FLOPRO NT Engineering Guidelines - Rev 1-1-6686850 - 01

Engineering Guidelines
FLOPRO NT
Revision No. Revision 1.1
Originator Matt Offenbacher
Access M-I SWACO Internal
Schlumberger-Private
W E L L B O R E
P R O D U C T I V I T Y
P.O. Box 42842

Houston, TX 77242-2842
Tel: +1-281-561-1300
Customer-focused, solutions-driven Fax: +1-281-561-1441
www.miswaco.com
WELLBORE PRODUCTIVITY FLOPRO NT
Updated 23 September 2016 Engineering Guidelines
1 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Table Of Contents........................................................................................................................................................ 2
2 FLOPRO NT System Description ............................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Applications ........................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Limitations ............................................................................................................................................................. 3
3 Design and Planning .................................................................................................................................................... 4
4 System and Additives .................................................................................................................................................. 5
4.1 Base Fluid .............................................................................................................................................................. 6
4.2 Viscosifiers ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
4.3 Filtration Control Additives................................................................................................................................... 6
4.4 Bridging Materials ................................................................................................................................................. 7
4.5 Other Additives ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
5 System Preparation .................................................................................................................................................... 15
6 Properties and Maintenance....................................................................................................................................... 16
6.1 Solids ................................................................................................................................................................... 17
6.2 Cement ................................................................................................................................................................. 17
6.3 Fluid Loss ............................................................................................................................................................ 18
6.4 Alkalinity ............................................................................................................................................................. 18
6.5 Density................................................................................................................................................................. 18
6.6 Losses .................................................................................................................................................................. 18
6.7 Rheology.............................................................................................................................................................. 19
6.8 Pipe Slugs ............................................................................................................................................................ 19
6.9 Stuck Pipe ............................................................................................................................................................ 20
6.10 Internal Oxidizer Additions ............................................................................................................................... 20
7 Displacements and Screen Running .......................................................................................................................... 21
8 MUDSOLV NG Filtercake Breaker Options ............................................................................................................ 21
9 Case Histories and Publications ................................................................................................................................ 22
10 Revision History ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Schlumberger Private Internal Use Only Page 2 of 23

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2 FLOPRO NT SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

FLOPRO NT is a water-base reservoir drill-in fluid designed to minimize formation by forming a thin, ultra-low
permeability, durable filter cake on the face of the formation, thereby minimizing fluid and solids invasion into the
producing formation. The filter cake is composed of acid-soluble materials that can be removed with a chemical
treatment and/or with production. FLOPRO NT features a number of filter cake breakers through the MUDSOLV NG
offering for partial or total filter cake removal. FLOPRO NT features a wide range of properties to address drilling
challenges, temperatures and density requirements.
2.1 APPLICATIONS
FLOPRO NT is suited to a wide variety of applications, from producers to injectors where a basic, minimally
damaging reservoir drill-in fluid is desired. FLOPRO NT has been used in over 1000 wells worldwide, primarily in
clean sands with limited reactive shale.
2.2 LIMITATIONS
FLOPRO NT is not compatible with most divalent brines with the exception of low saturation calcium chloride.
DIPRO or DIPRO LD are recommended for divalent base brine applications. Where the filter cake is confined as
part of the completion, such as expandable screens or openhole gravel packs, a filter cake breaker is recommended
to maximize production.

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3 DESIGN AND PLANNING

The design and planning for a FLOPRO NT system should follow the methodology outline in the RDF Design
Handbook. This includes:
Formation fluid compatibility testing
Shale evaluation
Rheological optimization
Dynamic aging
Fluid loss control optimization
Breaker soaks and flowback tests
Return permeability testing
Additional testing may be required depending upon the application and any risks highlighted during the planning
phase.

