Lost Circulation Materials (LCMs) are critical additives in drilling fluids within the petroleum sector, designed to reduce the loss of drilling fluids into porous rock formations.
Image Credit: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock.com
These materials vastly differ in shape and size. It is well understood that irregularly shaped particles offer better strengthening and thickening than spherical ones. As a result, it is not optimal to only rely on particle size analysis for LCM selection. Incorporating both shape and size measurements, like smoothness and circularity, is crucial for the best performance.
Limitations of Traditional Particle Size Analyzers
Legacy particle size analyzers generally assume spherical particles when measuring particle size. This assumption sometimes leads to inaccuracies when dealing with irregularly shaped LCMs, as these instruments cannot account for variations in shape that can notably influence performance.
Introducing the Raptor: Advanced Particle Size and Shape Analysis
To address these drawbacks, Vision Analytical has created the Raptor, an advanced particle analyzer able to measure particle shape and size.
By providing comprehensive data on parameters such as smoothness and circularity, the Raptor enables LCMS to be characterized more accurately. Such detailed analysis ensures that the chosen materials are best suited to the specific rock formations that are encountered during drilling. Consequently, this reduces fluid loss and improves operational efficiency.
Key Features of the Raptor Analyzer
- Optimized LCM Selection: Matches LCM properties to specific geological conditions, bettering drilling efficiency.
- Improved Accuracy: Accounts for irregularly-shaped particles, providing more reliable data than traditional analyzers, which only measure size.
- Comprehensive Analysis: Measures particle size and shape simultaneously, offering a holistic understanding of an LCM’s characteristics.
See for Yourself
SEE how LCM material analysis is performed using the Vision Analytical Raptor.
Petroleum Lost Circulation Material (LCM). Particle Size and Shape Analysis - CCM Type #1
Video Credit: Vision Analytical Inc.
Conclusion
It is vital to incorporate shape analysis into the evaluation of Lost Circulation Materials for effective drilling operations. The Raptor particle analyzer provides detailed insights into both shape and size, thereby improving the accuracy of selecting and applying LCMs in the petroleum industry. The Raptor analyzer, therefore, stands out as a superior application.
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Vision Analytical Inc.
For more information on this source, please visit Vision Analytical Inc.