Image Credit: Sarah Craig/Faces of Fracking
Drilling in oil and gas takes careful planning and execution, as it is a dangerous process. The use of drilling mud (water and clay) and various chemicals are a natural part of the drilling operation. Over time, the drilling mud can get contaminated with rock cuttings and other debris. This leads to a reduction of effectiveness and concerns of safety. To prevent these issues, drilling operations use a process called “pit turns” to introduce fresh mud while removing old, contaminated drilling mud.
In the simplest of terms, pit turns pump out the old drilling mud from mud pits and replacing it with fresh mud.
Pit turns can be completed by using pumps and hoses manually, or through automated systems controlled by technology. Pit turns play an essential role in maintaining the efficiency and safety of drilling operations. This can affect the equipment used in the drilling process, thus increasing the risk of accidents.
Pit turns also help prevent environmental contamination. Chemicals and pollutants in drilling mud can harm the environment if not properly contained or disposed of. Removing the contaminated mud and replacing with fresh mud helps minimize the risk of environmental damage. Depending on the drilling conditions, the amount of debris in the mud, and the drilling equipment used, pit turns might need to be completed daily or once every few days.
PureLine treats pits utilizing three-precursor, on-site generation of chlorine dioxide oxidizing H2S, FeS, sulfate reducing bacteria, & acid producing bacteria for the reuse of water. If you are curious to know how PureLine can partner with your water disinfection and recycling needs, fill out the form below and a representative would be glad to discuss your business needs.