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4 SYSTEM AND ADDITIVES

A brief description is provided of the key components of the system and their contribution to overall fluid properties.
The table below shows a basic formulation. Other additives for specific circumstances are discussed in the following
sub-sections.
Typical FLOPRO NT Formulation
Product Concentration Function
Base Brine As required Base fluid, density

FLO-VIS PLUS 0.5 - 1 Viscosity
FLOTROL 8 - 12 Fluid loss control
Soda Ash 0.5 - 1 Buffer
SAFE-CARB 20 - 60 Fluid loss control, density
Typical FLOPRO NT Rheology
Property Reading at 120F
600 rev/min 68
300 rev/min 50
200 rev/min 42
100 rev/min 32
6 rev/min 13
3 rev/min 11
Yield Point, lb/100 ft2 18
Plastic Viscosity, cP 32
Low Shear Rate Viscosity, cP @ 0.0636 sec-1 30,893

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4.1 BASE FLUID

Base brine provides density, and depending on the brine type, shale inhibition. FLOPRO NT is primarily
compatible with monovalent brines, including formates. Formate salt versions of FLOPRO NT are referred to as
FLOPRO NT with FORMIX technology. Formates demand special considerations for reliable performance, but
provide excellent performance when managed correctly. Formate brines generally provide good shale inhibition
and provide thermally stable fluids up to and beyond 330F (165C).
FLOPRO NT can be formulated with low density calcium chloride, but divalent brine applications should consider
DIPRO or DIPRO LD as the preferred solution.
4.2 VISCOSIFIERS
Clarified xanthan gum is the traditional viscosifier for FLOPRO NT. This biopolymer provides excellent hole
cleaning characteristics.
Specific
Product Concentration Thermal Stability Description
Gravity
FLO-VIS PLUS 0.25 1.5 lb/bbl > 250F (121C) 1.5 Clarified xanthan gum, dispersible
FLO-VIS L 2-4 lb/bbl > 250F (121C) 0.96 Clarified xanthan gum, liquid (pre-dispersed)
Thermal extenders enable FLO-VIS products to remain stable up to 330F (166C).
4.3 FILTRATION CONTROL ADDITIVES
Specific
Gravity
DUAL-FLO 8 12 lb/bbl 250F (166C) 1.5 Modified starch
FLO-TROL 8 12 lb/bbl 250F (166C) 1.5 Modified starch
DUAL-FLO HT 8 - 12 lb/bbl 325F (149C) 1.5 Modified high temperature starch
Other starch additives for FLOPRO NT require testing and approval before consideration. It is strongly
recommended that one of the products listed above, and only one of the products listed is used. These starch
additives provide optimal fluid loss control, supplemental rheology and respond to enzyme treatments.
The combination of FLO-VIS PLUS and FLOTROL is the preferred combination for low temperature applications.

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4.4 BRIDGING MATERIALS

SAFE-CARB is a specially ground calcium carbonate (marble) that offers various grind sizes. It is at least 98%
acid-soluble. The various grades SAFE-CARB can be combined to give specific particle size distributions for
quick and effective bridging in order to minimize formation invasion. Typical concentrations used range from 20
to 60 lb/bbl.
Specific
Gravity
Sized calcium carbonate (minimum 98% acid
SAFE-CARB As required lb/bbl - 2.75
soluble)
Sized salt systems required a saturated base brine so that the bridging material does not enter into solution. Salt is
easily removed with water, making removal easier.
Specific
Gravity
FLO-WATE As required lb/bbl - 2.16 Sized sodium chloride for sized salt systems
Additional sized salt additives are available from third party suppliers with a varied particle size distributions.
Common products have been analyzed for use in OPTIBRIDGE.
Salts are available in a variety of sizes

