Introduction

As oil and gas exploration moves into deeper and hotter reservoirs, drilling engineers face one recurring challenge: how to keep drilling fluids stable under extreme heat and pressure. Conventional additives often break down at high temperatures, leading to fluid loss, stuck pipe, and costly downtime.

This is where advanced drilling additives play a critical role.

The Challenge of HPHT Wells

• Temperatures exceeding 140°C (284°F) degrade standard starches and polymers.

• Fluid loss increases, leading to wellbore instability.

• Salt contamination further complicates mud chemistry.

In short: HPHT wells require additives engineered for resilience.

How Speciality Additives Help

• HT Starch: Modified starches that retain viscosity and filtration properties at high temperatures.

• PAC & CMC: Control filtrate loss while maintaining rheology.

• Lubricants: Reduce torque and drag in high-pressure zones.

Excelex’s Contribution

At Excelex Biopolymers, we developed HT Starch 140/250, specifically formulated to withstand harsh downhole conditions. Field trials confirm stable performance in wells where conventional starches fail.

Conclusion

In HPHT drilling, the right additive isn’t optional — it’s the difference between progress and costly failure. Choosing a partner with proven solutions ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling operations.