Published April 2026, Pg. 16-30

Section: Well drilling

UOT: 550.8:553

DOI: 10.37474/0365-8554/2026-04-16-30

Consideration of anomalous high formation pressure (AHFP) changes and accident risk assessment in the process of drilling deep wells.

E.Y. Abbasov PhD in Soil Sc. - Geophysics and Geology Department, Production Division of Industrial Geopphysics

A.I. Khuduzadeh PhD in Soil Sc. - “Azneft” PA

E.A. Kazimov Dr. in Tech. Sc. - Oil-Gaz Scientific Research Project İnstitue

H.O. Valiyev Dr. in Geol.-Min. Sc - Baku State University

Z.J. Akhundov - Geophysics and Geology Department

Sh.M. Ismayilov - Oil and Gas Institute

In the process of drilling deep oil and gas wells, the accuracy of geological and engineering surveys, correct risk assessment and ensuring operational safety are of strategic importance for the modern oil and gas industry. Real-time monitoring and interpretation of Anomalous High Formation Pressure (AHFP) indicators in drilled wells is a very urgent problem that must be studied both in terms of preventing technogenic accidents and optimizing the drilling process. AHFP parameters are considered one of the main indicators characterizing the geodynamic and mechanical properties of the layers. Incorrect assessment of AHFP parameters leads to the occurrence of unexpected pressure anomalies during drilling, gas-mass releases, well wall collapse and other risky engineering and geological events. This article presents an analytical analysis of changes in abnormally high formation pressure (AHFP) systems and, to a certain extent, provides a scientific justification for the application of risk modeling and risk management approaches to geological conditions. The mechanisms of electrical energy anomaly formation during drilling, the mechanical stability of formations, the theory of effective energy, and the influence of the geological environment on heterogeneous AHFP devices are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, the acquisition of modern geophysical and geological data –additional MWD/LWD measurements, analysis of drilling fluid parameters, seismic velocity models, and empirical correlation methods – provides a reliable methodological basis for the rapid determination of AHFP. Scientific analyses show that operational monitoring and forecasting of reservoir pressure during drilling, correct definition of the safety zone along the well profile, optimization of the drilling mud density regime, and monitoring of drilling equipment are fundamental in terms of risk minimization.  A comprehensive assessment of abnormally high formation pressure AHFP indicators not only ensures technical safety but also improves the cost-effectiveness of the drilling process, reducing unproductive downtime.
As a result, scientific AHFP indicators and the implementation of modern engineering geology methods are fundamental for improving the safety of drilling deep exploratory and production wells, enhancing the technological reliability of the drilling process, and more accurately assessing the geodynamic properties of deposits. Accurate prediction of anomalous reservoir pressure prevents well complications, creating conditions for both the prompt detection of pressure anomalies and the determination of optimal mud density. Furthermore, determining reservoir pressure using modern equipment and analytical methods, as well as systematically using the obtained data in drilling and production management, helps minimize geological risks, reduce the likelihood of man-made accidents, and improve overall operational performance. This methodological approach also provides a scientifically sound, essential scientific and practical basis for more rational field development and engineering decision-making.

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