Evaluation of a water-based spacer fluid with additives for mud removal in well cementing operations

Abstract

This research evaluates the crucial role of effective well cementing in enhancing petroleum production, with a specific emphasis on the utilization of spacer fluids for pre-cementing well cleaning. Investigating the performance of a water-based spacer fluid enriched with barite, Xanthan Gum, potato starch, and Poly-Anionic Cellulose additives, this study systematically designs and evaluates three distinct spacer fluids featuring varied additive concentrations for optimal mud removal efficiency. Notably, Spacer B1, incorporating 0.51% PAC-LV and 0.51% starch, emerges as the most successful, exhibiting an impressive 67.84% mud removal rate. The flow behavior of the spacers is aptly described by the Herschel-Buckley model, providing valuable insights into their rheological characteristics. Rigorous compatibility tests affirm the absence of fluid incompatibility, instilling confidence in the chosen spacer compositions. Introducing a 5% surfactant results in a noteworthy 7–8% average increase in mud removal from the metal cylinder wall. In summary, this study contributes valuable perspectives on optimizing both well cementing practices and spacer fluid formulations, ultimately elevating efficiency in petroleum production processes.