OFITE has long been an industry leader in drilling fluids rheology. Now we will expand the toolkit for understanding how fluids behave in the well bore. We built a special flow loop, using a Positive Displacement Progressive Cavity Pump, to pump slurries through several measurement devices. One of those devices is the OLR Series 1000 OnLine Rheometer (OLR) which measures storage and loss moduli by imposing a small cyclic deformation on a fluid sample at a variety of frequencies.

In general, the OLR uses two plates that come down very close to each other and “squeeze” a fluid between them. One plate oscillates at a predefined range of frequencies and the other plate is connected to a small load cell that measures the force from the oscillating plate. Then the top moves up and allows a new sample to come between the plates. This process is repeated, providing a trend in rheological properties of a fluid that can be used to identify baselines and deviations during the process.

The OFITE Model 60 Atmospheric Consistometer has been used in cement labs for years to condition cement slurries prior to further testing. Now, we are pleased to announce a brand new upgrade to this laboratory staple. The all new Atmospheric Consistometer now features a touch screen display to control the motor, heater, cooling, and calibration. The software that runs the Consistometer includes two timers with audible alarms to notify you when your test is complete. The easy-to-use interface is intuitive for new users and make operation of the Consistometer simple and easy.

We are excited about this new upgrade and we hope you are too. To learn more, visit the product page or contact your OFITE sales representative.

We are proud to announce an expansion of our partnership with Teledyne ISCO to distribute ISCO pumps to the energy industry in Latin America. This new agreement will enable us to provide Teledyne ISCO’s superior pump technology to an even larger market.

Teledyne ISCO manufactures industry-leading syringe and reciprocating pumps for a wide range of applications. These rugged, do-anything pumps solve your toughest fluid delivery problems, from micro-flow to scale-up and pilot plant, pumping corrosive liquids, and safe operation in explosive atmospheres with the HLf Series.

Traditional filtration testing has always been limited by testing static conditions. Yet most of the time, drilling fluid is circulating through the wellbore. The movement of the fluid can have significant effects on the filter cake that are not measured by static filtration tests.

The OFITE Dynamic HTHP Filter Press (#170-95) is designed to correct this oversight. A shaft and paddle extend down into the test cell and circulate the fluid during a test. The speed is adjustable, and the motor can be started and stopped periodically to better simulate drilling conditions.

Excessive torque and drag is a common problem in the drill string. It can cause a variety of problems that negatively impact well efficiency. The primary cause of often mechanical friction between the wellbore and tubulars. The solution is usually to add lubricants to the drilling fluid.

Prior to choosing any lubricant, it is important to evaluate all available options to see which one lubricates the best and has the best chemical compatibility with the drilling fluid. The most direct test method involves determining the coefficient of friction of the base fluid and comparing it to the coefficient of friction with the lubricant.

Real-Time Analysis of Fluids in the Process Pipeline. The OLR utilizes a unique implementation of squeeze flow technology providing a quick and rich measurement of the elastic and flow properties of the fluid. The operator can then make informed process decisions about the quality of the material in the pipe and make appropriate changes.

OFITE is excited to announce a new partnership with Teledyne ISCO to distribute ISCO pumps to the energy industry in North America. Teledyne ISCO manufactures industry-leading syringe and reciprocating pumps for a wide range of applications. These rugged, do-anything pumps solve your toughest fluid delivery problems, from micro-flow to scale-up and pilot plant, pumping corrosive liquids, and safe operation in explosive atmospheres with the HLf Series. ​

Teledyne ISCO D-Series precision syringe pumps give you flow and pressure control throughout a broad operating range. D-Series syringe pumps can be metered with great accuracy and do not exhibit pulsation or flow anomalies typically associated with other pump types.

OFITE and Sequoia Scientific, Inc. have completed delivery of two LISST-Portable|XR instruments to Norway for use in the North Sea. The technology is commonly used to accurately monitor size changes to particles found in drilling fluids. The LISST-Portable|XR allows analysis of particle size distribution and concentration data during the active drilling process, completed at the rig and often under rugged environmental conditions. Dependable real-time data is critical and allows operators to see anomalies in the distribution curve which may indicate a failure or alert them to take-action if a threshold is crossed.

Using industry proven laser diffraction secured inside an impact resistant enclosure, the LISST-Portable|XR allows operators to obtain lab quality data in the field, learn more here.

The Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer (UCA) uses the change in velocity of an acoustic signal to determine the compressive strength of a well cement over time. The Static Gel Strength Measurement Device (SGSM) uses a vaned bob submerged in the slurry to determine the static gel strength over time. Together, these two instruments provide a more complete picture of the physical properties of a well cement as the slurry sets.

The Model 4005 Automated Twin Cell UCA with optional SGSM automatically controls the temperature and pressure in each cell independently, bringing a new level of precision and control to your cement lab. With the new touch-screen display, you can now run an entire test in standalone mode, without the need for computer software, although the software is still included with the instrument.

OFITE is excited to launch the OFITE Automated System (OASys). OASys is an innovative solution for the real-time measurement and reporting of drilling fluid properties. All three instruments included in OASys sit on the rig where they can sample the drilling fluid directly. The measurements are then sent to the rig data information system where it is used for simple real time calculations for predicting hole cleaning efficiency and ECD at total depth. This data is then available to be viewed through the rig data information system by the Driller and other personnel at the wellsite as well as remotely via the internet or smart phone apps.

Recent advances in drilling technology have significantly increased the average rate of penetration of a typical well. In the time a sample is drawn, taken to the lab, and measurements reported, the bit may have drilled hundreds of feet from when the sample was drawn. The need for continuous and for frequent measurements is critical.

OFITE is excited to announce a new line of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This PPE is designed to maximize safety and minimize barriers to use by creating products that are both functional and comfortable.

Our Gladiator Face Shield goes above and beyond traditional PPE to promote personal protection in a variety of scenarios. We achieve this through careful design considerations and exclusive technologies.

We have recently created a new portfolio of products called “Risk Mitigation Technologies". This new portfolio will be focused on launching new protection products into various marketplaces. These products will all have one common goal - to mitigate risk in our new world.

The first of these products is called IntelliPass Screening Solution (IPSS). This system measures body temperature, verifies the use of a mask utilizing facial recognition technology, and provides complex data analysis with a robust and detailed software application.

