OPTIMISING DRILLING FLUID TO MAINTAIN MUDSTONE FORMATION STABILITY

This project is aimed to study the effects of drilling fluids on mudstone strength. The project presents the instability mechanism and stability methodology of mudstone formation. Wellbore stability has been a detrimental and serious issue in drilling. Its costly effects has led to many research and technology development to curb and manage instability in the borehole efficiently Most of the drilling problems occur in mudstone and clay type formation. Main factors identified are related to the mechanical and chemical factors. Clay content in the mudstone causes instability generally by hydration, swelling and hydration in the presence of water phase. Counter measures that were taken against the highlight clay proble
m were to include characteristics such as sealing and inhibition in the drilling fluid design. Fundamental concepts, processes, models and novel test are adopted in this project to formulate the findings of the effects of using water based drilling fluid on the mudstone mechanical properties and how to increase its performance. Over 4 drilling fluids were examined for their effects on mudstone formation strength