Drilling fluids mixing in solids control

Drilling fluids mixing, sometimes referred to as “drilling mud mixing or mixing of drilling mud” is important in solids control. We know drilling mud keep drill cuttings suspended and carried up to the surface and to keep the drill bit lubricated. Deliver power to down hole motors, remove drilled cuttings from the bit and transport them to the surface, and stabilize the well bore by chemical or mechanical means The drilling fluid also controls well pressure, keeps the bored hole stable and prevents cave-ins.

Why drilling fluids mixing is important

As drilling geometry becomes more challenging in regard to directional steering, or in over- or under pressurized formations or formations that are susceptible to sloughing and swelling, special precautions must be taken to ensure that mud properties are adequate for the situation. Viscosity-enhancing agents, thinners, weighting material, and special additives are used to produce a drilling fluid that will meet site-specific requirements. At the same time, drilled solids must also be removed from the fluid to allow reuse without excessive dilution. Why agitation is important to the mud circulation system. Improper agitation, suspension, and drilling fluids mixing will lead pitfalls definitely. Mixing, shearing, blending, and addition of chemicals are equally important. Proper sizing and installation will allow the mixing of fluid additives and chemicals at maximum speed with minimal problems.

Surface mud system functions

Drilling fluids mixing equipment

The purpose of a surface mud system is to allow maintenance of the mud before it is pumped down the hole. This is accomplished by the effective use of solids-control equipment to remove undesirable solids, while simultaneously recovering as much drilling fluid as is feasible. Secondary to the solids-removal process is the addition of chemicals and the rapid and thorough mixing. Proper drilling fluids mixing need to use mixers with appropriate mixing blades and tank configuration. Drilling fluids are usually moderately high in viscosity so aggressive pumping action is important to ensure complete mixing of the solution. Additives are used in small ratios so complete homogenous mixing is required to ensure the entire Drilling Fluid batch has the appropriate fluid characteristics. Some of the additives may need higher shear mixing to be dispersed properly

Synthetic Drilling fluids are used to replace either natural clay fluid or Bentonite in drilling operations. The viscosity can carefully controlled with additives to keep the cuttings suspended while allowing them to settle out in pit quickly to recover the drilling fluid for reuse.

Synthetic Drilling Fluids need to be adequately mixed (dispersed or blended) or the following problems may occur:

• Rock cuttings may settle in the bore hole and seize the drill bit.
• Inefficient settling in the pit causing operating delays.
• Drill bits may be inadequately cooled and lubricated causing premature failures.
• Low viscosity can cause high rates of fluid loss through porous materials