This recommended practice describes methods designed
to prevent shallow-water flow (SWF) during and following
cementing of wells located in deep water. It is the
compilation of technology and practices developed and
used by many operators around the world. Although most
of the discussion in this standard is focused on shallowwater
flow (SWF), shallow flows can be mixtures of water,
gas, gas hydrates, and formation fines. There is no single
method of preventing shallow-water flow and many of the
activities described can require customization to fit
individual well conditions.