STAR-PLEX
STAR-PLEX is a specialty product used to enhance Hi-Yield Bentonites. STAR-PLEX viscosifier is an inorganic extender for water-base bentonite drilling fluids.
Application
STAR-PLEX allows the formulation of fluids with exceptional LSRV - a drilling fluid with both excellent dynamic and static fluid characteristics. This is indicated by high yield point and low plastic- viscosity readings. When not circulating, the mud instantly returns to a gelled state and immediately suspends drilled cuttings. STAR-PLEX is compatible with anionic products such as detergents or polymers, unlike other inorganic bentonite extenders like mixed-metal oxide (MMO).
Advantages
- High rate of penetration
- Excellent cuttings transport
- Excellent cuttings suspension
- Borehole stabilization through "gel locking" in the formation
Typical Usages
| Typical Amounts of STAR-PLEX Added to freshwater |
|---|
| Once the Hi-Yield Bentonite is hydrated add 3-lb (1.5-kg) STAR-PLEX (1.5 vis cups) and mix for 5minutes |
| STAR-PLEX is typically mixed in a 20:1 ratio with bentonite. Increasing the bentonite to STAR-PLEX ratio will increase carrying capacity and gel strengths |
| Mix in small amounts in standard bentonite systems to provide high-viscosity hole cleaning "sweeps" |
Typical Properties
| Physical Appearance | White to beige free-flowing powder |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 2.8 - 3.1 |
| pH (1% solution) | 6.5 - 8.0 |
Packaging
STAR-PLEX is packaged in 25-lb (11.3-kg) multi-wall paper sacks at 80 per plt and 25lb bkts at 64/plt.