Did you know that according to the US EIA, the daily US oil production averaged about 19.78 million barrels per day during the year 2021? Oil production keeps increasing and the oil sector is looking for better solutions in the process.
The oil production process is a highly complex one. Read on to learn more about drilling fluids technology and the contribution it makes to this sector!
How Drilling Fluids are Used
A drilling fluid, also called drilling mud, is a material used to lubricate and cool the drill bit while drilling a well.
The primary purpose of drilling fluid is to remove cuttings from the wellbore. A secondary purpose of drilling fluid is to assist in the placement of the good casing.
Drilling fluid technology is the study of the physical and chemical properties of drilling fluids.
These fluids play a vital role in the drilling process. It is by providing a medium for the drilling bit, lubricating the drill pipe, and carrying the cuttings away from the drill bit.
The correct choice of fluid can result in a more efficient drilling process and can help to avoid problems such as hole collapse, kick, and lost circulation.
A good drilling fluid must be able to control fluid loss, resist changes in pH, maintain a stable density and suspend solids.
To manage the accumulation of formation solids, a variety of techniques are currently available like the principles of HDD solids management.
Different Types of Drilling Fluids
There are several different types of drilling fluids, each with its own purpose and benefits. See the following for the most common drilling fluids types:
Water-Based Drilling Fluid
Water-based drilling fluid is used when drilling in water-bearing formations.
This type of fluid is made up of water, a weighting material, and a chemical additive. Some of the benefits of a water-based drilling fluid include its low cost, its ability to cool the drill bit, and its relatively low toxicity.
Oil-Based Drilling Fluid
Oil-based drilling fluid is used when drilling in oil-bearing formations.
This type of fluid is made up of base oil, usually mineral oil, and a weighting material, such as bentonite clay. Oil-based mud is used when drilling through hard rocks or when drilling in high-temperature environments.
Synthetic-Based Fluids
Synthetic-based fluids are water-based drilling fluids that contain synthetic oils. Synthetic-based fluids have many advantages over oil-based and water-based fluids, including:
- Reduced viscosity
- Reduced friction
- Lowered formation damage
- Low toxicity
Synthetic-based fluids are the most popular type of drilling fluid used today.
Benefits of Drilling Fluids Technology
There are many benefits to drilling fluids technology. This includes the ability to extend the life of the drilling equipment, and improve safety conditions for workers. This technology can also help to minimize the environmental impact of drilling activities.
Choose the Right Drilling Fluids for Your Needs
Although drilling fluid technology is constantly evolving, the basic principles remain the same. In order to achieve these objectives, drillers must understand the drilling fluid composition and how to manipulate them.
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