2.1.2 Flow Loop Results
Purpose
The Flow Loop Analysis provides the critical flow rates for each specific tool and allows the DD to adjust
these rates depending on mud weight as the run progresses.
Flow Loop Analysis Verification
1. Mud Weight – Minimum flow and tool turn on rates are dictated by the flow loop results as well as the mud
weight. The higher the mud weight, the more torque that will be exhibited on the flow kit, and the lower flow
the tool can handle. If this is not within 0.5 ppg of the planned or current mud weight, the operating envelop
on the following page should be used to adjust these critical flow rates.
2. Maximum Drilling Flow Rate – Damage or toolface instability can occur if pumping above this rate.
3. Density Corrected Minimum Drilling Flow Rate – Never pump below this flow rate if drilling. Try to stay at or
above this flow rate as much as possible when circulating off bottom to avoid torquer jamming.
4. Density Corrected Minimum Tool Turn on Flow Rate – This is the flow rate at which the control unit will turn
on and record data. While the tool will be on, it cannot steer nor is it cleaning as optimally as it is when flow
is kept above the Minimum Drill Flow [4] and therefore the risk of torquer jamming is higher. Never go below
this value when downlinking or the tool will turn off and the downlink will be dropped.
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