Critical Fluid Velocities for Removing Cuttings Bed Inside Horizontal and Deviated Wells

Ozbayoglu M. E., Saasen A., Sorgun M., Svanes K.

PETROLEUM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, vol.28, no.6, pp.594-602, 2010 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 28 Issue: 6
  • Publication Date: 2010
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/10916460903070181
  • Journal Name: PETROLEUM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.594-602
  • Keywords: critical velocity, cuttings, cuttings bed, deviated, directional, drilling, hole cleaning, horizontal, inclined, transport, TRANSPORT, MODEL
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study aims to estimate the critical fluid flow velocity for preventing the development of a stationary bed using empirical correlations valid for horizontal and highly inclined wellbores that can be easily used at the field. For this purpose, experiments have been conducted at METU-PETE Cuttings Transport Flow Loop for various conditions. Observations showed that a stationary bed is developed when the fuid velocity is less than 6.0 ft/s, and a critical fluid velocity of 8.0 ft/s is required to establish a no-bed condition. Results showed that the critical velocity and the thickness of the stationary bed, if developed, could be estimated with a reasonable accuracy.