Enhanced Early Kick Detection with MPD Applications: A New Interpretation Model and Sensor System for Precise Kick and Loss Detection Beyond Current Technology Limitations

Abstract

This paper presents a novel interpretation model designed for real-time identification of downhole events, e.g., gains and losses, relying on advanced flow meters capable of handling real drilling fluid conditions. The model is enabled by the deployment of two advanced flow measurement systems: a high-pressure hybrid return flow sensor capable of accurate flow measurements under multiphase conditions downstream of the MPD choke, and a high-pressure standpipe flow sensor providing precise pump performance monitoring. Previous work demonstrated the reliability of hybrid flow measurement technology combining differential pressure and thermal dispersion principles for robust multiphase drilling fluid monitoring. However, field deployment in real drilling conditions where gas and inhomogeneous mud conditions were encountered revealed a fundamental gap in the existing literature: the absence of interpretation methodologies capable of handling continuous, high-fidelity flow data acquired under such conditions, since it had never been visualized before. The proposed model addresses this gap by introducing a novel interpretation framework capable of discriminating between true downhole events (influx, losses, fractures) and surface-related phenomena (connection gas, pump inefficiencies, gas surface transients). The methodology extends conventional flow-based fracture detection approaches by integrating time-domain signal analysis and multi-sensor correlation. Field results demonstrate improved reliability in kick detection and elimination of false positives where conventional sensors fail. The system also supports real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance, contributing to safer and more automated drilling operations.