Drilling Fluids Properties

Drilling Fluids Properties
Reference: SWBT, Drilling F

Version: 4
Release Date: 30-Nov-2005
EDMS UID: 274762204
Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12
Owner: WS Training
Author: WS Training
Private drillingWPC,
WCS, , fluids,
CTSWBT,
S, TBT WBT, IT Modules, Interface,
Copyright © 2005 Schlumberger, Unpublished Work. All rights reserved.

Drilling Fluids Properties
Reference: SWBT, Drilling F
Version: 4
Release Date: 30-Nov-2005
EDMS UID: 274762204
Published: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12
Owner: WS Training
Author: WS Training
Private drillingWPC,
WCS, , fluids,
CTSWBT,
S, TBT WBT, IT Modules, Interface,
Copyright © 2005 Sophia, Unpublished Work. All rights reserved.

Intentionally Blank
Private
Drilling Fluids Properties / Legal Information
Legal Information
This work contains the confidential and proprietary trade secrets of Schlumberger
and may not be copied or stored in an information retrieval system, transferred,
used, distributed, translated or retransmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, in whole or in part, without the express written
permission of the copyright owner.
Trademarks & service marks
"Schlumberger", the Schlumberger logotype, and other words or symbols used

to identify the products and services described herein are either trademarks,
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\4\Release Date:30-Nov-2005\EDMS UID: 274762204\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12
trade names or service marks of Schlumberger and its licensors, or are the
property of their respective owners. These marks may not be copied, imitated
or used, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of
Schlumberger. In addition, covers, page headers, custom graphics, icons, and
other design elements may be service marks, trademarks, and/or trade dress
of Schlumberger, and may not be copied, imitated, or used, in whole or in part,
without the express prior written permission of Schlumberger.
A complete list of Schlumberger marks may be viewed at the Schlumberger

Oilfield Services Marks page: http://www.hub.slb.com/index.cfm?id=id32083
Marks of Schlumberger include but may not be limited to IDCAP, PHPA.
Private
1-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Objectives 1-i
1 Objectives
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762201\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762201\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 1-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Objectives 1-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
1-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Objectives 1-1
1 OBJECTIVES drilling,WPC,
WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
WBT, IT Modules , Interface,
In this training module, you will learn to do the following:
• Identify the four dominant properties of drilling fluids.

• Identify the frequency at which you should take density measurements.
• Identify the equation to calculate the equivalent circulating density (ECD).
• Identify the signs of excessive density and the signs of insufficient mud
weight.
• Identify the equation to calculate viscosity.

• Discriminate between the three models of behavior in laminar flow.
• Discriminate between the two instruments used to measure viscosity.
• Identify the intervals of gel strength measurement.
• Discriminate between the effects of excessively high viscosity and the effects
of excessively low viscosity.
• Discriminate between dynamic and static filtration and identify the equations
to calculate dynamic filtration rate and static filtration rate.
• Identify the effects that temperature has on filtration rates.
• Identify the effects of incorrect filtration rates.
• Identify the effects of insufficient inhibition.
• Discriminate between high-gravity solids and low-gravity solids.
• Identify the main effects of uncontrolled drill solids content.
• Identify the five basic properties that must be monitored in water-based muds.
• Define the term emulsion stability.
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762201\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 1-2 Drilling Fluids Properties / Objectives 1-2
Intentionally Blank
Private
2-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Functions of a Drilling Fluid 2-i
2 Functions of a Drilling Fluid

2.1 Secondary Functions __________________________________________ 2-1
2.2 Other Considerations __________________________________________ 2-1
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762197\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 2-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Functions of a Drilling Fluid 2-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
2-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Functions of a Drilling Fluid 2-1
2 FUNCTIONS OF A DRILLING FLUID drilling,WPC,

WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
Drilling fluids are required to perform a number of functions. These include
• lifting cuttings,
• controlling formation pressures,
• maintaining stable gauge hole,
• isolating the fluids from the formation,
• lubricating the drillstring and bit,
• securing maximum hole information,

• suspending cuttings and weighting material,
• maximizing drilling rates,
• controlling corrosion rates, and
• supporting the weight of the drillstring and casing.
2.1 Secondary Functions

Drilling fluids also provide secondary functions, such as powering downhole
motors and transferring information from tools to the surface. Measurement
while drilling and logging while drilling (MWD/LWD) are just two of the functions
performed with the aid of drilling fluids.
2.2 Other Considerations

