LUBE 776

Water-dispersible lubricant

Schlumberger Oilfield Services

LUBE 776 lubricant effectively reduces torque, drag, and the potential for differential sticking by reducing the coefficient of friction in low-solids, nondispersed water-based drilling fluids and nonaqueous drilling fluids.

In one field application, after an initial addition of LUBE 776 lubricant at 2% by volume, rotary torque readings were reduced by as much as 33%. LUBE 776 lubricant also shows low foaming, greasing, and emulsion-forming potential.

Typical Physical Properties
Physical appearance Light yellowish liquid
Specific gravity 0.95–1.00 at 68 degF [20 degC]
Flash point >212 degF [100 degC]
pH 5.0–7.0 (50-g/L water)

Advantages

  • Highly effective downhole lubricant for reducing torque and drag
  • Reduces the potential for and the severity of differential sticking
  • Compatible with low-solids, nondispersed fluids and reservoir drill-in fluids
  • Low greasing and emulsion-forming potential
  • Nonfoaming tendency

Applications

LUBE 776 lubricant is designed for situations where torque, drag, and the potential for differential sticking are likely to occur, such as when drilling highly deviated or high-differential-pressure wells. Normal concentrations of LUBE 776 lubricant range from 1% to 3 % by volume, or 3.5 to 10.5 lbm/bbl [10 to 30 kg/m3], depending on the fluid density, desired reduction in coefficient of friction, and the mud system.

After the initial treatment, periodic treatments should be made to maintain the desired concentration. Higher concentrations may be needed for pills and special applications. Treatment levels and product usage will depend on the rate of penetration, solids-control equipment, and dilution rates.

Pilot testing is recommended to all additions especially applications in excess of 300 degF [149 degC].

Limitations

  • May grease in mud systems with soluble hardness greater than 600 mg/L and higher pH levels.
  • Use in nonaqueous-based fluids designed for discharge may cause the fluid to fail bioassay testing.

Toxicity and handling

Bioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions as described in the safety data sheet.

Packaging and storage

LUBE 776 lubricant is packaged in a standard pack unit: 200-L [52.8-galUS] drums or in bulk; other pack units on request. Store in a dry, well ventilated area. Keep container closed. Keep away from heat, sparks and flames, and store away from incompatibles. Follow safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrinkwrapping, and stacking.