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Preparation of Drilling Fluids

From Silverson Machines, Inc.

Drilling fluids (or drilling muds) have several functions, including carrying bore cuttings to the surface, cooling and lubricating the drill "string" and controlling subsurface pressures.

A simple water based mud for horizontal drilling and some vertical operations consists of clay (bentonite) dispersed into water. In deep wells where the potential pressure of gas/oil dictates a heavier product, inert solids such as barite or hematite are added to weight the bentonite suspension. Muds based on a water/oil emulsion (known as "inverts") are used for drilling deeper wells as they have better lubricating properties and are more temperature stable than water based muds. Traditionally diesel was used for inverts, however environmental concerns are leading to the use of low toxicity mineral oils, synthetics and esters.Waste management practices such as re-injection of fluid into redundant wells or transport to shore for remediation are increasing. Research is also being carried out to improve water based products.

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Product Announcements
General Pump - High pressure “MUD” pump
Specifically designed to pump mixtures of water, bentonite and/or polymers typical of mining and directional drilling applications. (read more)
Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. - NEW Brookfield's Thermo Bath Option
NEW Thermo Bath accessory with PID Enhanced Control Capability can be used in conjunction with Brookfield's PVS Rheometer for sample heating with small space requirements. The PVS Rheometer be used to... (read more)
General Pump - GP Introduces New M Series
General Pump proudly announces the release of its M line. GP's new "Mud" series consists of three different pumps designed for handling drilling muds typical of the mining industry... (read more)
CDF Industries - Wastewater Treatment for Municipal, Oilfield...
CDF Industries designs, builds, and develops treatment processes for industrial wastewater treatment. Our cutting edge clay flocculant technology and quality service has led to wastewater treatment... (read more)
GEA Westfalia Separator - Application: Oil & Gas
GEA Westfalia Separator is a global leader in separation technology whose equipment is found in virtually every industry that processes fluids, including – the clarification of suspensions,... (read more)
 
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