DRILLING FLUIDS
Scomi Oiltools
Realising Potential in
Oilfield Drilling Solutions
Scomi Oiltools is one of the worlds leading providers
of innovative high-performance drilling fluids and
state-of-the-art waste management solutions. The
organisation features a highly qualified team of over
2,500 engineers and professionals, with combined
experience of over 60 years, spread over 54 locations
in 26 countries, plus 24-hour, round-the-clock technical
support worldwide.
Scomi Oiltools is fully equipped to provide integrated
packaged services comprising drilling fluids and
engineering services, solids control and drilling waste
management equipment and services to serve the
oil and gas industry. Our drilling solutions are
engineered to achieve optimal results while strictly
complying with international environmental standards.
Our services include:
Drilling Fluids & Engineering Services
Drilling Waste Management Equipment & Services
Operations & Maintenance, Project Management.
At Scomi Oiltools, it is our ultimate goal to help our
clients recognise and realise their vast potential.
Thereby optimising their productivity and catalysing
their businesses to new levels of performance.
Scomi Oiltools Realising Potential.
DRILLING FLUIDS & WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
ENGINEERING SERVICES HYdro-Foil Classic KCl / PHPA system
HYdro-Foil Gen 1 Inhibitive, engineered cloud
point glycol system
Scomi Oiltools is a global provider of Drilling &
Completion Fluids and Drilling Waste Management HyPR-Drill High Performance
solutions. With the reach of our international Water-Based Mud
infrastructure, and the expertise of our experienced HYdro-Foil S8 Silicate system
personnel, Scomi Oiltools is able to offer customers HyPR-Foil S8  igh-performance
H
the benefits of truly integrated and engineered silicate system
solutions.
HYdro-Therm 
High-temperature,
Our fluids operations are supported by the Global high-pressure system
Research & Technology Centre headquartered Opta-Flo Reservoir drill-in fluid
in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This centre, led by
Rheo-PLEX 
MMO system for superior
international experts in their field, provides the hole cleaning
technical support to all Scomi Oiltools operations
and manages extensive dedicated laboratory NON-AQUEOUS INVERT EMULSION FLUIDS
facilities with a keen focus on research and CONFI-DRILL Premium invert emulsion
development. The centre employs a process-driven system
framework to ensure consistent best practice in
product development, technical troubleshooting,
CONFI-DENSE High-temperature,
high-pressure, oil-based fluid
training, procurement and product quality
CONFI-Deep Flat rheology OBM for use in
assurance and control. deep water
The dedication to service quality has created an Opta-Vert Reservoir drill-in fluid
increase in the companys business, establishing
EXTRA-Vert 
Non-toxic, biodegradable
operations across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, ester chemistry
Europe and the USA.
ENGINEERING SUPPORT SOFTWARE
Scomi Oiltools is a progressive global service
company, moving into new territories, offering HyPR-FORM Daily reporting
performance-driven Drilling & Completion Fluids HyPR-CALC Hydraulics modeling software
and Drilling Waste Management solutions.
DRILLING FLUIDS Our water-based drilling fluid systems
deliver cost-effective performance with
minimal environmental impact. We are a
WATER-BASED pioneer in developing high-performance
SYSTEMS systems specially formulated for a myriad
of applications even in environmentally
sensitive drilling areas.
 HYDRO-FOIL is the original KCI / PHPA low solids, non-dispersed
fluid system that is primarily used to drill moderately
reactive shales.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Moderately inhibitive water-based fluids.
Environmentally acceptable and dischargeable in most areas.
Relatively low lubricity coefficients.
Easy to mix. RELATIVE INHIBITION OF REACTIVE SHALES IN KCI
SOLUTION
TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF A
HYDRO-FOIL SYSTEM
Simple and fast to upgrade the inhibition of the system. 80
PRODUCT KCI / PHPA K2S04 /
Cost-effective. PHPA
60

Drillwater (bbl/bbl) 0.85 0.85

INHIBITION (%)
40
KCI (lb/bbl) 30

The two primary shale inhibitors in the system are potassium 20

Caustic Soda to pH 8.5 to pH 9.0
ions for cation exchange with the clays, to reduce hydration HYDRO-ZAN (lb/bbl) 0.75 - 1.0 0.75 - 1.0
and swelling, and partially hydrolysed polyacrylamide to 0
HYDRO-STARCH (lb/bbl) 2.0 - 3.0
encapsulate drilled cuttings for more effective solids 0 2 4 6 8
KCI (%) HYDRO-PAC LV (lb/bbl) 3.0
removal efficiency on surface. In recent times environmental
restrictions onshore have restricted the discharge of HYDRO-CAP (lb/bbl) 2.0 2.0
chloride-based fluids, which has resulted in the use of
alternative aqueous-based fluids, including: DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 71 71

Potassium sulphate Drilled Solids (lb/bbl) 30 30

Potassium carbonate PROPERTIES

Potassium acetate Density (lb/gal) 10.5 10.5

Potassium formate Plastic Viscosity (cP) +/- 20 +/- 25

Developed in the late 1970s, salt / PHPA systems have Yield Point (lb/100 ft2) +/- 30 +/- 20
been used extensively throughout the world and still have
Gels (lb/100 ft2) 7 / 10 / 12 10 / 12 / 16
applications in the field today.
API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) < 5 <6

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 For this to be the case, there must be some mechanism of TYPICAL DILUTION RATES vs. HOLE SIZE
association and disassociation of the polyol in the circulating
CLAYSTONE HOLE SIZE UNITS
system. The nature of these structures and their stability
in aqueous fluids is strongly controlled by the presence of Type 171/2 121/2 81/2 inches
potassium cations with certain polyols.
Low reactivity 0.2 - 0.5 0.1 - 0.3 0.1 - 0.2 bbl/ft
It can be concluded that shale inhibition and formation
Intermediate 0.4 - 0.7 0.3 - 0.6 0.2 - 0.4 bbl/ft
protection will be achieved from one or both of these
mechanisms by: Highly reactive 0.5 - 1.0 0.4 - 0.8 0.3 - 0.6 bbl/ft

The polyol displacing water from adsorption sites on

HYDRO-FOIL is an established inhibitive water-based fluid clay minerals present in shales.
INHIBITION STUDIES WITH REACTIVE CLAYSTONES
designed to meet difficult drilling targets with
GEN 1 minimal environmental impact.
Blocking the formation pores from further ingress of
invasive fluids by clouding out.
%

100 HYDRO-FOIL
HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1
90
CLOUD POINTS FOR VARIOUS POLYOLS IN KCI SOLUTIONS
FEATURES AND BENEFITS 70
80

Highly inhibitive water-based fluid. Ease of mixing and maintenance.

