Abstract
The paper presents the results of research aimed at improving the efficiency of spent drilling fluid utilization generated during the drilling of technological wells. The main objective of the study is to reduce the volume of generated sludge through efficient separation of solid and liquid phases and the reuse of separation products within the production cycle. The influence of hydrodynamic factors, including velocity gradient, treatment time, and reagent dosage, on the suspension settling process was investigated. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the use of a cylindrical hydrodynamic disperser for spent drilling fluid utilization and in determining the influence of its operating parameters on phase separation efficiency. A cylindrical-type hydrodynamic disperser providing controlled turbulent action on the suspension was developed. This ensures uniform distribution of reagents and improves particle coagulation efficiency compared to conventional designs. Laboratory studies established the optimal process parameters: velocity gradient – 1500 c-1, treatment time – 15 s, and N-300 reagent dosage – 50 g⁄(t ). Implementation of the proposed technology provides recovery of up to 80% of technical water from the solid phase, reduces the volume of generated sludge by 40–60%, and improves the environmental and resource efficiency of drilling operations.