AES Drilling Fluids

In this episode Matt and Justin discuss the topic of wellbore instability. As the name implies, wellbore instability refers to wellbore that has the tendency to cave or collapse due to unconsolidated formations, fractured formations and chemically/mechanically stressed shale. Drilling fluids have a key role in preventing such phenomenon.

Reservoir drill in fluids are fairly special systems used to minimize formation damage. Matt and Justin review when a reservoir drill-in fluid is used, how they are designed, and how they are run in the field.

In this episode we discuss the true meaning of wellbore strengthening and how we can use this type of program to help increase a well’s fracture gradient. We also go through proper planning and lab testing to determine the right products and application for a given job.

Matt and Justin review the applications of conventional and low-clay/clay-free drilling fluids. They will discuss the differences in the products used and how low-clay/clay-free systems provide performance benefits in certain drilling environments.

We had a question about the difference between dispersed and non-dispersed water-based mud systems. In this episode, we will go over a brief summary of what they are and when we use them.