Synthetic polymers:A review of applications in drilling fluids

With the growth of deep drilling and the complexity of the well profile,the requirements for a more complete and efficient exploitation of productive formations increase,which increases the risk of various complications.Currently,reagents based on modified natural polymers(which are naturally occurring compounds)and synthetic polymers(SPs)which are polymeric compounds created industrially,are widely used to prevent emerging complications in the drilling process.However,compared to modified natural polymers,SPs form a family of high-molecular-weight compounds that are fully synthesized by undergoing chemical polymerization reactions.SPs provide substantial flexibility in their design.Moreover,their size and chemical composition can be adjusted to provide properties for nearly all the functional objectives of drilling fluids.They can be classified based on chemical ingredients,type of reaction,and their responses to heating.However,some of SPs,due to their structural characteristics,have a high cost,a poor temperature and salt resistance in drilling fluids,and degradation begins when the temperature reaches 130℃.These drawbacks prevent SP use in some medium and deep wells.Thus,this review addresses the historical development,the characteristics,manufacturing methods,classification,and the applications of SPs in drilling fluids.The contributions of SPs as additives to drilling fluids to enhance rheology,filtrate generation,carrying of cuttings,fluid lubricity,and clay/shale stability are explained in detail.The mechanisms,impacts,and advances achieved when SPs are added to drilling fluids are also described.The typical challenges encountered by SPs when deployed in drilling fluids and their advantages and drawbacks are also discussed.Economic issues also impact the applications of SPs in drilling fluids.Consequently,the cost of the most relevant SPs,and the monomers used in their synthesis,are assessed.Environmental impacts of SPs when deployed in drilling fluids,and their manufacturing processes are identified,together with advances in SP-treatment methods aimed at reducing those impacts.Recommendations for required future research addressing SP property and performance gaps are provided.

Black Hole Complementarity in Terms of the Outsider and Insider Perspectives

A complementarity hypothesis concerning outsider and insider perspectives of a gargantuan black hole is proposed. The two thought experiments presented herein are followed by a brief discussion of a new interpretation of black hole interior “space-and-time-reversal”. Specifically, it is proposed that the “singularity” space of the black hole interior is time-like and the expansion time of the black hole interior is space-like. The resemblance of this new insider interpretation to our own expanding and redshifting big bang universe is compelling.

Hole cleaning evaluation and installation spacing optimization of cuttings bed remover in extended-reach drilling

In extended-reach or long-horizontal drilling,cuttings usually deposit at the bottom of the annulus.Once cuttings accumulate to a certain thickness,complex problems such as excessive torque and drag,tubing buckling,and pipe stuck probably occur,which results in a lot of non-productive time and remedial operations.Cuttings bed remover can efficiently destroy deposited cuttings in time through hydraulic and mechanical stirring effects.This paper aims to build a method for hole cleaning evaluation and installation spacing optimization of cuttings bed remover to improve the wellbore cleaning effect.Firstly,a Computational Fluid Dynamics approach with Eulerian—Eulerian multiphase model was utilized to investigate the mechanism of cuttings transportation,and a new type of cuttings bed remover was designed.Next,an evaluation method of hole cleaning effect of remover was established.After that,the effects of several drilling parameters on hole cleaning including flow rate of drilling fluid,rotational speed of drillpipe,rate of penetration,wellbore size,rheological property of drilling fluid,and remover eccentricity on the performance of cuttings bed remover were investigated.The results demonstrate that the new type of remover with streamline blade performs better than conventional removers.The efficiency of hole cleaning is greatly improved by increasing the rotational speed of drillpipe,flow rate of drilling fluid,remover eccentricity,and 6 rpm Fann dial reading for drilling fluid.While higher rate of penetration and large wellbore size result in worse hole cleaning.These findings can serve as an important guide for the structure optimization design of cuttings bed remover and installation spacing of removers.

Theoretical and Experimental Analysis on Influence of Revolution Radius in Orbital Drilling

Revolution radius is one of the significant parameters in orbital drilling,which has great influence on many factors,such as the cutting area of front and side cutting edge,undeformed chip geometry,delamination and burr at hole exit side,hole surface roughness,cutting tool force and deflection,chip removal and heat transmission.First,the influence of revolution radius on the factors is discussed theoretically in detail.Analysis results show that big revolution radius can reduce axial cutting force,restrain exit delamination and burr,and improve chip removal and heat transmission.Then,single factor test and orthogonal test are utilized in the two processing methods as machining unidiameter holes with several cutting tools and machining different diameter holes with one tool.Finally,the influence of revolution radius on cutting force and hole machining precision is studied.These results provide a profound foundation for future optimization of cutting control parameters.

