Optimized workflow reduces filtrate volume and rotational torque in reactive interbedded formation
Challenge: Enhance drilling operations in challenging interbedded strata in Montana
Solution: Deploy a suite of SLB products and services to optimize drilling performance
Results: Achieved high-quality drilling performance with reduced rotational torque
Improve drilling performance in challenging core drilling program
A customer in Montana was drilling core holes ranging in depth from 900 ft [274.32 m] to 5,000 ft [1,524 m] and had to bore through various formations, including loam, sandstone, clay, and shale with alternating layers of talc and clay stringers intermingled in the hard-rock formations. Some of the interbeds are reactive and others are hydratable.
Deploy SLB products and engineering expertise
After collaborating with the customer on its drilling objectives, SLB recommended replacement products and timely, in-depth engineering services. An SLB engineer was dispatched to the site to facilitate the requested product replacement and to make appropriate adjustments in the product mix. The following SLB products were deployed:
Save time and costs with optimal drilling parameters
Drilling performance improved immediately after the suite of SLB drilling fluid products was deployed. The use of PLATINUM LUBE lubricant enabled the topdrive hydraulic pressure to drop from above 3,500 psi [24.1 MPa] to less than 2,400 psi [16.5 MPa]. This drop was aided by the RINGFREE thinner, which controlled bit balling and mud-ring formation. After the PLATINUM PAC polymer systems were deployed to minimize filtrate invasion and provide protection of the clay formations, filtrate volume decreased from 1.10–1.22 in3 [18–22 cm3] to 0.37–0.49 in3 [6–8 cm3].
The combination of SLB technologies and services helped improve hole stability, and all holes reached planned depths at targeted sizes. The customer realized cost savings from longer-laster drilling fluid and additional savings from less rig time and wages, lower per-foot drilling costs, and reduced transportation and disposal expenses.
| Drilling Parameter | Conventional Products | SLB Products | Difference |
| Topdrive hydraulic pressure | >3,500 psi | <2,400 psi | -31% |
| Filtrate volume | 1.10–1.22 in3 | 0.37–0.49 in3 | -65% |
SLB products outperformed conventional products in terms of rotational torque and total filtrate volume, resulting in cost savings to the operator.
