Critical Fluid Velocities for Removing Cuttings Bed Inside Horizontal and Deviated Wells

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to estimate the critical fluid flow velocity for preventing the development of a stationary bed using empirical correlations valid for horizontal and highly inclined wellbores that can be easily used at the field. For this purpose, experiments have been conducted at METU-PETE Cuttings Transport Flow Loop for various conditions. Observations showed that a stationary bed is developed when the fuid velocity is less than 6.0 ft/s, and a critical fluid velocity of 8.0 ft/s is required to establish a no-bed condition. Results showed that the critical velocity and the thickness of the stationary bed, if developed, could be estimated with a reasonable accuracy.