TEMPERATURE (C)
60 70
50 60

Excellent wellbore stability and Non-damaging to sensitive 40

30
50

cuttings integrity. reservoirs. 20

40

Low environmental impact. Low dilution and maintenance cost. 10 30

Low lubricity coefficients. Increased protection against stuck

0 20
0 5 10 15 20 25
POTASSIUM CHLORIDE (KCI) WT% 10
pipe.
CIRRUS STRATUS CUMULUS NIMBUS 0
RECOVERY HYDRATION HARDNESS

HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1 represents a significant advance on
the basic HYDRO-FOIL system. The key enhancement of the
Gen 1 system is the addition of low molecular weight polyols,
the generic name for a wide range of chemicals which includes
glycerol, polyglycerol, polyethylene, glycols, polypropylene
glycol, polyalkylene glycols and alcohol ethoxylates. These
chemicals are water soluble and non-toxic, passing existing
environmental protocols worldwide.
APPLICATION
The principle application of the HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1 system
is in the drilling of reactive shales. Cuttings and wellbore
stability are significantly improved through the improvement
in inhibition which is seen over a wide range of temperatures
related to the cloud point of the glycol. Polyol muds are
effective in most shale types but are particularly so in young or
relatively uncompacted shales with high clay contents.
Compared with, for example, a HYDRO-FOIL (KCI/PHPA) fluid,
polyol systems exhibit improved wellbore conditions and
produce firmer cuttings that do not readily disperse into the
mud leading to reduced dilution rates which offset the higher
make up cost of the fluid.
Other wellbore problems, including bit balling, stuck pipe
and stuck loggings tools are also generally reduced. These
attributes frequently combine to give faster drilling rates,
fewer or less severe drilling problems and reduced mud
volumes that translate into reduced drilling and fluid costs.
MECHANISM OF SHALE STABILISATION
The cloud point of polyol is the temperature at which it starts
to change from being soluble to becoming insoluble in water.
As the temperature of the fluid increases, the polyol starts to
come out of solution and an otherwise clear liquid starts to TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF A HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1 SYSTEM
become opaque and cloudy. The temperature at which this PRODUCT FUNCTION HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1 HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1
occurs is usually very precise and is particular to each polyol type. BHCT= 40 C BHCT= 90 C
VISUALISATION OF POLYOL BEHAVIOUR AS A FUNCTION OF Drillwater (bbl/bbl) Base fluid 0.85 0.75
TEMPERATURE
KCI (lb/bbl) Water activity and cation exchange 30 30
Caustic Soda / Potash Alkalinity control to pH 8.5 - 9.5 to pH 8.5 - 9.5
HYDRO-ZAN (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 0.75 - 1.25 0.75 - 1.25
HYDRO-PAC LV (lb/bbl) Fluid-loss control 1.0 - 2.0 1.0 - 2.0
HYDRO-CAP (lb/bbl) Cutting encapsulator 2.0 2.0
CIRRUS CPG (v/v%) Shale stabilisation 3.0
STRATUS CPG (v/v%) Shale stabilisation 3.0
Polyol and water together at ambient Solution is heated until the polyol reaches
temperature; the polyol is 100% water cloud point and becomes insoluble. A DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) Weighting agent 68 206
soluble. thermally activated micro emulsion forms.
Drilled Solids (lb/bbl) Drilled solids 30 30
The graph overleaf, illustrates the effect of KCI concentration on
PROPERTIES
polyol cloud point, which is also dependent on the total salinity
of the solution, type of electrolyte, molecular weight and type Density (lb/gal) 10.5 13
and concentration of polyol.
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 15 - 25 25 - 35
Given the range of cloud points the polyol is selected based
Yield Point (lb/100 ft2) 15 - 25 20 - 30
upon its cloud point, at a specified salinity and the cloud point
Gels (lb/100 ft2) +/- 6/10 +/- 8/14
can be adjusted by altering the salinity of the liquid phase.
Research concludes that the polyol is absorbed by the clay. API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) <5 <5
During the absorption process, water is displaced from the clay
surface and ordered structures of polyol are formed. A weak
attachment is postulated because of the observation that there
is no rapid depletion of the polyol in the drilling fluid system.

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS

HyPR-DRILL is a new generation High Performance Water-Based
Mud (HPWBM), which provides wellbore stability,
enhanced inhibition and rapid penetration rates.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Excellent shale inhibition over other inhibitive WBM.
Enhanced wellbore stability.
Reduced drilling cost.
Reduced waste handling costs.
Excellent penetration rates.
Prevention of bit balling and shale accretion on drill string.
Easily formulated for applications ranging from land to
deepwater drilling.
Environmental awareness and the application of stricter Utilising a blend of proprietary ammonium salts in
regulations are, in many areas, restricting the discharge combination with a low molecular weight, acrylic-based,
of cuttings contaminated with synthetic or mineral oil- encapsulating polymer and a newly developed clay accretion
based fluids. These restrictions present logistical and waste inhibitior, HyPR-DRILL delivers benefits normally associated
management costs, impact on installation design and may only with non-aqueous fluids.
present significant health and safety concerns as large
quantities of cuttings have to be handled and moved by crane LINEAR EXPANSION OF SHALE HyPR-DRILL (6% KCI)
and vessel.
120
PERCENT EXPANSION (%)
Drawing on a wide ranging review of HPWBM development 100
and performance coupled with extensive testing and 80
development of alternative products in the R&D labs of 60
Scomi Oiltools Global Research & Technology Centre, 40
GRTC, HyPR-DRILL has been developed to match and exceed 20
the performance of other water-based systems currently being 0 HYDRO-ZAN (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 1 2 1 2 12
0 1000 2000
used and deliver performance as close as possible to that on TIME (MINUTES)
an invert emulsion system.
BENTONITE
The use of HyPR-DRILL is particularly indicated where the SBM
use of non-aqueous fluids will require very high costs for
waste management and disposal due to environmental
restrictions or facility limitations which prevent the installation
of waste handling equipment.
The HyPR-DRILL system which can be utilised in a range of fluids varying from freshwater to saturated sodium chloride consists
of the following key products in combination with a range of standard drilling fluid additives:
CORE HyPR-DRILL SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION FUNCTION
HyPR-HIB Quaternery Ammonium Salt HyPR-HIB restricts the ability of reactive formations, clays and
shale and clay hydration and shales, to absorb water from the drilling fluid.
dispersant suppressant.
HyPR-CAP Encapsulation polymer HyPR-CAP is a low molecular weight anionic polymer which can
minimises shale dispersion. be used in high concentrations to provide a polymer coating on
the clay and cuttings preventing water absorption and subsequent
dispersion. Cuttings remain intact and are readily removed
by solids control equipment with minimal dispersion into the
circulating system.
HyPR-DRL ROP Enhancer and bit / drill collar HyPR-DRL is a proprietary product designed to minimise balling
accretion minimisation. of the bit and drill string and deliver enhanced penetration rates.
The blend of lubricants and other products coat the drill-string
and bit to reduce and prevent the accretion of water wet, hydrated
cuttings.
HyPR-STAR API fluid loss controlling agent HyPR-STAR is a proprietary starch product; designed specifically
for the HyPR-DRILL system to control fluid loss without affecting
any other properties.
HyPR-DRILL systems are readily formulated in the field at the wellsite or in a liquid mud plant for delivery to offshore locations.
This highly inhibitive fluid exhibits low dilution rates which ensures that maintenance of the system is cost-effective and
minimises the logistics requirements for additional chemicals.
TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF HyPR-DRILL SYSTEMS
PRODUCT FUNCTION HyPR-DRILL HyPR-DRILL HyPR-DRILL
FRESHWATER 6% KCl 20% NaCl
Drillwater (bbl/bbl) Base fluid 0.83 0.81 0.77
KCl (lb/bbl) Water activity and cation exchange NA 18 NA
NaCl (lb/bbl) Water activity and cation exchange NA NA 70
pH Alkalinity 8.5 9.5 8.5 9.5 8.5 9.5
HyPR-CAP (lb/bbl) Encapsulating polymer 3 3 3
HyPR-HIB (%) Shale and clay inhibitor 3 3 3
HyPR-DRL (%) Anti-accretion additive 2 3 2 3 2 3
CUMULUS CPG (%) Cloud point glycol 3 3 3
3000
HYDRO-STAR NF (lb/bbl) Filtration control 3 5 3 5 35
PHPA / GLYCOL DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) Weighting agent 91 79 41
HyPR-DRILL
PROPERTIES
Density (lb/gal) 10 10 10
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 16 24 15 20 15 20
Yield Point (lb/100 ft ) 2
20 25 18 24 20 25
API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) < 4 <4 <3
WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 HYDRO-FOIL S8 is essentially a HYDRO-FOIL system which utilises TABLE 4: TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF A HYDRO-FOIL S8 SYSTEM

5 15% v/v sodium or potassium silicate solution PRODUCT FUNCTION HYDRO-FOIL S8 HYDRO-FOIL S8

to enhance inhibition and mechanical wellbore Drillwater (bbl/bbl) Base fluid 0.74 0.65
stability, particularly in highly fractured or KCl (lb/bbl) Water activity 30 25
unconsolidated formations. and cation exchange
Caustic Soda / Potash Alkalinity control to pH 12 12.5 to pH 12 12.5

