Use oil muds to improve PDC bit performance
This article presents several good reasons why operators should consider using oil muds when running PDC bits, especially in areas where hydratable shales are a problem. Discussed are factors dealing with bit balling, bit lubrication, erosion/corrosion and stress cracking. Also covered is the use of water muds to which oil has been added to gain some of the benefits of oil muds, and areas in which additional work (research) is required to improve bit efficiency and their applications. PDC bits last longer and drill a greater range of formations when run in oil rather than water muds. This is due to elimination of bit balling, reduced erosion, increased fatigue life, and improved lubrication and thermal life with a reduction in thermal stress. Oil emulsion muds should be used in situations where oil muds are impractical or uneconomic. Some of the benefits of oil muds may be realized with these fluids.
- Research Organization:
- O'Brien-Goins-Simpson and Associates, Inc., Houston
- OSTI ID:
- 5305186
- Journal Information:
- World Oil; (United States), Journal Name: World Oil; (United States) Vol. 197:5; ISSN WOOIA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
420206* -- Engineering-- Mining & Drilling Equipment & Facilities-- (1980-1989)
CARBON
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
CORROSION RESISTANCE
CRACK PROPAGATION
CRYSTALS
DIAMONDS
DRILL BITS
DRILLING EQUIPMENT
DRILLING FLUIDS
ECONOMICS
EFFICIENCY
ELEMENTAL MINERALS
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
EROSION
FATIGUE
FLUIDS
HYDROGEN COMPOUNDS
LUBRICATION
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MINERALS
NONMETALS
OXYGEN COMPOUNDS
POLYCRYSTALS
ROCKS
SEDIMENTARY ROCKS
SHALES
STRESS INTENSITY FACTORS
STRESSES
THERMAL STRESSES
USES
WATER