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4.5 OTHER ADDITIVES

4.5.1 pH Buffer
Many polymeric systems function between a pH of 9.0 and 10.0. There are numerous additives available to
elevate the pH and maintain it while drilling for both drilling performance as well as hydrogen sulfide and
corrosion mitigation.
A buffer consists of a weak acid or weak base with its conjugate that remains in solution without the weak acid
/weak base and conjugate neutralizing each other. This maintains a stable pH even when excess product is
within the system.
Buffers are preferred sources of alkalinity. High alkalinity filtrate may react with crude organic acids as a
source of formation damage. Managing the pH within the appropriate range is effective in preventing these
reactions.
Caustic soda should not be used as it is not a true buffer. It will lead to pH spikes that will adversely impact
other RDF additives and diminish fluid performance.
Specific
Gravity
Buffer for sodium base brine systems
Soda Ash As required lb/bbl - 2.51
(non-formate)
Magnesium Oxide As required lb/bbl - 3.6 Buffer for divalent base brine systems.
Sodium Buffer for formate based brine systems
As required lb/bbl - 2.16
Bicarbonate only
4.5.2 Thermal Extender

Thermal extenders are simple options to enhance the operational window of FLOPRO NT. Testing is required
to validate their performance with a specific formulation.
Specific
Gravity
PTS-200 24 lb/bbl 330F (148C) 1.01 Polymer temperature stabilizer
Potassium
15+ lb/bbl - 1.91 Potassium formate salt
Formate
Sodium Formate 15+ lb/bbl - 1.92 Sodium formate salt
Magnesium Oxide 5 10 lb/bbl - 3.6 Magnesium oxide
MEG 1 10 %v/v - 1.11 Monoethylene glycol

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4.5.3 Scale Inhibitor

Some formation water may precipitate when mixed with divalent brines such as calcium chloride or calcium
bromide. When this occurs, a scale inhibitor is required to prevent scaling. SAFE-SCAVITE II is a
concentrated, phosphonate-base system that inhibits scaling caused by calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate and
barium sulfate.
Specific
Gravity
SAFE-SCAVITE II 0.05 0.25 %v/v - 1.355 Scale Inhibitor
No Scale Inhibitor
With Scale Inhibitor
Formation water and calcium brine precipitate (left)
SAFE-SCAVITE II additive prevents scale formation (right)
4.5.4 Shale Inhibitor

KLA-STOP provides the greatest overall shale inhibition among additives, but it may not be necessary for all
environments. KLA-STOP also makes filter cakes less responsive to breaker treatments. There are additive
options for compatibility requirements and economics, such as KLA-CURE and KLA-GARD. GLYDRIL is
another option which provides good inhibition and lubricity but may compromise filter cake removal.
Specific
Gravity
KLA-CURE 48 lb/bbl 300F (149C) 1.22 Amine shale inhibitor
Amine shale inhibitor, divalent brine
KLA-GARD 48 lb/bbl 400F (204C) 1.1
compatible
KLA-STOP 14 % v/v 250F (121C) 1.05 Premium polyamine shale inhibitor

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4.5.5 Lubricant
Lubricants are a particular challenge in water-based RDF applications as they may be necessary but carry
serious risks if improperly applied. Cheesing (emulsion) and greasing may result in serious formation damage.
Lubricants tend to coat solids, inhibiting access by breaker systems to later remove filter cake. If a lubricant
may be required, thorough testing should be performed to establish compatibility. LUBE 776 and LOTORQ
frequently demonstrate cheesing and are not recommended for FLOPRO NT.
In general lubricant performance does not dramatically improve past 3% v/v concentration. Should a lubricant
be required, it is recommended that gradual additions are added to observe for an improvement in
performance, increasing up to 3% v/v.
Lubricant Additives for FLOPRO NT System
Specific
Gravity
STARGLIDE 13 % v/v > 200F (93C) 0.95 Lubricant
SAFE-LUBE 13 %v/v - 1.01 Soluble brine lubricant
SAFE-LUBE CW 13 %v/v - 1.05 Soluble brine lubricant for cold weather
Cheese and grease are common terms used to describe serious incompatibilities observed with lubricants.
Greasing is a visible phase that adheres to surfaces and cheese is the solid phase that precipitates from a fluid.
Cheese and grease can be induced in the presence of calcium, solids, shear and other environments. Some
lubricants demonstrate high cheese/grease tendencies while others do not regardless, it is recommended that
any water-based RDF formulation using a lubricant be tested for such an issue before a lubricant is approved
for use in the field.
Cheesing observed during lab testing

