Research Development and Outlook for Managed Pressure Cementing Technology

Managed pressure cementing (MPC) technology allows operations to overcome the cementing challenges under complex formation conditions such as narrow safe density window, shallow gas and shallow flow. MPC technology can effectively prevent the occurrence of complex accidents resulting from well kicks, lost circulation, and gas channeling. With a focus on MPC processes, this paper analyzes the current status of the technology, including new developments of key technologies and applications to existing problems, such as the related process flow, hardware equipment and software systems. The field applications show that the MPC technology can significantly improve the success rate and quality, however, the current MPC technology is not fully integrated into the specific characteristics of cementing job and some major issues persist, including the absence of computational models, improper matching of control software and hardware, and imperfect craftsmanship. Aiming at the technical characteristics and existing problems in MPC, this paper includes recommendations to provide guidance and support for the development of domestic MPC technology.