Kick Behavior Analysis and Modeling Methodologies

The current study reviews the techniques and methodologies used for analyzing and modeling a potentially disastrous event called a “kick.” Throughout the years, new and robust technologies have been developed to detect and mitigate such an event. Even so, there are still cases that the applied technologies fail and undetectable kick transform into catastrophic blowouts. This study aims to review the latest literature and provide a holistic approach to modeling and analyzing a kick, endeavoring to enhance the existing detection and mitigation techniques. PRISMA reporting system was employed to review the literature systematically. The review provided valuable information about the currently applied methodologies and the advances established throughout the years. Cubic equations of states and semi-empirical mathematical models were presented as the means to model the fluid flow and the thermodynamic state of the kick. Factors affecting the kick behavior, such as friction in annular space, fluid compressibility, heat transfer effects, the solubility of hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide in drilling mud, changes in bottom hole pressure, and the gas bubble rise velocity, were also considered in the mathematical models. Afterward, the limitations of the reviewed models, such as the one-dimensional and single fluid flow patterns, the disregarded heat transfer effects, gas solubility, and temperature profiles, were investigated and discussed. Finally, considering the constraints and gaps in the literature review, the study recommends a reliable and accurate methodology to analyze and model a hydrocarbon kick. The suggested method combines the existing equations of states and semi-empirical correlations with the power of computational fluid dynamics. Eventually, it aims to produce models based on three dimensions, accounting for transient conditions, dynamic flow regimes, and critical factors affecting the behavior of a kick.