Mud Logging Services

Mud Logging Services

Geoservices is the industry leader in mud logging, focusing on drilling

support and formation evaluation.  Services that provide decision-ready

information about well status and drilling performance are helping

to drill better wells more efficiently. Critical decisions are being guided

by timely and more accurate information on reservoir fluid composition,

lithology to detect pay zones, well placement, and revealing reservoir

connectivity and compartmentalization. 

Drilling Monitoring

Mud and drilling data acquired from multiple surface sensors can be

presented versus both time and depth.

Formation Monitoring

Formation characteristics obtained by analyzing rock cuttings and mud

hydrocarbon content are displayed on monitors and recorded on mud

logs.

Drilling Operations Support & Analysis Service

Thema service helps you extract maximum value from the data obtained

through mud logging and real-time surface monitoring of drilling

mechanics and dynamics, hole-cleaning efficiency, fluid influx and loss,

and a range of geological data.

Drilling Monitoring

Mechanical, hydraulic, and engineering drilling data is continually

measured to balance formation fluid pressures, optimize the drilling

process, and maintain a safe operating environment.

Data acquisition

Specialized sensors, located on the rig floor, measure parameters such

as drilling speed, drillstring rotation, and weight in the mud pit room.

From these measurements mud pit volumes, mud flow rate, and mud

weight in the shale shaker area can be discerned as well as parameters

such as mud gas level, return flow rate, and return mud weight.

Additional sensors may be placed on the cement unit and in the flowline,

choke, and kill line.

Data processing and display

The surface acquisition system processes signals from the sensors; data

can be displayed versus both time and depth at any location on the rig

or sent to remote displays via the Web. The data is also presented

through mud logs and drilling logs, which are produced in customized

formats and scales daily or on request, providing a record of drilling

activity.

Related services and products

Drilling Operations Support & Analysis

Service

Formation Monitoring

Cuttings description

Detailed analysis of of rock cuttings samples taken from the shale

shakers to determine their composition, physical attributes, hydrocarbon

content, and matrix porosity.

Samples of rock cuttings taken from the shale shakers are prepared for

analysis in the mud logging unit. Trained mud loggers examine the

cuttings using a fluoroscope, binocular microscope, and laboratory tests

to determine their composition, physical attributes, hydrocarbon

content, and matrix porosity. Use of industry standard protocol ensures

consistent reporting. The information is used to update computerized

mud logs at the depth from which the sample originates.

Gas chromatography

Onsite extraction and analysis of gas from the drilling fluid to determine

the C1–C5 composition for gas ratio analysis. Technologies are available

to counteract cold mud returns and the contaminating effects of modern

drilling fluid components.

Gas traps located at the shale shakers liberate gas from the drilling fluid.

The gas is transported under vacuum via a pipe to a gas chromatograph

in the mud logging unit. Flame ionization detectors (FIDs) with a fast

cycle time determine the C1–C5 composition. The acquisition system

records the results in the database at the depth corresponding to the

origin of the gas and displays them on the rig monitors and mud logs.

Related services and products

Quantitative Cuttings Analysis & Imaging

Service

LithologyPlus Quantitative Cuttings Analysis & Imaging Service

Early availability of detailed analysis improves

decision-making

LithologyPlus service enables quantitative mineralogical analysis of

cuttings as they return to surface, using a high-resolution digital

microscope and X-ray diffraction—techniques that were previously

accessible only in the laboratory.

Early availability of reliable and reproducible measurements allows fast,

accurate identification of the lithology and formations being drilled,

enabling

monitoring and optimization of well trajectory

comparisons between wells

selection of the best zones for logging, sampling, and completion

verification of downhole mineralogy measurements.

Hostile downhole conditions do not adversely impact this surface data

acquisition. The portable equipment is easily transported to the wellsite

and can be operated by a standard Geoservices mud logging crew.

High-resolution digital microscope (HRDM) images enhance

cuttings description

High-quality, magnified digital images of cuttings samples are generated

at the wellsite and displayed on a 17-in color LCD monitor as well as

reproduced on the log. The images exhibit significantly enhanced color

resolution, illumination, and depth of field compared with conventional

techniques. Grain and pore sizes can be measured to within tens of

microns because of superior image processing and magnifications

ranging from ×20 to ×200.

