IWCF Level 1 case studies
IWCF Level 1 · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The IWCF Level 1 Well Control Awareness Course is the entry-level programme in the International Well Control Forum's course catalogue. IWCF describes itself as an independent body focused on well control training, accreditation and certification, and lists the Level 1 Well Control Awareness Course Programme among its accredited programmes. This level is awareness-oriented: it introduces why well control matters, the basic concepts and vocabulary behind a well control incident, and the safety culture that surrounds drilling and well operations. It suits people who need a common baseline of understanding rather than a hands-on operational certificate - for example new entrants to the industry, support and office staff, contractors and service personnel, and anyone who works alongside well operations and should recognise well control terminology and hazards. The IWCF Level 1 case studies are 5 cases and about 2,817 words.
1Trip Tank Fill Shortfall on a Night Tour Handover
At 06:20 the night driller is pulling out of hole on a development well at 2,850 m MD. The trip tank is lined up and the driller has compared actual volume with the theoretical displacement sheet every five stands.
675 words, about 3 min2Drilling Break With Falling Standpipe Pressure
An 8½ in hole is being drilled at 3,420 m TVD with 1.32 SG water-based mud. The overbalance is estimated at about 120 psi.
492 words, about 2 min3Losses Followed by a Slow Gain
A well is being drilled at 3,100 m TVD with 1.45 SG mud. Pore pressure in the open hole is estimated at 1.38 SG equivalent, so the margin is narrow.
494 words, about 2 min4Shallow Gas in Surface Hole With a Diverter
A 26 in surface hole is being drilled at 420 m with 1.05 SG spud mud. No BOP stack is installed at this stage; a diverter system is rigged up, with lines to both sides of the rig, and it was function tested before drilling out.
480 words, about 2 min5Reading Shut-In Pressures and Rising SIDPP
A kick is taken while drilling at 3,420 m TVD with 1.32 SG mud. The pumps were running at 480 gpm with 3,150 psi standpipe pressure when the pit gained 15 bbl.
676 words, about 3 min