From automated control in complex environments to manual control in less-demanding applications, the @balance Control MPD system incorporates software and services to meet a full range of operational needs. The @balance Control system is a single platform designed to operate in onshore as well as offshore environments as a stand-alone or integrated control system.

Automatic control

The real-time, automated MPD control system is the basis of a comprehensive pressure management plan, especially in narrow hydraulic windows. A fully automated response effectively manages changing pressures and flow rates. When installed as part of an MPD system, this control system links the choke manifold and system sensors to a real-time hydraulics model and VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS drilling fluid simulation software. The system can thus quickly detect and respond to changes before they rise to the level of wellbore stability or well control events.

Semiautomatic control

The e-balance partially automated managed pressure drilling control system bridges the gap between manual control and fully automated systems with integrated real-time hydraulics.

The automatic calibration feature of the e-balance control system reduces the need to tune the pressure response of the system to account for variations in equipment and well conditions. This reduces the time required to bring the system into operation and improves pressure-control performance.

In the manual position and manual pressure modes, the choke operator uses the human machine interface to manage the required choke position and pressures.

Manual control

In manual mode, it enables the choke operator to manage the choke position and pressures via a human machine interface. Each mode requires only minimal equipment, making the system ideal for deepwater vessels with limited deck space.