Gilsonite in Oil Based Drilling Muds (OBM)
Oil Based Drilling Muds (OBM) Iran Gilsonite has many different quality and types, while only two grades of Iranian Gilsonite is suitable for FLC application and both are supplied by RAHA Group These products have been tested and succeeded for years in China, India & GCC countries and in South American countries including Mexico and now they are replacing the American Gilsonite grades (XM-P, LM-P, GM-P & even HT series) vastly.
It can be applied according to its hydrocarbon nature and the proper softening point to cause a significant decrease in the loss of fluids during the drilling process. The Gilsonite Solubility in Oil matters (measured by solving in TCE, CCL4 & CS2) allows the additive to act well with the oil material of the drilling mud, in most cases diesel. Also, same characteristics result in the composition of Gilsonite powder in synthetic based muds (SBM) since the base material is a polymer.
Advantages of Using Gilsonite as Fluid Loss Controller (OBM)
- Using Gilsonite is very cost effective as FLC additive.
- Being a non-toxic material, Gilsonite adapts best to HSE limitation applied to Oil Based and Synthetic Based Muds.
- The high softening point of Gilsonite (160 degrees Celsius and above) results in over 50% fluid loss reduction comparing to other additives.
- Elevates filter cake expansion.
- Acts as Shale Stabilizer
A case history
Well, depths ranged from 14,010 ft to 15,960 ft with
bottomhole temperatures from 400º F to 432º. Mud densities ranged from 10.4 ppg to 14.4 ppg. The oil company and the drilling fluids provider conducted laboratory testing that confirmed that adding a high softening point Gilsonite to the OBM would improve filtration characteristics and filter-cake development. This treatment strategy was adopted during the final drilling phase and before logging commenced.