X-ray diffraction (XRD) enables cuttings mineralogy analysis

Each mineral creates a unique, characteristic X-ray diffraction pattern.

The magnitude of the signal is proportional to the amount of the mineral,

enabling a quantitative analysis of cuttings mineralogy. Quartz,

anhydrite, calcite, dolomite, siderite, clays, and feldspars can all be

measured.

Data storage and transmission increase accessibility

Images and data are recorded and archived for later retrieval and well

comparisons. They can also be transmitted to remotely located experts

in real time, reducing the number of personnel required at the wellsite.

Thema Drilling Operations Support & Analysis Service

Maximum value from mud logging and other surface measurements

Thema drilling operations support service monitors and analyzes fluid

influx and loss in the wellbore, drilling mechanics and dynamics, hole-

cleaning efficiency, and a range of geological data. It also offers superior

detection of the C1–C5components in gas extracted from the drilling mud

for gas ratio analysis.

Superior data quality and speed

Signals are converted from analog to digital as close to the sensors as

possible, eliminating analog signal transmission and the need for

multiple cables running across the rig floor. High-frequency acquisition,

improved data resolution, and increased storage and computation

capacity enable faster processing of complex data.

Real-time monitoring and analysis

Thema service analyzes real-time data streams from a number of

sensors and displays decision-ready information on drilling performance

and safety via customizable screens. A summary of the real-time status

of the well is obtained by combining depth- and time-based data related

to

Wellbore pressure balance

Fast, reliable detection of fluid influx or loss in the wellbore, even at very

low volumes, gives a valuable edge during drilling operations. The

system reduces the number of “false alarms”, which require time-

consuming flow checks. Early kick detection is further supported by

pumpoff gas analysis to identify potential underbalance situations.

Automatic flowback fingerprint is captured and displayed on screens

when the rig pumps are stopped, for quick and easy visual reference.

Drilling mechanics

The wear and behavior of the drill bit are assessed by monitoring key

drilling parameters—axial (bit bouncing) and torsional (stick/slip)

vibration frequencies and energy—through measurements made by

surface sensors. Potential issues like bit balling, drillstring vibration, and

bit wear can be anticipated and drilling parameters can be optimized to

improve ROP and increase equipment life.

Hole condition

Wellbore stability and hole-cleaning efficiency are analyzed in real time

by comparing measurements of relevant parameters—such as pickup,

slack-off, and free-rotating weights; torque; and equivalent circulating

density (ECD)—with theoretical values calculated using industry-

standard models. Hole-condition monitoring can be further enhanced

through the use of cuttings flowmeters.

Expert support

Thema service includes engineers both on the rig and in your office,

working together to ensure that the right information is delivered within

your organization in a timely manner. They are supported by remotely

based engineers and geoscientists with global experience in optimizing

drilling operations.

Related services and products

  Cuttings Loading & Wellbore Stability Surveillance

Service

  Fluid Loss & Gain Detection Service

Solids Control & Waste Management

With solids control and drilling waste management services, M-I SWACO

works to optimize drilling efficiencies by reducing fluid losses, HSE

impact, and cost. Specially engineered, cost-effective technologies

include shakers, screens, and centrifuges, as well as vacuums and

pneumatic conveyance systems.

Solids Control

M-I SWACO offers a complete line of solids control technologies that

improve drilling rates and reduce costs through the efficient removal of

drilled solids.

Drilling Waste Management

Engineered cost-effective technologies offering a wide range of cuttings

treatment systems designed to reduce the HSE footprint of drilling

operations.

Solids Control Systems and Products

Solids control equipment and services that remove solids to maintain

drilling fluid integrity

M-I SWACO offers a complete line of  solids control technologies,

comprising shakers, screens, centrifuges, D-SANDERS, mud cleaners and

fluid processing systems.  Our integrated portfolio of cutting-edge solids

control technologies are engineered to optimize drilling efficiencies by

reducing fluid losses, HSE impact, and costs.

We design and operate solids control solutions that improve drilling rates

and reduce costs through the efficient removal of drilled solids.  As

importantly, our new generation solids control solutions minimize

considerably the environmental footprint of your operation.

