When boring a hole into the surface of the earth, there are many factors at play that can prevent success. Processes typically used in mining, exploratory drilling, and even well construction require the use of drilling fluids to both lubricate the devices used to drill into the earth and aid in the process of clearing debris.
Here’s a little more about just how important drilling fluid is to these operations:
Clearing the Way
If you have ever excavated more than a few feet, you know that displacing the earth means you are bound to run into some obstacles. This can include everything from soil to rocks, and in the case of mining, chunks of laden earth that may contain deposits of useful but potentially hazardous substances.
To clear this debris out of the way and allow mining to take place, drilling fluids – also known as drilling mud – is used to flush the area as the digging continues. The fluid will bring these pieces to the surface so that they can be skimmed or cleared and mining operations can continue unabated.
Types of Drilling Fluids
There are several varieties of drilling fluid, each common in specific types of applications and best suited for different tasks.
- The first type is water-based muds. These typically include popular drilling fluid additives like bentonite to increase lubrication and cooling properties.
- The second type includes oil-based fluids, also known as non-aqueous muds.
- The third type is gaseous drilling fluids. In the composition of these fluids, a wide range of gases may be chosen.
Since the primary function of drilling fluid is to lubricate, clean, and protect the drilling hardware – and to keep formation fluids from being able to enter the bore hold – it doesn’t really matter which type of fluid is chosen. As long as it provides the correct amount of hydrostatic pressure, it is an excellent choice. Your local retailer can give you more information on which best suits your excavation needs.
