Abstract: Single phase microemulsions improve the removal of filter cakes formed during drilling with invert emulsions. The single phase microemulsion removes oil and solids from the deposited filter cake. Optionally, an acid capable of solubilizing the filter cake bridging particles may also be used with the microemulsion. In one non-limiting embodiment the acid may be a polyamino carboxylic acid. Skin damage removal from internal and external filter cake deposition can be reduced.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 2, 2005
Date of Patent:
November 14, 2006
Assignee:
Baker Hughes Incorporated
Inventors:
Thomas A. Jones, David E. Clark, Lirio Quintero, Bruce Rae Ewen