A new application note from Malvern Instruments explores the role of particle size and the importance of particle size measurement in optimizing the formulation of drilling muds used in oil extraction processes.

The particle size of drilling mud components exerts a significant influence on the performance of the final drilling mud product. Rapid, reliable measurement and control of particle size is especially important when tailoring drilling mud formulations for individual geological situations and drilling operations. This new publication focuses on the use of laser diffraction particle sizing for this application, exploring the steps involved and providing examples of typical data generated.

Malvern’s highly robust Mastersizer 3000 system is widely used in drilling mud analysis. With a dynamic range spanning 0.01 to 3500 microns and exceptional sample dispersion capabilities, the Mastersizer 3000 delivers precise, particle size measurements for both water- and oil- based muds. Its small footprint compared with previous Mastersizer models enables its use in many different environments. Powerful Mastersizer software provides automatic data quality checks that guide the user towards good measurements, particularly important in routine QC where rapid, robust measurement is essential and where the system may be used by multiple operators. The software includes support for method transfer from other particle sizing instruments, whether older Malvern systems or those from other manufacturers, and Malvern specialists will provide comprehensive applications support to limit the need for any specification changes.

In a recent extension to the Mastersizer family, Malvern has added the new Mastersizer 3000E, an entry level laser diffraction particle sizing system. It has a measurement range of 0.1 to 1000 microns and is offered with semi-automated wet dispersion units. The performance of the Mastersizer 3000E can be extended over time, with add-on software packages providing users with access to automated dispersion units and the advanced analysis and method development support capabilities of the Mastersizer 3000.

download the application note and learn more about the Mastersizer 3000 and Mastersizer 3000E

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