Pumps for Drilling Mud Applications 

Drilling mud is an essential process in oil and gas exploration. Sometimes called drilling fluid, it is continuously circulated through boreholes to cool and lubricate drill bits.  It also transports drill cuttings to the surface and maintains hydrostatic pressure within the well. During the process, the drilling mud is filtered and recirculated to ensure maximum efficiency while minimising waste. 

Drilling mud also creates a barrier against gas and fluid migration due to its thixotropic properties.  This means that the mud stiffens when static and forms a seal against liquid and gas. 

This demanding application requires a reliable pumping solution capable of handling abrasive, high-viscosity, and shear-sensitive fluids.  

Viscosity: 100cps
SG: 1.7 - 2.3

Types of Drilling Mud

The composition of drilling mud varies depending on the drilling conditions.  There are three main types of drilling mud used across different applications: 

• Water-Based Mud (WBM).  This is the most environmentally friendly option, often used in the upper sections of wells. 

• Oil-Based Mud (OBM).  This contains low-toxicity mineral or diesel oils and is commonly used for drilling through hard rock. 

• Synthetic-Based Mud (SBM).  This is derived from non-petroleum sources and offers improved performance, with reduced environmental impact. 

Types of Pumps for Drilling Mud Applications 

Centrifugal Pumps 

Centrifugal pumps are commonly used for low-viscosity water-based muds and applications where high flow rates are required. They are ideal for mud mixing, transfer, and circulation but are less effective for handling thick, abrasive drilling fluids. 

Progressive Cavity Pumps  

Progressive cavity pumps are well-suited for high-viscosity and shear-sensitive muds. Their slow rotational speed, and large solid passage allows them to handle abrasive materials efficiently while providing a steady, controlled flow, making them ideal for mud transfer and injection applications. 

Piston & Plunger Pumps (Mud Pumps)  

Mud pumps, typically piston or plunger-type, are a type of positive displacement pumps and are designed for high-pressure drilling applications. These pumps ensure continuous mud circulation to maintain wellbore stability and cooling. They are commonly found on drilling rigs where high-performance pumping is essential. 

Twin Screw Pumps 

Twin screw pumps provide smooth, low-shear fluid transfer, making them ideal for medium-to-high viscosity drilling muds containing sensitive additives. Their ability to handle a wide range of viscosities and reversible operation makes them versatile for mud recirculation and transfer. 

Air-Operated Diaphragm Pumps (AODD) 

AODD pumps are commonly used for sludge removal and waste mud handling. Their self-priming capabilities allow them to operate even when dry, making them well-suited for on-demand, portable mud pumping applications in hazardous environments. 

Peristaltic Pumps 

Peristaltic Pumps provide a robust solution for pumping drilling mud due to their seal-less design and dry running capabilities. They can handle a variety of fluids and viscosities and can manage high levels of particulates. Additionally they are simple to maintain as the only component prone to wear is the hose. 

Selecting the Right Pump for Drilling Mud Applications 

Choosing the right pump depends on several critical factors: 

• Mud Viscosity & Solids Content 

Viscous muds at high pressure require positive displacement pumps such as progressive cavity or twin screw pumps, whereas low-viscosity fluids at low pressure can be handled by centrifugal pumps. 

• Abrasiveness  

Drilling mud contains abrasive solids that cause wear to pump components over time. Pump components made with robust materials such as alloy steel or carbon, or coated with hardening treatments, or pumps that can operate at slower rotational speeds will minimise damage from sandy or solid laden fluids. 

• Pressure & Flow Rate Requirements 

Centrifugal pumps provide high flow rates but are not suitable for high pressures either demanded by the application, or from pressure in wells. Mud pumps and positive displacement pumps are used where high-pressure applications are required. 

• Continuous Operation & Maintenance 

If your application requires continuous operation then be mindful that some pumps, such as progressive cavity and screw pumps, require more regular maintenance due to wear.  So selecting the correct pump for your operating needs is essential.  

Why choose North Ridge for your Drilling Mud Pumping Applications 

Drilling mud plays a crucial role in oil and gas exploration which require specialised pumping solutions for efficient circulation, cooling, and solids removal.  

As a leading pump supplier and manufacturer, we offer a wide range of drilling mud pumps, tailored to meet the demands of your specific drilling operation. Contact us today to discuss the best pump solution for your application. 

View our pumps available for Drilling Mud