In developing our portfolio of solids control technologies, we went far

beyond a one size fits all approach. We recognized that each project and

each rig is different, and that diversity extends to the solids control. Our

Rig Engineering and Systems group works closely with rig designers,

contractors, operators and shipyards to assess their unique

specifications.  We examine well programs to determine the optimum

solids control program to meet specific cost, operational and

environment requirements.

The result is an integrated drilling and waste management configuration

that addresses all the unique needs of your specific project.  Regardless

of the application, our best-in-class, project-specific solids control

technologies have shown their capacity to deliver:

Maximum separation efficiency

High-efficiency solids removal

Lower costs

Reduced dilution rates

Optimum HSE performance

Shale Shakers

Complete line of advanced balanced-elliptical and linear-motion shakers

for all onshore and offshore applications.

MD-3 Shale Shaker  |  MD-2 Shale Shaker  |  MEERKAT PT Shale

Shaker    | MONGOOSE PRO Shale Shaker

Screens

Wide range of screen technologies that optimize solids control efficiency

and reduce costs.

Composite OEM and Replacement  |  D500 METALBACK

Replacement  | DURAFLO Composite Replacement  |  MAGNUM  |  THULE

Screen Frames |  XR Screen Mesh

Mud Cleaners

High-efficiency solids removal, fluid preservation technologies.

Desanders    |  2-12  |  2-12/4T4 Combo  |  2-12/6T4 Combo  |  2-12/8T4

Combo

Centrifuges

Decanting units that deliver the highest level of operational and

environmental performance.

414  |  518  |  CD-500  |  CD-600  |  MAGNA

OptM-Izer

Mobile, high-efficiency solids control for land operations

FLUID PROCESSING SYSTEM

Integrated, high-efficiency and HSE-acceptable solids-control and mud

mixing technologies.

Mud Mixing

HI-RIDE Hopper  |  HI-SIDE Blender  |  Automatic Bag Slitter  |  Caustic

Soda Mix Tank

MUD TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM

System for improving efficiencies, safety in HTHP wells

Shale Shakers

Specially designed high-capacity units for all drilling environments M-I

SWACO designs, manufactures and operates a complete line of

advanced balanced-elliptical and linear-motion shakers for all onshore

and offshore applications.  Whether used as scalping, primary or stand-

alone units, our high-capacity shale shakers deliver unmatched solids

removal.  All of our shakers are available for sell or rental.

We pioneered the design of shakers that occupy minimal rig space, but

deliver the muscle to handle high solids volume.  In high ROP

applications, our shakers keep solids at bay, allowing your active drilling

fluid to perform at peak efficiency.

In designing our suite of high performing shakers, we looked first at what

they would be asked to do.  Since drill solids degrade rapidly when first

processed, it is critical they quickly be removed from the circulating

mud. That's where the shaker comes in, playing a vital role as the first

mechanism for solids removal.   Failure to keep solids out of the active

mud could mean diminished ROP, equipment damage, non-productive

time and higher costs. In designing our shale shaker technologies we

considered:

The shaker vibration pattern

Vibration dynamics, or G-force

Deck size and configuration

Shaker processing efficiency

Shaker screen characteristics

What resulted are some of the most innovative, high performing and

cost-effective shakers on the market.

MD-3 Shale Shaker

High efficiency, adaptable shaker in a compact package

MD-2 Shale Shaker

An unbeatable combination for solids control

MEERKAT PT Shale Shaker

Unique dual-motion shaker for optimal solids removal, fluid recovery

MONGOOSE PRO Shale Shaker

Balanced and Progressive elliptical motion combined with configuration

flexibility to suit your needs.

Screens

Wide range of screen technologies that optimize solids control efficiency,

cut costs

Our SWECO unit designs and manufactures a full inventory of shale

shaker screens that combine fluid capacity with long life. Our patented

line of composite screens employ patented frame, mesh and bonding

technologies that ensure high separation efficiency.

Our screens are manufactured in a board range of mesh sizes to ensure

maximum solids control efficiency regardless of the formations drilled.

Our high-strength and reinforced plastic and glass frames are lighter and

more durable than metal frames. What results is operational life that is

nearly double that of other screens on the market.

