Drill Waste Centrifuge Method

This project aimed to exceed regulatory standards by utilizing a centrifuge to remove liquids from OSE drilling waste. Centrifuge Application For Winter Drilling Projects Main Goals: (1) centralization of drilling waste disposal area; (2) decrease footprint on land required for managing sumps; (3) decrease long term liability; (4) utilize separated water for recycling purposes; (5) ability to handle solids from centrifuge for a verity of disposal options; (6) potential to decrease long term costs over traditional handling methods

Key Outcomes: (1) handles various drilling fluids without stalling operations; (2) decreases solid waste by 70%; (3) decreases land-use (transports to landfill); (4) potential for recycling, including for steam injection; (5) highly efficient = < $125 m3; (6) two large centrifuges can process > 600m3 per day. Environmental Performance Improvement: (1) decreased footprint; (2) decreased liability; (3) no sterilized land; (4) no reclamation issues; (5) less compliance issues; (6) decreases water use, increases recycling. Applicability: (1) use in any remote areas; (2) increase rig count = decrease costs per m3; (3) excellent choice where clay/high ground crucial for development; (4) not practical in small programs or where land spreading can occur. Knowledge Transfer: (1) well known technology; (2) drilling engineers and rig supervisors have knowledge on centrifuges; (3) many companies available; (4) research, environmental consultants and drilling fluids providers great resources. Steps for Centrifuge Utilization: (1) Require Energy Resource Conservation Board and Sustainable Resource Development approvals (lead time of a few months); (2) A Waste Management Facility may be beneficial; (3) consider costs such as grid power versus generators; (4) ensure choice of location central to drilling areas.