Formate brines are another useful tool in the drilling fluid toolbox. Justin and Matt talk about benefits and some of the issues to consider with formate brines.

We’re drilling longer laterals, and we usually do it with oil-based mud. Would a lubricant make any difference? Matt and Justin discuss reasons for and against.

Justin and Matt dig deep into some big words for key molecules in synthetic-base oils. In this episode, they discuss olefins and paraffins – common buzzwords when picking a base oil. 

Graphite is used for lubricity, loss prevention, and lost circulation. What are the different types of graphite and what makes them different?

Justin and Matt talk about the different types of defoamers, how they work – and things to avoid needing them in the first place.

One of the main culprits of thick water-based mud is flocculation. Thinners are one of the solutions for this issue. Tune into this episode of The Flowline – WBM Series as Matt and Justin delve into thinners’ properties and use cases.

In this episode of The #Flowline, we answer a listener’s request. What is “AES Culture” and what makes us unique? Tune into this exciting episode as Matt and Justin share their perspective on our company’s culture.

Grab your lab coats and safety goggles for this episode, it’s time for a little chemistry refresher. Join Matt and Justin as they delve into the chemistry behind esters as a lubricant.

Why do we always feel the need to try new things and change our current products? How do we decide which alternative products to explore and which ones to resist the temptation of?

When you’re talking loss circulation and loss prevention materials, how do you measure and describe the size of the blend? Justin and Matt break it down.

Is there a clear way to define if a drilling fluid additive is environmentally friendly? Justin and Matt shed some light on how to be data-driven regarding the environment – and why it’s so difficult.

Calcium carbonate is a common drilling fluid additive. What makes it so useful and how is it used?

What happens when you get sodium chloride with your calcium chloride internal phase? Justin and Matt break down the two-salt titration and why you need it.

Join Matt and Justin as they explore the oilfield’s current supply chain challenges. Discover the impact of global economic trends on product availability and investigate whether decreasing oil prices could lead to lower prices for drilling fluids.

Listener Request! Justin and Matt discuss the basics of dewatering and how it enhances solids control performance.

Matt and Justin spill the tea on their experience at last week’s AADE National Technical Conference in Midland. They give our listeners insights into drilling technologies, induced seismicity, and drilling fluid automation. In addition, they discuss the fantastic networking opportunities, the involvement of students from across the country, and AES’ unforgettable afterparty attended by people […]

Ditch magnets are a common yet underappreciated debris removal tool. Justin and Matt discuss their applications, placement, and provide a few pointers for their use.

In this episode, Justin and Matt talk to Christian Grimes, a graduate student at Colorado School of Mines headed to the “real world” of drilling. Christian shares his story and outlook on the future of the oilfield.

Conferences offer a lot of opportunities to meet people and learn a few things. Justin and Matt break down different types of conferences, how to prepare, and why you might want to attend.

What is a specialty product? Are they really all that special? Justin and Matt break down the ups and downs of using products that your mud company didn’t make when they’re on location.

What’s casing drilling and what problems does it solve? What impact can casing drilling have on drilling fluid properties and selection? Justin and Matt discuss…

What is pH anyways? Justin and Matt run through the basics and how they apply to drilling fluids.

Are invert emulsion lubricants snake oil? Matt finally found one he likes – and he tells Justin why. 

Xanthan gum is a staple of water-based drilling fluids (and fake cheese). What makes it so special? Are there any cheaper alternatives?