Oil-Based Drilling Fluid's Cuttings Bed Removal Properties for Deviated Wellbores

Abstract Results from cuttings transport tests in the laboratory using different field-applied oil-based drilling fluids with similar weight and varying viscosities are presented this paper. The designed for highly deviated wells, performance at relevant wellbore inclinations was investigated. experiments have been performed a flow loop that consists of 10-m-long test section 50.4 mm (2″) diameter freely rotating steel drill string inside 100-mm (≈4″) made cement. Sand particles were injected while circulating fluid through section. Experiments three inclinations: 48, 60, 90 deg vertical. applied dimensions so results scalable to field applications; especially 12 ¼″and 8 ½″ sections. selected setup provides correct shear rate ranges Reynolds numbers application when same applied. show hole cleaning abilities tested vary significantly well angle, rotation, flowrate. support experience showing low viscous more efficient than higher flowrates rotation. As as per experience, combination high rotation rates. effect efficiency function hydraulic frictional pressure drop, demonstrating methods achieve optimal design conditions. key findings direct relevance operations.