Publications

Difficulties encountered while drilling horizontal and highly deviated wells often can be attributed to poor hole cleaning. Despite the benefits of extensive research and experience, there are still disagreements concerning the appropriate field practices for a given well.A major goal of this paper is to place in proper perspective the relative importance of key hole-cleaning parameters. This is achieved through 28 ",rulesof- thumb", based on laboratory testing and field observations. Unique photographs of cuttings transport by field muds in laboratory flow loops are included. The information can be used to plan mud and hydraulics programs and assist in trouble-shooting field problems.