Early reliable detection using delta-flow offers the best approach to reducing the hazard associated with well kicks.

This paper describes the performance of a recently introduced return-line flowmeter for kick detection.

Controlled gas kicks were generated in a 1000 meter (3300 ft.) well and measurements performed. With the use of the new flow-out sensor, kicks were always detected a few minutes after the kick started downhole.

The new flow sensor allows direct measurement of influx during a "flow check" procedure.

This accurate flow-out measurement, together with the traditional flow-in evaluation from a pump stroke counter, is sufficient for kick or loss detection on most rigs when associated with continuous trend analysis of the variations in the ratio between flow-in and flow-out.

Keywords:
real time system, ultrasonic flow-out sensor, detection, return line, flow-out measurement, influx, upstream oil & gas, actual response, accurate flow-out measurement, triplex efficiency
Subjects:
Pressure Management, Well control
Copyright 1988, IADC/SPE Drilling Conference
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