FEATURES AND BENEFITS Soda Ash Hardness control to < 400 mg/L to < 400 mg/L

Excellent shale inhibition, exceeding that of any other type of
water-based fluids.
Cheaper than glycol systems although maintenance additions are
expected to be higher so this cost advantage can be eroded if the
rig has poor solids control.
HYDRO-ZAN (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 0.75 1.0 0.75 1.25
HYDRO-PAC UL (lb/bbl) Fluid loss control 2.5 2.5
HYDRO-STAR CMS (lb/bbl) Fluid loss control 2.0 2.0
HYDRO-SIL S (v/v%) Shale stabilisation 11.0 9.0

Good environmental properties for offshore applications. OX-SCAV (lb/bbl) Oxygen scavenger 1.0 1.5 1.0 1.5

Potential to seal micro-fractured shales. DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) Weighting agent 155 340

Low corrosion rates. PROPERTIES

The main application for silicate fluids is the replacement of
oil and synthetic fluids in difficult drilling applications, e.g.
wells containing reactive claystones. Silicate fluids exhibit a
very high degree of shale inhibition exceeding that of glycol
fluids, however, they have a number of limitations which
must be considered in fluid selection.
MECHANISM OF SHALE STABILISATION
When HYDRO-FOIL S8 mud filtrate and pore water mix, the
alkalinity of the fluid filtrate is lowered from pH 12 resulting
in the spontaneous precipitation of a silica gel at the near
wellbore. Coupled with this, dissolved divalent cations in the
pore fluid will precipitate silicate salts, e.g. calcium silicate.
These precipitates, or gels, form a semi permeable membrane
which prevents further fluid filtrate invasion and retards pore
pressure transmission of the hydrostatic mud column to rock
matrix. The wellbore and shale are thus pressure isolated.
This latter phenomenon is critical in tectonically stressed
and fractured shales, which require sufficient overbalance
mud pressure to support the borehole from collapsing. The
Density (lb/gal) 12 15
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 20 30 25 35
surface, making these ions available to form precipitates. It Yield Point (lb/100 ft2) 15 25 20 30
should be noted that non-aqueous fluids cannot stabilise
Gels (lb/100 ft2) +/- 6/10 +/- 8/14
such fractured shales, as they are restricted from entering
or invading the shales due to capillary threshold pressures, API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) < 6 <6
which are significant for intact shales with small pores but
pH 12 12.5 12 12.5
are negligible for shales with open fractures. Soluble silicates,
however, have the ability to fill small cracks and pressure seal Note: HYDRO-SIL S liquor has an sg of 1.5 and contains 28.1% by weight of SiO2.
them.
SEALING OF MICRO-FRACTURED SHALES BY SILICATES
Fracture Propagation
Mp FLUID Non-inhibitive Fluid
INGRESS
Mp > Fp Mp = Fp = Mechanical Failure
Silicate Gel / Precipitate
Mp
Mp FLUID HYDRO-FOIL S8 Fluid
INGRESS

presence of solutes such as NaCl and KCl is synergistic, as

Mp > Fp Mp = Fp = Mechanical Stability
solutes will balance the mud and shale activities to reduce
the net flow of ions into the shale. The presence of K+ is
useful as it will exchange for Ca++ and Mg++ at the clay

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 HyPR-FOIL S8 is a high-performance silicate system engineered TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF
HYPR-FOIL S8 WITH POTASSIUM SULPHATE
SHALE RECOVERY COMPARING DIFFERENT TYPES OF
SILICATE DRILLING FLUID
and patented, to provide a sodium chloride free
PRODUCT CONCENTRATION 100.00
drilling fluid for sensitive environments and cuttings 99.00 99.26
98.92 98.99
treatment, providing a recycling route for the Drillwater (bbl/bbl) 0.82 98.76
98.00

cuttings thus minimising environmental impact. HYDRO-SIL K (lb/bbl) 38 97.00

SHALE RECOVERY (%)

Potassium Sulphate (lb/bbl) 35 96.00

FEATURES AND BENEFITS Potassium Carbonate (lb/bbl) 2 95.00

Chloride-free, highly inhibitive fluid for environmentally sensitive land

94.00
HYDRO-ZAN (lb/bbl) 1.5
93.00
operations. HYDRO-PAC LV (lb/bbl) 2.5
Potential to seal micro-fractured shales.
92.00

OPTA-STAR PLUS (lb/bbl) 6 91.00

Treated cuttings with potential to be used as fertiliser. OX-SCAV (lb/bbl) 1 90.00

Lubricant offers significant improvement in lubricity of silicate fluids. DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 42

HYDRO
FOIL S8
K2CO3 CH3CO2K K2SO4

Low corrosion rates. Potassium Hydroxide (lb/bbl) 2

SILICATE SYSTEM

TYPICAL PROPERTIES AHR 16 HRS, 194 F MUD LUBRICITY COEFFICIENT OF HYPR-FOIL S8 SYSTEM
WITH HYDRO-LUBE SL
Mud Weight (lb/gal) 10.0
0.45
The disposal of drilled cuttings, particularly in sensitive LINEAR EXPANSION OF SHALE COMPARING DIFFERENT
Rheology -
areas on land, poses significant environmental burdens and TYPES OF SALT IN SILICATE MUD SYSTEM 0.40 0.413

MUD LUBRICITY COEFICIENT

very high costs for disposal and site remediation. A low-cost 12 600 RPM 75 0.35 0.353
PERCENT EXPANSION (%)

method of treating cuttings and waste fluids producing a 10

300 RPM 54 0.30
reusable material offers potentially significant savings, both 8 0.25 0.262
financial and environmental. 6
200 RPM 44
0.20 0.207
4 100 RPM 29
HyPR-FOIL S8 is a high-performance silicate system wherein 0.15
2
sodium and chloride ions have been replaced with potassium 6 RPM 12 0.10
0
cations from carbonates, sulphates, acetates, nitrates and/
-2
3 RPM 10 0.05
or hydroxides. Potentially harmful leachates are ultimately 0 1000 2000 3000 0.00
removed by precipitation as insoluble calcium salts. TIME (MINUTES) PV (cP) 21 DISTILLED BASE BASE + 3% BASE + 5%
WATER HYDRO HYDRO
Intensive development has identitifed high-performing - SHOWS THAT ALL SILICATE SYSTEMS EXHIBIT EXCELLENT SHALE INHIBITION YP (lb/100 ft2) 33 -LUBE SL -LUBE SL
WITH < 10% SWELLING
polymers to be used in the system to deliver excellent low Gel 10 sec (lb/100 ft2) 9
end rheology and fluid loss. SOD. SILICATE & KCI CONTROL Lubricity of the system, a traditional drawback with silicate
Gel 10 min (lb/100 ft2) 11
The treated cuttings and waste mud should yield soil material POT. SILICATE & POT. CARBONATE systems, is readily improved with the addition of HYDRO-
POT. SILICATE & POT. SULPHATE pH Mud 12.1 LUBE SL.
rich in potassium and nitrates which enhance plant growth POT. SILICATE & POT. ACETATE
without the introduction of potentially harmful contaminants. API Filtrate (cc/30 min) 4.0
Sodium and chloride are excluded from the drilling fluids
pH Filtrate 12.3
formation minimising their concentration in the drill cuttings.
The fertiliser rich soil can be sold or given away to farmers
or used for beneficial fill. Operators are presented with an
opportunity for the reuse of drilling cuttings or disposed mud
which essentially eliminates long term disposal liability and
cost.

