Evaluation of Solids Carrying Capacity in Aerated Fluid Drilling:Real Scale Tests and Modeling

摘要

This paper summarizes the results of two sets of experimentaltests performed at PETROBRAS real scale test facility aimingthe evaluation of solids return times in aerated fluid drilling. Theeffect of the following parameters was studied: liquid and gasinjection rates, particle diameter and depth. Results indicate thatthe gas has a major effect in accelerating the liquid phase, whichwould be responsible for carrying the particles to the surface.The concept of effective liquid velocity coupled with anadequate procedure for particle sedimentation velocitycalculation reproduced the experimental results adequately.