At OFITE we are excited to announce a new product for rheology testing. The OLR Series 1000 OnLine Rheometer is designed to continuously measure, plot, and report the flow properties of process fluids in the pipe. It provides instant and accurate rheological data in real time so that during manufacturing and processing, liquids are produced and maintained within specification.

The OLR is designed for use in a pipe. It continuously measures and relays the data to the process operator, either through the software (SOLR) or through a factory PLC (Process Logic Controller). The plant operator or engineer input specific flow property data for the product being tested to establish the optimum production specification parameters. The OLR monitors the process and displays the product conformance throughout the manufacturing and production process.

The American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE) has published a new technical paper discussing three new OFITE products and a pilot program to test the system in a real-world environment. The OFITE Automated System (OASys) was deployed on an active land drilling rig deployed on multiple multi-well pads, over a six-month period. The AADE paper describes the system and shares data and results, discusses inline and near line measurement of the rheological profile, and shares lessons learned and thoughts on future developments.

OFITE OASys is an innovative solution for the real-time measurement and reporting of drilling fluid properties. All three instruments included in OASys sit on the rig where they can sample the drilling fluid directly. The measurements are then sent to the rig data information system where it is used for simple real time calculations for predicting hole cleaning efficiency and ECD at total depth. This data is then available to be viewed through the rig data information system by the Driller and other personnel at the wellsite as well as remotely via the internet or smart phone apps.

Most people who do any kind of mud testing are familiar with ceramic filter disks for filtration testing. The ceramic disk simulates real-world formations and provides greater insight into the filtration characteristics of a mud system than standard filter paper. And filter disks have been the standard for Permeability Plugging Tests for years.

Less familiar are the relatively new stainless steel slotted disks. These disks simulate reservoir formations in a different way. Unlike the ceramic filter disk, which are made from natural material, the stainless steel disks have precisely machined slots for the test fluid to flow through. So, you always know the exact pore size of you filter medium.

Most benchtop permeability testers are manually operated instruments with lots of valves and switches. The operator has to stand next to the instrument during a test to set pressures and record results.

The Automated Gas Permeameter makes testing the permeability of reservoir core samples simple and easy. It features two auto-switching mass flowmeters for measuring the flowrate of gas through the core. The included software automatically switches between the two flowmeters to suit the needs of the test, providing greater accuracy over the full measurement range.

Drilling fluids are critical to maintaining well safety and quality during construction and completion. That makes drilling fluid properties key control parameters of the drilling and completion process. Moreover, increased efficiency of new drilling technology, and demand for data driven by digital advances in remote monitoring and analytics require frequent and reliable measurement of the physical and chemical properties of drilling fluids. Typically, these properties have been measured by manual field sampling and testing. But manual testing lags advances in drilling efficiency, causes delays, and is susceptible to bias, inconsistencies, and inadvertent human errors.

Mud properties must be monitored and adapted as drilling progresses to total depth. These properties are not only critical to the safety and efficiency of the operation, they also provide valuable information throughout the drilling process. With this information, problems can be anticipated, and changes can be made. With better and more frequent measurements of mud properties comes improved safety and reduced nonproductive time (NPT), cost, and time to total depth.

We know that space in your lab is valuable. You don’t need bulky equipment taking up more space than necessary. But you also want quality instruments and lots of features. That’s why we developed the Four Unit HTHP Filter Press.

This instrument combines four (4) 175 mL HTHP Filter Presses into a single unit. Each cell has a separate electronic temperature controller and two separate pressure regulators (one for top pressure and one for back pressure). This allows each cell to be heated and pressurized independently.

Do you have equipment in your lab that heats fluid? Do you ever wish you had more precise control of the temperature of those fluids? We thought so. That’s why we developed an all-purpose electronic temperature control unit.

The Temperature Control Unit is a convenient tool for precisely controlling the temperature of an electrical heating device. Simply plug the heating device into the Temperature Control Unit and the built-in electronic controller will regulate the power output to the heater. The controller can be set with either a simple temperature setpoint or an advanced timer.

In a typical well cementing operation, a cement slurry is pumped into the annulus between the well casing and the bore hole. As the cement slurry hydrates, it undergoes a volume change which translates into bulk expansion or shrinkage. Knowing the amount of expansion or shrinkage allows users to design cement systems which can achieve optimal bonding with the borehole and well casing without sacrificing the integrity of the cement matrix. The Circular Cement Expansion Mold is designed to measure the expansion or shrinkage of well cement slurries according to the guidelines in API Recommended Practice 10B-5.

The Circular Cement Expansion Mold has an external ring with a vertical slit on one side to allow it to expand. Before testing begins, the width of the gap is measured with the included micrometer. The expansion mold is filled with a cement slurry and cured in a water bath or curing chamber. As the cement cures, the external ring will expand or contract with the cement slurry. At the end of the test, the gap is measured again to determine the expansion factor.

OFITE is excited to introduce a new product to our catalog. The all-new Mud Aid™ represents another step in the path to drilling automation. Packaged in a rugged, durable carrying case, the Mud Aid™ periodically samples drilling fluid from the flow path and automatically tests the ion content and viscosity. The data is then reported to rig personnel in real time, allowing the mud engineer to make the necessary adjustments to the fluid system.

The Mud Aid™ can be configured with up to six (6) ion selective electrodes. This gives it the ability to test pH, Chlorides, Potassium, Calcium, and other ions. The fluid flows through a specially-designed manifold, past the electrodes, and back out.

Standard oilfield viscometers (such as the Model 800) show the shear stress of a fluid on a physical dial. This tried-and-true method is simple and reliable, which is why it’s so popular. But it’s not very flexible. Speeds have to be changed manually and readings have to be written down. There’s a lot of labor involved.

The Model 900 Viscometer provides a much more automated and streamlined process. The included ORCADA™ software gives you the power to program complex tests with multiple speeds, temperatures, and measurements. You can program multiple sweeps, gel times, and temperature ramps on the computer and then copy the test to the onboard controller for later use. The viscometer will also calculate the rheology your fluid based on the Power Law and/or Bingham Plastic analysis models. And all the steps of the test are executed automatically, without user intervention. Once you start the test, you can move on to other things while the Model 900 does all the work.

