Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper describes a unique computer modelling capability for hole-cleaning analysis in the total drilling system context.1–3 The model, known as the NMB (New Material Balance) Model, uses standard drilling data – penetration rate, pump rate, bit size, wellbore geometry and mud properties – to generate a wellbore profile of hole-cleaning parameters. To accomplish this, the model calculates wellbore constituent velocities and concentrations by solving a set of finite-difference equations representing material transport throughout the wellbore. Results obtained from the NMB Model include: Cuttings concentration and cuttings size distribution in the annulus.Cuttings slip velocity, net transport velocity and transport ratio.Effects of mud weight and mud rheology on hole cleaning.Effects of penetration rate and pump rate on hole cleaning.Equivalent mud weight due to cuttings loading for various scenarios. The model has been tested successfully against a wide variety of laboratory and field data. One direct application of the model is to perform analytical hole-cleaning studies; but it is also a vital link in total drilling system simulation for penetration-rate and solids-control studies.

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