ULTRACAP PLUS

Primary shale stabilizer for ULTRADRIL aqueous drilling fluid

ULTRACAP PLUS encapsulator is a low-molecular-weight, dry acrylic acid copolymer providing cuttings encapsulation and clay dispersion inhibition. It is designed primarily for use in the M-I SWACO high-performance water-base ULTRADRIL drilling fluid system. The ULTRACAP PLUS encapsulator provides minimal viscosity contribution and can enhance filtration properties. It is designed to be used in ULTRADRIL systems based on fresh- and saline-water environments.

Applications

The ULTRACAP PLUS additive provides excellent cuttings encapsulation by adsorbing onto the clay surfaces and forming a protective film that prevents cuttings from sticking together or to the shaker screens. The ULTRACAP PLUS encapsulator limits dilution rates and low-gravity solids loading by preventing clay solids from dispersing into the mud system. The product is effective in a wide range of base brines, including seawater, saturated NaCl and KCl. Typical concentrations of the ULTRACAP PLUS additive range between 2 to 4 lb/bbl (5.71 to 11.41 kg/m3).

Due to the low molecular weight of this polymer, the mixing process requires less shear than polymers with higher molecular weights. The resulting fluid will pass through fine shaker screens without blinding.

The ULTRACAP PLUS additive concentration can be monitored using a light absorption method. It is important to use a calibration curve for the ULTRACAP PLUS additive to determine the amount of total encapsulating polymer. Detailed instructions regarding the ULTRACAP PLUS testing procedure can be obtained by contacting the Houston Technical Services Department.

Advantages

• Provides excellent cuttings encapsulation and limits cuttings dispersion
• Improves shale stabilization
• Enhances removal of drill solids by reducing dispersion tendencies
• Makes very limited or no contribution to system viscosity
• Is easily added to the active system through a premix
• Can be used in KCl, NaCl or freshwater systems
• Is acrylamide free, resulting in no release of ammonia vapors at high pH
• Significantly lowers screen blinding potential, compared to higher molecular weight encapsulators