HTHP Dynamic Linear Swell Meter

MUD TESTING EQUIPMENT

For years, Inmotion Energy has supplied
precision instruments and drilling tools for
testing drilling fluids, well cements, and
completion fluids.

From our Bangalore facility, we provide
customers across India and the Middle East
with quality products and exceptional
service.

As an independent manufacturer, we have one priority: our customers.

INDUSTRIES WE SERVE

— Onshore & offshore drilling contractors
— National & independent oil companies
— Mud engineering & testing laboratories
— Well completion & workover operations

WHY CHOOSE US

— Rigorous quality control on every unit
— Fast turnaround on spares &
replacements
— Field-tested designs, built for uptime

INMOTION ENERGY (OPC) PRIVATE LIMITED

PRODUCT SPECIFICATION — HTHP Dynamic Linear Swell Meter

Model: IM-LSM-HTHP Compliance / target standard: Advanced R&D Dynamic Swelling

The HTHP dynamic linear swell meter measures the swelling of a compacted shale wafer while it is exposed to a circulating or static test fluid at elevated temperature and pressure. The wafer sits inside a sealed, heated pressure vessel and an LVDT records its height change through the vessel cap. Test conditions can be brought close to downhole values, which is important because temperature strongly affects clay hydration.

Figure 12. Reference photograph of the HTHP Dynamic Linear Swell Meter. Components are listed on page 2.

Intended applications

• Shale inhibition testing at bottom-hole temperature and pressure.
• Evaluating oil-based and synthetic-based fluids against reactive shales.
• Wellbore-stability studies with dynamic fluid circulation.
• Research on new inhibitors and additives under realistic conditions.

FEATURES

• Heated pressure vessel with PID temperature control.
• LVDT measurement through a pressure-sealed cap.
• Pressure supply with gauge and relief protection.
• Programmable test temperature and logging of swell versus time.
• Optional fluid circulation for dynamic exposure.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Sensor	LVDT displacement transducer
Sample	Compacted wafer, typically about 25 mm diameter
Temperature	Elevated, typically up to about 150-200 C (confirm on datasheet)
Pressure	Elevated, typically up to about 1,000-3,000 psi (confirm on datasheet)
Fluid mode	Static or dynamic
Measured value	Linear swell, % of initial height
Control	PID temperature control with data logging

Values are typical for this equipment class based on API/ASTM practice and manufacturer literature (OFITE, Fann, Chandler); confirm against the Inmotion datasheet before use in a certificate or specification.

Main components (see Figure 12)

No.	Component
1	LVDT displacement sensor
2	Pressure gauge
3	Vessel cap and pressure seal
4	Controller and display
5	Heating jacket
6	Wafer and test fluid

Principle of operation

A wafer compacted from ground shale is placed in a holder inside the heated pressure vessel and covered with test fluid. The vessel is pressurised and heated to the test values. A rod resting on the wafer transmits its height change out of the vessel to the LVDT. The swelling curve at temperature and pressure shows how downhole conditions change the fluid’s inhibition performance compared with atmospheric tests.

Basic operating procedure

1. Prepare and compact the wafer, and place it in the holder.
2. Position the holder and rod in the vessel, fill with test fluid and close the vessel.
3. Connect the LVDT and zero the reading.
4. Pressurise to the test pressure and heat to the test temperature using the controller.
5. Log the swelling continuously for the specified time.
6. Cool below 50 C, vent pressure, open the vessel, clean all parts and report swell versus time.

Calibration and maintenance

• Replace seals and O-rings regularly; use high-temperature lubricant on threads.
• Calibrate the LVDT, thermocouple and pressure gauge annually.
• Inspect the relief device and pressure lines.
• Clean the vessel and rod after each test.

Safety precautions

• Never open the vessel while hot or pressurised.
• Use heat-resistant gloves and a face shield.
• Operate only within rated limits; trained personnel only.

Reference sources