Finite Element Formulation for the Analysis of the Erosive Character of Oil-Based Drilling Fluids During Well Drilling Processes

In this work we study the erosive character of oil-based drilling fluids, weighted with Barite and Orimatita, on equipment and tools during the drilling process. Using an experimental circuit, erosion is studied by means of a jet of mud impinging on a plate of the same material of the equipment and tools used in field. Simulations using the finite element method obtain the flow pattern of the jet of mud and the velocities and impact angles of the particles of Barite and Orimatita that produces wear on the plate. A disperse flow model was used to carry out the simulation and pertinent consideration are assumed to simplify the analysis, keeping the results with enough accuracy for practical purposes. Based on the morphology of the erosion tread carved on the 1020-Carbon Steel plate used in the experiments, the finite element results suggest a range of critical speeds and impact angles of Barite and Orimatita along with a range of speeds and impact angles that generate no significant wear on the material.