Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) continues to prove its value across a broader range of the drilling industry. As adoption spreads beyond complex wells into more routine operations, the focus shifts from the "why" to the "how fast and efficiently". One of the key questions operators now face is: How can we integrate MPD with less interruption of the operation timeline?
Historically, rigging up/down MPD systems — especially on floating rigs — has required time-consuming manual work. Connecting mud return lines and control umbilicals often demands significant effort over open sea, with safety risks and operational delays. Depending on weather conditions and crew availability, this manual process can take up to 48 hours — and in some cases, even longer.
These constraints not only delay operations but also add to the total well cost. In a high-day rate offshore environment, even a few hours of delay can impact the project budget. Additionally, the reliance on specialized personnel to execute complex connections adds logistical pressure and reduces operational flexibility.
The FP-ClickStab® technology addresses this bottleneck directly. Designed as a fully automated, remote-controlled connection of both the mud return flow lines, and control umbilicals. The result? A rig-up time of approximately 15 minutes.
The FP-ClickStab® technology originates from the hands-free FP Gooseneck Handling System, connecting the High-Pressure K&C, conduit and booster hoses to the Slip Joint.
This automation transforms MPD deployment from a major logistical hurdle to a routine task. It eliminates the need for personnel to work over open sea, significantly reducing safety risks by its hands-free operational features. Further, the system also enables the possibility to widen BOP running operational window.
The system's modular design also ensures compatibility with diverse SS/DS/JU vessel designs, minimizing integration time and complexity. The system can be provided as a retrofit modification to existing setup or as a completely new product.
Learn more about the FP ClickStab® here.
In recent deployments, FP-ClickStab® technology has demonstrated its capability to cut MPD rig-up/down time by over 95%. On a semi-submersible, for instance, the MPD/mud return lines and electrical/hydraulic control lines were fully connected and operational in under 15 minutes during a planned window. This enabled the operator to maintain momentum in the drilling sequence and avoid unnecessary downtime.
Such performance not only reinforces the technical feasibility of automated hose and umbilical connections, but also underlines the commercial attractiveness of the technology, providing a strong basis for broader MPD adoption across diverse rig fleets.
For operators every hour saved in rig-up/down equates to reduced Non-Productive Time (NPT) and lowered operating costs. Automating the MPD integration also increases safety and opens the door to more consistent deployment, making MPD a more attractive option for a wider range of wells.
Moreover, the industry is under increasing pressure to align with environmental and ESG objectives. Shorter rig-up times lead to fewer emissions, as rigs spend less time idling during setup. This contributes to the industry's broader sustainability goals without sacrificing efficiency or control.
Read more: How Future Production saved our client 6 months worth of schedule slippage and idle rig expenses
As MPD becomes standard practice across a wider variety of wells, the focus must be on optimizing how it's implemented.
With systems utilizing FP-ClickStab® technology, operators have a clear path to safer, faster, and more cost-effective MPD operations. It's not just about pressure control anymore—it's about time control.
If you're exploring subsea deployment solutions, it's time to consider not only what you use, but how you use it. Automation of MPD mud return and control lines connections (or K&C, booster and conduit lines) by use of FP-ClickStab® technology could be your next strategic advantage.