OFITE, 11302 Steeplecrest Dr., Houston, TX 77065 USA / Tel: 832-320-7300 / Fax: 713-880-9886 / www.ofite.com
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The OFITE Dynamic Linear Swell Meter is a highly effective method of
examining the interaction between water based fluids and mineral samples
containing reactive clays under simulated conditions while fluid is in motion.
The observed swelling characteristics are utilized to anticipate and/or correct
the oftentimes unpredictable problems that are frequently encountered while
drilling in shale formations. It is a very useful tool when designing drilling
fluids or when testing the behavior of existing muds because it shows the
changes in the clay/fluid interaction for short periods of time (0 - 5 minutes) as
well as longer periods (>350 minutes). Bit balling, pipe drag, hole sloughing
and other “Gumbo” related shale problems may be predicted in advance,
enabling the operator to select the proper drilling fluid and therefore achieve a
stable wellbore environment.
The OFITE multiple channel Dynamic Linear Swell Meter features multiple
measuring heads for simultaneously testing up to eight (8) cores or drilling
fluids. A mineral (shale, core sample, cuttings, crude bentonite, etc.) wafer
is exposed to a drilling fluid which is circulated around the wafer. A Linear
Variable Differential Transducer (LVDT) measures the expansion of the wafer
in the vertical direction (accuracy to 0.1%) and this information is then stored
as a function of time via the data acquisition system. A hydraulic compactor
unit prepares the mineral wafers for placement inside the transfer stand and
subsequent testing.
1. All electrical power cables should be three wire grounding cables and
should be plugged only into a grounded receptacle. The power switch on
the instrument should be in the OFF position when connecting the power
cable.
2. Always unplug the instrument from the electrical power source before
performing any disassembly or repair. With the cover off, it is possible to
touch exposed electrical terminals resulting in electrical shock if the power
cable is plugged in.
3. Ensure that all pressure has been released on the compactor before
removing core chambers. Both pressure gauges should read zero before
any work or maintenance is performed on the compactor.
4. Clean up any spilled hydraulic oil to prevent injury or fire hazards.
5. The maximum temperature of the hot plate is 1,022°F (550°C), which
is well above the boiling point of water. Because the sample cup is
not pressurized, we recommend a maximum test temperature of
200°F (93.3°C). Testing above the boiling point could result in the fluid
boiling out of the cup and splattering people and equipment. If this
happens, immediately decrease the temperature to a safe level.
Intro
Safety
