Emerson’s Coriolis flowmeters improve drilling operations by delivering accurate real-time data

Micro Motion Coriolis flow and density meters from Emerson Process Management, are ideally suited to a wide range of drilling fluid systems to deliver continuous, real-time data that improves the quality of drilling programmes, lowers cost, keeps operations running, and provides alerts to avoid critical events.

For example, by utilising Micro Motion Coriolis meters on both the suction and return side of the well, flow and density data can be collected. By continuously measuring the quality and/or flow rate of drilling fluids, operators can accurately manage the addition of weighting materials for blowout control, enhanced kick / influx detection, and lost circulation.

Until recently, density and flow rate were not parameters that were measured in real-time. The mud pump stroke count has traditionally been used to calculate flow rate entering the well and density was being measured by the derrick man/mud engineer – often only twice an hour. Flow rate exiting the well was normally measured using a crude paddle wheel type of device.

Collecting density and flow rate data in “real-time” helps to lower drilling costs by reducing Non-Productive Time (NPT) and helps identify leading indicators to potential operational drilling problems – contributing to “real-time” drilling optimisation. This real-time data can be aggregated into the rig control system in order to display graphics with built-in alarm functionality, providing the driller and mud engineer with advanced notice of any major changes to the drilling parameters.

Micro Motion Coriolis flowmeters measure the flow and density with one instrument. They can be installed anywhere with no flow conditioning or straight pipe run required. Installation and commissioning is quick and easy and, because there are no moving parts there are no maintenance requirements. In-situ meter verification eliminates the need for periodic and disruptive calibration checks.

For more information, visit www.EmersonProcess.com/Drilling  or Email Marie Simon