Foam control is a critical challenge in oil drilling operations. Drilling defoamers, as essential chemical additives, effectively eliminate mud foam to ensure smooth drilling processes.
The Hazards of Foam
Foam generated by surfactants and polymers in drilling mud can cause:
Reduced mud density, compromising wellbore stability
Decreased pumping efficiency, increasing energy consumption
Inaccurate measurements, affecting engineering decisions
How Drilling Defoamers Work
Take IOTA 1841 Defoamer as an example, its core technologies include:
Polysiloxane base: Rapidly reduces foam surface tension
High-temperature resistance: Remains active above 150°C
Shear-resistant design: Maintains effectiveness under high-speed agitation
Compound additive system: Synergistic effect of penetrants and dispersants for long-lasting foam suppression
Technological Breakthroughs
New-generation defoamers feature "instant foam breaking + prolonged suppression" dual mechanisms:
Eliminates existing foam within 30 seconds
Continuously inhibits new foam for up to 24 hours
Adapts to extreme drilling environments (high salinity, temperature, and pressure)
Chinese-made defoamers have achieved technological breakthroughs, demonstrating excellent performance in Tarim Oilfield and South China Sea deepwater drilling projects. With the development of unconventional energy like shale gas and combustible ice, the demand for high-performance defoamers continues to grow.