Case Study: Rheology Control in Oil-Based Drilling Fluid

CP-992 self-activating organoclay delivered consistent yield point and gel strength in a diesel-based OBM used for directional drilling in the Middle East.

The Challenge

A drilling contractor required a reliable organoclay viscosifier for a diesel-based OBM system used in horizontal directional drilling at temperatures to 150°C (300°F). The previous organoclay supplier provided inconsistent YP and gel strength batch-to-batch, causing non-productive time (NPT) from stuck pipe events.

Solution: CP-992 at 5 lb/bbl

CP-992 self-activating organoclay was added at 5 lb/bbl (14.3 kg/m³) to the diesel base fluid during mud mixing. No lime or water activation was required — ideal for field simplicity. The mud was mixed at 3,500 rpm for 20 minutes before adding other components.

Results (HPHT measured at 150°C / 300°F)

ParameterSpecificationCP-992 Result
Plastic Viscosity (PV)18–28 cP22 cP
Yield Point (YP)12–22 lb/100 ft²17 lb/100 ft²
10-sec gel4–10 lb/100 ft²6 lb/100 ft²
10-min gel8–18 lb/100 ft²13 lb/100 ft²
API fluid loss<4 mL3.2 mL

Conclusion

CP-992 consistently met all rheology specifications across 12 consecutive batches with <5% variation in YP — eliminating the NPT experienced with the previous supplier. The self-activating feature simplified field operations and reduced mud engineer preparation time by ~25%.

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