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4.5.6 Oxygen Scavenger

Ammonium bilsulfite compounds are the best oxygen scavengers to mitigate corrosion. Continuous additions
are required to maintain effective concentrations, which can be monitored by measuring excess sulfites.
Typical maintenance additions range between 1 2.5 gallons per hour. Minimize exposure to atmospheric
oxygen via injection pumps at the suction pit if possible.
Excess Specific
Product Concentration (initial) Description
Sulfite Gravity
100 300
SAFE-SCAV NA 1 gal/100 bbl 1.285 Oxygen scavenger for monovalent brines
ppm
SAFE-SCAV CA is compatible with divalent and monovalent brines.
Specific
Gravity
Oxygen scavenger for divalent base
SAFE-SCAV CA 0.15 lb/bbl - 1.65
brines
4.5.7 Defoamer
Foaming may be an issue during mixing. It is worthwhile to have a defoamer available to control any foaming.
While silicone based defoamers perform at very low concentration, alcohol-based defoamers are also an
option.
Specific
Gravity
DEFOAM EXTRA 0.03 0.05 %v/v - 1.0 High strength silicone defoamer
DEFOAM
0.03 0.05 %v/v - 1.01 High strength silicone defoamer
EXTREME
4.5.8 Biocide
Many water-based RDFs contain high salinity base brine and may not be subject to biodegradation; however,
most starch is extremely sensitive to bacteria. Precautionary considerations should always be taken with
regular treatments of biocide.
Biopolymers and starches are subject to bacterial degradation, particularly in low salinity fluids in warm
climates. Biocides have a short lifespan and must be added at regular intervals (depending on the chemical) to
remain effective.
Biocide selection is generally limited by the regulations of the region where they will be used. Triazine
products are proven effective with little impact on fluid properties. In the United States, glutaraldehyde is most
common due to regulatory requirements.
Glutaraldehyde products have the potential to induce cross linking when combined with xanthan and some
shale inhibitors.

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Glutaraldehyde cross linking a FLOPRO NT system with KLA-STOP. This can be avoided by substituting an
alternate biocide (preferred) or mitigated by thoroughly blending the biocide prior to adding xanthan and
shale inhibitor.
Concentration (initial / % Active Specific

Product Description
maintenance) Chemical Gravity
Triazine 2 / 0.5a gal/100 bbl 75 1.095 Triazine
Triazine 3/ 0.5a gal/100 bbl 55 1.155 Triazine
Greencide 25G 2 / 0.5b gal/100 bbl 25 1.067 Glutaraldehyde
X-Cide 102 2 / 0.5b gal/100 bbl 25 1.056 Glutaraldehyde
a
Weekly maintenance bDaily maintenance

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4.5.9 Hydrogen Sulfide Scavengers

Hydrogen sulfide scavengers may be used with proper precautions associated with working in a hydrogen
sulfide environment. Perform testing in the laboratory using anticipated concentrations to verify compatibility.
Specialty compounds may be required in areas where zinc based scavengers are not approved.
Zinc carbonate typically requires an initial treatment of 1.5 3 lb/bbl with subsequent field treatments
of 1 lb/bbl per 800 mg/l of sulfides detected.
Zinc oxide typically requires an initial treatment of 1 2 lb/bbl with subsequent field treatments of 1
lb/bbl per 600 mg/l of sulfides detected.
SAFE-SCAV HS and SAFE-SCAV HSW typically requires an initial treatment of 0.1 lb/bbl. Each
lb/bbl can consume 800 mg/l of dissolved H2S.
Hydrogen Sulfide Scavengers for FLOPRO NT systems
Specific
Gravity
Zinc Carbonate 1.5 3 lb/bbl - 3.5 Zinc-based H2S scavenger
Zinc Oxide 12 lb/bbl - 5.5 Zinc-based H2S scavenger
SAFE-SCAV HS 0.1 lb/bbl - 1.08 Zinc free H2S scavenger
SAFE-SCAV HSW 0.1 lb/bbl - 1.08 Zinc free H2S scavenger