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 CORE HYDRO-THERM PRODUCTS
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION FUNCTION

HYDRO THERM I AMPS / AM Copolymer HTHP Filtration Control

HYDRO THERM II AMPS / AM Copolymer HTHP Filtration Control
HYDRO THIN HT  eflocculant & rheology stabiliser for
D Thermal Stability
high-temperature environments
HYDRO LIG Lignite HTHP Filtration Control

HYDRO-THERM systems have proven effectiveness in high- HYDRO SPERSE HT S ulphonated Copolymer HTHP Filtration Control
temperature conditions and in the presence of deflocculant & rheology stabiliser Deflocculant
for high-temperature environments
contaminants, both in the field and in the laboratory.
OX SCAV Oxygen scavenger Polymer Extender
HYDRO POL Synthetic Copolymer HTHP Filtration Control
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
HYDRO REZ Synthetic Resin HTHP Filtration Control &
Thermal stability. Rheology Stabiliser
Flexibility that extends conventional systems beyond their normal limits. HYDRO THIN HT II  eflocculant & rheology stabiliser for
D Thermal Stability
Shale stability. high-temperature environments

Excellent return permeability. HYDRO SPERSE RS Sulphonated Copolymer HTHP Deflocculant &

Reduce corrosion rates. Rheology Stabiliser

Lubricity. HYDRO CHECK Sulphonated Copolymer HTHP Deflocculant &

Rheology Stabiliser
Environmentally acceptable. HYDRAMINE HT Amine-based Corrosion Inhibitor HTHP Corrosion Inhibitor
Economical.
TABLE 1: TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF THE HYDRO-THERM SYSTEM
PRODUCT FUNCTION HYDRO-THERM
HYDRO-THERM is an extremely flexible, water-based drilling BHT= 176 C
fluid system used when temperature, contaminants, and / or
Freshwater Base fluid 0.44
borehole instability make conventional systems impractical or
uneconomical. KCI (lb/bbl) Water activity 8
& cation exchange
HYDRO-THERM is primarily a synthetic polymer-based system
that is stable to > 204 C (400 F). The use of the HYDRO-THERM Caustic Soda / Potash Alkalinity control 0.3
products allow for the conversion of conventional mud systems DRILL GEL (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 5
e.g. HYDRO-FOIL systems, to a HYDRO-THERM HTHP drilling
HYDRO-THERM II (lb/bbl) HTHP fluid loss 4
fluid without the need for complete displacement.
HYDRO-SPERSE HT (lb/bbl) Rheology stabiliser 2
The HYDRO-THERM system is successful because it minimises
& deflocculant
the reliance on the use of commercial bentonite for the control
of the suspension and filtration. OX-SCAV (lb/bbl) Oxygen scavenger 0.5

The system is composed of combinations of the products DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) Weighting agent 492
shown overleaf, and if required, on combination with third
PROPERTIES
party specialist products dependent on pH, temperature and
total hardness of the drilling fluid. Density (lb/gal) 17.5
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 48
Yield Point (lb/100 ft ) 2
18
API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) 4
HTHP Fluid Loss 20
300 F / 500 (cc/30 min)

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 COMPARATIVE RETURN PERMEABILITY DATAMEDIUM PERM CORES (200-500 mD)
mD

350 100
90
300
80
250 70
60
200
50
150 40
100 30 INITIAL PERMEABILITY TO OIL
20 RETURN PERMEABILITY @ 100 PSI
50

OPTA-FLO
10 % RETURN PERM
drill-in fluids are custom designed to provide 0 0
Mud 1: Mud 2: Mud 3: Mud 4:
minimal reservoir damage over a wide range of OPTA-FLO OPTA-FLO COMPETITOR A COMPETITOR B

porosites and permeabilities, whilst at the same

time providing an easily removable filtercake on
drawdown that typically does not require breakers
or acid clean-ups.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Non-damaging low skin values, high-return permeability.
Negligible lift-off pressures required for rapid cleanup.
Ultra low-permeability filtercake low leak off and stuck pipe mitigation.
Low friction factors.
Environmentally compliant.
Reduces remediation costs.
Works with any completion assembly.
The system is custom designed for each individual reservoir Performance can be enhanced with the addition of RE-VERT,
and uses a range of high-quality components and design tools a surfactant to aid in preventing emulsion formation.
to facilitate the design process. One such tool is the HyPR-
The use of an enzyme, OPTA-ZYME S, has proven highly
SIZER software programme that allows the fluids engineer to beneficial, in post-drilling treatment to aid in filtercake removal
optimise the concentration and particle size distribution of the and deliver enhanced production rates.
bridging agent to ensure solids are deposited across the pore
throats with minimum invasion yet seal off the reservoir with a The OPTA-FLO system is naturally lubricious, with the filtercakes
thin, compact and resilient filtercake. polymer coating imparting surface lubricity thus minimising
torque and drag. This feature is especially critical in horizontal
The result a system that provides strong benefits as a high- wells. The OPTA-FLO systems non-damaging properties are
performance, non-damaging drill-in fluid that optimises evident both in the laboratory and when initial production field
production rates across a wide range of completion methods: figures are compared to a reservoirs anticipated production.
Open-hole gravel-pack or non-gravel-pack completions
Expandable slotted screen completions EFFECTIVE BRIDGING OFF AT WELLBORE
THE KEY PRODUCTS IN THE OPTA-FLO SYSTEM ARE;
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION FUNCTION
OPTA-VIS High clarity viscosifier Viscosity control
OPTA-ZAN High clarity viscosifier Viscosity control
OPTA-STAR PLUS Modified starch derivative Fluid loss control
OPTA-CARB Custom sized calcium carbonate Bridging agent
OPTA-ZYME S Enzyme Filtercake breaker
RE-VERT Surfactant Emulsion prevention
TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF AN OPTA-FLO SYSTEM
PRODUCT FUNCTION OPTA-FLO
Drillwater (bbl/bbl) Base fluid 0.92
KCl (lb/bbl) Water activity and cation exchange 22.0
Caustic Soda / Potash Alkalinity control to pH 8.5 - 9.0
OPTA-VIS (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 1.0 - 2.0
OPTA-STAR PLUS (lb/bbl) Fluid loss control 3.0 - 5.0
OPTA-CARB (lb/bbl) Bridging agent 30.0 - 50.0
Glutaraldehyde (gal/100 bbl) Biocide 3.0 - 5.0
PROPERTIES
Density (Ib/gal) 9.4
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 12 - 18
Yield Point (lb/100 ft )
2
12 - 20

Slotted and perforated liner completions 6 RPM Reading > 10

Cased-hole completions where hole cleaning or minimising Brookfield Viscosity (cP) > 40,000
fluid invasion is critical API Fluid Loss (cc/30 mins) < 4.0
The OPTA-FLO system has all the characteristics required of a
high-performance drilling fluid. The system is shear thinning
providing good hole-cleaning properties which can be adjusted,
as needed, to meet specific wellbore requirements. OPTA-FLO
formulations can be effectively designed in both low-density and
high-density brines to achieve desired rheological properties. Pore Rock Formation External
Throat Filtercake Matrix Filtercake
Interface

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
 RHEO-PLEX is a mixed metal oxide system that delivers a highly
thixotropic (shear thinning) water-based fluid in an
environmentally and cost-effective package. Annotation of the flow profile
of RHEO-PLEX in the wellbore.
Stationary, gelled layer of mud.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Exceptional hole cleaning. Zero shear-stress at wall
Low torque and drag. Minimal dynamic fluid loss
Low ECDs. Protects poorly consolidated or fractured formations
Excellent solids removal efficiency. Helps prevent seepage losses
Proactive lost circulation remedy whilst drilling. No erosion of wellbore
Excellent HSE profile.
Cost effective. TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF A RHEO-PLEX SYSTEM
PRODUCT FUNCTION RHEO-PLEX

Drillwater (bbl/bbl) Base fluid 0.85

The system exhibits a unique rheological profile that makes RHEO-PLEX is a third generation of Mixed-Metal Oxide (MMO)
it ideal for a wide variety of applicatons, such as: products engineered to provide the cost-effective performance Soda Ash Alkalinity control to < 400 mg/l hardness

Milling operations of the mixed-metal hydroxides used in past years. Unlike its
predecessors, however, the RHEO-PLEX system delivers an
DRILL GEL UA (lb/bbl) Viscosifier 8.0 12.0

