How do you define drilling fluid?

Drilling mud is a mixture of fluids and solids which is used downhole in the drilling process. Drilling mud is a circulating fluid used to bring cuttings out of the well bore, to cool the drill bit, and to provide hole stability and pressure control.

What is the function of drilling fluid?

Drilling fluids serve many functions: controlling formation pressures, removing cuttings from the wellbore, sealing permeable formations encoun-tered while drilling, cooling and lubricating the bit, transmitting hydraulic energy to downhole tools and the bit and, perhaps most important, maintaining wellbore stability …

What can I use for drilling fluid?

The three main categories of drilling fluids are: water-based muds (WBs), which can be dispersed and non-dispersed; non-aqueous muds, usually called oil-based muds (OBs); and gaseous drilling fluid, in which a wide range of gases can be used.

How do I make my own drilling fluid?

Drilling mud is created by thoroughly mixing water with clay to a desired consistency. Pumping water through the by-pass hose on the 3-way valve and recirculating water back through the pits will help ensure that the clay and water are thoroughly mixed.

What is drilling fluid in petroleum engineering?

What Is Drilling Mud? Drilling mud, also called drilling fluid, aids in the process of drilling a borehole into the earth. Such holes are drilled for oil and gas extraction, core sampling, and other purposes.

What is bentonite used for in drilling?

The most common use of bentonite is in drilling fluids. The bentonite in the flush fluid lubricates and cools the cutting tools whilst protecting against corrosion. As the drilling fluid generates hydrostatic pressure in the borehole, it hinders fluid and gas penetration.

Is cement a drilling fluid?

Drilling fluids may be water base or non-aqueous based. Cement is used to fill the space between casing and the wellbore where it provides structural support; functions as a barrier that helps prevent steel corrosion; and blocks oil, gas, or water from traveling through the annulus.

Why bentonite is used in drilling?

Bentonite is used in drilling mud to lubricate and cool the cutting tools, to remove cuttings, and to help prevent blowouts. Bentonite also curtails drilling fluid invasion by its propensity for aiding in the formation of mud cake.