The Atmospheric Consistometer is one of the staples of the cement lab. Every cement lab needs at least one for a critical step in preparing cement slurry for further testing.

Conditioning a cement slurry in an Atmospheric Consistometer simulates the action of pumping the slurry down the wellbore. The stirring motion and elevated temperature add enough energy to the slurry to appropriately mimic the pumping environment. And, by following the recommended practice published by the American Petroleum Institute (API), the Atmospheric Consistometer helps ensure your tests are consistent and repeatable.

Oil well cement must be strong enough to support the casing and to provide adequate zonal isolation. Before using a cement system in a well, developers must verify its compressive strength through direct measurement.

The OFITE CLF-40 Automated Compressive Load Frame performs destructed compressive strength testing on cement samples. It accepts either 2” cubes (cured in an HTHP Curing Chamber) or cylindrical samples (cured in an Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer). The sample is held between two platens while the instrument steadily increases the pressure. When the sample fails, the software automatically calculates the maximum pressure before failure.

The OFITE Service Van brings our technicians to you! The van is fully stocked with all the parts our technicians need to perform standard repairs, maintenance, and calibrations. With one visit to your lab, we can repair and calibrate Viscometers, Retorts, Roller Ovens and more. And since you don't have to ship your equipment to us, your lab will be back up and running in a fraction of the time.

The Service Van is currently making regular trips to four different regions:

Are you looking for inexpensive equipment for your lab? Then take a look at our reconditioned equipment. All items have been serviced to like-new condition by OFITE-certified technicians. And everything includes the same warranty as new products.

Supplies are limited. But if you don’t see what you need, let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll keep an eye out for it.

Porosity is the percentage of empty space within a solid media. Effective porosity is the percentage of void space in which the pore spaces are interconnected. Accurately determining the effective porosity of a petroleum reservoir is important for estimating the total amount of recoverable hydrocarbons within a producing formation.

The BLP-630 Automated Gas Porosimeter was designed to rapidly and accurately measure the effective porosity of a core sample. Three separate volumetric gas reservoirs provide seven (7) possible gas volume combinations to improve effective pore space data for a broad range of core sizes and porosities. It includes an assortment of volumetric core holder inserts to minimize dead space for greater accuracy. And the core holder is secured and release with a quarter turn by hand for quick and easy core loading.

The Constant Speed Blender is designed to prepare a cement slurry by mixing it at constant speeds according to API guidelines. The blender begins by mixing at 4000 rpm for 30 seconds. It then increases the speed to 12000 rpm for 60 seconds. As the slurry thickens, the onboard controller continuously adjusts the current to the motor in order to maintain the proper mixing speed.

The new Model 25 Constant Speed Blender from OFITE brings you the same functionality as the older Model 20 Blender in a more compact, economical package. The timer and speed controls are now integrated into the blending unit, eliminating the need for a separate control box. The result is a smaller, lighter unit that takes up less space in your lab and is easily portable.

The Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer (UCA) uses the change in velocity of an acoustic signal to determine the compressive strength of a well cement over time. The Static Gel Strength Measurement Device (SGSM) uses a vaned bob submerged in the slurry to determine the static gel strength over time. Together, these two instruments provide a more complete picture of the physical properties of a well cement as the slurry sets.

The all new Model 4005 Automated Twin Cell UCA with optional SGSM automatically controls the temperature and pressure in each cell independently, bringing a new level of precision and control to your cement lab. With the new touch-screen display, you can now run an entire test in standalone mode, without the need for computer software, although the software is still included with the instrument.

We are excited to announce the addition of a new product to our catalog. The Mud Watcher continually monitors and displays the density, viscosity, and temperature of any drilling fluid (mud, brine, completion fluid, etc.) used on a rig. It sends all data directly to the rig data acquisition system, mud logging unit, or dedicated data acquisition system. The Mud Watcher reduces the risk to rig personnel while providing more accurate, reliable information for better decision making.

Since the Mud Watcher can be operated unattended, it is no longer necessary for personnel to enter the shaker shack multiple times a day to take samples. This reduces their exposure to potentially hazardous conditions, such as high temperatures, hydrocarbon gas, or even H₂S.

Tomorrow, August 25, is the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey. The wind, storm surge, intense rain, and unprecedented flooding that followed devastated the Houston area and many communities along the Texas gulf coast.

OFITE has always been proud to be a part of the Houston community. Our roots here go deep. And we shared in the heartbreak and pain of the region as we watched the terrible events unfold.

The Retort is designed to measure the percentage of oil, water, and solids in a sample of drilling fluid or cuttings. This percentage is crucial for controlling mud properties, such as rheology, density, filtration, and salinity. And knowing the solids content of your drilling mud is essential for evaluating viscosity control and solids control equipment.

The new Multi Unit Retort combines five 50 mL Retorts into a single unit. Each Retort has its own electronic temperature controller and an ergonomic stand for holding the receiver tube (also known as JP Tube). This compact design not only fits under a fume hood, but it also saves valuable and scarce bench space.

Excessive torque and drag is a common problem in the drill string. It can cause a variety of problems that negatively impact well efficiency. The primary cause of often mechanical friction between the wellbore and tubulars. The solution is usually to add lubricants to the drilling fluid.

Prior to choosing any lubricant, it is important to evaluate all available options to see which one lubricates the best and has the best chemical compatibility with the drilling fluid. The most direct test method involves determining the coefficient of friction of the base fluid and comparing it to the coefficient of friction with the lubricant.

The MudChecker, from Salunda Ltd., is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about instruments in the drilling fluids industry. This handheld, solid-state device provides oil, water, total solids, and salinity measurements in a simple, two-step process. It also measures high-gravity and low-gravity solids with no chemicals and no heating elements. The results are accurate, repeatable, electronic, and traceable.

The latest release of the MudChecker, version 1.5, now offers standalone operation. All calculations are now performed on onboard, with no software and no internet connection required. This exciting new feature makes it easier for remote technicians and rig personnel to take measurements in areas where the internet is not accessible.

Everyone in the drilling fluids industry is familiar with the oilfield retort. It measures the volume of oil, water, and solids in a sample of drilling mud. They come in three sizes – 10 mL, 20 mL, and 50 mL – and are often included in field portable kits.

