Abstract
This paper describes the effects of gas solubility on the properties of oil-based drilling fluids. Prediction methods for gas solubility in oil-based muds were tested by experimental work and found acceptable. Expansion of discrete mixtures of mud and gas are predicted. A blowout simulation program was written and used to predict the effects of a kick on the surface-observable indicators (pit gain, well flow). While the bulk of this paper emphasizes the properties of oil-based muds, a comparison with water-based muds under similar conditions is made. The general conclusions are applicable to both types of muds. It is concluded that pit gain is the most reliable indicator of a kick during drilling in either oil- or water-based muds. It is recommended that a pitlevel measurement system be designed that will detect a pit gain of less than 5 bbl (0.795 m/sup 3/) in the whole mud system.
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