Effect of different nitrile elastomers in down hole drilling applications
by Bonnie Stuck and Nicole Hershberger, Akron Rubber Development Laboratory.
Elastomers play a large role in oil field drilling and service equipment. These types of applications are demanding and require a highly engineered product from a variety of different elastomers. Elastomeric materials in oil field service protect workers, equipment and the environment, in addition to enhancing drilling and zone isolation to maximize well production. These rubber parts are exposed to extremes in temperatures, high pressures, rapid gas decompression and chemicals within their service lifetimes. These rubber components must be made without flaws and perform in these harsh environments with minimal failures.