Real footage from the rig floor shows more than just mud movement — it reveals a subtle but critical operational challenge.

What We’re Seeing:
A Hi-Vis (high-viscosity) mud system is being pumped during a typical wiper trip or hole cleaning operation. But notice how returns are sluggish and sticky, almost “gelled” at the flowline. This isn’t just thick mud — it’s a warning sign.

Operational Red Flags:
-Low annular velocity — even with full pump strokes.
-Delayed returns or partial flowback.
-Possible pack-off or swabbing risks due to high gel strength in the annulus.

Lesson from the Field:
Hi-Vis mud is a powerful tool – ideal for:

• Hole cleaning
• Lifting cuttings
• Preparing for casing or logging runs

But when overdosed or improperly displaced, it can do more harm than good — causing ECD spikes, restricted flowback, and increased risk of stuck pipe.

Best Practices Moving Forward:

• Always verify viscosity and flowability before full circulation.
• Monitor flowline and trip tank trends during displacement.
• Pre-plan sweeps with hydraulic models — not just intuition.

Takeaway:
Mud doesn’t lie. The flowline is often the first place where problems whisper before they scream.

If you’ve experienced similar issues with Hi-Vis sweeps or mud displacement, share your thoughts below. Let’s learn from the field — together.