The Wenzel Industries Mud Saver is an invaluable addition to drilling rigs. Attached within the top drive mechanism, the Mud Saver is a valve that automatically opens when circulation pressure exceeds 65 psi (450 kPA) and closes when circulation is stopped to retain mud inside the kelly or top drive. The result is far less mud spilled on the rig floor (up to 20 gallons of mud saved per connection!), preventing slips and falls, environmental spillage and waste.

Feature overview

• Up to 20 gallons (76 litres) of mud saved per connection
• Automatic operation eliminates operator error
• Replaces kelly saver sub to reduce wear on kelly valve
• Reduces potential for slips and falls by minimizing spillage on rig floor
• Significant time saved:
  • No need to wait for kelly to drain
  • Reduced washing of floor and equipment
  • No manual operation of valve
• Environmental benefits:
  • Minimizes seepage of fluids into natural environment
  • Reduces water used to wash floor
  • Reduces total volume of hazardous fluid to be treated or disposed
• No seats or mud ports, eliminating chargebacks common on other designs

Wireline operation

An expansion sleeve for wireline operations is included with each Mud Saver valve; the sleeve is pumped down until it stops at a shoulder located below elastomer bladder, which prevents the bladder from collapsing if pumps are turned off.