Typically, the retorts included in kits are the smallest size, 10 mL. But OFITE has changed that. We have developed a 20 mL retort chamber that fits into the same heating jacket as the 10 mL retort chamber. This gives you a choice of sample volumes in your field kits. And since it fits in the same heating jacket, you can easily switch sizes by changing the chambers and cups.

In chemistry, pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in an aqueous solution. pH is measured on a scale from 0 to 14. A pH of less than 7 indicates an acidic solution, while solutions above 7 are considered alkaline. A pH of 7 is neutral, as in the case of pure water.

pH analysis is fundamental to drilling fluid control. The pH of the fluid affects clay dispersion and the solubility and effectiveness of chemical additives. A change in pH while drilling often indicates contamination by substances such as cement, gypsum, or carbon dioxide. Effective corrosion control and treatment depends upon the proper pH adjustment.

Permeability is a measure of the ability of a fluid to flow through a porous media when subjected to a differential pressure and is mathematically equated by Darcy’s law. The permeability of a petroleum reservoir is one of the most influential parameters in determining the production capabilities of a producing formation. Our Reservoir Permeability Tester was developed to evaluate how fluids affect the permeability of a core specimen. In addition, the unit may be used to evaluate acidizing techniques and to develop typical Acid Response Curves (ARCs).

The Reservoir Permeability Tester (part number 127-00) features a Hassler-type core holder that rotates 90° to allow either horizontal or vertical testing. Manual valves enable forward and reverse injection through the core for up to three separate fluids and Nitrogen gas. All wetted components are made of 316 stainless steel, although Hastelloy is available on request. The unit is housed in a two-piece cabinet with storage below and locking swivel castors for mobility. A PC and data acquisition software are included.

The oil field is finally busy again! We’re all excited to see business ramping up and people getting back to work. As you load up for that next job, take a look at your mud testing equipment. Is it still in good condition? Does it need repairs, maintenance, or calibration? If so, OFITE can help.

We offer full-service repair, maintenance, and calibration on virtually all mud and cement testing equipment. We offer competitive rates and fast turnaround times to get you back up and running in no time. Even if we didn’t manufacture it, we can fix it.

OFITE is excited to be hosting a new drilling fluids training program at our facility in Houston, TX. Classes are led by David Breeden, a consultant with over 35 years of experience in all aspects of drilling fluids technology, marketing, R&D, and operations. He will be assisted by Larry Mitchell, who has over 20 years of experience with drilling fluid testing equipment and technology.

Drilling is a complex operation requiring the combination of different technologies and disciplines. Today’s drilling personnel must have a working knowledge of drilling fluids to effectively drill a well. This course covers all aspects of drilling fluids technology, emphasizing both theory and practical application. Hands-on laboratory exercises are included.

Alkalinity is one of the most important chemical properties of drilling fluids. But what it is? And how does it affect drilling fluid performance?

Alkalinity is the acid neutralizing power of a fluid. In drilling fluid testing, alkalinity can be measured on either whole mud (designated with a subscript "df") or on the filtrate (designated with a subscript "f"), as collected with a filter press. The data collected from the alkalinity test can also be used to estimate the concentrations of hydroxyl (OH^-), carbonate (CO₃^-2) and bicarbonate (HCO₃^-) ions in the drilling fluid.

There's snow on the ground in Houston today! It doesn't happen often. But when it does, it's a beautiful sight. Enjoy it while it lasts. Merry Christmas everyone!

Twice a year, OFITE offers training classes for our customers at our facility in Houston, Texas. The classes cover a range of topics and equipment and are led by an OFITE technician. Each class lasts four days with seven hours of instruction each day.

A $500 registration fee is required to reserve your spot in the class. At the end of the course, students will receive a certificate and the fee will be credited back to your account for future purchases.

Gel strength is a property of cement slurries that describes the attractive forces that exist between particles suspended within the mixture. Gel strength develops as the slurry remains under static conditions. Of the four rheological models that describe the flow behavior of fluids, the one that is used to best describe cement slurries is the Bingham-Plastic model. One of the particular characteristics of a Bingham-Plastic fluid is that it has a yield point. Below a fluid’s yield point, the fluid behaves as a solid. As force is applied to the slurry, it does not move. Once the force exceeds the fluid’s yield point, the fluid begins to flow. As long as the slurry remains in a static state, it has a chance to develop gel strength.

Cement service companies have a strong interest in cement gel strength. Gel strength describes the ability of a fluid to clean the walls of the hole and carry solids out of the well. After pumping operations have ceased and the slurry sits in a static state, gel strength describes the ability of a cement slurry to resist gas invasion. In the lab, technicians typically measure the rheological properties of a cement slurry using a concentric viscometer or rheometer. Either unit consists of a cylinder that rotates around a bob connected to a calibrated spring which measures the force that the rotating cylinder imparts on the fluid that is in between the cylinder and the bob. Rheometers or viscometers are complex or simple and have the capability to measure the rheology of fluids under both atmospheric conditions and conditions of temperature and pressure downhole.

When wet cement begins to set, the crystals that form the set cement matrix take up less volume than the initial reactants that make up the base cement blend mixture. As a result of the chemical reaction, the cement undergoes a net reduction in volume. This phenomenon is called bulk shrinkage. When the cement is in contact with water during the setting process, cement hydration consumes the water as a part of the chemical reaction. The influx of water, chemical shrinkage, into the cement matrix offsets the bulk shrinkage. The result is hardened cement that experiences significantly less volumetric shrinkage.

For cement that is placed in an oil well, the phenomenon of shrinkage is problematic. Volumetric shrinkage causes the cement to pull away from both the formation and the steel casing. The result is a loss of zonal isolation, which is one of the most basic functions of oil well cement. To overcome situations where shrinkage is a potential issue, cement service companies add certain additives to promote expansion of the set cement. The expansion of the cement promotes bond integrity between the cement and the formation and maintains zonal isolation throughout the life of the well.

PRESS RELEASE

A new partnership will see US-based OFI Testing Equipment, Inc. handle global distribution for monitoring specialists Salunda Limited’s hand-held drilling fluid measurement instrument, MudChecker.

