A Practical Approach to Solids Control Through Economic Evaluation of Mechanical Equipment

Abstract

Abstract A good solids control program is essential in order to attain the goal of an optimized drilling program. Proper application and utilization of mechanical solids removal equipment enables the driller to maintain the desired drilling fluid properties which in turn makes it possible for the drilling operation to be carried out in an efficient and economical manner. Drilled solids have a direct and pronounced effect on the drilling fluid. Since the drilling fluid is itself so closely related to a wide range of factors which determine both daily and total drilling costs, it is obvious that there exists a strong relationship between the control of drilled solids and the control of drilling costs. This paper will present methods to calculate the mechanical efficiency of solids control equipment on site during drilling operations and will demonstrate from case histories a method of determining the economic justification for the use of mechanical equipment. Data presented in this paper is based on information gained in the field evaluation of various types of solids control equipment, including sophisticated fluids processing systems, under a wide variety of weather, geographic and geologic conditions.