Bentonite, a natural clay formed from volcanic ash, is a versatile material known for its unique properties, including high absorbency and swelling capacity. This incredible substance has a wide range of applications across various industries, making it an unsung hero in many everyday products and processes.

One of the primary uses of bentonite is in the drilling industry, where it serves as a key component of drilling mud. This mud stabilizes the borehole, cools the drill bit, and helps transport cuttings to the surface. In the construction sector, bentonite is used as a sealant for landfills, ponds, and underground storage tanks due to its excellent impermeability.

In agriculture, bentonite enhances soil quality by improving nutrient retention and moisture absorption, fostering healthier crops. The food industry also benefits from bentonite, which is used as a clarifying agent in beverages and to improve the texture of certain food products.

Moreover, bentonite is an essential ingredient in personal care products, serving as a thickener in cosmetics and as a detoxifying agent in clay masks. Its absorbent nature also makes it valuable in pet care products, such as cat litter, where it effectively controls odors and moisture.

From industrial applications to everyday products, bentonite's versatility is remarkable. Be sure to review the image to see other applications of this extraordinary clay and discover how it can improve processes and products in your life!

Solids control is vital in drilling to reduce fluid disposal costs and maximize drilling fluid use. It involves selecting and operating equipment that filters drilling fluid to maintain quality, crucial for larger rigs and beneficial for mid-size rigs depending on tasks and locations. Efficient solids control prevents drilling issues by ensuring proper mud viscosity for cutting removal. Factors like geological formations and screen sizing impact system performance. Effective mud management includes a precise mix of additives and regular testing for viscosity, weight, and pH. Ultimately, solids control balances drilling efficiency with environmental sustainability.

Total Boring Solutions and Wyo-Ben's collaborative efforts shone through in a challenging wind farm project in Upstate New York. Tasked with drilling 120 bores for electrical conduit ranging from 6 to 30 inches, the team encountered tough conditions, including hard limestone and pink granite with compressive strengths exceeding 20,000 psi. Total Boring leveraged Wyo-Ben's drilling fluid expertise to customize "mud" mixes for these demanding materials. With real-time support from Wyo-Ben specialists, adjustments to fluid properties boosted productivity by up to 15%, enabling the team to meet rigorous project requirements, including bore lengths reaching 1,500 feet.

Wyo-Ben, Inc., a leader in drilling fluids and minerals, announces the acquisition of the bentonite operation of M-I Swaco, a division of Schlumberger. This strategic move solidifies Wyo-Ben's industry position and fosters growth by combining complementary strengths and expertise. The acquisition, located in Greybull, WY, enhances Wyo-Ben's product and service portfolio, catering to global customers. David Brown, CEO, welcomes M-I Swaco employees and emphasizes the commitment to innovation and service excellence. The seamless integration aims to deliver added value for customers and stakeholders.

WYO-BEN, INC. created TRU-BORE^® as a highly concentrated bentonite-based drilling fluid.  TRU-BORE^® stabilizes formations ranging from clay soils to sands and gravels.  By forming a thin, tough filter cake, the fluid loss to areas around the borehole is reduced.   TRU-BORE^®’s excellent gel strengths allow it to be very efficient at suspending and carrying cuttings.  These factors, along with being NSF certified, make TRU-BORE^® one of the best risk management tools available today.   For more information on Wyo-Ben products, please visit www.wyoben.com or contact your local distributor.