D500 METALBACK Replacement

Durable screens for Derrick shale shakers

DURAFLO Composite Replacement

High-capacity, long-life composite shaker screens

MAGNUM

Blinding resistant screen for high capacity, long life

THULE Screen Frames

XR Screen Mesh

Patented technology for high flow rates, long life

Mud Cleaners

High-efficiency solids removal, fluid preservation technologies

M-I SWACO offers a line of mud cleaners that employs a two-stage

separation process for the ultimate in drilling fluid recovery. Our mud

cleaners use a combination of hydrocyclones mounted over a shale

shaker to operate as a single unit. M-I SWACO mud cleaners are

designed to handle the entire circulating volume to remove and dry

solids while retaining premium base fluid. They are equally effective for

both weighted and unweighted drilling-fluids.

With our mud cleaners, the hydrocyclones make the primary separation

with underflow directed onto the shaker vibrating screen. The M-I

SWACO mud cleaners have been proved effective in lowering both

drilling-fluid and disposal costs.

Desanders

Technologies for high-capacity removal of sand, abrasive solids

2-12 SLANT-MOUNT  |  2-12 VERTICAL-MOUNT    |  3-12 SLANT-

MOUNT  |  3-12 VERTICAL-MOUNT

2-12

High efficiency solids removal system

2-12/4T4 Combo

Versatile, high efficiency mud cleaning combination

2-12/6T4 Combo

D-SANDER, D-SILTER, Shaker combo for high-efficient solids removal

2-12/8T4 Combo

D-SANDER, D-SILTER, Shaker combo increases solids removal, lowers

costs

Centrifuges

Decanting units that deliver the highest level of environmental

performance

M-I SWACO provides high-speed, variable-speed, and fully variable-

speed centrifuges designed specifically to process drilling fluids to the

highest environmental standards. Our decanting centrifuges are

designed to deliver high fluid recovery rates and efficient solids control.

Together, that adds up to a significant reduction in the operator’s total

fluids cost and less waste for disposal.

The M-I SWACO line of ruggedly built centrifuges were designed for both

oilfield and industrial applications. They are especially effective in

meeting the fluid-on-cuttings discharge requirements in environmentally

sensitive areas.

Our centrifuges recover as much as 95 percent of the barite in weighted

drilling fluids. The barite is returned to the active mud system, while the

decanting centrifuge discards the finer, lower-gravity solids.

In chemically enhanced dewatering systems, M-I SWACO centrifuges

reduce liquid discharge volumes significant while enhancing total solids

control system efficiency.

414

High-speed, cost-effective centrifuge

518

Premier high-speed decanting centrifuge

CD-500

High-speed, precision-balanced centrifuge

CD-600

Centrifuge specially designed for high-volume drilling

MAGNA

Magnetic-drive, safe operating centrifuge

Mobile, high-efficiency solids control for land operations

The M-I SWACO OptM-Izer solids control technology is a mobile closed-

loop unit engineered to time, labor and installation costs. The OptM-Izer

can work standalone or as a supplement to rig shakers. It can move in,

rig up and be operating on location within two hours of arrival.

The OptM-Izer operates in three processing modes, depending on the

specific application and requirements:

High-volume. Drilling fluid is drawn from the rig via the 6-in. suction

line and into two fully variable-speed-centrifugal feed pumps inside the

pump room. They, in turn, move the fluid to the two fully-variable-speed

centrifuges. The centrifuges are mounted atop the pump room so that

the solids can discard into the catch-tank portion of the trailer while the

liquid effluent returns to the tanks mounted below, inside the pump

room. The effluent then returns to the rig via a separate fully-variable-

speed centrifugal pump at the same rate as the fluid entering the tanks

Dewatering. This mode is similar to high volume processing, but with

an additional chemical-injection line tapped into both centrifuge feed

pumps.  Drilling fluids are flocculated on the fly while flowing toward the

centrifuge-feed piping. Clear-water effluent is piped directly into the

effluent tank for immediate, metered return to the rig via the

automation package and level controls. The flocculated solids are

discarded directly into the trailer’s catch tank.

Barite-recovery. Operators can switch the centrifugal feed pumps from

parallel to series operation.  In the series mode, the No. 1 centrifuge

processes mud in low speed operation and the effluent returns to the

polishing tank. There, it is polished through the No. 2 centrifuge. The

barite recovered from the first centrifuge passes directly into the slurry

tank mounted in the pump room, along with the polished effluent from

the No. 2 centrifuge.

Applications

OptM-Izer was engineered for land rigs not equipped to perform

specialized solids-control operations and do not require these

capabilities while drilling the entire well.  

