Bit Balling

Post by holdril on Oct 5, 2009, 2:24am

The lack of ROP and a associated reduction in torque may be due to bit balling. But not always.
Bit balling is due to the cuttings agglomerating on the bit. Depending on whether you have a PCD or roller
cone bit the methodology will change but the phenomena will be the same.
Bit balling does not occur in hard rock it is in the shales. It is the result of some clay types adopting new
characteristics due to the relationship between the clay drilled and drilling fluid. - Bit balling is unusual in
OBM. If you suspect Bit Balling in WBM the material adhering to the Bit must be removed. I have heard
that pumping 'Walnut Husks', an LCM material often kept on the rig will help. There is no point in
persevering with the slow ROP. I usually pull the bit and have a look. If it is very deep, a Pipe Lax soak
will help shrink the clays and often is a cheaper solution than a round trip.
In spite of which way you approach the removal of balling the entire mud system will need to be modified
to address this problem and stop it from recurring. Additional inhibition provided by an addition of KCl will
often reduce the occurrence.
Cuttings that have a propensity to balling will display this characteristic on the shakers and the cutting will
be described as 'mushy'. That is the time to address the mud recipe before the balling occurs.