Course content

In this course, innovative techniques for hydraulic optimizations, new cementing techniques, geothermal drilling, and methods for planning and operations will be presented. Innovations and methods for drilling wells that cannot be drilled conventionally, like MPD (managed pressure drilling), CML (control mud level), and DGD (dual gradient drilling) systems, will be discussed. Well control methods for kick handling will be covered. Torque and drag calculations related to drilling and completion of long-reach wells will be discussed. Drilling automation and digitalization using high-tech tools for performing real-time downhole communication will be covered, including well integrity with a focus on well plugging and abandonment.

There will be a given research task for each student. Each student needs to prepare and present the research results in a scientific paper format.

Learning outcome

Competence: After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Integrate state-of-the-art drilling technologies with scientific models.

• Apply innovative technologies such as MPD, CML, DGD, and drilling automation (ML & AI application) to improve safety, efficiency, and environmental performance.

• Communicate technical findings effectively through scientific presentations and reports.

• Evaluate risks and ensure well integrity throughout the drilling lifecycle, including plug and abandonment procedures.

Knowledge and Skills: After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Understand and apply advanced wellbore hydraulics and drilling fluid optimization techniques.

• Design and evaluate unconventional drilling systems, including MPD, CML, and DGD.

• Perform advanced well control calculations, kick detection, and pressure behavior analysis.

• Plan and execute managed pressure cementing (MPC) operations and advanced casing design.

• Analyze geothermal and HPHT drilling methods and their operational challenges.

• Apply machine learning and artificial intelligence to optimize drilling processes using real-time data.

• Utilize geosteering and logging-while-drilling technologies for trajectory control and formation evaluation.

• Assess and implement well integrity strategies, including plug and abandonment, using materials like Bismuth Alloy.

• Use digital tools (e.g., Excel, Python, Matlab) for simulation, planning, and data analysis in drilling engineering.
• Conduct individual research tasks and present findings in scientific paper format, contributing to innovation in drilling technology.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises. Compulsory research project with presentation. Exercises also includes the use of programming tools (e.g. MS Excel and Python). Course evaluation is undertaken using reference group.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation
• Exercises

Required previous knowledge

Course TPG4215, or equivalent.

Course materials

• Applied Drilling Engineering, AT Bourgoyne Jr, KK Millheim, ME Chenevert and FS Young Jr. SPE Textbook Series Vol. 2, ISBN: 978-1-55563-001-0
• Digitalization: Python Application for Drilling & Geoscience Engineer, Behzad Elahifar, Erfan hosseini, ISBN-13: 9786206184225
• Compendium
• Relevant textbooks will be announced at semester start
• For each topic in the course supplementary material will be given to the students

Credit reductions