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4.6.1 Internal Breaker

Internal breaker additives are designed to remain inert while drilling for activation during the completion
process. Refer to the MUDSOLV NG Breaker Systems Handbook for more information.
Specific
Gravity
Preferred product. Coated internal
D-STROYER 0.5 2 lb/bbl - ~2.5 oxidizer. Drop in pH destroys coating
and activates oxidizer within filter cake.
Internal oxidizer. pH must be maintained
SAFE-BREAK MP 12 lb/bbl - 3
above 9 to avoid premature activation.

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5 SYSTEM PREPARATION
FLOPRO NT system preparation is simple but requires patience and care to avoid the creation of fisheyes when adding
polymers to the system.
Mixing FLOPRO NT at the liquid mud plant
Addition of large particles will depend upon rig capabilities to handle big bags, transport equipment to agitate and the
duration the system will remain in transport.

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6 PROPERTIES AND MAINTENANCE

While drilling, maintenance of the FLOPRO NT system is relatively simple. Sample at regular intervals (every 200
feet) or as directed. Key properties to observe and maintain are shown below.
Test Purpose Equipment Notes

Six Speed Viscometer Rheology VG-Meter
Low Shear Rate Viscosity Rheology Brookfield
pH Alkalinity Electrode Meter
Methylene Blue Test (MBT) Reactive Clay Content -
Acid Insoluble Solids (Clastic Reservoirs) Drill Solids Content -
Modified HPHT Fluid Loss Filtration Aloxite Media
Density Well Control Pressurized, if available
Modified HPHT filter press cell
Instrument/Test Reading Typical Values
Six Speed Viscometer 6 RPM @ 120F 8 22

Six Speed Viscometer 3 RPM @ 120F 6 20
Low Shear Rate Viscosity 0.3 rev/min (0.636 sec-1) @ 120F 25,000 40,000*
pH Direct 7 10.5
Methylene Blue Capacity lb/bbl Below 5
Injector: Below 1.5% v/v
Acid Insoluble Solids (Clastic Reservoirs) % v/v
Producer: Below 2% v/v
Modified HPHT Fluid Loss Spurt, cc/30 See targets below
*Low shear rate viscosity should be measured at bottom hole temperature (up to 180F/82C) where possible. In high
angle wells (55-75), the low shear rate viscosity should be greater than 15,000 cP and ideally 20,000 cP or greater.

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A viscometer sag shoe test (VSST) may be run where necessary to monitor for sag risk. Review high risk wells for sag
potential. Conventional FLOPRO NT systems present a low sag risk unless weight/bridging material is not
appropriately dispersed.
6.1 SOLIDS
As with all reservoir drill-in fluids, solids must be monitored and treated with system dilution to prevent
contamination of the filter cake. Depending upon the type of well, the acid insoluble solids limit ranges from 1 to
2% v/v unless otherwise directed.
Reactive solids are generally inhibited by the base brine, but the MBT should stay below 5 lb/bbl. Solids control
should be limited to shaker screens. Do not use centrifuges.
Closely monitor reactive clay accumulation and dilute as required
6.2 CEMENT
As with many polymer water-based drilling fluids, FLOPRO NT is susceptible to cement contamination. To avoid
contamination of the system, any cement should be drilled with the mud used to drill the upper part of the hole (or
seawater, if possible). If the FLOPRO NT system must be used to drill cement, pre-treatment with sodium
bicarbonate, magnesium oxide and/or citric acid is required. The most significant contaminant would be green
cement left on top of the wiper plugs. This cement should definitely be drilled with another system. In re-entry
wells or wells where the cement has had sufficient time to cure, cement contamination in FLOPRO NT has not been
a problem.

