L51725 Drilling Fluids in Pipeline Installation by Horizontal Directional Drilling-Practical Applications

Abstract

Drilling fluid plays a key role in the installation of a pipeline by horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and accounts for the majority of the associated environmental impact. An improper drilling fluid program can result in stuck pipe. Uncontrolled discharge of drilling fluid downhole can damage or undermine adjacent structures.The cost of drilling fluid involved with pipeline installation, particularly when disposal costs are considered, can be substantial. This manual is the principal product of PRC project PR-227-9321. Its purpose is to increase the level of technical sophistication relative to drilling fluids used in the installation of pipelines by Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD). It is anticipated that this increase will benefit the natural gas industry through reductions in HDD installation costs and environmental impact. The manual contains six sections which address the following general topics: 1 . The HDD installation process, the specific functions of drilling fluids in pipeline installation by HDD, and the composition of drilling fluids; 2. Characteristics of drilling fluid flow, pertinent properties of drilling fluids, and calculation methods relative to drilling fluid flow circuits; 3. Standard classification of soil and rock structures and soil and rock properties relative to drilling fluid flow; 4. The behavior of soil and rock structures relative to drilling fluid flow, general drilling fluid criteria, and general solutions to drilling problems; 5. Methods for estimating drilling fluid quantities, methods for disposing of excess drilling fluids, the environmental impact of drilling fluids used in HDD, and construction specifications relative to drilling fluids; and 6. Materials used drilling fluids.