While drilling fluids must serve a number of functions, they must fulfill these
requirements without damaging the environment, the drillstring and tools, or the
productivity of the formation. Steps should also be taken to ensure that they do
not injure personnel or require expensive or unusual completion methods.
Also, drilling fluids should not be ridiculously expensive because they will impact
the operator’s ability to recover his investment quickly.
These considerations and functions, both primary and secondary, can be

achieved by correctly maintaining drilling fluid properties.
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762197\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 2-2 Drilling Fluids Properties / Functions of a Drilling Fluid 2-2
Intentionally Blank
Private
3-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Main Drilling Fluid Properties 3-i
3 Main Drilling Fluid Properties

3.1 Density _________________________________________________________ 3-1
3.1.1 Balancing Formation Pressure ________________________________ 3-2
3.1.2 Signs of Excessive Density ___________________________________ 3-3
3.1.2.1 Signs of Excessive Density ________________________________ 3-4
3.1.3 Signs of Insufficient Mud Weight ______________________________ 3-5
3.2 Viscosity (rheological properties) ______________________________ 3-5
3.2.1 Models of Behavior in Laminar Flow ___________________________ 3-6
3.2.1.1 Newtonian Model _________________________________________ 3-6
3.2.1.2 Bingham Plastic Model ___________________________________ 3-7
3.2.1.3 Power Law Model ________________________________________ 3-8
3.2.2 Instruments to Measure Viscosity _____________________________ 3-8
3.2.3 Gel Strength _________________________________________________ 3-9
3.2.4 Effects of Excessive Viscosity ________________________________ 3-10

3.3 Fluid Loss (filtration) __________________________________________ 3-10
3.3.1 Fluid Loss (filtration) ________________________________________ 3-11
3.3.2 Dynamic and Static Filtration ________________________________ 3-11
3.3.2.1 Dynamic Filtration _______________________________________ 3-11
3.3.2.2 Static Filtration __________________________________________ 3-12
3.3.3 Temperature and Pressure Effects ___________________________ 3-14
3.3.4 Incorrect Filtration Rates ____________________________________ 3-15
3.4 Inhibition ______________________________________________________ 3-16
3.4.1 Insufficient Inhibition ________________________________________ 3-16
3.4.2 Mechanisms of Inhibition ____________________________________ 3-17
3.5 Exercise _______________________________________________________ 3-17
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762198\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 3-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Main Drilling Fluid Properties 3-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
3-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Main Drilling Fluid Properties 3-1
3 MAIN DRILLING FLUID PROPERTIES drilling,WPC,

WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
The large number of functions that have to be performed by drilling fluids has
inevitably led to the formulation of complex fluid systems. At least some of
the complexity arises from the different environments encountered in various
geological situations.
Of all the different properties reported on the mud report, density, viscosity
(rheological properties), and fluid loss are the most important and are possessed
by all drilling fluids to some degree.
All the other properties that are monitored and adjusted are in some way linked
to these three. These properties are typically specified by the client in his drilling
program.
Here are the four dominant properties of drilling fluids that should be controlled to
address the necessary functions in the various geological situations:
• density
• viscosity (rheological properties)
• fluid loss (filtration)
• inhibition
3.1 Density
NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.
Private
By convention, density is called the mud weight, which is measured in pounds

per gallon (lbm/gal, or ppg), grams per cubic centimeter (specific gravity [sg]),
or, occasionally, pounds per cubic foot (lbm/ft3), pounds per square inch
per thousand feet (lbm/in.2/1000 ft), or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m3).
Correct and frequent measurement is essential. You should make sure that
measurements are taken and recorded a minimum of every 30 min.
Measurements should be performed on a mud balance that is clean and

calibrated daily. There are two types of balances: pressurized (shown on the left)
and non-pressurized (shown on the right). A pressurized balance is preferred
because it removes entrained air, providing a true reading of density conditions
downhole.
Balancing Formation Pressure

