Author: Shiyas

Mud pump system is the equipment responsible for the circulation of the drilling fluid during drilling operation. The system comprises a reciprocating pump which circulates the drilling fluid, which is also known as “mud,” through the drill bit and back up to the surface. The pressure from the mud pump also prevents the drill bit from clogging. The drilling fluid is drawn out of the pit by the pump’s suction, and it is then pushed back up the well by the pump’s piston. This procedure helps to remove any cuttings or debris that may have been generated during the drilling process in addition to circulating the fluid.

The mud pump system comes in a wide variety of working mechanisms – the piston pump being the commonly applied form which uses a piston to draw and push the mud through the hose. Plunger type systems work similar to piston pumps but are quieter and easier to operate. Application of hydraulic pumps is when there is need for extensive power, these pumps can be challenging to operate and are costly. Peristaltic pumps are the costliest, but the most powerful variety – they are commonly applied in very large scale drilling and mining operations.

Floaters are platforms where the rigs are set-up for deep water drilling operations. They are normally made up of a square platform with a column reaching into the water at each corner, which connects to massive underwater pontoons that run perpendicular to the columns. Each column has a ballast tank, which carries water that is used to adjust and maintain the buoyancy of the rig. Ballast tanks, which may carry either air or water, are also included on the pontoons to help balance the rig.

The ballast control system consists of a network of pipelines, valves, pumps, and tanks that function as a liquid control system to keep the vessel stable. They control the volume of the liquid present in the ballast according to conditions necessary for the stability with the aid of pumps and motors. Air is also used for similar functions. The valves and pumps are actuated through drives (SCRs and VFDs).