From gumbo removal equipment to shale shakers and centrifuges, the development of an effective solids control system poses challenges for almost every oilfield. While the nature of the reservoir largely dictates equipment specifications, Halliburton has developed a mobile, hybrid separation system that is capable of handling a number of different waste streams with elevated concentrations of ultra-fine low gravity solids (LGSs).

Ultra-fine LGSs can be problematic in a number of operations including in the treatment of drilling fluids, contaminated solids and other hydrocarbon waste streams. The traditional method for handling these waste streams is to develop a complex solids control and waste management system that is designed to handle a specific fluid system. Traditional methods are complex and without proven technology previously available that is capable of removing all but trace amount of these LGSs, operators typically dilute fluid systems in order to displace LGS concentrations.

Halliburton developed the BaraOmni hybrid separation system to help offset fluid consumption rates, transportation, off-site treatment and wastewater handling costs. It is designed specifically to address complications with ultra-fine LGSs, allowing operators to reuse drilling fluids without dilution.

BaraOmni is based off of Halliburton’s patented technology. The company described the process as a low-heat, high-vacuum treatment environment capable of recovering up to 99.5% of process fluids. The system yields a waste stream of dry separated solids and when processing drilling fluids or drilling cuttings, the separated solids contain very little residual oil content and contain less than 1% total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH).

Additional benefits of BaraOmni include reduced environmental exposure concerns, lower power requirements, mobility and lower personnel requirements. A use-case in west Texas reported that the system was operational within 24 hours of mobilization where it was used to treat ultra-fine solids laden with non-aqueous drilling fluids. It effectively reduced solids content, processing fluids with 24% concentrations of LGSs and supplied a reusable fluid with a final concentration of 3% LGSs.

The hybrid separation system produces a field-ready, premix fluid. It addresses a known industry problem in the handling of ultra-fine solids with expedited start-up times, lower operational costs and is packaged in a modular footprint that is contained within a standard 53 ft trailer.