Drilling fractured and vugular lost-circulation zones enhanced rheological profile and stability in a package that is
RHEO-PLEX (lb/bbl) Complexing agent 0.8 1.2

Stabilising unconsolidated formations easy to design, mix and maintain. HYDRO-STAR CMS (lb/bbl) Fluid loss control 3.0 5.0

Coiled tubing drilling The ability of RHEO-PLEX to proactively control severe losses
in fractured and vugular formations has been demonstrated
Caustic Soda pH control to pH 10.5

High-angle and horizontal wells time and again. RHEO-PLEX is capable of achieving this as its
DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) Weighting agent 192

This unique rheological profile also exhibits extremely high and
flat gels. These gels are very fragile, easily broken on start up of
circulation, but are sufficient to suspend cuttings under static
conditions. The system provides unsurpassed hole cleaning,
even at very low circulating rates.
The figure on the right shows the results of a test using a
capillary viscometer to measure the pressure drop along a pipe
at constant flow rate. The RHEO-PLEX system gave a lower
Yield point (lbm/100 ft2)
unique thixotropic rheology profile results in the fluid forming PROPERTIES
a gel in the fractures due to the low shear regime present.
Density (lb/gal) 12
Plastic Viscosity (cP) 15 20
PRESSURE DROP ALONG PIPE FOR A CONVENTIONAL GEL
Yield Point (lb/100 ft2) 35 40
FLUID VS. RHEO-PLEX
6 RPM Reading 20 30
80 10
70 9 Gels (lb/100 ft2) 20 / 30

8.75 psi
YP = 65 8
60
pressure drop than the gel fluid, despite having a higher API Fluid Loss (cc/30 min) <8
Pressure (psi)

7
50
yield point. These correlates with reduced pump pressures seen YP = 45 6
40 5
in the field.
30 4
Evidence for this flow profile comes from observations made 20
3.5 psi 3

on surface flowlines and from the occurrence of negative 10

2
1
lag times (cuttings appear to reach the surface faster than 0 0
they should). GEL MUD RHEO-PLEX
SYSTEM

WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
DRILLING FLUIDS Our non-aqueous drilling fluid systems
are designed for demanding applications,
including those requiring a high degree
NON-AQUEOUS of inhibition and thermal stability. Our
SYSTEMS range has solutions specially designed
for technically challenging, yet cost-
conscious applications to deliver optimum
performance in conventional and
unconventional drilling applications.
 CONFI-DRILL Invert Emulsion Drilling Fluids systems have long
been the preferred system of many operators for
providing excellent borehole stability under
extreme drilling conditions.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Increased rate of penetration, reducing overall well cost.
Provides excellent wellbore stability while drilling through reactive shales.
Maximise lubricity for drilling high-angle, extended reach and horizontal
wells.
Provides low fluid loss as well as the best available filtercake to reduce
the potential for differential sticking.
Prevents formation related problems such as bit balling, heaving gumbo
and blinding of shale shaker screens.
The ability to choose low base fluid to water ratios to reduce formulation
cost and environmental impact.
Excellent temperature and contamination stability.
Flexible choice of base fluid allows compliance with Environmental
Regulations worldwide.
Superior return permeability results, ensuring minimal formation damage.
Provides excellent hole cleaning characteristics.
Wide range of drilling fluid properties and densities to suit various
drilling requirements.
Generates less waste than water-based fluid systems.
The CONFI-DRILL invert emulsion system consists of three This system has excellent rheological and filtration
phases: non-aqueous, brine and solids phase. The most characteristics which are easily modified to meet changing
important parts of the system, however, are the emulsifying temperature and pressure conditions.
chemicals designed to create and maintain the invert emulsion.
TYPICAL WELL COST COMPARISON USING CONFI-DRILL VS.
The system can be formulated using various base fluids,
INHIBITIVE WBM
including Low Toxicity Mineral Oil (LTMO), Linear Paraffin (LP),
$
Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO) and Internal Olefin (IO).
CONFI-DRILL is an invert emulsion system, the composition of
which can be tailored to meet environmental regulations and 10.5
MILLION
performance criteria.
CONFI-DRILL is a very stable invert emulsion synthetic drilling
fluid, selected because of its great flexibility in meeting 5 DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 116
MILLION
changing drilling conditions.
CONFI-DRILL WBM
TYPICAL BASE FLUID PROPERTIES
BASE FLUID DENSITY (SG) KV @ 40 C CST FLASH POINT C POUR POINT C
LTMO 0.80 +/- 2.0 > 85 < -10
LP 0.78 +/- 2.5 > 110 4 -10
LAO 0.78 +/- 2.5 > 110 < -10
IO 0.79 +/- 3.6 > 125 < -10
CORE CONFI-DRILL SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PRODUCT FUNCTION GENERIC CHEMISTRY
CONFI-GEL Viscosifier Organophilic bentonite
CONFI-GEL HT Viscosifier Organophilic hectorite
CONFI-MUL P Primary emulsifier Primary emulsifier
CONFI-MUL S Secondary emulsifier Secondary emulsifier
CONFI-TROL Fluid loss controller Gilsonite
CONFI-SEAL Fluid loss controller Organophilic lignite
CONFI-MOD Low end rheology modifier Dimer / Trimer acid
CONFI-COAT Wetting agent Surfactant
DRILL-BAR Weighting agent Barite
TYPICAL FORMULATIONS AND PROPERTIES OF A CONFI-DRILL SYSTEM WITH A LINEAR PARAFFIN
PRODUCT CONFI-DRILL PROPERTIES DYNAMIC AGING
16 HOURS @ 250 F
Linear Paraffin (bbl/bbl) 0.60 Density (lb/gal) 10
Drillwater (lb/bbl) 0.21 PV (cP) 30
2
Calcium Chloride (lb/bbl) 24 YP (lb/100 ft ) 19
CONFI-MUL P (lb/bbl) 57 6 RPM 11
CONFI-MUL S (lb/bbl) 35 ES (Volts) 978
CONFI-GEL (lb/bbl) 8 10 OWR 75:25
CONFI-TROL (lb/bbl) 68 Excess Lime (lb/bbl) 2
Lime (lb/bbl) 68 HTHP (500 psi, 250 F) < 4.0
NON-AQUEOUS SYSTEMS
 CORE CONFI-DENSE SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PRODUCT FUNCTION GENERIC CHEMISTRY

CONFI GEL HT Organophilic hectorite Viscosifier

CONFI-DENSE is designed to provide emulsion and rheology
stability beyond the temperature limits of standard
CONFI-DRILL emulsion systems.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Highly inhibitive.
Stable to temperatures above 400 F (204 C).
Exhibits minimal density differentiation (syneresis) under dynamic and
static conditions (barite sag).
Can be weighted to densities above 18.5 lb/gal using barite or
alternative weight materials such as ilmenite, haematite or micromax.
Superior HT filtration control.
Thin filtercake to reduce differential sticking tendency.
CONFI GEL XHT Organophilic attapulgite Viscosifier
CONFI MUL HT Primary emulsifier HT emulsifier
CONFI TROL F Proprietary blend HT fluid loss controller
CONFI TROL HT HT softening point gilsonite HT fluid loss controller
CONFI TROL XHT Synthetic polymer HT fluid loss controller
CONFI SEAL Organophilic lignite Fluid loss controller
CONFI RM Dimer / Trimer acid Low end rheology modifier
DRILL BAR Barite Weighting agent
DRILL BAR XP 4.4 SG Barite Weighting agent
CONFI MUL XHT Primary emulsifier XHT emulsifier
CONFI TEC HT
Secondary emulsifier HT emulsifier
CONFI TEC XHT Secondary emulsifier XHT emulsifier
CONFI MOD HT Polymeric viscosifier HT viscosifier and low end rheology modifier
CONFI RM HT Polymeric viscosifier HT viscosifier and low end rheology modifier
CONFI MOD XHT Polymeric viscosifier XHT viscosifier and low end rheology modifier
CONFI RM XHT Polymeric viscosifier XHT viscosifier and low end rheology modifier
CONFI TROL FHT Organophilic lignite HT fluid loss controller
CONFI TROL L Proprietary blend HT fluid loss controller
CONFI TROL EHT Proprietary blend XHT fluid loss controller

