Drilling Fluids

The total hardness test gives an indication of the level of soluble Calcium and Magnesium ions present in the mud. Such ions are considered detrimental since, under conditions of high pH (>11.5), they may render polymer, treatments for viscosity and fluid loss less effective. High levels of hardness will also flocculate Bentonite. The total hardness Total Hardness – Water Based Mud Testing

The Calcium test gives an indication of the level of soluble Calcium ions present in the mud. Such ions are considered detrimental since, under conditions of high pH (>11.5), they may render polymer treatments for viscosity and fluid loss less effective. High levels of Calcium will also flocculate Bentonite. The total hardness should be controlled Calcium Hardness – Water Based Mud Testing

The MBT is a rather crude chromatographic measure of the active clay content in water based muds. The MBT value must be controlled below the maximum value specified in the drilling fluids programme. When the MBT approaches the pre-defined maximum, mud must be treated. Mud condition, in terms of rheology and fluid loss, can deteriorate Methylene Blue Test (MBT) – Water Based Mud Testing

This document describes the key elements for drilling fluids policy. Mud Weight The mud weight (ppg) shall be maintained as per the drilling programme and should provide a minimum overbalance of 75 psi for oil wells and 150 psi for gas wells. Mud Properties All mud properties shall be maintained as per the Drilling Programme Mud Policy

Flow chart for losses induced during running in:  

Losses while drilling dynamic or static:  

A system of good laboratory practices and housekeeping shall be adopted to ensure accurate determination of mud chemistry and that safety is maintained. All glassware shall be kept clean and washed out with distilled water. All laboratory chemicals shall be clearly marked detailing contents, associated health hazards and shelf life. Tests shall not be conducted  Mud Testing

This mud system is used to drill the reservoir section in onshore and offshore wells.  It is a sodium chloride based system, which gives inhibitions with minimal formation damage. It is beneficial if the solids content is kept as low as possible and carrying capacity to the optimum.

Although gel/polymer muds are normally prepared as fresh water drilling fluid systems, existing bentonite spud mud or native clay mud may be converted simply by diluting the systems and adding the appropriate fluid loss polymers. The success of any conversion operation will depend on the solids content of the mud. If the solids content is Gel/Polymer Mud

Bentonite based mud may be used to impart stability to boreholes through soft seabed sediments prior to running structural or conductor casing. 30-40ppb bentonite mud shall be used offshore to sweep top hole while drilling and to spot on bottom prior to running surface casing. Bentonite Pre-hydration 1. Flush tank and lines with drill water. Bentonite Mud