Drilling Fluids Key Terms

Terms to know when using drilling fluids

Drilling fluid, also known as drilling mud, has many uses during the drilling process. It helps lubricate and cool the drilling bit and remove loose material, and it helps minimize the formation damage and pressure while drilling the bore.

Drilling fluids come in several forms composed from various bases and chemicals. The following terms will help you understand how various drilling fluids are used and the ingredients that make different types of fluids on the market.

 

Dry mix chemicals

These are custom chemicals that make the right fluid additives. Depending on the type of drilling site, different drilling fluids are needed. Since many sites are located in remote places, dry mix chemicals allow the correct drilling fluid to be mixed on-site so employees don't have to wait for special delivery.
Try: PDS Co. offers its super mud formulas and provides an easy comparison tool to determine the best product for your needs.

Drilling detergents

Drilling detergents are added to drilling fluids to reduce surface tension. The detergents work as an emulsifier at various points during the drilling process and can also reduce drag and torque.
Try: Global Drilling Fluids & Chemicals manufactures various products for the oil and gas industry, including drilling detergents.

Synthetic drilling fluids

Synthetic drilling fluids are manufactured, not naturally occurring. Chemically processed fluids are considered synthetic, while fluids obtained from refinery streams are considered oil-based.
Try: Shell Chemicals, a provider of synthetic drilling fluids, offers a more detailed explanation on its website.

Drilling fluid recycling

Drilling fluid recycling is gaining popularity in the industry. Fluid recycling from mud reclamation offers financial and environmental benefits, such as cleaner sites and less water and mud hauled in and out. Companies save money because less drilling fluid is required. The process also saves valuable drilling time, which reduces labor costs.
Try: National Driller, an oil industry publication, has a great article about drilling fluid recycling.

Water based, oil based and gaseous forms

These are all classifications of drilling fluid composition. These components define the specific function and performance of the drilling fluid.
Try: Schlumberger oilfield glossary has a definitions for most oil and gas industry terms, including the common types of drilling fluids or muds.

Formation damage

Formation damage is reduced permeability in a reservoir structure, which results from the drilling fluid used to drill a bore. The amount of formation damage is directly related to the chemical make-up of the drilling fluid used.
Try: PanTerra Geoconsultants advises oil companies on minimizing formation damage.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---