What Does
Mud Swivel Mean?
The mud swivel is the connection point between rotating parts and non-rotating parts of a drilling rig. It is connected to a drill string on one end and to the traveling block on the other. It also connects the discharge of the mud pump to the drill string to allow mud to be pumped to the bottom hole assembly. The mud swivel must be well sealed to prevent environmental pollution through leaks.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Mud Swivel
In order to drill through surface rock, a motor at ground level needs to be connected to the drill string inside the well in such a way that the string rotates causing the drill bit at the end to cut through the rock surface. The mud swivel is the connecting mechanical component that enables this rotational energy to pass into the drill string. Mud is pumped through the swivel into the drill string and then passes through the drill bit to carry the cuttings back to the surface. The swivel also acts as a seal to keep the mud from leaking out of the drill string.