What Does
Mud Mix Mean?
Mud mix refers to the way components of drilling fluid are combined. It is generally composed of water, clay and chemicals. Although drilling fluid can consist of water alone, additives such as bentonite clay or polymers are included in mixtures that are targeted to particular soil types.
The development of methods to make the best use of drilling fluid has been a major factor in the success of horizontal directional drilling in recent years.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Mud Mix
Whether through trial and error or in controlled testing environments, trenchless construction operators have learned a lot about the behavior of drilling fluid in underground excavation. The most common component of drilling mud mix is a type of clay called bentonite. It is especially helpful with coarse soils. Finer soils might need a bentonite/polymer combination.
In a 2011 article, drilling materials expert George Dugan credits drilling fluids with the tremendous advancements in trenchless technology in recent decades. He believes that the development in the mud mix has been the most significant change in the industry in recent years, especially for small to mid-sized drilling companies.
Dugan recommends the use of soda ash to help get the most out of bentonite. Such tips are part of the continuous improvement of trenchless technology techniques such as the mixture of drilling fluid. “Contractors have to be on top of their game when it comes to matching drilling fluids and downhole tooling to soil conditions,” Dugan said.