OptM-Izer provides those operations barite recovery, high-capacity

processing, dewatering and/or mud stripping.

Benefits

Better solids removal to reduce dilution and waste volumes

Fully-variable speed- centrifuge technology lowers the percentage of

liquid on cuttings, while the entire OptM-Izer package is fully contained

to avoid any liquid/solid spills

Increased solids removal efficiency

Lower mobilization, transportation and installation costs

Reduced manpower requirements

No crane picks

Lower drilling-waste disposal costs.

FLUID PROCESSING SYSTEM

Integrated and high-efficiency solids-control, mud mixing solution M-I

SWACO provides a uniquely engineered FLUIDS PROCESSING SYSTEM

(FPS) as a fully integrated and complete solids-control solution. The FPS

combines all solids control technologies from shakers to centrifuges to

D-GASSER units in a single skid-mounted unit. Unlike systems that rely

on equipment from others, the FPS offers a suite of field-proven

technologies functioning as a single unit.

Complementing the FPS is M-I SWACO Mud Mixing technologies that are

customized for the parameters and drilling objectives of the specific well.

Regardless the rig size or project complexity, we will engineer, fabricate

and commission a mud-mixing system matched specifically to your

operation. We offer either a single educator unit or a fully automated

mud mixing network for both drilling and completion fluids.

Pressure & Fluid Management System

Automatic pressure control and effective removal of drill solids and gas

from drilling and completion fluids

RHE-USE Fluid Processing System

The RHE-USE process is a patent-pending technology that allows

operators to reuse invert emulsion drilling fluids over multiple wells

without relying on reclamation through high rates of dilution. The

process treats oil-base drilling fluid, reducing solids below 1% while

drilling.

Mud Mixing

Regardless of rig size or project complexity, M-I SWACO will use our

operational and engineering experience to design a system that meets

the customers and market expectations. We will then engineer, fabricate

and commission the mud-mixing system required to perform efficiently

and safely.

Whether it’s a single HIRIDE eductor, or a fully automated, touch screen-

controlled, multifunction system, it will deliver the best performance

available.

If one quality best describes the system, it is “versatility.” Originally

conceived for mixing drilling fluids, an M-I SWACO system can be

designed for completion fluids as well. Rugged construction, using low-

temperature carbon steel and stainless steel, ensures long life in hostile

environments. All components feature a minimized footprint and the

flexibility to be positioned as rig space dictates.

All of our Mud Mixing technologies are constructed of rugged, low-

temperature carbon and stainless steel. As a result, they perform

efficiently, safely and over a longer life, regardless of the environment.

What’s more, we have engineered into the systems components

designed specially to protect the health and safety of workers.

HI-RIDE Hopper

High-speed, rapid-induction dynamic eductor

HI-SIDE Blender

High-Speed, In-line, Dilution Equipment

Automatic Bag Slitter

Automatic system that promotes worker safety, health

Caustic Soda Mix Tank

Fully enclosed HSE acceptable mixing tank

Chemical-Additive Unit

HSE-acceptable system for chemical additions

System for improving efficiencies, safety in HTHP wells

The M-I SWACO Mud Temperature Control System improves safety and

drilling efficiency in HTHP applications. The technology reduces fluid loss

and non-productive time (NPT) while also protecting the health and

safety of the rig crew.

In HTHP wells, even the most temperature-tolerant drilling fluids have

their limits. At a certain point, these muds begin to break down or

behave erratically, resulting in fluid loss, reduced viscosity, stuck pipe,

unstable filter cakes and other problems.

In addition, overheated oil-based muds can release fumes that result in

uncomfortable and hazardous breathing conditions for rig crews.

Further, fluids heated beyond their limits can produce inaccurate

readings from Measurement While Drilling (MWD) and Logging While

Drilling (LWD) tools. They also can lead to excess wear on the

elastomers of the MWD, LWD tools, as well as those in BOP) riser,

shakers, centrifuges and mud pumps.

The DRILLING FLUID TEMPERATURE CONTROL system is engineered with

a specific focus on efficient heat transfer in drilling fluids. The system

has been field-proven to reduce risk factors and drilling complications

while simultaneously increasing safety and decreasing operating costs.

