Abstract: A method for performing an integrated cementing operation at a wellsite is disclosed. The method involves simulating a cementing operation including pumping sequences for selectively pumping drilling fluid and cement into the wellbore according to pre-operation simulated pumping parameters, measuring real-time pumping parameters of the drilling fluid and the cement according to the pumping sequences, during the measuring, simulating real-time pumping parameters for each of the defined pumping sequences based on the measured real-time pumping parameters, and comparing the real-time simulated pumping parameters with the pre-operation simulated pumping parameters. The method may also involve measuring a return flow rate of fluid flowing out of the wellbore, defining a loss zone within the wellbore, simulating the return flow rate based on the input flow rate, and generating a rate of the fluid loss such that the simulated return flow rate equals the actual return flow rate.

Abstract: Cement placement simulations and post-placement simulations are traditionally performed before the cementing operation takes place. Several simulation iterations may be performed, allowing engineers to develop an optimal cement treatment design. When the cementing operation takes place, engineers may follow the procedure prescribed by the simulator. After the operation is complete and the cement has set, logging operations may be performed to verify that the goals of the cementing operation have been met. Monitoring the progress of the cementing operation in real time allows a determination of whether cementing events are unfolding as predicted by the simulator. If deviations from the plan occur, some real-time adjustments may be made to improve cementing results.