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6.3 FLUID LOSS

Filtration control should be monitored and maintained through the addition of SAFE-CARB. Coarse SAFE-CARB
will be ground by the drilling process or separated at the shakers. Fluid loss should be monitored on a modified
HPHT apparatus using a sized aloxite disc. If elevated fluid loss persists, add FLOTROL in increments of 0.5
lb/bbl and continue to monitor the system.
6.4 ALKALINITY
The pH should be maintained using the buffer selected during testing. Buffers are preferred sources of alkalinity.
High alkalinity filtrate may react with crude organic acids as a source of formation damage. Some clays are highly
reactive at high pH. Managing the pH within the appropriate range is effective in preventing these reactions.
Caustic soda should not be used as it is not a true buffer. It will lead to pH spikes that will adversely impact other
RDF additives and diminish fluid performance.
6.5 DENSITY
The preferred density mechanism is through additional salt to the point of saturation. If additional weight is
required, calcium carbonate may be used to about 2.0 lb/gal above saturation. Calcium carbonate is primarily for
bridging and appropriate ratios of sized carbonates should be maintained.
In some situations, such as well control, barite may be used. In non-damaging applications it should be avoided
because it cannot be acidized. The planning phase should focus on achieving required density through base brine
and calcium carbonate.
To continuously weight up the solids-laden system with additional calcium carbonate will cause a significant
increase in viscosity and may hamper the cleanup efficiency. To avoid the undesired viscosity increase, the best
way to weight up is to use stock brine and/or appropriate salt, not to exceed saturation of the base brine in
conventional FLOPRO NT systems. To maintain product concentration, additional FLO-VIS PLUS and
FLOTROL may be required.
6.6 LOSSES
Seepage losses can be controlled through the addition of fine SAFE-CARB and FLOTROL. Increased viscosity
will aid to reduce loss rates into the formation. Elevated loss rates should be managed through a lost circulation
plan that includes pills featuring coarse SAFE-CARB.

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6.7 RHEOLOGY
Low shear rate viscosity should be measured at bottom hole temperature (up to 180F/82C) where possible. In
high angle wells (55-75), the low shear rate viscosity should be greater than15,000 cP and ideally 20,000 cP or
greater.
Sweeps should not be necessary due to the elevated LSRV of FLOPRO NT. Risk of washout should limit any
sweep consideration to viscous, weighted sweeps. Adjust low end rheology readings with FLO-VIS PLUS. If
rheology is maintained at correct parameters, sweeps should not be required. Penetration rates of up to 200 ft/hr in
8 horizontal holes have been attained without hole cleaning problems. Simulate the ECD impact of the sweep
using VIRTUAL HYDRAULICS RHECON.
If a sweep is desired, increase the LSRV with FLO-VIS PLUS or FLO-VIS L to 100,000 cP, pumping sufficient
volume to cover 300 feet of the maximum annulus. The density may be elevated 1-2 lb/gal above the system
density with salt or calcium carbonate, but returns may have to be isolated. Observe the shakers for any increase in
cuttings.
6.8 PIPE SLUGS

Getting a slug to work has proven difficult because FLOPRO NT does not fall easily even through an unrestricted
drill string. This is even more difficult in increased hole angle and with restrictions through the bottom hole
assembly. Slugging the pipe is still possible, but it is not guaranteed. Brine water has successfully slugged 3 2
drill strings. Most success has been found in 8 hole using the steps below:
Step Operation
1 Divert a pill of approximately 50% pipe volume to a slugging pit
2 Dilute volume 50% - 75% with water to decrease LSRV

Elevate density to saturation with salt and add calcium carbonate as required to achieve a density +2.0 lb/gal
3 above active system density. If calcium carbonate additions are not desired, use coarse products that will be
screened out at the shakers.
Preparing for the possibility that slugs do not work, a correctly sized mud bucket with new rubber seals should be
available if possible. These have been used with great success when in proper condition for wet trips.