Once dry cement is mixed with water, a complex chemical reaction begins. The chemical reactions have a tremendous effect on the physical performance properties of the cement slurry. The addition of other chemicals to the cement mixture further complicates the reaction process as these additives affect the slurry properties. Blends are modified in order to increase or decrease the thickening time, alter the rheologies, or change the fluid loss properties.

Laboratories need the capacity to gauge the performance of the cement slurry in order to accurately predict how that slurry will perform under conditions that are found in an oil well. One of the tools that technicians have at their disposal to prepare slurries for additional testing is the atmospheric consistometer. Originally conceived as an instrument to test the thickening time of cement slurries, the atmospheric consistometer is often used to condition the slurry for additional testing.

Filtration testing is critical to understanding the effectiveness of a drilling mud system. Excess fluid loss can cause costly damage and drilling delays. Yet most filtration tests do not provide a complete picture of what it happening downhole. Static filtration represents only a part of drilling activity.

For most of a drilling operation, drilling fluid is circulating inside the wellbore. To understand how the movement of the fluid through the annulus affects filtration, you need a dynamic filter press.

***UPDATE: The September 21 lunch and learn is full. We will be scheduling more in the near future. If you are interested, let us know and we will keep you updated about upcoming events. ***

If your company or organization has an interest in measuring the mechanical properties of cement and other materials, then we have an opportunity for you. On Thursday, September 21st, OFITE is offering a free seminar at our main headquarters in Houston, TX. Come have lunch with us as we talk about our new TLF-112 Triaxial Mechanical Properties Testing System designed specifically for the testing of well cement and other materials.

The mechanical properties of a material describe how that material behaves when subjected to an applied force. When placed in an oil well, cement is subjected to numerous stresses which impact its ability to both protect the casing and maintain zonal isolation. Lateral stresses within the formation threaten to warp and crush the casing. Expansion and shrinkage caused by temperature and pressure cycles cause brittle cement to develop cracks, which place well integrity at risk as the cement debonds from the casing or formation.

There are four primary mechanical properties of cement that oilfield service companies need to understand to predict the behavior of the set cement under downhole stresses:

We are all shocked and saddened by the damaged caused by Hurricane Harvey. OFITE has been a part of the Houston community for over 30 years. We have seen how the people of the Gulf Coast region can come together in times of tragedy.

We have compiled a list of charities offering relief to those affected by the flooding. Please help. Donations are desperately needed right now.

We are open for business! We appreciate your patience during the storm and its aftermath. We are back and ready to work for you!

Our regular business hours are 8:00am - 5:00pm CDT, Monday - Friday.

Cement slurries that are placed in gas bearing formations as part of the well completion process are at risk of gas migration under the right conditions. Gas migration refers to the annular flow of natural gas from the formation up through the cement column. As the gas moves through the cement matrix, it carves a channel that becomes permanent once the cement sets. This permanent channel becomes a conduit that allows for natural gas to continuously bleed from the formation.

After cement placement operations have stopped, the cement slurry begins to develop gel strength under static conditions. The amount of gel strength development and the speed at which it occurs are two of the main factors that describe a cement slurry’s ability to resist gas intrusion. Generally, gas intrusion begins when cement slurries develop 100 lbf/100 ft2 (48 Pa). Gas intrusion ends when the cement develops 500 lbf/100 ft2 (240 Pa). The transition time is defined as the time it takes the slurry to go from 100 lbf/100 ft2 (48 Pa) to 500 lbf/100 ft2 (240 Pa). The shorter the transition time is, the less risk there is for the cement sheath to lose well control.

For oilfield service companies trying to cement a well, the thickening time of the cement slurry is the critical slurry property to control. A typical cement job requires the slurry to be mixed at the surface and pumped downhole. Cement slurry that sets up too soon leads to a Cement Left In Pipe (CLIP) situation. A CLIP occurs when cement fluids set up inside the steel casing during placement. Costs associated with both the well and nonproductive time is significant. Slurries with extended thickening times lead to costly extended time on station as the drilling rig is required to remain on station in order to provide support for the casing. In a worst case scenario, the well is at risk of complete loss of control as the cement is unable to maintain both zonal isolation and well integrity.

Laboratories need the capacity to gauge the performance of the cement slurry in order to accurately predict how that slurry will perform under conditions that are found in an oil well. The most fundamental tool to measure the thickening time of a cement slurry is the pressurized consistometer.

The Retort measures the percentage (%) of oil, water, and solids in a sample of drilling fluid or cuttings. The results from a Retort test are essential to properly controlling mud properties such as rheology, density, filtration, and salinity. It is also important for evaluating viscosity control and solids control equipment.

Retort Kits have historically been large and bulky, taking up valuable laboratory space. The OFITE Multi Unit Retort combines five 50 mL Retort units into a single enclosure with a single electrical inlet. It saves space on the counter and only uses one electrical outlet. It also features a convenient stand for 50 mL Receiver Tubes (JP Tubes) and independent temperature control for each unit. The included software records and graphs the temperature of each unit over time.

Fracturing fluids are viscous mixtures of water and additives that are pumped at high pressures into an underground oil or natural gas formation. They are designed to fracture the formation and carry proppant into the newly formed cracks. Once the proppant is placed, the fracturing fluid flows back to the surface for disposal by the service company. Proppant left inside the fractures provides liquid hydrocarbons an easy path to flow out of the formation and up to the surface.

The fracturing fluid is the key component to the stimulation process. It needs to have enough viscosity to carry the proppant, but it must also "break" and lose viscosity so that it will flow back to the surface without blocking the production of hydrocarbons from the formation. The Pressurized Viscometer is the essential tool service companies use to finalize the fracturing fluid design. A Pressurized Viscometer applies temperature and pressure to a fracturing fluid in order to determine the stability response of the fluid at downhole conditions. The viscometer determines the fluid’s viscosity by measuring its response to different rotational shear rates imparted by a rotor and bob combination (also known as a couette configuration). Engineers then use the apparent viscosity of the fluid to optimize the design and make sure it is capable of effectively delivering the proppant into the hydrocarbon bearing formation.