3.1.1
When drilling, zones of different pressures are found between casing points
downhole. Correct density of the drilling fluid plays a key role in balancing
formation pressures. The mud weight must be below the fracture point of the
weakest formation, but above the highest pore pressure observed.
In this example, we are able to drill safely to 10,000 ft. At 10,000 ft the ECD has
been increased to a level that will induce a fracture at 2000 ft.
Private
To determine appropriate mud weight, the equivalent circulating density (ECD)

must be taken into account to avoid fracturing the formation. ECD is calculated
by adding the mud weight to the pressure loss in the annulus and dividing by the
true vertical depth multiplied by 0.052.
Pressure loss in the annulus is caused by the frictional forces on the mud as it
moves up the annulus and is dependent on the velocity, density, flow properties,
and hole geometry.
There should be at least 0.5 lbm/gal (0.0599 g/cm3) equivalent mud weight
between the equivalent circulating density and fracture pressure. Between the
pore pressure and ECD, a 0.2- to 0.5-ppg equivalent differential pressure should
be kept as a safety margin. However, the differential pressure should be kept as
low as possible to improve the rate of penetration.
The lower the pressure, the faster the penetration. In fact, there are some
situations where a negative differential is used to drill, such as in hard formations,
some reservoirs, or lost circulation zones.
3.1.2 Signs of Excessive Density

If the mud weight is too high, adverse effects may occur. There may be an
increased chance of exceeding the fracture gradient, which can cause lost
circulation. Under these conditions, the drilling fluid will attempt to penetrate rock
as whole fluid. Materials have to be incorporated in the drilling fluid to minimize
the loss of whole mud to permeable formations.
Private
3.1.2.1 Signs of Excessive Density

Stuck pipe may occur due to differential pressure sticking. Differential pressure
sticking is defined as the force that holds pipe against the wall of the hole, due
to the differential between formation pressure and hydrostatic pressure. When
mud weight is excessive, the rate of penetration is slowed. As explained earlier,
a low differential pressure between formation and hydrostatic pressure increases
the rate of penetration.
In a reservoir sand, the potential for differential sticking increases as the thickness
of filter cake increases, and as the difference between the hydrostatic pressure
and pore pressure increases. Since the filter cake is thicker, more surface area
of the pipe is touching, thus increasing the likelihood of differential sticking.
A more uncommon sign of excessive density is ballooning. In this situation,

typically a plastic formation, the mud weight forces the hole to widen when the
pumps are turned on.
Private
3.1.3 Signs of Insufficient Mud Weight
If the mud weight is insufficient, adverse effects may also occur. The hole not
filling correctly on trips is a sign of formation fluid being swabbed into the hole.
When the drillstring is pulled from the hole, a pressure imbalance is created, and
fluid from the formation is pulled into the wellbore.
A gain in fluid level may also indicate that formation fluid is entering the wellbore
due to formation pore pressure exceeding the hydrostatic pressure. Increased
drag experienced on connections and trips may also indicate a problem. Salt or
plastic formations (shale) squeeze into the wellbore, effectively reducing the hole
diameter and increasing the drag on the drillstring.
Although some gas may be released from ground cuttings, an unexplained

increase in gas recording may indicate insufficient mud weight.
Move the slider below the illustration to see the effect of changing mud weights
on the formation.
3.2 Viscosity (rheological properties)

All fluids exhibit a certain resistance to flow. The resistance of fluid to flow is
called viscosity. In general terms, a fluid is often described as being either
"thick" or "thin." A "thick" fluid, such as crude oil, has a much higher viscosity
than a "thin" fluid such as water.
In addition to flow rate, a fairly high viscosity is required to clean the hole. Top
holes can be drilled with water, for example, but cuttings fall back down the hole
when circulation is stopped. Ideally, the viscosity should be high enough to assist
in cuttings removal and to support weighting materials such as barite.
However, excessive viscosity can cause the following:
• reduced drilling rates,
Private
• high pump pressures that may cause surge and swab pressures when
tripping in and out of the hole, and
• inability to use downhole tools and problems with solids removal.
Viscosity, which can be measured in dynes per square centimeter, Pascals,

centipoise, or pounds per 100 square feet, is equal to shear stress (analagous to
flow pressure) divided by shear rate (analagous to flow rate).
Although shear stress and shear rate are somewhat abstract physical concepts,
they each pertain to the deformation of matter and thus affect the flow properties
of a drilling fluid.
3.2.1 Models of Behavior in Laminar Flow

These three models have been developed to help understand the behavior of
different fluids in laminar flow.
• Newtonian model,
• Bingham plastic model, and
• Power law model
3.2.1.1 Newtonian Model
Private
The Newtonian model applies to fluids such as water, glycerine, or oil where
flow occurs as soon as force is applied. Shear stress is proportional to shear
rate, and viscosity remains constant. Note that this equation predicts a constant
relationship between shear stress, shear rate, and viscosity.
As the majority of drilling fluids do not conform to the laws governing Newtonian
fluids, the Newtonian model has no value in predicting the behavior of a drilling
fluid.
3.2.1.2 Bingham Plastic Model

