Large diameter drilling performance and imaging fluid optimization

Akindele, Oluwatimilehin Mary (2024) Large diameter drilling performance and imaging fluid optimization. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Large diameter drilling is a critical practice across industries such as mining, energy, marine, and construction. Ensuring precision, efficiency, and accurate estimation of time and costs is paramount for the success of capital-intensive projects involving substantial investments. This thesis presents a broad exploration into the optimization of large diameter drilling operations, focusing on unraveling intricate facets that significantly impact rock excavation performance. The multifaceted approach encompasses borehole imaging, imaging fluid properties and optimization, cuttings cleaning efficiency, and 3D scanning for volume estimation. Borehole imaging tools play a crucial role in creating signals reflected from the ground, providing insights into borehole structural features. The study recognizes the importance of imaging fluids in mitigating the impact of borehole groundwater on imaging data quality. Innovative use of 3D scanning for volume estimation offers precise measurements of rock chip volume, facilitating specific energy calculations and optimizing drilling operations. Moreover, findings on cuttings cleaning efficiency underscore its critical role in drilling performance, with direct implications for overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Results indicate observed relationships between drilling performance and the adopted cleaning efficiency. Under the same applied weight on bit (WOB) and rotary speed, the drilling performance (rate of penetration, drilling torque, and cuttings size distribution) was higher for the wet drilling setup unlike that of dry drilling. This suggests that wet drilling methods enhance cuttings cleaning efficiency. Exploration of imaging fluid rheological properties enhances understanding, offering practical insights for fluid optimization under diverse conditions. It was observed that the temperature of the fluid mixture before the addition of barite plays a significant role in the stability of the fluid. Notably, the development of a water-based imaging fluid addresses environmental and cost concerns, demonstrating comparable performance to oil-based counterparts. These findings suggest the potential viability of the water-based fluid for borehole Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) applications, offering environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions. Overall, this research contributes to enhancing the planning, design, and execution of large diameter drilling projects, with implications for precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in varied geological formations. The findings provide a robust foundation for future research and practical applications in the field of large diameter drilling.

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