Method of formulating and using a drilling mud with fragile gels
US7278485B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 4, 2004 |
| Grant date | Oct 9, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC09K8/36
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for drilling, running casing in, and/or cementing a borehole in a subterranean formation without significant loss of drilling fluid is disclosed, as well as compositions for use in such method. The method employs a drilling fluid comprising a fragile gel or having fragile gel behavior and providing superior oil mud rheology and overall performance. The fluid is especially advantageous for use in deep water wells because the fluid exhibits minimal difference between downhole equivalent circulating density and surface density notwithstanding differences in drilling or penetration rates. When an ester and isomerized olefin blend is used for the base of the fluid, the fluid makes an environmentally acceptable and regulatory compliant invert emulsion drilling fluid. The fluid preferably contains no organophilic clays.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.