Application of Dual-Tube Flooded Reverse Circulation Drilling to Rye Patch Lost Circulation Zone

Dual-tube flooded reverse circulation drilling has been successfully applied to drill and run casing through a lost circulation/cross flow zone at Rye Patch, NV. The zone drilled and cased had previously resulted in the temporary abandonment of the well after conventional cement plugs had been unsuccessful in plugging the zone. A Lang Exploratory Drilling dual-tube reverse circulation rig was successfully used for the job. Dual-tube flooded reverse circulation uses air to lift the cuttings out of the hole. Reverse circulation drilling, while not customarily used in geothermal drilling, is standard practice in mining, water well, and large borehole drilling.

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