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The following model was developed to explain this phenomenon. Sloughing from the well bore wall
occurs continuously during drilling an unstable formation. When the cuttings carrying capacity of the
mud is insufficient, the amount of rock particles in the annulus increases. During circulation, these
particles are transported into zones of borehole enlargement. In these zones, the annular mud velocity
decreases, and particle concentration increases. As a result, a batch fluidization state is attained. (the
batch fluidization state is defined as the annular velocity at which the particles are distributed uniformly
over the zone of borehole enlargement but are not taken away from the system.)
Abrupt fluctuations in the annular velocity occur when the drillstring is manipulated. The decreasing
annular velocity when the bit is pulled off bottom results in a
decrease in particle relative velocity (the difference between annular velocity and slip velocity of a
particle). In the fluidized batch, the particle relative velocity
becomes negative (the particle moves downward).
Differential pressure caused by the static head of fluidized particles increases, and pump pressure
buildup occurs (Curves 3 and 4 in Fig. 1. In some cases, when the bit is pulled the fluidized particles
are compacted and plug the annulus. Normally, this moment occurs when there is an abrupt pressure
buildup (Curves 5 and 6 in Fig. 1).
Operation
Field applications in Russia have established reasonable validity of this model. Pump pressure build up
when the bit is pulled off bottom is a reliable method for qualitative estimation of hole cleaning.
The operator should determine the frequency of application of this method, depending on the stability
of the formations drilled. In some areas, pressure build up checks should be quickly made every meter
of bit penetration or every 10-15 min during circulation. There is no need to change any mechanical or
hydraulic parameters to prepare for these tests. Picking up the drillstring for a pressure check can be
done quickly and simply, without disturbing operations.
If the pump pressure builds ups when the bit is pulled off bottom, special efforts are needed to intensify
removal of cuttings and sloughed material from the borehole.
References
1. Iyoho, A.W., Horeth, J.M., and Veenkant, R.L., "A Computer Model for Hole Cleaning Analysis,"
Journal of Petroleum Technology, September 1988, pp.1183-92.
2. Walker, R.E., and Holman, W.E., "Computer program predicts drilling fluid performance," OGJ, Mar.
29, 1971, pp. 80-90.
3. Bizanty, M.S., and Robinson, S.W., "Transport ratio can show mud carrying capacity," OGJ, June
27, 1988, pp. 39-46.
The Authors
V.A. Hurshudov is deputy director of Feniks Co. in Moscow. He previously worked for SevKavNIPIneft
as head of the research laboratory and as the deputy director for the past 5 years. His experience
includes deep well drilling in the Northern Caucasus region. Hurshudov has a degree in drilling
engineering.
N.I. Andrianov is a senior researcher at SevKavNIPIgas in Stavropol, Russia. He previously worked in
research for SevKavNIPIneft. He has research experience in cuttings transport in caved well bores.
Andrianov has a degree in drilling engineering.