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6.9 STUCK PIPE

Differentially stuck pipe is unlikely due to the quality filter cake formed by FLOPRO NT components and the
strict regime to maintain filter cake quality through dilution. Discuss stuck pipe conditions and use care when
estimating the cause. In the event of wellbore collapse, reduced density will aggravate the problem.
Jarring is recommended as a first approach. In the event that differentially stuck pipe is suspected, consider
reducing density where acceptable to free the pipe. Acid pills may be pumped to remove filter cake at the stuck
point.
Stuck Pipe with Water-Based Calcium Carbonate Systems
Sequence Technique Notes

If differentially stuck, reduce hydrostatic
1 pressure, if possible. If cuttings, raise Perform frequent wiper trips
properties or spot base brine
Be prepared to catch and isolate
interface once pipe is free and
2 Spot an invert emulsion pill
circulation is established. Interface will
be viscous.
Pump 25 bbl acid pill, treat RDF after interface once pipe is free and
3
pipe is free. circulation is established. Interface will
be low pH.
Stuck Pipe with Water-Based Sized Salt Systems
Sequence Technique Notes

If differentially stuck, reduce
1 hydrostatic, if possible. If cuttings, raise Perform frequent wiper trips.
properties.
2 Spot water Be prepared to rebuild properties.
Pump 25 bbl acid pill, treat RDF after interface once pipe is free and
3
pipe is free. circulation is established. Interface will
be low pH.
6.10 INTERNAL OXIDIZER ADDITIONS

D-STROYER or SAFE-BREAK MP should be added to the FLOPRO NT system immediately prior to drilling the
reservoir. Depletion of the internal oxidizer can be observed through direct peroxide testing or through degradation
of properties while drilling.

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7 DISPLACEMENTS AND SCREEN RUNNING

Refer to the RDF Design Handbook and Mud to Brine Displacement Guidelines for spacers to displace the FLOPRO
NT system to completion fluid. The PST Recommended Practices Document will aid in planning a strategy for screen
running. In most water-base system applications, a solids-free pill will be placed in the open hole prior to displacing
the casing to brine and running screens.
The solids-free pill is composed of viscosified base brine with the same shale inhibitors as the FLOPRO NT system.
Starch is excluded. At some densities an alternative brine is required since the fluid cannot be weighed with solids. The
brine should be compatible with the formation water and the FLOPRO NT base brine.
Perform a 3 liter PST on the FLOPRO NT solids free to confirm that no fisheyes or agglomeration that may plug
screens.
8 MUDSOLV NG FILTERCAKE BREAKER OPTIONS

Refer to the MUDSOLV NG Handbook for a review of products and testing evaluation. Traditionally, BREAKDOWN
or BREAKDOWN 7 is recommended. New chemistry is available that expands the options and continuous
development of new systems means more options are under consideration.
The MUDSOLV NG service is designed to function in concert with optimized reservoir drill-in fluids for best
performance while integrated filter cake treatment into the completion phase, minimizing cost.

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9 CASE HISTORIES AND PUBLICATIONS