From installation through everyday maintenance, every feature of the

system has been developed with HTHP operations in mind. The system is

built around the well-proven

ALFA LAVAL titanium plate heat exchanger and is designed in

accordance with ASME or PED codes and standards.

Features

Skid-mounted, ready for immediate operation

Effectively reduces drilling-fluid temperature

 Engineered to ensure maximum serviceability

Incorporates the ALFA LAVAL titanium plate heat exchangers

Maintains oil-base fluids below their flash points

Increases endurance and accuracy of downhole devices such as MWD

and LWD tools

Fewer additives required to maintain drilling-fluid rheological properties

Benefits

Better drilling-fluid performance

Longer elastomer life in  MWD/LWD tools, BOP, riser, shakers,

centrifuges and pumps

Reduces NPT on downhole tools

Fewer conditioning additives required, lower drilling-fluid costs

Improves personnel safety and working environment

MWD and logging tools can be used at greater depths

Increased up-time strengthens project bottom line

Drilling Waste Management

Drilling waste management expertise to minimize your environmental

footprint

M-I SWACO leads the industry in engineering cost-effective technologies

designed to reduce the HSE footprint of your  drilling operations.  Our

new generation drilling waste management technologies includes

vacuums and pneumatic conveyance systems for the safe collection and

transport of cuttings.  Our wide range of cuttings treatment systems

include a multi-disciplinary waste injection process and patented thermal

desorption technologies.  We also are the clear leader in developing

drilling fluids with characteristics making them ideal for bioremediation.

Fundamental to our drilling waste management strategy is not only

minimizing waste, but transforming it into a beneficial resource. 

That strategy is at the core of the M-I SWACO culture where all

employees share responsibility to protect the environment. It is the

guiding force behind our company-wide program of product

development, refinement and applications focused on protection and

sustainability.

Our portfolio of drilling waste management solutions include:

Bioremediation/land farming

Cuttings slurrification and re-injection (CRI)

Dewatering and water treatment

Stabilization

Thermal processing

Cuttings drying

Vacuum collection

Pneumatic cuttings transport

Cuttings Collection & Transport

Vacuum and advanced pneumatic conveyance technologies for the safe

collection and transport of drilling cuttings.

CLEANCUT Cuttings Collection and Containment  |  VACUUM COLLECTION

SYSTEM (VCS)

Cuttings Treatment

Suite of high-technologies for securely treating contaminated drill

cuttings

Bioremediation  |  COMPACT THERMAL PHASE SEPARATION

System    | PILOT SCALE SYSTEMS for Treatable Studies    |  Thermal

Desorption: HAMMERMILL Onshore    |  Thermal Desorption: HAMMERMILL

Offshore  | Thermal Desorption using Rotary Kiln Technology

Cuttings Re-Injection

All-inclusive planning, execution and monitoring CRI process

Cuttings Dryers

High-speed centrifuge for maximum in liquid/solid separation

Cuttings Collection & Transport

Technologies for the safe, efficient handling of drill cuttings

M-I SWACO is the drilling industry’s premier provider of Cuttings

Collection and Transport equipment and services. Our industry-leading

cuttings collection and transport technologies include both vacuums and

the advanced CLEANCUT pneumatic conveyance system.

Vacuums offer simple installation, high-performance efficiency and total

containment for the utmost in HSE effectiveness. They also are easy to

operate and maintain and deliver a relatively small system footprint.

The CLEANCUT pneumatic system minimizes the need for crane lifts and

allows cuttings to be transferred at great distances. CLEANCUT also can

accommodate significant variances in the liquid content of the feed

materials. For these reasons it has evolved into the preferred method for

the bulk transfer of cuttings.

CLEANCUT Cuttings Collection and Containment

Safe and efficient cuttings collection and containment

VACUUM COLLECTION SYSTEM (VCS)

Unique technology for the safe collection, storage and movement of drill

cuttings

Cuttings Treatment

Suite of high-technologies for securely treating contaminated drill

cuttings

Once drill cuttings have been safely contained, M-I SWACO provides a

suite of new generation treatment technologies. Our advanced line of

treatment options range from bioremediation to the latest in thermal

desorption technologies. Our VERTI-G cuttings dryers are industry

standards as is our all-inclusive cuttings re-injection planning, execution

and assurance process. We are a pioneer in desorption technologies

incorporating efficient processes for reclaiming base oil, minimizing

waste and preparing solids for disposal.

