Case Study ACTIMUL RD Validated as Highly Effective Cold-Weather Emulsifier
The Actimul RD dry emulsifier was applied in Bakken Shale producing well and performed as designed under cold winter conditions.
ACTIMUL RD
Cold-weather emulsifier
ACTIMUL RD cold-weather emulsifier is effective at controlling rheological properties with high solids and high water content. Additional benefits include improved thermal stability and high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) filtration control.
| Typical Physical Properties | |
|---|---|
| Typical Physical Properties Physical appearance | Tan powder |
| Typical Physical Properties Specific gravity | 1.0–1.2 |
| Typical Physical Properties pH | 10–11 (1% water solution) |
Applications
ACTIMUL RD dry emulsifier is designed for use in diesel-, mineral-oil-, and paraffin-based nonaqueous drilling fluids. Initial system formulations typically require 12 to 29 kg/m3 [4 to 10 lbm/bbl] of ACTIMUL RD emulsifier. The concentration depends on the desired properties and the other components present in the system such as fluid loss control additives or organophilic clays.
Higher concentrations of ACTIMUL RD emulsifier might be required for high-temperature applications or specific applications such as high solids loading generated with the addition of wellbore strengthening materials. Daily treatments of ACTIMUL RD emulsifier usually are in the range of 0.3 to 2.85 kg/m3 [0.1 to 1 lbm/bbl] but will vary depending on mud properties such as total solids or water content and cutting volumes generated or dilutions.
ACTIMUL RD emulsifier can be added directly to the active system through the mixing hopper or in a premix. In all cases, pilot testing is required to establish proper treatments and additions of ACTIMUL RD emulsifier to the active system.
Advantages
- Contributes to improved logistics management
- Improves emulsion stability and oil-wetting characteristics
- Maintains stable water-in-oil emulsion and helps prevent water in HPHT filtrate
- Improves thermal stability, rheological stability, filtration control, and contamination resistance of nonaqueous fluids
- Counteracts the adverse effects of water contamination such as high viscosity, low-emulsion stability, and water-wet solids
- Eliminates pour point concerns in cold temperature applications
- Remains temperature stable to >204 degC [400 degF]
Limitations
- Overtreatment with ACTIMUL RD emulsifier can result in a reduction of the rheological properties under certain conditions.
- Pilot testing is suggested prior to adding to the active system.
Toxicity and handling
Bioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions described in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
Packaging and storage
ACTIMUL RD emulsifier is packaged in 11.4-kg [25-lbm] multiwall paper sacks. Store in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container closed. Keep away from heat, sparks, and flames. Store away from incompatibles. Follow safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrink-wrapping, and stacking.
Helpful links
About SLB