DESCRIPTION
Aus-Plug is a hydrophilic polymer in granular form that absorbs up to 500 times its original volume in water.
Aus-Plug is ideal for sealing zones of lost circulation and can also be used to reduce rod vibration in holes where lost returns are a problem.
APPLICATIONS/FUNCTIONS
Aus-Plug should be partially pre-hydrated in fresh water or the drilling fluid before being pumped down into the cavity or
when spotted across the thief zone. The mixture will swell rapidly to help seal and plug fissures, cracks and porous
formations. Drilling can recommence after a waiting period of 30 minutes however if salinity and hardness are present the
waiting time is extended to 1 hour. This procedure can be repeated on multiple times until circulation is regained.
In circumstances where a low water level is present or total loss are experienced, Aus-Plug can be poured into the annulus
to cushion vibration.
ADVANTAGES
- Easy to use
- Very economical
- Extremely high expansion rate
- Efficient in low pressure environments
- Environmentally safe
- Easy to drill out
- Compatible with most products and systems
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- Appearance: White free flowing granular powder
- Bulk density: 510 ± 50
- Particle size: 2 – 4 mm
- Solubility: Swells rapidly on contact
- pH value: 7.0 – 8.0
RECOMMENDED TREATMENT
Aus-Plug should used in quantities of 0.5 – 1.5 kg per 20 litres of fresh water or the drilling fluid before being pumped
down into the cavity or when spotted across the thief zone.
Avoid pumping the Aus-Plug in a dry state and ensure consideration has been placed on down hole tooling tolerances and lost
circulation conditions. When using Aus-Plug in diamond core ensure the tube has been retrieved, the suction as well as any
other internal pump screens have been removed before pumping the solution. Repeat as necessary to regain circulation.
Aus-Plug can be used independently or to compliment other lost circulation control materials.