Increasing demand for drilling deviated HTHP wells has
resulted in the development of an HTHP non-aqueous drilling
fluid with unique suspension properties to avoid commonly
observed density differentiations under extreme conditions.
The CONFI-DENSE system is stable to temperatures above
400 F and exhibits minimal density differentiation under
dynamic and static conditions. The system can be weighted
to densities above 18.5 lb/gal (SG 2.20) using API barite, or
alternative weight materials including HyPR-BAR (fine grind
barite), NANO-BAR a proprietary, non sag, alternative weight
material with a minimum SG of 4.35, Haematite or Micromax.
CONFI-DENSE is typically maintained with an O/W
range of 85/15 - 90/10 and is specifically designed for
use with commonly available synthetic base fluids.
TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF
A CONFI-DENSE SYSTEM
The potential for barite sag can be a major concern issue PRODUCT CONFI-DENSE
with non-aqueous fluids particularly in directional wells with
inclinations > 30 and mud weights > 12.0 lb/gal, a potential Iso-Paraffin (bbl/bbl) 0.48
which, if not addressed, can lead to critical well control issues Drillwater (bbl/bbl) 0.05
especially in HTHP wells. This potential is exacerbated at the Calcium Chloride (lb/bbl) 7
highest inclinations, 60 75 in long tangent ERD wells and
CONFI-MUL HT (lb/bbl) 46
where thinning of the fluid occurs due to high temperatures
CONFI-TROL F (lb/bbl) 56
and pressures.
CONFI-GEL HT (lb/bbl) 24
PARTICLE SIZE AND SHAPE COMPARISON OF MICROMAX CONFI-TROL HT (lb/bbl) 48
VS. API BARITE Lime (lb/bbl) 10
Calcium Carbonate (lb/bbl) 20
Rev Dust (lb/bbl) 30
DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 493
A simple sag factor measurement has been developed to
conveniently express the degree of settling, with CONFI-
DENSE results being well within the acceptable range of
0.50 0.53.
Calculated as follows:
Sag factor = p bot
(p bot + p top)
Where:
p top = Maximum density (top), g/cc
p bot = Maximum density (bottom), g/cc
Recent developments include the use of alternative different
particle size weighting materials such as fine grind barite,
HyPR-BAR, NANO-BAR, an alternative 4.35 SG weight material,
fine grind Haematite and Micromax, shown on previous page,
to deliver reduced sag potential and ECD values.

Static barite sag tests with CONFI-DENSE show excellent PROPERTIES DYNAMIC AGING CONFI-DENSE is field proven in areas including Malaysia and
results that fall well within the sag factor criteria specified 16 HOURS @ 350 F Thailand giving our customers exceptional HTHP drilling
by major oil companies. CONFI-DENSE also exhibits very performance.
Density (lb/gal) 17.5
low amounts of supernatant oil (syneresis) in samples aged
PV (cP) 49
both static and dynamically. Field tests demonstrate that the
YP (lb/100 ft2) 18
laboratory formulation properties further improve during Micromax Barite
drilling conditions as drill solids are incorporated into the 6 RPM 8
system combined with the shear from the drilling operation. 20 microns ES (Volts) 1655
OWR 90:10
Excess Lime (lb/bbl) 4
HTHP (500 psi, 350 F) < 2.0

NON-AQUEOUS SYSTEMS
 CORE CONFI-DEEP SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PRODUCT NAME FUNCTION

cDEEP-MUL Primary emulsifier

PRESMOD is capable of providing a full
suite of hydraulics simulations including: cDEEP-MOD Flat rheology modifier

Static and dynamic temperature profiles. cDEEP-RM Secondary viscosifier

Dynamic down hole rheological profiling. cDEEP-TROL Fluid loss control additive

CONFI-DEEP is an engineered synthetic-based fluid which, ECD, ESD projections over time and temperature. cDEEP-THIN Thinner for flat rheology
system
unlike the conventional invert emulsion drilling Prediction of pit volume changes with time due to changes CONFI-MUL SA Rheology modifier for
in temperature, pressure and wellbore ballooning.
fluid systems, has a stable flat rheology for newly mixed fluids in LMP

deepwater drilling environments. The system, PRESMOD can be utilised both in the office for planning
and monitoring and on the rig for real time application
which utilises low pour point base fluids, represents and decision making. TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF A
a new generation in non-aqueous drilling fluids CONFI-DEEP SYSTEM

technology by providing rheology properties, yield CONFI-DEEP SYSTEM STABILITY PRODUCT NAME FUNCTION

point, low shear rates and gel strengths, that are 40

AFTER HOT ROLL @ 200 F for 16 hours
BASE FLUID (bbl/bbl) 0.61
consistent over a wide range of temperatures. 35
CONFI-MUL SA (lb/bbl) 13
30

yp (lb/100 ft2)
25 cDEEP-MUL (lb/bbl) 7 11

FEATURES AND BENEFITS 20

cDEEP-RM (lb/bbl) 0.5 2

Highly inhibitive.
15
10 cDEEP-TROL (lb/bbl) 25

Flat rheological behaviour to provide efficient hole cleaning under the 5

0
cDEEP-MOD (lb/bbl) 14
temperature and pressures experienced in deep water applications. 40 F 70 F 120 F 150 F
Lime (lb/bbl) 8.0
Contributes to reduced losses as inefficient ECD peaks due to poor hole TEMP (DEG F)
Fresh Water (bbl/bbl) 0.2
cleaning are eliminated. CONFI-DEEP + 40 ppb rev dust

Reduced clay content allows optimised viscosity profiles with CONFI-DEEP + 25 ppb rev dust + 5 lb/bbc cemet
CONFI-DEEP = 40 ppb rev dust + 20% (v/v) seawater
Calcium Chloride (lb/bbl) 27.0
alternative liquid viscosifiers from our product portfolio. DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 153.0

RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES CHARACTERISTICS PROPERTIES DYNAMIC AGING

16 HOURS @ 350 F
AFTER HOT ROLL @ 200 F for 16 hours
40
Conventional invert drilling fluids address cold water issues With our extensive involvement in deepwater drilling

yp (lb/100 ft2) / 6 rpm reading

35
Density (lb/gal) 10.5
by lowering the viscosity at surface temperature in order to operations, to 1500m water depth, Scomi Oiltools is able to
30 PV (cP) 22
achieve a decreased overall rheological profile to counter formulate customised deepwater drilling fluid systems to 25
the increased rheological profile under cold temperature meet customer-specific well requirements. 20 YP (lb/100 ft2) 25
conditions, i.e. at the seafloor. This approach will give lower
Scomi Oiltools uses a state-of-the-art temperature and 15
6 RPM 18
ECD when encountering cold temperatures, however as a 10
pressure simulator, PRESMOD, for deepwater and HTHP
consequence, what often results is poor hole cleaning, barite 5 ES (Volts) 1055
hydraulics prediction.
sag and other downhole drilling problems related to a greatly 0
OWR 75:25
40 F 70 F 120 F 150 F
reduced low rheological profile under bottom hole static and TEMP (DEG F)
circulating temperatures. Conversely, adjusting the rheology Excess Lime (lb/bbl) 3
#01-SBM YP CONFI-DEEP YP
upwards to compensate for higher BHT will lead to high ECD HTHP (500 psi, 225 F) < 2.0
#01-SBM 6 RPM CONFI-DEEP 6 RPM
and excessive gel strengths producing pressure spikes that can
break down the formation and promote lost circulation.

