Procedures control total mud losses while drilling in deep water

Hydrocarbon containing procedures and innovative mud loss cures in a deepwater drilling program minimized the problems from severe lost circulation and the possible subsequent formation of hydrates from gas influx. The philosophy behind the procedures was to prevent hydrocarbons from entering the well bore and, if they did enter, to ensure that they did not move up the well bore and into the riser. In addition, procedures were developed to allow drilling to continue during the losses and the curing of losses.