Benchtop Consistometer - OFITE

 

 

One of the most important parameters in the design and performance of a cement slurry is the thickening time. The API defines the thickening time as the time period required for a slurry to reach 100 Bearden units of consistency (Bc) under simulated downhole conditions of pressure and temperature. The API defines 100 Bc as 2,080 gm-cm of torque. However, most cement slurries are too viscous to pump above 70 Bc and are usually inserted into the annulus prior to reaching this level. Operators and service companies can reduce overall well costs by formulating slurries that can be easily placed and then quickly develop the compressive strength necessary to continue operations. The OFITE Model 130 Benchtop Consistometer was specifically designed to assist the engineer in estimating the time required to successfully place the cement slurry into the annulus while minimizing the "waiting on cement" (WOC) time. Its compact, lightweight design makes the unit ideally suited for field use.

Method of Operation:

A cement slurry is mixed according to the guidelines set within the API Specification 10. The cement is then poured into the slurry cup assembly of the Model 130 and placed into the test cell. Pressure is increased by an air-driven hydraulic pump, while the temperature is increased by use of an internal heater controlled by a microprocessor. The slurry container is rotated at 150 RPM. Consistency is measured by the amount of torque the slurry exerts on an API-approved paddle. A potentiometer assembly controls an output voltage, which is directly proportional to the torque exerted upon the paddle. Consistency and temperature are measured and permanently recorded as a function of time on a multichannel, paperless graphic recorder.

Features and Specifications:

  • Maximum operating temperature of 400°F (200°C)
  • Maximum operating pressure of 16,000 PSI
  • Digital programmable temperature controller
  • Pressure displayed in PSI
  • An electronic chronograph measures elapsed time
  • Cooling jacket facilitates cool down
  • A safety head with rupture disk is provided
  • Compact size and light weight make the unit suitable for field work
  • Unit is fully capable of testing well cements in strict accordance with the guidelines as stated within API Specification 10

nstrument Requirements:

  • Air/Nitrogen supply of 100 PSI
  • Cooling water at 40 PSI
  • 230-Volt, 50/60 Hz, 15-Amp electrical power supply

Size: 25" × 16" × 20" (64 × 41 × 51 cm)
Weight: 215 lb (97.6 kg)

Crated Size: 30" × 20" × 24" (76 × 51 × 61 cm)
Crated Weight: 255 lb (115.8 kg)