SWELL-STAR
SWELL-STAR is a swelling copolymer for lost circulation that expands over 200 times its volume in freshwater.
Application
SWELL-STAR is a lost circulation material used to seal fractures. It can also be spotted in caving zones to consolidate loose formations. After placing SWELL-STAR pills, pull up above the problem zone to prevent stuck pipe. Hydration occurs in 20 to 30 minutes. Circulate with mud and LCM to fill the voids between the spotted pill.
Advantages
- SWELL-STAR can be hydrated prior to spotting
- SWELL-STAR will accumulate in a variety of fracture sizes due to its swelling capacity and particle size distribution
- Broken down using chlorine or household bleach
- Swells up to 400x its original size
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Compatible in saltwater systems
Typical Usages
| Mix SWELL-STAR in water or drilling fluid; with or without other LCMs | |
|---|---|
| SWELL-STAR should be added directly to the loss zone | |
| SWELL-STAR can be added dry or prehydrated | |
| Refer to the NorthStar LCM Pill Guide for mixtures. | 4 - 5 pails to 50 barrel (8000 L) |
| DO NOT allow SWELL-STAR to hydrate in the drill string or lines | |
| SWELL-STAR can be broken back with chlorine and water | |
Typical Properties
| Physical Appearance | White powder |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 1.4 |
| pH (1% solution) | 8.5 |
Packaging
SWELL-STAR is packaged in 5 gallon (18.9L) buckets weighing 27.5-lb (12.48- kg)