Sensitivity Analysis of Maximum Choke Pressure and Maximum Kick Volume under Drilling Operation Conditions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: A kick refers to the unintended influx of formation fluids or other substances into a wellbore.Well control encompasses all procedures aimed at preventing kicks, rapidly detecting and controlling them when they occur, and safely eliminating them.Because kicks can occur under various drilling conditions, understanding kick behavior and identifying the key influencing factors are essential for safe and economic drilling operations.In this study, a water-based mud well control model was developed.Using the proposed model, a sensitivity analysis of the maximum kick volume and choke pressure with respect to the drilling operational parameters (kick formation pressure, kick fluid type, mud density, kill rate, and geothermal gradient) was conducted under various drilling scenarios.The results enabled the identification of key operational parameters that should be prioritized during kick removal. Key words : kick, well control,
Authors: Donghee Kim, Honggeun Jo
Institutions: Inha University, The University of Texas at Austin
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7134261805