Measurement of Viscosities and Friction Pressures in Non-Newtonian Fluids

Abstract

The purpose of this bachelor project is to investigate the correlation between friction pressure predictions inferred from rheometer measurements and actual friction pressures in a pipe. A modular pipe flow loop is designed and constructed for measuring pressure-driven friction pressures. The fluid flowed is a fluid (containing water and polyanionic cellulose) with qualitatively similar properties as drilling fluids used on actual drilling rigs. The results ended up matching each other satisfyingly enough to say that it is reasonable to rely on calculations. This experiment only included measurements and calculations which can be compared to losses in the drill string, more pressure is lost elsewhere in the drilling process, that is something to research further.

The purpose of this bachelor project is to investigate the correlation between friction pressure predictions inferred from rheometer measurements and actual friction pressures in a pipe. A modular pipe flow loop is designed and constructed for measuring pressure-driven friction pressures. The fluid flowed is a fluid (containing water and polyanionic cellulose) with qualitatively similar properties as drilling fluids used on actual drilling rigs. The results ended up matching each other satisfyingly enough to say that it is reasonable to rely on calculations. This experiment only included measurements and calculations which can be compared to losses in the drill string, more pressure is lost elsewhere in the drilling process, that is something to research further.