ESR and U-series ages of coral reef samples from shallow drill holes in the South China Sea

The ages of coral reef samples from several shallow drill holes in the South China Sea are determined by ESR and U-series (230Th/234U) methods. The experimental results show ideal agreement between ESR and U-series ages and that the coral reefs were formed in the early Holocene. In the determination of natural total dose of coral reef by use of the additive dose method good results can be obtained by exponential fitting, no matter how the effect of dose saturation is. It was found that the ratio of the natural ESR signal intensity ( I0) to the ESR signal intensity at dose saturation ( Imax) of sample can reflect the significance of a irradiation efficiency-k value. Using the k value of sample determined by the formula given in this paper, the precision of ESR dating of marine carbonates can be improved.

Research on the Effects of the Contents of Radioactive Elements on Granularity and Climate Change:An Example of SZK1 and SZK2 Drill Holes Strata in the Fuzhou Basin

Based on the content of radioactive elements (U, Th, K) of strata in two drill holes in the Fuzhou basin, and combined with the result of spore_pollen analysis, the relationship between radioactivity and lithology and deposit environments is discussed and the results show that the content of radioactive substances is related to the granularity and lithology in sediment, and it is higher in argillaceous sediment (e.g. silt and clay), lower in sand sediment and in the middle in gravels between the above two kinds of sediment. The content of radioactive substances is also related to paleoclimate. A warm and humid environment is propitious to the deposition of radioactive substances, while a cool and dry climate is just the reverse.

Micro Electrical Discharge Machining(μEDM):Holes Drilling and Characterization of the Process Parameters

μEDM(micro-electrical discharge machining)is a process for machining conductive materials without mechanical contact;it is particularly suitable for machining hard materials.The principle consists in creating electrical discharges between a micro-tool and a workpiece,both of which are immersed in a dielectric.It is a complementary process to mechanical,laser,micro-machining techniques,and even to techniques derived from silicon microtechnology(RIE,DRIE,LIGA).However,the resolution ofμEDM is limited;it depends on several electrical and physical parameters.The goal of this paper is to characterize the holes obtained by drilling usingμEDM with different micro-tool diameters(Φ=250μm;Φ=80μm;Φ=40μm;Φ=20μm)for an experimental time of t=2 h.The results obtained let us conclude that a large diameter micro-tool(Φ=250μm)leads to removing a larger amount of material(43×10^(5)μm^(3))than small diameters:Φ=80μm;Φ=40μm;Φ=20μm where the removed volume is equal to 2.6×10^(5)μm^(3);105μm^(3);0.4×10^(5)μm^(3),respectively.The electrode-tool diameter influences the maximum depth of the holes;a diameter ofΦ=250μm generates a hole where the maximum depth is 170μm while small diameters:Φ=80μm;Φ=40μm;Φ=20μm provide holes with a depth of 82μm;51μm;50μm respectively.Through these experiments,we can also conclude that the lateral gap of the holes is almost constant.It is about 40μm whatever the diameter.

Crack stop holes in steel bridge decks:Drilling method and effects

Force analysis using a compact tension model, as recommended by ASTM, was carried out on a crack stop hole. The stress before, and after, drilling the hole was compared in terms of stress concentration and stress gradient. The optimum drilling location and diameter were studied through analysis of different locations and diameters. By analyzing the effects of flank holes and an additional hole, drilling advice was proposed and fatigue testing of the cracks in a steel bridge deck with a crack stop hole was conducted. The results show that the stress at the crack tip with a crack stop hole decreased, and the major principal stress around the hole was distributed accordingly. The optimum position of the crack stop hole centre was where the centre of the crack stop hole was situated behind the crack and the hole edge coincided with the crack tip. Therefore, hole diameters larger than 8 mm, or those weakening the section by 10%, were suggested as the best diameters. In terms of multi-hole crack stopping, a flank hole was not recommended. The optimum horizontal position of flank holes was at a distance of 1/4 of a single hole diameter from, and in front of, the single hole. Besides, the experiment showed that crack stop hole could only prevent cracks from growing and had no influence on crack growth rate.

Influence of friction on buckling of a drill string in the circular channel of a bore hole

Enhancement of technology and techniques for drilling deep directed oil and gas bore hole is one of the most important problems of the current petroleum industry.Not infrequently, the drilling of these bore holes is attended by occurrence of extraordinary situations associated with technical accidents. Among these is the Eulerian loss of stability of a drill string in the channel of a curvilinear bore hole. Methods of computer simulation should play a dominant role in prediction of these states. In this paper, a new statement of the problem of critical buckling of the drill strings in 3D curvilinear bore holes is proposed. It is based on combined use of the theory of curvilinear elastic rods, Eulerian theory of stability, theory of channel surfaces, and methods of classical mechanics of systems with nonlinear constraints. It is noted that the stated problem is singularly perturbed and its solutions have the shapes of localized harmonic wavelets. The calculation results showed that the friction effects lead to essential redistribution of internal axial forces, as well as changing the eigenmode shapes and sites of their localization. These features make the buckling phenomena less predictable and raise the role of computer simulation of these effects.