The Bingham plastic model establishes a distinct relationship between shear

stress, yield point, plastic viscosity (PV), and shear rate. Although few drilling
fluids actually conform to this model in practice, the terms plastic viscosity and
yield point are well known and accepted.
Private
3.2.1.3 Power Law Model

The power law model is considerably more complex than the Bingham plastic
model, but it provides for far greater accuracy in the determination of shear
stress at low shear rates. The power law model assumes that all fluids are
pseudo plastic in nature.
3.2.2 Instruments to Measure Viscosity
Private
A Marsh funnel produces results that are very temperature dependent and are
used to give trends. While drilling, the Derrickman should record results every
half hour.
The Fann viscometer, a more precise instrument, measures different shear

stresses for different shear rates and can be used to measure gel strengths. It
should be used with a heated cup to give readings at a set temperature.
3.2.3 Gel Strength

The gel strength refers to the increase in viscosity at a zero shear rate. It is
the measure of the attractive forces under static conditions. Appropriate gel
strength should suspend weighting agents, such as barite, but avoid significantly
increasing wellbore pressure when breaking circulation.
Gel strength measurements should be made after 10 sec, 10 min, and 30 min
to determine increase in viscosity. A flat gel strength is desirable because it
maintains relatively constant values over time. A progressive gel strength is
less desirable because it demonstrates an increased viscosity over time, often
doubling between the 10-sec and 10-min interval.
Private
3.2.4 Effects of Excessive Viscosity

A high viscosity is desirable to transport cuttings to the surface and to support
barite (or other weighting agents) and solids on the surface and during trips
up and down the hole. However, if the viscosity is too high, there can be
adverse effects. Increased pump pressure is sometimes created because of the
increased difficulty in bringing cuttings to the surface.
There is also
• an increased risk of swabbing or surging the hole,

• loss of mud at the shakers,
• poor efficiency of the separators or solids control equipment,

• increased risk of fracturing the formation (especially with high gel strengths),
and
• poor mud removal for cementing operations.
3.3 Fluid Loss (filtration)

Fluid loss control is a fundamental property of the drilling fluid and becomes
important when porous formations are being drilled, particularly when those
formations may contain gas or oil. Fluid loss control is necessary to prevent the
passage of filtrate into the formation due to the differential pressure.
Water trapped in the pores of the formation often reduces permeability. Blocking
can also be caused by the swelling of clays, precipitation of salts, or fine solids
particles in the spurt loss. (The spurt loss is the fluid that passes through the
filtering medium prior to establishing a filter cake.)
If the solids cannot block the pores and/or fractures, then mud will flow into
the formation, causing lost circulation. The solids in the mud usually form a
filter cake, which prevents excessive fluid loss. Filter cake build-up should be
controlled, however, to reduce the chances of differential sticking. The filter cake
should therefore be thin, have a low permeability or correct solids distribution,
and have a low friction coefficient.
Private
3.3.1 Fluid Loss (filtration)

Filtration is measured in one of two ways:
• an API filter press, which is performed at 100 psi (7.03 kg/cm3) and ambient
temperatures, or
• an HTHP filter press that is performed at 500 psi (35.15 kg/in.3) and 200
to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
3.3.2 Dynamic and Static Filtration

Filtration of fluids into the formation occurs under both dynamic and static
conditions.
3.3.2.1 Dynamic Filtration
Dynamic filtration occurs while circulating, or when there is flow inside the
wellbore. Typically, the filter cake builds until the rate of erosion equals the rate
of deposition. When the filter cake reaches a balanced thickness, the fluid
loss is constant.
Under dynamic conditions, the rate of erosion equals the rate of build-up of the
filter cake, maintaining a constant thickness of the cake. Darcy’s equation
governs the filtration rate under dynamic conditions.
Private
The equation demonstrates that the larger the area and differential pressure, the
more filtration will occur. It also shows that if you increase the thickness of the
cake and the viscosity of the fluid, the filtration rate will decrease.
Variables:
q = volume of filtrate (cm3)
k = permeability of cake (darcies)
A = area (cm2)
u = liquid phase viscosity (cps)
t = thickness of cake (cm)

