DRILLING FLUID SYSTEMS

Dispersed drilling systems include lignite and lignosulfonate additives which are solids and contaminate tolerant. These systems are typically used for higher mud weights and can be formulated for HTHP environments. The fluid characteristics make them ideal for high ROP drilling.

Invert emulsion systems are the most commonly used oil mud systems. They include a combination of invert emulsion diesel base, rheology and fluid loss control additives, and other additives to form a fragile gel when used in drilling. Low colloidal content enables the suspension of drill cuttings and other solids to provide superior suspension and hole-cleaning characteristics, viscosity control and fluid loss control. They are often selected when reliable shale inhibition and bit/drillstring lubricity is needed.

Direct emulsion systems use field brine and diesel to control density while drilling and to avoid losses in under-pressured zones. They are often utilized in salt formation drilling to reduce washout.

Synthetic-based invert emulsion systems use synthetic base oils as the external phase and water as the internal phase. The system is formulated to deliver stable rheological and filtration control in any formation but provides higher temperature limits than standard emulsion systems.

High clay content commonly found in shales can cause swelling due to water absorption and dispersion of the clay particles. If not treated, this can lead to wellbore problems due to sloughing, increased caving production and hole instability. Our line of blended shale inhibitors can reduce swelling and dispersion, while protecting the wellbore. Panther’s systems can be adapted for both WBM and OBM muds.

Mud losses present a constant risk to drilling operations. They can be expensive, cause massive downtime, and, in extreme cases, result in unplanned sidetracks. Our proprietary LS7 lost circulation material (LCM) brings a unique multicomponent blend that is compatible with both WBM and OBM fluids. It is specially formulated to reduce the risk of losses while drilling through depleted zones.

Our proprietary blend of lubricants are a fit for all brine and freshwater systems. Useful in long laterals, they help reduce downhole torque and drag, and combat differential sticking.  Panther’s lubricants are commonly used in wells drilled with both motors and rotary steerable systems. We recommend running a 2-3% lubricant by volume depending on the mud system used.