An Experimental Study of Aphron Based Drilling Fluids

In order to drill depleted reservoir, high permeability formations, and other under pressure zones we require drilling fluids which are having density lesser than that of water. Thus, various methods have been developed by injecting air or inert gases in the drilling fluids in order to reduce the equivalent density of the drilling fluids. In order to solve the problem Aphron based drilling fluids are used for drilling to eliminate the problem associated with the above mentioned reservoirs. A laboratory study was initiated to determine the physical and rheological properties of Aphron based drilling fluids for successful completion of wells and its cost depends to a considerable extent on the properties of the drilling fluids. There is no need of injecting air or gases because Aphrons are produced easily at the surface with mixing equipment. This paper gives the detail description of composition and properties of oil based and water based Aphron drilling fluid systems. At last, the potential application of Aphron Based Drilling Fluid Technology in Indian Scenario has been highlighted