Drilling fluids formulated with the CONFI-DEEP technology are

designed to minimise the downhole losses normally associated
with deepwater drilling. CONFI-DEEP achieves this with the use
of an enhanced rheological modifier thus minimising the use of
organophilic clay in the formulation. The result is a fluid system
which has exceptional low end rheological characteristics over
a wide temperature range, thereby promoting hole cleaning,
whilst minimising ECD, surge and swab pressures.

NON-AQUEOUS SYSTEMS
 CORE OPTA-VERT SYSTEM COMPONENTS
PRODUCT FUNCTION GENERIC CHEMISTRY

CONFI-MUL P Primary emulsifier Primary emulsifier

OPTA-VERT drill-in fluids are custom designed to provide
minimal reservoir damage over a wide range of
porosities and permeabilities, whilst at the same
time providing an easily removable filtercake on
drawdown.
CONFI-MUL S Secondary emulsifier Secondary emulsifier
CONFI-GEL / CONFI-GEL HT Viscosifier Organophilic bentonite
CONFI-MOD Low end rheology modifier Dimer / Trimer acid
OPTA-CARB Custom sized bridging agent Calcium carbonate
OPTA-MUL 2 in 1 emulsifier for low mud weighting Primary and secondary emulsifier
TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF AN OPTA-VERT SYSTEM
PRODUCT BASE OPTA-VERT PROPERTIES DYNAMIC AGING 16
HOURS @ 275 F

FLUID 0.65 Density (lb/gal) 9.1

FEATURES AND BENEFITS Drillwater (bbl/bbl) 0.12 PV (cP) 26
Non-damaging low skin values, high return permeability. Calcium Chloride (lb/bbl) 15 YP (lb/100 ft2) 21
Negligible lift-off pressures required for rapid cleanup. CONFI-MUL P (lb/bbl) 68 6 RPM 13
Ultra-low-permeability filtercake low leak off and stuck pipe mitigation. CONFI-MUL S (lb/bbl) 34 ES (Volts) 1040
Highly inhibitive. CONFI-GEL (lb/bbl) 46 OWR 85:15
Low friction factors. CONFI-GEL HT (lb/bbl) 24 Excess Lime (lb/bbl) 4
Reduced remediation costs. CONFI-TROL HT (lb/bbl) 68 HTHP (500 psi, 275 F) <4
Lime (lb/bbl) 10
OPTA-CARB (Ib/bbl) 10 55 (As required)
The system is custom designed for each individual reservoir The result a system that provides strong benefits as a
and uses a range of high-quality components and design high-performance, non-damaging drill-in fluid that optimises
tools to facilitate the design process. One such tool is the production rates across a wide range of completion methods: RETURN PERMEABILITY FOR THREE OPTA-VERT FORMULATIONS AGAINST +/- 1000 md CLASHACH SANDSTONE
HyPR-SIZER software programme that allows the fluids Open-hole gravel-pack or non-gravel-pack completions OPERATIONAL PORE VOLUME FILTRATE LOSS BASE OIL OIL PERMEABILITY
engineer to optimise the concentration and particle size
distribution of the bridging agent to ensure solids are
Expandable slotted screen completions SEQUENCE (cc) ON APPLYING PERM (md) AFTER DRAWDOWN

deposited across the pore throats with minimum invasion,
while sealing off the reservoir with a thin, compact and
resilient filtercake.
OPTA-VERT is recommended for reservoir drill-in and
coring applications with a raised potential for problems,
e.g. emulsion blocking, associated with water-based drill-in
fluids. Problems minimised by OPTA-VERT include:
Wellbore instability caused by hydratable shales above
or interbedded with reservoir sands
Fluid instability related to high bottom hole
temperatures
Slotted or perforated liner completions
THE DRILLING
MUD (ml)
AT 800 PSI (md)
(% CHANGE ON BASE PERM)
Cased-hole completions where hole cleaning
or minimising fluid invasion is critical 11.2 lb/gal 11.657 5.117 935 813
The OPTA-VERT system delivers all of the characteristics OPTA-VERT (0.439 PV) (-13.0%)
required of a drilling fluid being highly inhibitive and ideally (Sample A) drilling mud
followed by drawdown
suited to drilling interbedded reservoirs with shale.
to dead crude oil
The OPTA-VERT system is naturally lubricious making it an
11.2 lb/gal 9.792 4.432 984 935
ideal choice for horizontal wells.
OPTA-VERT (0.453 PV) (-4.98%)
The OPTA-VERT systems non-damaging properties are evident (Sample B) drilling mud
both in the laboratory and in the field when initial production
figures are compared to the reservoirs anticipated production.
followed by drawdown
to dead crude oil

Excessive torque and drag related to high-angle and EMULSION BLOCKING IN A RESERVOIR 11.2 lb/gal
OPTA-VERT
11.568 3.923
(0.339 PV)
947 900
(-4.96%)
extended reach drilling
(Sample C) drilling mud
followed by drawdown
to dead crude oil

NON-AQUEOUS SYSTEMS
 EXTRA-VERT is a synthetic invert emulsion drilling fluid based on
non-toxic, biodegradable ester chemistry.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Excellent wellbore stability and cuttings integrity.
Low environmental impact suitable for discharge in most
offshore waters.
COMPARATIVE LUBRICITY COEFFICIENTS FOR VARIOUS TYPICAL FORMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF AN
Formulated with high-quality products specifically selected for TYPES OF DRILLING FLUID SYSTEMS EXTRA-VERT SYSTEM
an ester-base fluid.
DRILLING FLUID SYSTEM LUBRICITY PRODUCT EXTRA-VERT
Promotes high rates of penetration and reduced drilling days. COEFFICIENT

The system is intrinsically lubricious. HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1

Ester OMC 586 (bbl/bbl) 0.53

Non-damaging to sensitive reservoirs. Field Mud 0.27

Drillwater (bbl/bbl) 0.26

Increased protection against stuck pipe. HYDRO-FOIL GEN 1 &

Sodium Formate (lb/bbl) 25
LUBRI-GREEN 0.18 CONFI-MUL P (lb/bbl) 13
CONFI-DRILL (IO) 0.19 CONFI-MUL S (lb/bbl) 35
CONFI-DRILL (LMO) 0.21 CONFI-GEL (lb/bbl) 46
This base fluid is produced specifically for synthetic drilling EXTRA-VERT is inherently lubricious due to the ester-base fluid
EXTRA-VERT 0.15 CONFI-TROL (lb/bbl) 46
fluid applications as an environmentally safe alternative to and provides extremely low torque and drag in deviated and
both traditional and synthetic oil-based drilling fluid systems. extended reach wells. Lime (lb/bbl) 1
EXTRA-VERT is formulated with emulsifiers, rheology DRILL-BAR (lb/bbl) 82
EXTRA-VERT is readily formulated with non-chloride salts
modifiers and surfactants which exhibit low toxicity and high
for use in land operations.
biodegradability. The EXTRA-VERT system is temperature PROPERTIES DYNAMIC AGING
stable to > 160 C (320 F) and can be formulated to densities 16 HOURS @ 225 F
greater than 1.92 sg (16.0 lb/gal).
Density (lb/gal) 9.5
The EXTRA-VERT system conforms to current legislation
PV (cP) 27
in the majority of worldwide locations including the Gulf
of Mexico (EPA). YP (lb/100 ft ) 15

EXTRA-VERT is a viable alternative where traditional invert 6 RPM 7

emulsion systems are precluded from use by environmental ES (Volts) 500
regulations and operators must consider the expense of
alternative waste disposal technologies such as cutting OWR 70:30
re-injection and ship to shore. Excess Lime (lb/bbl) 2
HTHP (500 psi, 225 F) < 4.0

NON-AQUEOUS SYSTEMS
DRILLING FLUIDS Our range of drilling fluids engineering
support software are designed to help
the upstream oil and gas industry convert
ENGINEERING SUPPORT information into useful knowledge
SOFTWARE for improved decision-making while
minimising risks. With the combination of
our proprietary software HyPR-FORM and
HyPR-CALC as well as licensed software
including Drillbench Presmod, KMC Crystal
Maze, HyDRA-FLASH and HyPR-SIZER, we
are well-equipped to deliver the necessary
tools you need to plan, execute and analyse
a variety of well types.
HyPR-FORM is a superior software application that brings a
dramatic new level of rig site technical excellence to
our customers worldwide through comprehensive
data management and reporting. It is a fluids
HyPR-FORM is used to capture and filter technical data
easily. It is very user-friendly, easy to use and contains all the
engineering calculations normally used while drilling wells.
It allows users to input well data efficiently and effectively
through visual daily mud report presentation.
HyPR-FORM also paves the way towards the creation of a
central data repository system. This will help us identify and
implement best practices and allow us to make timely and
powerful decisions, to continue to help our customers to the
next level.

reporting software designed to assist drilling fluid

engineers in setting up a well, recording mud data,
tracking inventory and creating daily and
end-of-well reports.

