The MudMaster is part of ABLE’s Master Series, our portfolio of innovative flow metering solutions designed to tackle the most challenging process conditions. These systems utilise patented dual-measurement technology and intelligent algorithms to maintain accurate flow measurement during process upsets and composition fluctuations that would defeat conventional meters. Full Range:
View ABLE Master Series Product Brochure
Take advantage of our experience and expertise in multiple sensing techniques, including assistance with:
- Installation and commissioning
- After sales support, service and re-calibration utilising our in-house expertise
- Product specific training, either in-person or via video call.
- Application of non-contact and non-intrusive technologies for mud flow measurement under all partially full pipe flow conditions
Further to the above, ABLE can offer custom solutions based on your individual requirements. Email us now at info@247able.com
ABLE MudMaster Mass Balance Flow Metering System
Non-Intrusive Mass Balance Flow Measurement for Gravity-Fed Mud Return Lines
The ABLE MudMaster is an advanced, spool-mounted instrument designed to independently measure flow and density using refined and proven measurement techniques, delivering reliable, accurate, and repeatable real-time data. Its non-contact, non-intrusive technology allows it to be directly bolted into the outlet pipe without obstructing mud flow, causing pressure drops, or incorporating moving parts that are subject to wear or require maintenance.
The MudMaster excels in measuring mud flow in gravity-fed return lines, even under partially full flow conditions, ensuring consistent and precise performance throughout drilling operations.
As part of the fully augmented MudMaster Mud Drilling Analyser System, the ABLE MudMaster MudIn High Pressure Coriolis Mass Analyser is installed on the mud inlet flowline to provide accurate, real-time mass balance measurements. This includes automatic time delay compensation based on well depth, offering a comprehensive view of the drilling process.
Features:
- Optimised for Gravity-Fed Mud Return Lines: Designed specifically for non-pressurised outlet flow lines.
- Non-Intrusive, Non-Contact Measurement: No flow restrictions, obstructions, or moving parts—minimising wear and maintenance.
- Accurate in Partially Full Pipe Conditions: Delivers reliable flow readings even during variable fill levels.
- Independent Mass Flow Measurement: Calculates mass flow using separate volume flow and density measurements.
- Integrated MudIn Inlet Monitoring: Includes a high-pressure (5000 PSI) Coriolis meter on the inlet for real-time mass balance data.
Did you know? In 2016 ABLE were granted a patent for the MudMaster by the UK Intellectual Property Office (Patent No: GB2481666) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Patent No: 8,965,713) – “Providing measurements relating to different phase components of a flowing fluid”. View Certificate
Additionally, the MudIn, like all ABLE Master Series products, enhances raw sensor data with advanced analytics, enabling operators to gain deeper insight into the rheological properties of the mud and overall fluid performance. This robust layer of analysis allows for the early identification of imbalanced operating conditions, such as lost circulation or kicks, which are critical to maintaining operational safety and efficiency. The MudMaster’s measurements are vital for drilling optimisation and ensuring balanced, uninterrupted operations. For a full understanding of the integrated system, including the MudIn component and how it contributes to mass balance flow metering, refer to the schematic for the MudMaster Mass Balance Flow Metering System (MMMBFMS).
Have a particular project in mind? We’d welcome a call on +44 (0) 1189 169 420
ABLE MudMaster Specifications:
Liquids | Any mud liquid mix including entrained gas and solids |
|---|---|
Operating Temperature | Standard -40°C to +85°C |
Spool Sizes & Materials | Available in various spool sizes and materials as required (Standard example 12” schedule 40 carbon steel) |
Volumetric flow | 0 – 1320 GPM 0 – 300 m3/hr (fully programmable outputs offering all units available per day/hr/min/sec) |
Mass Flow | 0 – 660 T/hr 0 – 600 Te/hr (fully programmable outputs offering all units available per day/hr/min/sec) |
Density | 0 – 16.7 PPG 0 – 2 SG 0 – 2000 kg/m3 (fully programmable outputs offering all units available) |
Temperature Measurement | 32 – 212 °F 0 – 100°C |
Partially Full Operation | 0 – 100% Level |
Operating Temperatures | -40 to +85°C |
Mud Types | Oil based mud Water based mud |
Detector/Sensor Type | Multiple sensor array including: – Ultrasonic – Radiometric – Microwave – Pressure – Temperature |
Performance | – Density ±2% – Volumetric flow ±2% – Mass flow ±3% – Temperature ±2% |
Response Time | Real time measurements (data updates every 0.5 seconds) |
Output Signals | Fully programmable industrial plc platform, providing: – Current & voltage loops – Modbus – Profibus – Any recognised protocol available on application |
Input Signals | Analogue or Modbus from inlet mass flow meter and temperature sensors for automatic mass balance calculation with well depth compensation |
Power | 24VDC Consumption = 2.5 amps on start-up, 1.5 amps on operation |
HMI Software Suite | – Mass Balance & Kick Detection – Cementing Operations – Live Gains from Formation and Ballooning – Live Losses to Formation – Evaluation of Live Gas and Solids Concentration – In-Hole Cleaning Operations |
Certification | Meter spool ATEX Zone 1. Control panel available in Zone 2 and Zone 1 build options |
Weights / Dimensions | See drawing MM100001 (attached) |
Connections | – Class 150LB RF, Schedule 40. Weldneck Flange 12” NB., ASME B16.5 – Seamless Pipe 12” NB. Schedule 40 (323.9mm O/D x 10.31mm thick wall |
Additional Available Features | – Inlet to outlet balance for measuring formation losses, underbalance and poor caking – Trip in/trip out drill distance calculations |
Operation Summary | – For gravity fed mud outlet flow lines – Fully non-intrusive, non-contact technologies with no flow restrictions or obstructions – Measures accurately during continually partially full pipe operation – Mass flow with independent volume flow and density measurements – Designed for non-pressurised gravity fed lines – The option of ABLE’s MudMaster Mudin™ high pressure Coriolis Mass Analyser on the mud inlet flowline provides a fully integrated mud mass balance measurement system. See schematic MMMBFMS |