DP = differential pressure (atm)
3.3.2.2 Static Filtration
Static filtration occurs when the pumps are turned off. The filter cake grows with
time, but the rate of filtration continues to decrease. The static cake is thicker
and less permeable than a dynamic cake and also provides a lower filtration rate.
All mud filtration tests are carried out under static conditions, although lab filter
press equipment can simulate dynamic conditions. Fluid loss control data should
be reviewed in light of current downhole conditions.
A simplified equation demonstrates this concept, taking into account the spurt
loss, which is the volume of fluid that gets through the filter paper before the
filter cake forms.
Variables:
q = volume of filtrate (cm3)
k = constant
t = time (sec)
e = spurt loss
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762198\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 3-13 Drilling Fluids Properties / Main Drilling Fluid Properties 3-13
Results indicate that the volume of filtrate is proportional to the length of time of
the test. However, it should be noted that the fluid loss volume is proportional to
the square root of the time recorded. Therefore, static filtration rates can possibly
be run at half the time specified by API (30 min), but they are only valid at high
filtrate volumes (greater than 5 mL).
When a permeable zone is first penetrated, the instantaneous fluid loss is

referred to as spurt loss, which occurs before any filter cake has been formed.
Under these dynamic conditions, the filter cake builds until it reaches a state of
equilibrium where the rate of erosion equals the rate of build. When the pumps
are turned off and conditions become static, the filter cake again begins to build.
The rate of build decreases as a function of the square root of time.
Private
3.3.3 Temperature and Pressure Effects

Temperature and pressure have an impact on filtration rates. The volume of
filtrate is proportional to the differential pressure, but the composition of the
filter cake overrides this consideration.
Higher differential pressure affects the amount of fluid loss, because compressing
the filter cake reduces permeability. In general though, the filtration rate changes
only slightly with an increase in pressure.
On the other hand, increasing the temperature increases the filtration rate
significantly. It reduces the viscosity of the filtrate and changes the flocculation
and aggregation equilibrium.
Polymeric fluid loss additives may also degrade under increased temperatures,
and a lignite/gilsonite type of derivative becomes more malleable.
Private
3.3.4 Incorrect Filtration Rates

The filtration rate must be adjusted to deal with all the formations encountered
in the interval. If rates are too low, a slight reduction in the rate of penetration
will occur, and in turn, excessive costs will be realized because adding more
product will be required.
If filter rates are too high, the formation may be damaged, or a thick filter cake
will form, which can lead to differential sticking and excessive drag.
Private
3.4 Inhibition
When a hole is drilled, there is contact between the drilling fluid and the formation.
Ideally, the mechanical properties of the formation should be unchanged so that
the hole will be as stable as possible.
However, in shales where the formation contains clay minerals, there is a very
powerful interaction with water. These are cross sections of wellbore, which
demonstrate water interaction with shale formation over an extended period. The
clays become hydrated after exposure to water for more than 17 hr.
Reducing the hydration or dispersion of clays and shales by chemicals is called

inhibition. Some 60% of the world’s sedimentary rocks are shales, and most
require some degree of inhibition. Generally, the type of drilling fluid used is
based on the level of inhibition required.
3.4.1 Insufficient Inhibition

The hydration of the formation creates new stresses in the matrix as the
clays swell and the water molecules lubricate potential failure planes. Clay
hydration thus leads to borehole instability in various forms. Hydration, and the
consequential swelling, can totally disrupt the cementation between grains in the
formation, thus leading to rapid dispersion into the drilling fluid.
Clay swelling increases torque and drag on the drillstring. It can also increase
trip time, produce mud rings, and cause stuck pipe or casing. Clay swelling and
succeeding dispersion or disintegration can lead to excessive erosion of the
wellbore and a washed-out hole section.
Also, if the cuttings disperse in the drilling fluid, increased viscosity and difficulties
in directional control will occur. The cuttings cannot be removed by solids
removal equipment on the surface. These factors result in increased costs.
Private
3.4.2 Mechanisms of Inhibition

Clay swelling and dispersion can be controlled in a number of ways depending
on the situation:
• wetting the surface rocks with oil,

• adding glycols or glycerols,
• adding inhibiting, positively charged ions or cations,
• reducing the pH,
• adding inhibiting polymers,
• reducing the fluid loss, or
• increasing the chloride content.
3.5 Exercise
Main Drilling Fluid Properties Exercise
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762198\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 3-18 Drilling Fluids Properties / Main Drilling Fluid Properties 3-18
Intentionally Blank
Private
4-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Additional Properties 4-i
4 Additional Properties
4.1 Solids Control __________________________________________________ 4-1
4.1.1 Solids Content Measurement _________________________________ 4-2
4.1.2 Solids Effects on Main Properties _____________________________ 4-3
4.2 Sand Content __________________________________________________ 4-4
4.3 Chemical Properties ____________________________________________ 4-4
4.3.1 Water Base __________________________________________________ 4-4
4.3.2 Water Base __________________________________________________ 4-5
4.3.3 Oil Base _____________________________________________________ 4-6
4.4 Exercise ________________________________________________________ 4-7
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762199\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 4-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Additional Properties 4-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
4-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Additional Properties 4-1
4 ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES drilling,WPC,

WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
Besides the four dominant properties of drilling fluids that should be controlled to
address the necessary functions in the various geological situations, there are
additional drilling fluids properties that must be considered.
• solids control
• sand content
• chemical properties
4.1 Solids Control
The majority of mud problems are related to solids control, making it probably
the most important parameter in running mud. The tolerance that a fluid has for
drill solids will vary depending on the makeup of the system, but it is generally
recognized that a drilled solids content above 6% will likely create problems.
The solids generated while drilling are processed by the solids control equipment.
The mud is first run through a shaker, which removes the largest particles. It then
flows through a de-sander and de-silter, where a hydrocyclone is used to remove
sand and silt-sized particles. A mud cleaner, which is a unit similar to a de-silter,
but which contains a vibrating screen to process liquid waste, is then used.
Private
Finally, a centrifuge is used to remove colloidal materials or for barite recovery.

With most mud systems, the solids content of the fluid will continue to increase,
even if all the available solids control equipment is used. Ultimately, this will lead
to a deterioration of the properties. The only way that the solids buildup can be
controlled under these circumstances is by dilution.
Dilution requires that a portion of the solids-laden fluid be discarded and replaced
by clean fluids with no solids.
4.1.1 Solids Content Measurement

Solids content of a mud is determined by using a device called a retort, or Mud

Solids Monitor (MSM). With the retort, 10, 20, or 50 ml of mud are heated to
boil off any water, rendering only the solids. High-gravity solids, which are any
solid particles with a specific gravity greater than 3, such as barite (4.25 sg), are
defined by the density requirements of the fluid.
Low-gravity solids, which are any solid particles with a specific gravity of
less than 3, are monitored to optimize the drilling operation. Low-gravity solids
include polymers, bentonite, and drill solids. The Methylene Blue Test (MBT),
introduces a dye to measure the amount of reactive clays in the drill solids.
Private
Reactive low-gravity solids have to be closely watched, as they can cause

viscosity and flocculation problems. Clay with bentonite is an example of a
reactive solid. The value is normally kept below 25 for top hole sections and
20 for deeper sections.
Non-reactive or inert clays can also cause problems, such as excessive filter
cake buildup and erosion. They are controlled by maintaining the total volume of
low-gravity solids. For a non-dispersed polymer system, this will be around 6%.
For a dispersed system, it may be as high as 10%.
4.1.2 Solids Effects on Main Properties

The main effects of uncontrolled drill solids content include
• increases in density
• increases in fluid loss
• increases in viscosity
• a reduction in inhibition for water-based muds
Density increases because the drill solids have a higher density than water;
therefore, as the concentration of the drill solids increases, the density of the fluid
increases. As the density of the mud increases, and the rate of penetration
decreases, there is greater potential for lost circulation. There is also a greater
risk of causing formation damage because the solids will be forced farther into
the reservoir.
Fluid loss increases because the solids content is higher, which, in turn, tends
to absorb the fluid loss materials, making them less effective at controlling fluid
loss. The higher solids content also causes the filter cake to become thicker.
This, along with fluid loss increases, can lead to stuck pipe, due to borehole
restrictions caused by the filter cake, or to differential sticking. Formation damage
and poor cement jobs are also products of fluid loss increases.
Viscosity increases because of the higher surface area presented by the solids,
particularly if they are reactive solids. As the viscosity increases, increased
circulating pressures occur. Less effective solids removal will also take place,
and the rate of penetration will slow down due to lower hydraulic horsepower
at the bit and more pressure loss in the drillstring.
The inhibitive properties of the mud are reduced because the increased solids
content of the mud adsorbs the inhibiting additives, effectively reducing the
concentration available to inhibit additional solids entering the mud system.
Private
4.2 Sand Content

The sand content is measured by an apparatus that consists of
• a 200-mesh sieve, 2 1/2 in. (6.35 cm) in diameter,

