Fields located in the southeastern area of the Neuquén Province of Argentina are widely recognized for their high formation pressures and related influxes while drilling the production section. Some of the challenges encountered when drilling using conventional techniques include kicks, losses, wellbore instability, and formation damage. They are also known for challenging cementing operations. These wellbore construction challenges can significantly impact non-productive time (NPT). Managed pressure cementing (MPC) has been implemented for recent wells after the target is achieved with managed pressure casing drilling (MPCD). This application enables the implementation of controlled bottomhole pressure (BHP) while cementing, without killing the well. Surface backpressure (SBP) is applied in accordance with the cementing pumping schedule, taking into account varying pump flow rates and fluid densities. In wells in which MPC was implemented, SBP was continuously applied to maintain the target equivalent circulating density (ECD) required for the cementing operation, avoiding expansion and gas migration. This paper describes the implementation, results, and behavior of the well while performing MPC. MPCD and MPC techniques have proven to be an effective combination to help optimize drilling time, improve bottomhole conditions, and reduce cementing costs. This paper includes lessons learned and recommendations to help enhance the implementation of these techniques and optimize the overall well construction phase to improve the performance of future wells.
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