Complex Well Architecture
Introducing the Dual Gradient Effect – simplify your well plan and reduce rig time.
Narrow Windows and Mismatching Hydrostatic Profile
Deepwater wells commonly have narrow operating windows for several, or all sections. Making matters worse the hydrostatic profile starting from RKB does not match the operating window starting from seabed. Combined they tend to force complex well architecture with frequent casings.

Aligning Your Pressure Profile With the Operating Window
Lower the fluid level in the riser and move the top of the hydrostatic profile closer to the seabed. The resulting profile, referred to as the Dual Gradient effect with a column of air above the fluid, has lower pressures at shallow depths and follows the trend of the operating window.
Merging Sections for a Simpler Design
Combining sections in deepwater operations with the Dual Gradient effect has become the default approach for all Controlled Mud Level drilling. Two sections are drilled in one go, creating simpler well architecture.
EC-Drill® & EC-Drill® Dual MPD
Controlled Mud Level – The Natural way
The Dual Gradient effect reduces well construction cost and rig time – and makes planning deepwater wells that much easier.
Key Benefits:
- Dual Gradient for combining sections
- Easy and straightforward drilling, tripping and cementing
- Simplified well planning
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