• a funnel, and
• a glass measuring tube calibrated to read the percentage of sand in the mud.
Mud is poured through the mesh sieve and funnel, then washed with water to
render the volume percentage of sand particles greater than 74 microns in size.
Maintaining the sand content below 1% by volume reduces the damage to
pumps and hoses, as well as other surface and downhole equipment.
4.3 Chemical Properties

The chemical properties of drilling fluids vary depending on whether the fluids
are water or oil based.
4.3.1 Water Base

In water-based muds, five basic properties must be monitored:
Private
• alkalinity,
• hardness,
• salinity,
• inhibition, and
• dissolved gases.
4.3.2 Water Base

The first measurement taken for alkalinity is pH, or the concentration of hydrogen
ions present. This measurement is performed using pH paper or a pH meter.
Nearly all mud systems are run at a pH between 8.5 and 10.5. This minimizes
corrosion of drill rig components and is optimum for most mud components.
An acidic pH is undesirable because it leads to corrosion. If the pH is too high,

a number of problems can occur, such as skin burns, increased dispersion of
clays from the formation, and possible formation damage to the reservoir. The
alkalinity of the drilling fluid filtrate is measured by
tests. The relationship between the two values gives information about the
nature of the alkalinity, which can affect the rheological and fluid loss properties
of the system.
The alkalinity of the whole mud is measured by Pm. By comparing this number
with Pf, an estimate can be made of the concentration of lime in the mud system.
Lime may be added to provide inhibition, or it could be a contaminant from
drilling cement.
Hardness is a measure of calcium and magnesium in the filtrate of the mud,

which can impact rheology and the performance of certain mud additives. This
is important since calcium may be added as an inhibiting agent or may be a
contaminant. The hardness of the water has a strong influence on the ability of
the clay to hydrate. Calcium may need to be removed from the drill water before
a bentonite mud can be mixed.
Salinity is monitored, as salts such as potassium chloride or sodium chloride

may be added to provide inhibition or to salt-saturate the mud system for drilling
through salt zones. Salt can also be a contaminant, particularly to bentonite-type
muds.
Private
Inhibition may be provided in a number of ways, but it is commonly provided

through the addition of cations (potassium, calcium), polymers (PHPA, IDCAP),
encapsulating polymers, and glycols. The concentrations of the inhibiting agents
need to be monitored to ensure the mud performs as designed.
Dissolved gases must be monitored to make sure they are controlled before
damage occurs. Gases, such as CO2 and oxygen, can lead to increased rates of
corrosion as well as to degradation of polymer additives. H2S is a severe health
hazard, and if released at the surface in large quantities, may even kill.
4.3.3 Oil Base

When dealing with oil-based muds, oil-to-water ratios, emulsion stability, and
water activity must be examined.
Oil-to-water ratios are a very important property of oil-based muds. Oil-based

muds are usually invert emulsions with water dispersed into oil and stabilized
by emulsifiers. All the solids in the system must be oil wet. Occasionally, an
oil-based mud may not have any water.
As the solids content of the mud is increased, the water content should be
reduced and the oil content increased. In addition, the water droplets behave in
a similar way to colloidal solids, resulting in increased viscosity.
As the water content increases, the viscosity of the mud will increase, and
the emulsion stability, which is a measure of the strength of the water-in-oil
emulsion, will decrease.
There will be more demand for emulsifiers. However, since water is inexpensive,
the barrel cost can be reduced by running a high water content fluid. In many
countries, the amount of oil discarded along with the drill cutting is regulated. A
high water content mud can be used to minimize the amount of oil discharged.
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762199\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 4-7 Drilling Fluids Properties / Additional Properties 4-7
Emulsion stability is measured by passing a voltage across two electrodes,

placed in the mud. When the emulsion breaks, a current passes from one
electrode to the other. The amount of voltage required to cause the emulsion
break is recorded and referred to as the electrical stability or voltage stability.
4.4 Exercise
Additional Propeties Exercise
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762199\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 4-8 Drilling Fluids Properties / Additional Properties 4-8
Intentionally Blank
Private
5-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Mud Property Guidelines 5-i
5 Mud Property Guidelines

Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762200\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 5-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Mud Property Guidelines 5-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
5-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Mud Property Guidelines 5-1
5 MUD PROPERTY GUIDELINES drilling,WPC,

WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
Property Top Hole* 17 1/2 in. 12 1/4 in. 8 1/4 in. 6 in.
Flow rate A.F.A.P. 900+ 500 to 700 300 to 400 200 to 300
2
YP (lbm/100 ft ) 30+ 25+ 15 to 20 15 to 20 15 to 20
3-rpm Fann 25 15 10 5 5
3
Fluid loss (cm per 30 n/c 15 to 20 10 to 15 5 to 10 3 to 5
min)**
10-min gels 35 max. 35 max. 35 max. 35 max. 35 max.
This chart indicates mud property guidelines for top to 6-in. holes.
• Mud weight: as required

• LGS: Preferably <6% for a water-based mud
• PV: as low as possible
• Mf: <1 cm3
• Pf/Mf ratio: <2 unless Pf is <1 cm3
• Pf > 0 for water-based muds
• Potassium/chloride ratio: >0.6 for KCI muds
• AV: should be >100 ft/min
* 36- or 26-in. hole
** Fluid loss for water-based muds
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762200\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 5-2 Drilling Fluids Properties / Mud Property Guidelines 5-2
Intentionally Blank
Private
6-i Drilling Fluids Properties / Summary 6-i
6 Summary
Private
WS Training\WS Training\SWBT, Drilling F\3\Release Date:30-Aug-2003\EDMS UID: 274762196\Produced: 12-Dec-2005 14:16:12 6-ii Drilling Fluids Properties / Summary 6-ii
Intentionally Blank
Private
6-1 Drilling Fluids Properties / Summary 6-1
6 SUMMARY drilling,WPC,
WCS, fluids,CT
SWBT,
S, TBT
In this module, you learned about the functions of a drilling fluid and the main
drilling fluid properties, including
• density,
• viscosity (rheological properties),
• fluid loss (filtration),
• inhibition,
• solids content,
• sand content, and
• chemical properties.
Private

Drilling Fluids Properties

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Drilling Fluids Properties

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Drilling Fluids Properties

Reference: SWBT, Drilling F

Copyright © 2005 Schlumberger, Unpublished Work. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2005 Sophia, Unpublished Work. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2005 Schlumberger, Unpublished Work. All rights reserved.

Trademarks & service marks

"Schlumberger", the Schlumberger logotype, and other words or symbols used

A complete list of Schlumberger marks may be viewed at the Schlumberger

In this training module, you will learn to do the following:

• Identify the four dominant properties of drilling fluids.

• Identify the equation to calculate viscosity.

2 Functions of a Drilling Fluid

2 FUNCTIONS OF A DRILLING FLUID drilling,WPC,

Drilling fluids are required to perform a number of functions. These include

• securing maximum hole information,

2.1 Secondary Functions

2.2 Other Considerations

These considerations and functions, both primary and secondary, can be

3 Main Drilling Fluid Properties

3.2.4 Effects of Excessive Viscosity ________________________________ 3-10

3 MAIN DRILLING FLUID PROPERTIES drilling,WPC,

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

By convention, density is called the mud weight, which is measured in pounds

Measurements should be performed on a mud balance that is clean and

Balancing Formation Pressure

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

To determine appropriate mud weight, the equivalent circulating density (ECD)

3.1.2 Signs of Excessive Density

3.1.2.1 Signs of Excessive Density

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

A more uncommon sign of excessive density is ballooning. In this situation,

3.1.3 Signs of Insufficient Mud Weight

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

Although some gas may be released from ground cuttings, an unexplained

3.2 Viscosity (rheological properties)

However, excessive viscosity can cause the following:

• reduced drilling rates,

Viscosity, which can be measured in dynes per square centimeter, Pascals,

3.2.1 Models of Behavior in Laminar Flow

3.2.1.1 Newtonian Model

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

3.2.1.2 Bingham Plastic Model

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

The Bingham plastic model establishes a distinct relationship between shear

3.2.1.3 Power Law Model

3.2.2 Instruments to Measure Viscosity

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

The Fann viscometer, a more precise instrument, measures different shear

should be used with a heated cup to give readings at a set temperature.

3.2.3 Gel Strength

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

3.2.4 Effects of Excessive Viscosity

• an increased risk of swabbing or surging the hole,

• poor efficiency of the separators or solids control equipment,

3.3 Fluid Loss (filtration)

3.3.1 Fluid Loss (filtration)

NOTE: Multimedia is currently available only in HTML publications.

Filtration is measured in one of two ways:

3.3.2 Dynamic and Static Filtration

3.3.2.1 Dynamic Filtration

q = volume of filtrate (cm3)

k = permeability of cake (darcies)

u = liquid phase viscosity (cps)

t = thickness of cake (cm)