Abstract: Polymer suspensions prepared with non-aqueous, oil-free carrier fluids, for use in oil or gas well servicing. The polymer suspensions typically comprise a hydrophilic polymer, an organic clay, a stabilizer, and a carrier fluid selected from propylene glycol and butylene glycol. The addition of isopropyl alcohol, a polar activator, lowers the viscosity of the suspension. The further addition of neopentyl glycol further lowers viscosity and improves cross-linking of the polymer. The composition is both stable and environmentally acceptable.

Abstract: Apparatus for unattended retrieval of samples of material to be tested for viscosity provides substantially continuous monitoring capability for a blending plant. A single device is used for both retrieving the samples from a pipe conveying the material and for delivering the samples to a measuring chamber of a viscometer. The device, such as a pump or a solenoid operated valve, is controlled by a sequence timer programmed to generate a timed sequence of signals. Preferably, the device is operated to provide a new sample to the viscometer when the measuring chamber is being heated, thereby displacing the previous sample without requiring a cleansing agent.

Abstract: A cylindrical support and centering device for a sensitive viscometer comprises a hollow cylindrical support member open at opposite ends. The viscometer is supported on the upper end with its cylindrical pivot housing slip-fitted into the upper end in snug contact with an inner cylindrical surface of the support. The pivot housing either rests against an annular stop surface formed below the cylindrical surface or is supported by contact of the viscometer with the upper end. The lower end of the support is dimensioned to snugly engage the outer cylindrical surface of the stator so that the longitudinal axis of the stator is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the rotor for precise centering.

Abstract: Middle phase emulsions are broken by subjecting the emulsion to a first atmospheric distillation step to remove water, followed by a second vacuum distillation step to recover oil. The residue contains the surfactant. The atmospheric distillation is generally carried out by steam distillation.