This paper was prepared for presentation at the 2008 IADC/SPE Drilling Conference held in Orlando, Florida, U.S.A., 4–6 March 2008.

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Shell Exploration & Production Company continues to execute redevelopment slim hole sidetracks using Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) on the Auger TLP in Deepwater Gulf of Mexico. Four sidetracks have been successfully drilled utilizing a Dynamic Annular Pressure Control (DAPC) system to eliminate lost circulation and borehole instability events.

Execution of MPD continues to improve, resulting in operational efficiency gains and allowing access to previously unattainable reservoir targets. Intervals previously considered impossible to drill due to depletion induced frac gradient reduction are being drilled and cased trouble free with MPD.

Recent MPD well designs have incorporated reduced static mud weights below pore pressure to manage the available drilling margin. Bottom hole pressure variation from the defined set point has been reduced and excursions outside of the target pressure window are being eliminated during subsequent MPD well operations.

Auger’s field redevelopment history, well designs and Managed Pressure Drilling designs will be reviewed. Execution of MPD operations will be addressed in detail focusing on engineering and operational improvements throughout the four MPD sidetrack campaign.