Study on the hydraulic parameter design method for managed pressure drilling in deepwater thick salt layers

Managed pressure drilling (MPD) in deepwater ultra-thick salt formations is a key technology for deepwater oil and gas development, and the hydraulic parameter design is of great significance for ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations. This paper systematically studies and proposes an optimization method for hydraulic parameter design under the complex conditions of deepwater MPD. First, a hydraulic parameter prediction model for deepwater MPD is established, including a deepwater wellbore temperature-pressure field model, a drilling fluid rheology and parameter prediction model, and an equivalent circulating density (ECD) prediction model, providing a scientific basis for accurately predicting the temperature-pressure field and fluid dynamics characteristics within the wellbore. Second, considering the challenges of salt creep and dissolution encountered during the drilling of ultra-thick salt formations, a safe window optimization design is conducted, improving the safety and adaptability of MPD operations. Finally, through case studies, the hydraulic parameter design method proposed in this paper is applied to actual deepwater salt formation MPD projects, verifying the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach. This study develops hydraulic parameter prediction models and optimization design methods applicable to deepwater MPD, enhancing the key technical system for MPD in ultra-thick salt formations and subsalt environments. It provides theoretical support and technical assurance for the safe and efficient development of deepwater oil and gas resources and offers significant engineering application value and potential for broader adoption.