Testing device and method for viscosified fluid containing particulate material
US6782735B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 14, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 14, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N11/14
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A device and a method for testing a viscosified fluid containing particulate indicate when the particulate is in suspension within the fluid and when it is not. The device and method stir the fluid and particulate mixture for a time during which the viscosity of the fluid changes such that during a first period of the stirring time substantially all the particulate remains suspended in the fluid and during a second period of the stirring time substantially all the particulate settles out of suspension in the fluid. A signal is generated during the first and second periods such that the signal has a characteristic that changes from the first period to the second period to indicate the change in particle carrying ability of the fluid. Other characteristics, including crosslinking time, can also be determined. A test chamber includes interacting projections extending from the inner surface of a cup receiving the fluid and from an axial support extending into the fluid in the cup.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.