Analysis and modeling of cuttings discharge during deep geothermal drilling

The optimization of the deep drilling process for the exploitation of geothermal energy requires the understanding and quantification of hydrodynamic phenomena during drilling under extreme conditions, i.e. high hydrostatic pressures and temperatures. At the Institute of Engineering Mechanics, models are formulated and validated to describe the non-Newtonian rheology of drilling suspensions and multiphase transport (fluid and particles). The modeling is based on the Euler-Euler method. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) is used for the measurements. The findings will be used for the development of a simulator for deep geothermal wells, which is a central component of the "GEBO" project funded by the state of Lower Saxony and industry.

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