Drilling fluids play a critical role in rotary drilling operations, fulfilling two primary functions:
Facilitating Rotation: The drilling fluid lubricates the drilling bit and removes cuttings from the borehole or drillhole, enabling smooth and continuous rotation of the drilling tube.
Cooling Agent: During drilling, heat is generated due to friction between the bit and the ground. The drilling fluid acts as a coolant, dissipating this heat and preventing damage to the drilling equipment.
While water is commonly used as a drilling fluid, it presents certain drawbacks:
Ground Stability Issues: Introducing water into the borehole can destabilize the surrounding soil, potentially leading to borehole collapse or ground settlement. This is particularly problematic in areas with loose or unstable soils.
Sample Quality Degradation: Water can alter the moisture content of soil samples collected from the borehole or drillhole, compromising their accuracy for subsequent testing and analysis. This can hinder the engineer’s understanding of the subsurface conditions.
To overcome these limitations, alternative drilling fluids, such as white foam, are available. These substitutes offer similar lubricating and cooling properties without the negative impacts on ground stability and sample quality associated with water-based drilling fluids.
By carefully selecting the appropriate drilling fluid based on the specific ground conditions and project requirements, engineers can ensure the successful completion of drilling operations while minimizing potential risks and maintaining the integrity of collected samples.