The Mud Engineer's Testing Equipment on Rollers (METEOR) Kit contains all the equipment you'll need to conduct tests on water and oil-based muds (with the optional ES Meter) - all in one waterproof, portable case! In addition to the standard mud balance, marsh funnel, and cup, the METEOR Kit includes an 8-Speed Viscometer, HTHP Filter Press, Full Area Filter Press, pH meter, retort, Sand Content Kit, and Methylene Blue Test (MBT) Kit. It also contains all the necessary labware, glassware, and reagents to perform the most common mud tests, with ample room left over for regulators, supplies, and extra reagents. The rugged, plastic case is built to military specs, enabling it to withstand the harshest of conditions, while protecting your equipment.

Learn more about our kits:

• International Kit
• Frontier Kit
• Oil Mud Laboratory
• Airplane Kit
• Offshore Kit

Cement in an oil well needs to be able to resist the forces found in the formation in order to protect the steel casing around which it is placed. The cement sheath is also required to support the weight of the casing as well as resist perforation operations conducted by wireline operators in preparation for fracturing and stimulation activities. Cement needs to develop an adequate level of compressive strength in order to meet these requirements.

Cement compressive strength describes the ability of hardened cement to resist crush force. Laboratories have multiple options to measure the compressive strength development of a cement design. The most practical and efficient method to accurately calculate the compressive strength is to use an Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer (UCA). The UCA works by sending a continuous sound pulse into the cement slurry. As the cement hardens, the sound pulse travels faster through the cement matrix. The transit time is correlated to the compressive strength of the hardened cement.

The lubricating properties of drilling fluids are an important factor in well design. Deviated holes are particularly susceptible to excess drag between the drill string and casing. Serious casing wear can also occur in deep and ultra-deep wells and is further complicated by tripping in and out of the hole.

The challenge for mud engineers is to design a drilling fluid system that adequately lubricates the drill string without compromising other physical properties such as density, rheology, and filtration. To test the drilling fluid, engineers use a specially designed Lubricity Tester. This instrument simulates the rotation of the drill string and the pressure of the drill pipe against the casing. A stationary block is pressed against a rotating ring while both are submerged in the test fluid. The control board measures the torque necessary to turn the ring at a constant speed and converts that into the coefficient of friction.

Cement slurries used in the oil field are dynamic fluids with complex chemistries. Laboratories tasked with the development of slurries used for cement pumping operations strive to prepare these mixtures under conditions that reflect those found out in the field. With the replication of conditions that are as close as possible to those found out at the wellsite, technicians are able to make accurate predictions the behavior of cement slurries under those same conditions.

The most basic way to ensure that lab-prepared slurries match the performance of field-prepared counterparts begins with a properly mixed slurry. Cement laboratories use a constant speed mixer to ensure that mixed cement slurries are a homogeneous blend. The proper amount of mixing energy ensures that individual cement grains are completely surrounded by water which kicks off the cement hydration process. Laboratory technicians are then able to perform the remainder of their evaluation tests confident with the knowledge that any results produced properly predict the performance of the cement slurry under field conditions.

Shale swelling is a major cause of wellbore instability. It can lead to a variety of problems, such as hole sloughing, pipe drag, bit balling, stuck pipe, or other “gumbo” related issues. Shale swelling is caused by clay (one of the major components of shale) absorbing water, usually from drilling fluid. The proper drilling fluid additives can mitigate shale swelling and prevent the loss of the entire drilling operation.

The OFITE Dynamic Linear Swellmeter measures the interaction between drilling fluids and mineral samples containing clays. This instrument can test up to four (expandable to eight) samples simultaneously and compare the results over time. Each test consists of a cylindrical wafer of compressed bentonite, rev dust, or downhole sample. The wafer is constrained around its circumference and exposed to fluid. As the clay reacts to the fluid, the wafer can only expand linearly. A Linear Variable Displacement Transducer (LVDT) measures the expansion of the water while the software tracks the percent of swelling over time. Each station includes independent heating and stirring.

For years, our quality management system has been ISO 9001:2008 certified. We constantly work hard to meet the strict requirements necessary to maintain this certification and we are proud of the results. Our quality management system helps us provide outstanding customer service, develop superior products, and continuously improve our operations. Now we are excited to announce two big changes in our ISO certification.

First, our QMS has been upgraded and is now ISO 9001:2015 certified. The 2015 revision of the 9001 standard reflects the changing business environment. With a greater focus on leadership engagement and risk-based thinking, we are confident our new process will help us be more efficient and improve customer satisfaction.

To define the physical properties of a cement slurry, laboratory personnel need to run a complete suite of performance tests. To produce consistent test results that inform how the slurry will perform under field conditions, technicians need to treat the slurry in a manner that is similar to those conditions found downhole. Atmospheric Consistometers are the ideal tool that enables technicians to condition the target slurry for further testing.

Atmospheric Consistometers are a fundamental piece of laboratory equipment. Designed to conform to API Spec 10A/10B2 standards, the Consistometers utilize a heated mineral oil bath to maintain the temperature of the slurry within 2°F (1°C) of the set point. The slurry is conditioned at temperature by rotating at 150 rpm for the duration of the conditioning period.

Corrosion costs the drilling industry billions of dollars every year. Drill pipe, casing, and downhole tools are particularly vulnerable. To measure the corrosive properties of drilling and completion fluids, the industry uses corrosion rings and coupons. These are typically placed in the drill string and exposed to fluids during drilling operations. But sometimes more advanced testing is necessary.

The OFITE HTHP Corrosion Tester is designed to test the corrosive properties of fluids under elevated temperature and pressure in a laboratory setting. It can test four samples at a time at up to 400°F and 5,000 psi. The controlled environment of the lab makes it easier to control variables and get more repeatable results.

Advanced oil well cement testing goes beyond compressive strength. The elastic properties (Young’s Modulus, Poisson’s Ratio, and Tensile Strength) also play a major role in well integrity. But measuring these properties has always been a challenge. The equipment is often large, complex, and expensive. What is the solution?

The OFITE TLF-112 Triaxial Mechanical Properties Testing System is the first instrument specifically designed to physically measure the four major mechanical properties of oil well cement:

OFI Testing Equipment, Inc. is excited to announce our new partnership with Geotechnical Consulting and Testing Systems (GCTS).  GCTS is a leading manufacturer that integrates innovative software engineering with advanced hardware for advanced testing systems used for Rock Mechanics, Soil testing, and Pavements used on roads and highways.  As a distributor for their Advanced Rock, Soil, and Asphalt testing systems, we now offer their complete portfolio to customers around the world.  Both companies are committed to providing complete solutions based on the needs of our customers while providing the highest level of customer service in our industries.  Combining technologies used outside of the Oil & Gas Industry with our existing product lines and their 35 year history provides our customers a diversified product offering for some of the most challenging materials and fluids testing requirements.  For details on GCTS products and the regions we support please contact sales@ofite.com.