Our cuttings treatment solutions begin in the fluid development stage.

M-I SWACO operates specialized laboratories, including a greenhouse,

where our environmental specialists conduct exhaustive tests for

toxicity, biodegradation, recyclability and reuse.  

As we examine ways to deliver value to our customers, we also discover

ways to benefit the environment.

Bioremediation

Technologies that transform drilling waste into a beneficial reuse

product

COMPACT THERMAL PHASE SEPARATION System

Effectively recovers base fluid for re-use, facilitates on-site cuttings

disposal

PILOT SCALE SYSTEMS for Treatable Studies

Pre-project testing technology for TPS projects

Thermal Desorption: HAMMERMILL Onshore

Onshore desorption system that employs friction to recover base oil

Thermal Desorption: HAMMERMILL Offshore

Modular, integrated cuttings treatment for use offshore

Thermal Desorption using Rotary Kiln Technology

High-capacity system for recovering entrained oil, water

All-inclusive planning, execution and monitoring CRI process

M-I SWACO has developed an integrated Cuttings Re-Injection (CRI)

process that has emerged as a proven and effective solution for the

disposal of drilled cuttings. By eliminating the need to accumulate, store

and haul cuttings to shore for treatment, operators save time, labor and

rig space. Some of the key factors in gaining these benefits are effective

handling and preparation of cuttings before re-injection.

Our integrated and site-specific CRI systems uses slurrification as a

practical and cost-effective way to process drilled cuttings for re-

injection. Cuttings are collected, conditioned and mixed with seawater to

form viscous slurry ready for immediate re-injection into a downhole

formation.

M-I SWACO also designed an all-inclusive CRI assurance program to

minimize the risks of future liability. A multi-disciplinary team of

scientists and engineer start by examining the merits of potential

injection formations. The team then designs and executes the injection

process, all the while monitoring the progress. That monitoring

continues after the project is complete.

The comprehensive CRI process gives operators the confidence and

ability to:

Re-inject into existing production wells

Drill and re-inject simultaneously

Inject into existing wells or into dedicated cuttings disposal wells

High-speed centrifuge for maximum in liquid/solid separation

The VERTI-G cuttings dryer incorporates a high-speed vertical centrifuge

that achieves maximum liquid/solid separation in large-volume

processing. This mechanism makes the VERTI-G dryer one of the

industry’s best performing and most dependable cutting dryers. The

VERTI-G dryer gives operators a critical advantage in meeting

increasingly stringent environmental rules for cuttings disposal.

Versatility and high-performance

Drill cuttings are conveyed from the shakers to the VERTI-G cuttings

dryer through a variety of site-engineered conveyance systems that

include

Gravity feed

CLEANCUT pneumatic transfer

Vacuum transfer

Screw conveyors

The flow of cuttings into the VERTI-G dryer is PLC-controlled and

continuously fed to yield optimum liquid/ solids separation. Once

cuttings are introduced into the dryer’s charge hopper, widely spaced,

independently adjustable flights continuously direct cuttings to the

screen surface. Flights are tungsten carbide coated to reduce wear and

ensure optimum tolerance.

Flights within the VERTI-G dryer create a rolling action that promotes

efficient separation and prevents screen plugging. Under high G-forces

created by the large cone diameter, liquid/solids separation occurs

instantly as cuttings make contact with the finer-mesh, high-capacity

centrifuge screen. The end result is clean return fluid and dry solids

discharge.

Improved efficiency means lower costs

The VERTI-G cuttings dryer improves overall cost-efficiency by

recovering costly drilling fluid that is recovered from cuttings, as well as

whole mud lost from shaker failure and rig motion. Further, the VERTI-G

cuttings dryer produces lower waste volumes by generating dryer solids

in both oil- and synthetic-base drilling fluid systems. The reduced waste

volume can in turn dramatically reduce disposal costs.

Ease of maintenance

Routine flushing of the dryer system prevents solids buildup in the

recovery area and minimizes shutdowns for cleaning. In addition, normal

wear parts are easily accessible from the top of the unit; belts are easily

changed without removing gear assembly. Interchangeable tungsten-

carbide rotor blades protect rotor and gearbox from excessive erosion,

minimizing main component failure and lowering maintenance cost.