Technical Papers and Journal Articles
El Essawy, Wael Moustafa, Knox, Dave, Hamzah, Rosli Bin. 2005. Engineered Reservoir Drill-In Fluid Delivers Zero-
Skin Well in First Openhole Completion in East Africa. Presented at the International Petroleum Technology
Conference, 21-23 November, Doha, Qatar. IPTC-10396-MS. http://eureka.slb.com:2069/10.2523/IPTC-10396-MS
Healy, John C., Sanford, John R. et al. 2012. Design, Installation, and Performance of Big Bore Completions: Mari-B
Field, Offshore Israel. Presented at the SPE International Symposium and Exhibition on Formation Damage Control,
15-17 February, Lafayette, Louisiana, USA. http://eureka.slb.com:2069/10.2118/151770-MS
Healy, John C., Sanford, John R. et al. 2012. Design, Qualification, and Installation of Openhole Gravel Packs: Mari B
Field, Offshore Israel. Presented at the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, 8-10 October, San Antonio,
Texas, USA. SPE 158655-MS. http://eureka.slb.com:2069/10.2118/158655-MS
Performance Reports
Clark, P. 2002. FLOPRO NT and WELLZYME AE Help to Maximize Production in the North Sea. Performance
Report.
Diaz, L. 2005. Venezuela: FLOPRO formate system improves performance in microfractured zones. Performance
Report.
Dick, M. 2008. FLOPRO NT Fluid Plus KLA-STOP Additive Stabilized Shale in Producing Intervals Completed with
Standalone Screens. Performance Report.
Klein, L. 2004. FLOPRO NT System Significantly Improves Production from Declining Well. Performance Report.
Unknown author. 2010. FLOPRO NT System Combats Abnormally Low Formation Pressure, High Permeability
Conditions. Performance report.

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10 REVISION HISTORY
Version Edit Reason
1.0 New Document New Document

Updated salinity statement on
POWERVIS additions
Increased starch concentration range up Updated data from rheological study with
1.01
to 12 lb/bbl sag flow loop
Mentioned combination of FLO-VIS
PLUS and FLOTROL as preferred
Removed POWERVIS, FLO-VIS, FLO-
VIS NT. Removed SAFE-CIDE and M-I Not recommended or eliminated from
1.1
CIDE as biocides and changed to product line
Triazine

23
(2009) M-I
L.L.C. All rights

FLOPRO NT Engineering Guidelines - Rev 1-1-6686850 - 01

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FLOPRO NT Engineering Guidelines - Rev 1-1-6686850 - 01

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Engineering Guidelines

P.O. Box 42842

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2 FLOPRO NT SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

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3 DESIGN AND PLANNING

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4 SYSTEM AND ADDITIVES

Product Concentration Function

Base Brine As required Base fluid, density

Typical FLOPRO NT Rheology

Property Reading at 120F

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4.1 BASE FLUID

4.3 FILTRATION CONTROL ADDITIVES

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4.4 BRIDGING MATERIALS

Salts are available in a variety of sizes

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4.5 OTHER ADDITIVES

4.5.2 Thermal Extender

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4.5.3 Scale Inhibitor

4.5.4 Shale Inhibitor

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Cheesing observed during lab testing

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4.5.6 Oxygen Scavenger

SAFE-SCAV CA is compatible with divalent and monovalent brines.

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Concentration (initial / % Active Specific

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4.5.9 Hydrogen Sulfide Scavengers

Hydrogen Sulfide Scavengers for FLOPRO NT systems

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4.6.1 Internal Breaker

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6 PROPERTIES AND MAINTENANCE

Test Purpose Equipment Notes

Instrument/Test Reading Typical Values

Six Speed Viscometer 6 RPM @ 120F 8 22

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Closely monitor reactive clay accumulation and dilute as required

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6.3 FLUID LOSS

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6.8 PIPE SLUGS

1 Divert a pill of approximately 50% pipe volume to a slugging pit

2 Dilute volume 50% - 75% with water to decrease LSRV

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6.9 STUCK PIPE

Sequence Technique Notes

Stuck Pipe with Water-Based Sized Salt Systems

Sequence Technique Notes

6.10 INTERNAL OXIDIZER ADDITIONS

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7 DISPLACEMENTS AND SCREEN RUNNING

8 MUDSOLV NG FILTERCAKE BREAKER OPTIONS

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9 CASE HISTORIES AND PUBLICATIONS

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