Budgets in the oilfield industry are tight right now. It is harder than ever to keep your lab equipped with the latest technology. But need to new technology is greater than ever. Innovation is more important now than ever. So what is the solution?

We are now offering a new equipment lease program. We want to offer you a selection of instruments at monthly rates that don't exceed your capital expenditure limit.

The Model 800 Viscometer has been around for years. It’s the workhorse of laboratory and field rheological testing. But why is it so popular? Why do so many people prefer it to the competition?

1. A lighted dial. It may not seem like much, but the tiny light inside the case illuminates the dial and makes it much easier to read. It is especially helpful in situations where ambient lighting is less than optimal. Whether it’s the glare from the sun or the gloom of a dark lab, the dial is always easy to read.
2. Universal voltage. All of the electrical components of the Model 800 operate exclusively on DC power. What does that mean to you? It means you can plug it in almost anywhere. The included power supply accepts between 100 and 240 volts of AC power. But the best part is the frequency. Whether you are operating on 50 Hz or 60 Hz, the power supply converts it to DC. We even offer a special 12 volt adapter for use in the cigarette lighter in your car or truck.
3. Threaded rotor. Have you ever run a test with a wobbly rotor? The rotor on the Model 800 is threaded. It mechanically attaches to the unit the same way every time. And it stays tight throughout the entire test.
4. No gearbox. Gears are complicated and messy. They wear out easily and they are prone to jamming and locking. The model 800 has no gear box. It’s just a motor and a belt. There’s no need to switch gears to change speeds; simply turn the knob. And it’s much easier to maintain and repair. Fewer moving parts means fewer problems to fix.
5. Speed control. The Model 800 uses a stepper motor to drive the rotor. Stepper motors have very precise speed control. While you are testing, the motor control board is constantly monitoring the speed and making adjustments. So you always know that your rotor is turning at the right speed.
6. Extra speeds. They say less is more. But at OFITE, we disagree. We believe more is more. So instead of offering only 6 speeds, our viscometer offers 8. The standard speeds of 600, 300, 200, 100, 6, and 3 RPM are suitable for most testing on drilling fluids. But for testing cement you need two extra speeds: 60 and 30 RPM. By including all 8 speeds, the Model 800 becomes a more versatile instrument.

Have you tried the Model 800 Viscometer yet? If not, you are missing out. Check the product page for more information or to place an order.

Foam cement is a versatile, low-density cementing system used in many oil-well applications. It is commonly used for low fracture gradient or lost circulation problem wells. The formulation is unique compared to other oil-well fluids because it uses three phases of matter. The solid phase consists of cement and other dry additives. The liquid phase is mix water and any liquid additives. And the gaseous phase is, in most cases, nitrogen (N₂) gas.

Adding nitrogen gas to a cement slurry dramatically reduces the density while using the same amount of mix water. Because no extra water is used, foam cement develops sufficient mechanical strength for well-bore application while improving the bonding characteristics. As the temperature increases down hole, the nitrogen gas expands, pushing the foam cement against the formation and casing and creating a stronger bond. Despite the added benefits, expansion also creates challenges for laboratory testing.

The May 2016 issue of the OFI Times newsletter is here! Take a look inside to find out what's happening at OFITE. This issue includes:

• Working Hard to Reduce Costs and Maintain Value
• New Products
• New Option for Purchasing Equipment - OFITE Equipment Lease Program
• Upcoming Events and Classes
• Tech Tips
• And a Special Offer!

Settling during a well cement operation can lead to the development of free water or free fluid. Free water and fluid do not set like cement, which can compromise well integrity and zonal isolation.

The BP Cement Settling Tube is designed to test the settling characteristics of well cement under elevated temperature and pressure. The cement slurry is poured into the brass tube and cured in a Consistometer, Curing Chamber, or water bath. After the cement has cured, the column is cut into pieces and the density of each piece is measured using Archimedes Principle.

Are you looking for inexpensive equipment for your lab? Then take a look at our reconditioned equipment. All items have been serviced to like-new condition by OFITE-certified technicians. And everything includes the same warranty as new products.

Supplies are limited. But if you don’t see what you need, let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll keep an eye out for it.

Any lab that runs high-temperature, high-pressure filtration testing has to be concerned with safety. Heated and pressurized test cells, if handled improperly, can injure people and damage equipment. Yet if they are handled properly, they are as safe as any other equipment. That is why OFI Testing Equipment offers several devices specifically designed to help laboratory staff correctly handle HTHP filtration cells.

The first thing you need to safely work with HTHP filter press cells is a suitable stand. Our device (#171-190-028) is designed to hold a cell upright for assembly, disassembly, or cooling. The cup at the top prevents the cell from tipping, and the open space below provides plenty of room for a valve stem. And for extra stability, the entire stand can be attached to a countertop or workbench.

Times are tough in the oil patch. Staffing is reduced, budgets are cut, and approval processes are tightened. It is harder than ever to keep your lab equipped with the latest technology. But now is when it’s most important. We can help.

OFITE is now offering a new equipment lease program. Our goal is to offer a selection of instruments at monthly rates that fall below your capital expenditure limit.

Excessive torque and drag (ETD) is a common drilling problem, especially in extended-reach wells. ETD can cause lower penetration rates, increased hook-load, damage to downhole tubulars, and failure to reach target zones. While it can have many causes, mechanical friction between the wellbore and tubulars is often to blame. An effective and economical way to reduce mechanical friction is to add lubricating agents to the drilling fluid.

Before choosing a lubricant, it is important to test several options to determine which has the best lubricating properties and chemical compatibility with the drilling fluid. Performance testing involves determining the coefficient of friction (Cf) of the base drilling fluid and comparing it to the Cf with each additive.

