MENUS AND TOOLBARS 40

6.3.3 Log view 45

8. WORKING WITH KICK 75

9.1.2 Frictional pressure loss model 85

10. COMPOSITIONAL PVT MODEL 87

11. LOST CIRCULATION 91

12. KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS 93

As a software suite Drillbench is a compilation of several individual applications focusing

The tool can be used for:

Data entry window

3. CREATING A CASE FILE

3.2 The data model - DEML

Figure 3-1 Data model in Drillbench

Creating a case file

3.3 New session (.dml) file

Figure 3-2. New file dialog

The path to the templates is configured in the Tools  Options dialog.

Creating a case file

3.4 Editing an existing session (.dml) file

3.5 Converting legacy session files

There are two tools for converting old files:

 Convert file - converts a single file or database

 Convert folder - converts all files in a folder and (optional) subfolders

Creating a case file

Creating a case file

Figure 3-5. Library browser and filter dialog for casings

Creating a case file

3.6.1 Library editor

Figure 3-6 Library editor

Creating a case file

Summary A brief summary of the most important input data

Figure 4-1 Summary window

Figure 4-2 Description window

Figure 4-3 Specification of survey data

Figure 4-4 Menu option for survey data import

Figure 4-5 Survey Import window

Figure 4-6 3D survey plot

4.4 Wellbore geometry

 Riser (if applicable)

Figure 4-7 Specification of riser, casing and liner data

Figure 4-8 Riser

The library functionality is described further in Chapter 3.6.

Figure 4-9. Library browser for Casings and Risers (database)

Figure 4-11 Casing and liner specification

All depths are metered depths with reference to RKB.

Figure 4-12 String configuration

It is possible to create items with custom dimensions by modifying diameters of an

Figure 4-13 Bit configuration

4.6 Surface equipment

Figure 4-14 Configuration of rig equipment and operational parameters

Figure 4-15. Input data for chokeline

Figure 4-16. Pump parameter input

Figure 4-17 shows the input data for the BOP.

Figure 4-17. Input data for BOP

4.7 Fracture pressure

Figure 4-18. Fracture pressure input window