Drilling waste minimization in the Hugoton field, southwest Kansas

The described drilling waste minimization program implemented by Mobil in the Hugoton gas field is significant because it represents a successful application of technology previously unseen in the Kansas Mid-Continent area. This drilling waste minimization program significantly reduces pollution potential, improves compliance assurance, and decreases overall waste-related costs. The key element of this program is a mechanical solids control system consisting of a semi-closed loop centrifuge flocculation dewatering process that removes drilling solids for burial on location. The system provides environmental (80 percent reduced waste volumes and 70 percent reduction in fresh water usage) and economic ($307,000/358 well program) incentives, as well as numerous indirect benefits over conventionally used drilling solids control methods. Indirect benefits include more accurate formation evaluation (less solids interference with wireline logs), minimized wellbore damage (reduced fluid loss and washout), and goodwill and improved relations with regulators and landowners. The described drilling program is complemented by other operations-oriented waste management initiatives and validated by tracking waste volumes and costs. Mobil and its drilling and mud contractors partnered the initiative. The described improved drilling solids control technology is now available for use in the Kansas Mid-Continent area by Mobil and other operators and has resulted in improvedmore » operations efficiency.« less