Well Details Well Rig Setup

FEATURES AND BENEFITS Product Classification Set Mud

Standardised data gathering and reports.

Concentration Property Target

Concise, high-quality reports.

Extensive product database creation.
Planned and actual data comparison.
End of well analysis and graphics. Pit Setup
Well data transfer capabilities. Fluid Properties

A technology innovation by the Scomi Oiltools Software Design Team, HyPR-

Solid Control Setup
FORM has powerful reporting and graphing capabilities. It allows users to create Inventory & Volume
Management
various reports based on daily, interval, whole well or even time-based reports.

Reports available include:

Cost Summary and Detail Reports list of products, quantity and cost.
Fluid Property Report fluid property targets and test results such as density, Mud Losses Pumps & Bits Calculation
temperature, viscosity, PV, YP, etc.

HSE Report HSE KPIs, activities and observation cards. Hole Geometry Inventory & Cost
Summary
Receive & Backload
Products
Hydraulics Report depth and fluid details, pressure losses, bit and hole
hydralics, hole cleanning and ECD.

Oil on Cutting Report mud density, sample cuttings test results such as
weight, volume etc.

Product Concentration Report list of product and their concentration.

P roduct Reconciliation Report initial, received, returned, used, balance and
total product details.

Volume Report volume of products used, losses encountered, received,

returned, etc.

Well KPI cost performance, fluid targets, HSE and other KPIs.
ENGINEERING SUPPORT SOFTWARE
 HyPR-CALC is a comprehensive drilling hydraulics programme HYPR-CALC GRAPH AND TABULAR REPORTS

to assist the user in all aspects of the circulation

system including pressure management and
wellbore stability. It incorporates fluid displacement
simulation, surge and swab calculations, mud
rheology modeling, ECD and HTHP rheological
properties and density.
Circulation Hydraulic Hydrostatic Pressure
Frictional Pressure Loss

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

Fluid displacement simulation.
HTHP mud rheological properties and density.
Constant or sin cycle drillstring eccentricity. 3D Wellbore View

Pressure, velocity, flow type, and cutting accumulation prediction.

Surface pressure loss calculation.
Surge / Swab calculation. Surge / Swab

Tracking in-situ properties of circulating fluid.

Survey data or well trajectory planning.
3D well trajectory plot.
Formation temperature and pressure by gradient or measured points.
Sensitivity Analysis

HyPR-CALC takes into account all the considerations below in HyPR-CALC, a technology innovation by the Scomi Oiltools Q Design Under Reaming Fluid Displacement
its design calculations: Software Design Team, has been used for over 5 years in all

Corrected bottom hole pressure prediction
Downhole rheology and density corrected for temperature
and pressure
Pressure surge due to drillstring movement
parts of the world including Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin
America.
HyPR-CALC incorporates state-of-the-art visualisation
technology that goes beyond mere presentation. The various
2D / 3D graphs and tabular reports allow users to efficiently

Tool joints effects and accurately perform design calculations through visual
and animated schematics.
Drillstring rotation and eccentricity especially in deviated /
horizontal section

Dynamic fluid temperature profiling

Fluid displacements
Hydraulics calculation options using Herschel-Buckley,
Bingham Plastic, Newtonian & Power Law model

ENGINEERING SUPPORT SOFTWARE

 GRTC is the Global Research & Technology Centre for
Scomi Oiltools. Established in Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia, the centre is ISO 9001 certified, and
provides state-of-the-art facilities for R&D, training
and QAQC, as well as operational technical
support for our global operations. Our cell R&D
centres are also in Houston, USA for drilling waste
management.
GLOBAL RESEARCH
& TECHNOLOGY Our activities and services include:
CENTRE Research & Development
Training
QAQC
Technical Support Services

Powered by innovation RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

The flow of technology and information among people,
enterprises and institutions is key to an innovative process,
and lends to the interaction which turns ideas into a process,
product or service. As an advocate of such holistic solutions,
Scomi Oiltools harnesses the power of innovation to generate
value for our clients.
At GRTC, we have extensive facilities for research and
development, technical services, quality assurance quality
control and industrial training. Our laboratories also provide
technical support, including troubleshooting services, and
training for our global operations.
At GRTC we train our engineers in basic, advanced and
intensive courses in drilling fluids. A curriculum for drilling
waste management is included to further prepare our
engineers to approach the entire drilling process in a more
holistic manner. GRTC is also open to our key customers where
training may be customised for their technical personnel.
To meet customer-focused research challenges in drilling
fluids and drilling waste management, the team at GRTC
integrates business-driven projects with value-added technical
consultancy and laboratory services.
The magnitude and complexity of oil and gas exploration and
development require us to work closely with our co-researchers
to ensure that we meet the exacting industry requirements
for high-performance water-based fluids, flat rheology non-
aqueous fluids for deepwater drilling and non-damaging
reservoir drilling fluids. Furthermore, our collaborative projects
with customers and universities extend our ability to resolve
a regionally limited problem or develop broad strategic
capabilities.

GLOBAL RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

TECHNICAL SERVICES
Our advisory personnel provide technical assistance and
specific expertise in the application of drilling fluids technology
for wellbore construction and productivity optimisation on
location. These include:
Development of new fluids technologies.
Design, modification and adaptation of fluid systems.
Problem-solving and troubleshooting.
Recommendations of products and solutions.
Transfers of technology.
Collection and management of performance data.
Guidance on technical product line training.
Communication with the drilling industry, institutions,
and professional bodies.
QAQC
To maintain the quality and performance at GRTC, we employ
a team of QAQC professionals who use state-of-the-art
equipment to regularly perform random checks and product-
specific testing to ensure that our products comply with
industry-certified standards. The team also manages our ISO
certification.
TRAINING CENTRE
Our employees are essential to the companys future growth
and success. Naturally, we are fully committed to developing
capable, confident and competent employees, with an
emphasis placed on the continuous upgrade and development
of skills and competencies.
We also hone and develop the skills of our clients personnel
worldwide. To date, we have trained over 400 chemists,
technologists and engineers from over 20 countries as drilling
fluid technologists. In addition, we have conducted advanced
seminars, software training and drilling fluids operations
management training for hundreds of personnel.
Apart from our customised courses, we also have computer
training facilities and a dedicated training laboratory with all
the equipment a drilling fluid technologist may encounter
offshore or onshore. Trainees are also introduced to advanced
analytical and software tools as well as specialised equipment
for specialty jobs.
GLOBAL RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY CENTRE WATER-BASED SYSTEMS
www.scomioiltools.com.my

Asia T +603 7717 3000 F +603 7728 5202 E kl.sales@my.scomioiltools.com

Middle East T +9714 8838 236 F +9714 8838 920 E dubai.sales@ae.scomioiltools.com
Americas T +1281 260 6016 F +1281 260 6969 E houston.sales@us.scomioiltools.com
West Africa T +234 803 402 8010 F +1832 550 2582 E nigeria.sales@my.scomioiltools.com
Terms & conditions apply. Please refer to www.scomigroup.com.my/t&c for further information.
Copyright 2013 Scomi Oilfield Limited (Bermuda). All Rights Reserved.
BRCDF-Rev0613