Hi comet,Thanks for the post. Unfortunately we've all taken a...

Hi comet,

Thanks for the post. Unfortunately we've all taken a pasting on this one.

I note you say you "dont want to enter into deep discussions" but as you appear to have some detailed drilling knowledge and seem to have a clear view on what (you see) as the problem, I'd just like to clarify if I may:-

You appear to be saying the problems are due to:

(a) running an excessive pump rate while drilling causing formation damage?

(b) incorrectly using a drilling mud containing calcium carbonate causing blockages?

Is this correct? I'm not sure if you are talking more about (a) being a problem for PTR than PAX? If also for PAX what are you basing your pump rate concern on? I note the 2 Mar ann stated: "casing having to be retrieved to the surface due to issues associated with circulation of the drilling fluids". Is there anything else that is causing you to zero in on the pump rate?