Mud balance
A mud balance, also known as a mud scale is a device used to measure the density (weight) of drilling fluid,[1] cement[2] or any type of liquid or slurry.
Description and operation
[edit | edit source]It consists of a graduated beam with a bubble level and a weight slider along its length and a cup with a lid on one end. The cup is used to hold a fixed amount of fluid so it can be weighed. A slider-weight can be moved along the beam, and a bubble indicates when the beam is level. Density is read at the point where the slider-weight sits on the beam at level.
Calibration is done using a liquid of known density (often fresh water) by adjusting the counter weight. Typical balances are not pressurized, but a pressurized mud balance operates in the same manner.[3]
Reason for use
[edit | edit source]There is no reliable visual method of determining the density of drilling mud; the mud balance is the most reliable and simple way of making the determination.[4]
References
[edit | edit source]- ^ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
- ^ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
- ^ Schlumberger's oil field glossary
- ^ Dean Bennett testing equipment