Abstract
As interest and demand increase for reduced liability and exposure related to offshore hydraulic applications, equipment and fluid manufacturers are starting to work together. Over the years, many drilling contractors have learned by trial and error with significant equipment and maintenance costs as a result. One drilling contractor’s goal to reduce the exposure to risk, from purchase to disposal, has led years of experience in the area. As decisions based on a paper review of datasheets can be problematic, understanding the application is vital to ensure performance. As such, there is a need for a better understanding of fluid dynamics and the related tests in a holistic perspective. Specific lessons learned about fluid testing standards and methods, in relation to both performance and environmental parameters, are shared. Topics include case studies on types of environmentally friendly hydraulic (HE) fluids and the associated engineering and compatibility concerns.