Linear Swell Meter
Helps determine shale hydration or dehydration
Drilling problems such as stuck pipe, tight hole, washout, and sloughing can be related to shale stability. The Capillary Suction Timer (CST) and the Linear Swell Meter (LSM) help determine if specific shales are likely to cause drilling and completion problems.
The Fann Linear Swell Meter Model 2000 (LSM) helps determine shale hydration or dehydration by measuring the increase or decrease in length over time of reconstituted or intact shale core. Together the LSM and Capillary Suction Time (CST) tests determine the recommended mud system for drilling through a specific shale formation. First, a CST test is conducted to determine the correct inhibitor for the shale. Then, a variety of fluids are tested.
Test results are graphed to show the percent of swelling versus swelling time in minutes. The LSM test demonstrates the inhibitive effects of these various fluids on shale swelling.
Investigating the swelling characteristics of shale formations is vital in selecting a proper drilling fluid to give maximum inhibition and wellbore stability. While drilling a well, a shale formation will immediately begin to swell if the drilling fluid is not completely compatible with the formation. This swelling can cause many problems, such as bit balling, pipe drag, hole sloughing, or other "gumbo" related problems. Therefore, selecting the proper drilling fluid prior to, or during the drilling operation, can be very beneficial in achieving a stable wellbore.
The OFITE Linear Swell Meter is designed to simultaneously test up to four drilling fluids (expandable to eight) on a representative shale sample for extended periods of time at temperatures up to 180°F.
Most swell meters are designed to test shale samples in static fluid. However, fluids circulate as you drill, so testing shale samples in a static environment does not always provide accurate readings.
The OFITE Linear Swell Meter is the only swell meter on the market capable of dynamically testing your fluids, so you obtain the most accurate data possible.
Size: 20.5" x 14.5" x 25" (52 x 37 x 64 cm)
Weight: 220 lb (100 kg)
Swell Meter and Compactor:
Crated Size: 27" x 21" x 47" (65 x 53 x 120 cm)
Crated Weight: 312 lb (142 kg)
Instrument Control:
Cated Size: 37" x 20" x 32" (94 x 51 x 81 cm)
Crated Weight: 235 lb (107 kg)