Real-time solids control data provides holistic picture of drilling process

While manufacturers continue to improve shakers and centrifuges to increase fluid return and create drier cuttings, the overall drilling process could benefit via real-time solids control data, according to Zaxxon Instruments. The company is developing an ultrasonic sensor called the Rheopipe that could collect this real-time information – including flow rate, density and rheology, Zaxxon Senior Drilling Engineer Jason B Norman said. This type of data would not only provide a “health check” to the solids control system but could help companies quantify the efficiency of the entire drilling process, Mr Norman explains to DC’s Alex Endress. Look for additional information about the Rheopipe and other trends in solids control technology in the September/October issue of DC.