Many drilling problems can be traced to the interaction between shale rock materials and drilling fluids. Testing the characteristics of the shale is the first step in developing an appropriate drilling fluid system that will be less reactive and cause fewer problems. One of these characteristics is hardness. Shale hardness can be related to the inhibitive properties of the drilling mud. When shale interacts with a fluid, water will often adsorb, the shale will swell, and fine particles will disperse. These can then reduce the compressive strength or cause the shale to spall or fracture, leading to significant wellbore stability problems. In addition, soft and/or sticky cuttings can cause mud rings, sticking problems, and bit balling.

The Bulk Hardness Tester (#150-87) was designed to evaluate the hardness of a shale sample after it has been exposed to a drilling fluid. In the test, the operator uses a torque wrench attached to a threaded piston to extrude the sample through a perforated plate. The torque required for each turn is recorded and evaluated. The change in torque during the test provides valuable information about the characteristics of the sample. Harder samples will require more torque, while software sample will require less.

The flow-back characteristics of drill-in fluids are critical to the productivity of a well. If the fluid plugs the production screen, it will not only slow down production, but it could also lead to screen erosion and costly remediation. But test flow-back has always been slow and expensive, often delaying rig operations for days or weeks while samples are shipped back to the lab.

With the Production Screen Tester (PST), you can now run flow-back tests right at the rig site with samples of the actual production screen being used down hole. The test is similar to the standard API filter press. You assemble the test cell with the screen sample at the bottom. After filling the cell with fluid, apply pressure to the top and open the valve at the bottom. The test will quickly show whether the screen and fluid are compatible.

Traditional filtration testing has always been limited by testing static conditions. Yet most of the time, drilling fluid is circulating through the wellbore. The movement of the fluid can have significant effects on the filter cake that are not measured by static filtration tests.

The OFITE Dynamic HTHP Filter Press (#170-95) is designed to correct this oversight. A shaft and paddle extend down into the test cell and circulate the fluid during a test. The speed is adjustable, and the motor can be started and stopped periodically to better simulate drilling conditions.

The all new Model 4020-SG Automated UCA/SGSM is a revolutionary instrument that combines two powerful cement measurement methods into a single, easy-to-use device. First, the UCA provides a non-destructive method of testing the compressive strength of a well cement. Second, the SGSM directly measures the static gel strength of the slurry. And both are combined to create the only self-contained Ultrasonic Cement Analyzer / Static Gel Strength Measurement (UCA/SGSM) device on the market.

The October 2015 issue of the OFI Times newsletter is here! Take a look inside to find out what's happening at OFITE. This issue includes:

• New Services in the Middle East
• New Products
• What's Happening at OFITE
• Upcoming Events and Classes
• Tech Tips
• And a Special Offer!

After the success of our Advanced Four-Unit HTHP Filter Press for 175 mL cells, we have developed a new version.  This one is a two-unit model that accepts 500 mL filter press cells.  Each cell has a separate electronic temperature control and two separate pressure regulators (drive pressure and back pressure).  This allows independent heating and pressurization, while sharing a single power source.

This unit is ideal for high-volume laboratory testing.  While test cells are sold separately, it does include all other accessories necessary to run a test (back pressure receivers, hoses, manifold blocks, graduated cyliners, filter paper, etc.

We are proud to announce the opening of a new OFITE Service Center at Woodhouse International in Dubai, UAE. From here, our technicians perform repairs, maintenance, and calibrations for customers throughout the Middle East.

On-site technician visits are also available. With one visit to your lab, we can repair and calibrate Viscometers, Retorts, Ovens, and more. And since you don’t have to ship your equipment to us, your lab will be back up and running in a fraction of the time.

We are proud to announce the first issue of the new quarterly OFITE Newsletter.  Take a look inside to find out what's happening at OFITE.  This issue includes:

• OFITE Manufacturing Solutions
• New Products
• What's Happening at OFITE
• Upcoming Events and Classes
• Tech Tips

HOUSTON, June 2, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- OFI Testing Equipment, Inc. (OFITE) expands worldwide headquarters and operations facility located in Houston, Texas.  The expansion of an additional 40,000 square feet of manufacturing, training, and engineering space is designed to facilitate the growing demands for drilling fluids, cement, and core testing equipment product lines while expanding capabilities for other manufacturing services.

OFITE has designed and manufactured testing equipment for the upstream oil and gas market for over thirty years.  During the recent downturn in drilling activity they took a step backward to look at what they could do as a company to diversify into other segments of the energy industry and beyond.

The OFITE Circular Cement Expansion Mold measures the expansion or shrinkage of a well cement. It has an external ring with a vertical slit on one side to allow it to expand. Before testing begins, the width of the gap is measured with a micrometer.  Then, after curing, the gap is measured again.

The complete kit includes the mold, micrometer, micrometer stand, and carrying case.  Click here to learn more.

We are proud to announce our new On-site Service Van. This new service will bring OFITE technicians to you! The van is fully stocked with all the parts our technicians need to perform standard repairs and calibration. With one visit to your lab, we can repair and calibrate Viscometers, Retorts, Ovens, and more. And since you don’t have to ship your equipment to us, your lab will be back up and running in a fraction of the time.

Once the repairs are complete, calibration records will be available on our website for you to download, print, and store.

Any instrument that operates at elevated temperatures and pressures creates a safety concern in the lab.  HTHP filter press cells are no different. The traditional design, with its six locking screws around the cap, has been known to trap pressure and become a safety risk.

OFITE has designed a new cell with safety in mind. This modular design is much safer and more convenient. The two-piece cap is threaded, and cannot be opened while the cell is pressurized. And interchangeable caps make it easy to reconfigure the cell for testing with different filter media (filter paper, ceramic disks, or cement screens) with a single cell body.

OFITE is happy to announce our new partnership with Sequoia Scientific Inc.  We are now an official distributor for the LISST-Portable|XR Particle Size Analyzer.  This technology provides portable real time particle size analysis based on laser diffraction.  The battery powered field portable unit analyzes the sample in a wet state to obtain particle size distribution and particle volume concentration.

Primarily intended for use in the oilfield industry, the OFITE Static Gel Strength Measurement Device (SGSM) is designed to measure the gel strength development of cement after pumping operations have ceased. The unique design of the SGSM, combined with the advanced data acquisition software, provides users with a true mechanical static gel strength measurement.