Case History
FLC 2000® Stabilizes High Pressure Depleted Sands in Germany
Germany
An operator drilling through the lower Bunter sands experienced extreme overbalance (greater than 6800 psi), severe cavings and excessive washout in the 11-15-in. hole section. In previous wells, the operator used conventional bridging materials, often with a concentration over 76 lb/bbl, creating a challenge to control the drilling fluid rheology.
Impact Fluid Solutions worked with the operator to define two KPI’s – sealing the depleted sands and improving drilling fluid properties. Impact Fluid Solutions suggested the use of 6 lb/ bbl FLC 2000 to prevent hole washout, increase the mud density and drill through the 5 7⁄8-in. problematic interval from 15,583 to 16,236 feet.
The 5 7⁄8-in. section was drilled with a gauge hole and the drilling fluid properties were improved by the use of 6 lb/bbl of FLC 2000, compared to the 76 lb/bbl conventional bridging material. Impact met the operator’s KPI’s by sealing the depleted sands and improving the drilling fluids solids loading. Five successful wells have been drilled to date.