How Gravitational Effects on the Quantum Vacuum Might Explain Dark Energy and Dark Matter Observations

Following a brief review of the “black hole dark energy radiation” and “gravitized vacuum” references, a novel theory of how gravity might affect the quantum vacuum is proposed. This overarching theory proposes that the gravitational field of a sufficiently concentrated collection of matter and/or energy upregulates the virtual particle activity of the adjacent quantum vacuum, thus its energy density and lensing capacity. In contrast to general relativity, the particle and wave duality of quantum physics is necessary for understanding quantum vacuum gravitational effects. Very recent supporting and pending observational studies are discussed, including the ingenious and extremely sensitive vacuum scale to be deployed for the Archimedes Experiment. Support or falsification of this proposal may be imminent.

Numerical and experimental investigation on the depressurization capacity of a new type of depressure-dominated jet mill bit

Efficient cuttings transport and improving rate of penetration(ROP)are two major challenges in horizontal drilling and extended reach drilling.A type of jet mill bit(JMB)may provide an opportunity to catch the two birds with one stone:not only enhancing cuttings transport efficiency but also improving ROP by depressuring at the bottom hole.In this paper,the JMB is further improved and a new type of depressure-dominated JMB is presented;meanwhile,the depressurization capacity of the depressure-dominated JMB is investigated by numerical simulation and experiment.The numerical study shows that low flow-rate ratio helps to enhance the depressurization capacity of the depressure-dominated JMB;for both depressurization and bottom hole cleaning concern,the flow-rate ratio is suggested to be set at approximately 1:1.With all other parameter values being constant,lower dimensionless nozzle-to-throat-area ratio may result in higher depressurization capacity and better bottom hole cleaning,and the optimal dimensionless nozzle-to-throat-area ratio is at approximately0.15.Experiments also indicate that reducing the dimensionless flow-rate ratio may help to increase the depressurization capacity of the depressure-dominated JMB.This work provides drilling engineers with a promising tool to improve ROP.

Did LIGO Really Detect Gravitational Waves?—The Existence of Electromagnetic Interaction Made the Experiments of LIGO Invalid

The paper proves that due to the existence of electromagnetic interaction, the experiments of LIGO cannot detect gravitational waves. This is also the reason why Weber’s experiments of gravitational waves failed. In fact, the formulas of general relativity that gravitational waves affect distances are only suitable for particles in vacuum. LIGO experiments are carried out on the earth. The laser interferometers are fixed on the steel pipes on the earth’s surface in the balanced state of electromagnetic force. Electromagnetic force is 1040 times greater than gravity. Gravitational waves are too weak to overcome electromagnetic force and change the length of steel pipes. Without considering this factor, the design principle of LIGO experiment has serious problem. The experiments to detect gravitational waves should move to space to avoid the influence of electromagnetic interaction. Besides, LIGO experiments have the following problems. 1) No explosion source of gravitational waves is really founded. 2) The argument that the Einstein’s theory of gravity is verified is a vicious circle and invalid in logic. 3) The results of experiments cause sharp contradiction for the energy currents of gravitational waves. The difference reaches to 1024 times and is unacceptable. 4) The method of numerical relativity causes great errors due to the existence of singularities. The errors are enlarged by the effect of butterfly due to the non-linearity of Einstein’s equation of gravity. 5) The so-called change of length 10-18 m between two glasses of interferometers detected in the experiment exceeds the ability of current technique. This kind of precise has entered micro-scalar. The uncertain principle of quantum mechanics makes it impossible. The signs appeared in LIGO experiments are not caused by distance change. 6) LIGO experiments have not detected gravitational waves. What detected may be the signs of disturbances coming from the middle region between two laser interferometers.

Exploration and determination of the principles of rotary-percussive underground slimhole drilling

A possibility of the efficient use of rotary percussive drilling to provide drilling smaller diameter holes(40–70 mm) both in mining and prospecting is disclosed herein. A new construction designed for the nipple thread connection is described. The relative amplitude variation, change of power pulse time and energy in their propagation throughout the drilling tool are determined. A possibility of the efficient power pulse transfer along the drill string to the rock destruction tools with new nipple connections which allow automating the make-up and breakout system of drill pipe was supported by experiments.

A High-Mathematical Model Optimizing Cuttings Transport in Oil Drilling Engineering

With special drilling operation equipment and specific conditions of geology, how does drilling fluid carry cuttings effectively? So far, it is still an urgent problem for drilling researchers to study. This work just aims at the actual engineering background to develop studying model. In this paper, according to non Newtonian fluid mechanics, the law of the solid liquid, two phase fluid flow and actual drilling engineering, the major factors affecting cuttings transport are drilling fluid velocity, hole inclination and fluid rheological properties. Getting a clear understanding of the law of drilling fluid and its cutting taking mechanism, this paper puts forward a model for analysis of field data and quantitative forecast of cutting taking capability of drilling fluid. The full scale annular test section was 6.1 m with 76 and 114 mm drillpipe in a 203 mm ID (wellbore diameter). Hole angle varied from 0° to 90°.

Permittivity of composites used for Luneburg lens antennas by drilling holes based on 3-D printing technique

Due to the attractive performances such as the ability of beam focus,broadband,multi-beam scanning and other features,Luneburg lens antennas are applied in multi-beam antenna,which overcomes the problem of gain loss produced by multi-beam parabolic antenna.Based on 3-D printing technique,Luneburg lens antennas by drilling holes are studied.Permittivity and loss tangent of the equivalent lens materials can be influenced by original materials,hole shapes,hole directions,and porosity.After tests,polystyrene with waxes may be the most appropriate materials for Luneburg lens with high strength.Permittivity with the shape of triangle is the lowest due to the homogeneity.Relative permittivities with the direction at a range of 15°-45°are lower while loss tangent at a range of 0°-30°.Radial directional holes are more appropriate for Luneburg lens.The relative permittivity is decreased with the increment of porosity.After calculations,the forecasts calculated by Looyenga and A-BG theory are more precise.Finally,Luneburg lens with two layers is fabricated by 3-D printing.

Automatic Modification of Local Drilling Holes via Double Pre-Assembly Holes

Manufacturing accuracy, especially position accuracy of fastener holes, directly affects service life and security of aircraft. The traditional modification has poor robustness, while the modification based on laser tracker costs too much. To improve the relative position accuracy of aircraft assembly drilling, and ensure the hole-edge distance requirement, a method was presented to modify the coordinates of drilling holes. Based on online inspecting two positions of pre-assembly holes and their theoretical coordinates, the spatial coordinate transformation matrix of modification could be calculated. Thus the straight drilling holes could be modified. The method improves relative position accuracy of drilling on simple structure effectively. And it reduces the requirement of absolute position accuracy and the cost of position modification. And the process technician also can use this method to decide the position accuracy of different pre-assembly holes based on the accuracy requirement of assembly holes.

Analysis on Well Drilling Example of Deepwater Block in the Gulf of Mexico

With the innovation and development of offshore oil drilling technology, drilling wells in deep waters areas have become an important activity for the development of new hydrocarbon reservoirs in this type of environment. CNOOC (China National Offshore Oil Corporation) won the rights to exploit two unexplored deepwater blocks in the Gulf of Mexico, in a bid realized by the Mexican Government (CNH), in 2016. The challenge to combine the newest technology with the oil industry experienced knowledge to lead the exploration and development of these deep-water blocks in Mexico is around the corner. Therefore, the basic techniques for deep waters wells drilling and the main potential risks are expounded in this paper. A set of deep waters wells drilling processes and methodologies are previously designed, and a specific case is demonstrated next, which provides a referential model for deep waters wells drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

STUDY ON THE ON－LINE OPTIMAL CONTROL OF PARAMETERS OF THREE－CONE BLAST HOLE DRILLS

A model recognition method for the on-line optimal control of the parameters ofthree-cone blast drills is developed. It takes a few of on-line measurements and has a rapidoptimization speed. The mathematic model for on-line optimal control of the parameters and thedetermination of the parameters in the model are also presented.

CUTTING FORCES FOR HIGH-SPEED DRILLING OF COMPOSITES

The thrust and the torque of various carbide drills are studied for the high-speed drilling of fiber reinforced epoxy composites. The orthogonal experiment is carried out with different feed speeds at high rotation speed. Experimental results show that the spindle rotation speed is the most influential factor. The thrust andthe torque decrease under the condition of high rotation rate. With the decrease of the feed speed, the thrust and the torque decrease. But the effect of the feed speed is less than that of the spindle rotation rate. Moreover, the effect of drill materials on the thrust and the torque is more notable than that of the drill geometries and the feed speed. The thrust is greatly affected by the feed speed while the torque is obviously affected by drill geometries.