1 Introduction The density or weight of a given volume of liquid is determined by using a mud balance. The balance beam is graduated and permits accurate measurements to within 0.01g/cm 3 ,0.1lb/gal ,0.51b/cu ft, 51b/sq in/1000ft. The balance is constructed so that the fixed volume cup at one end of the beam is balanced by a fixed counterweight at the opposite end, with a sliding weight rider free to move along the graduated scale. A level bubble mounted on the beam indicates when the system is in balance. On one side are scales for measuring density in specific gravity (g/cm 3 ) and pounds per cubic foot(1b/cu ft),on the other side are scales in pounds per gallon (lb/gal)and pounds per square inch per 1,000 feet(1b/sq in/1000ft). Take the reading from the side of the rider nearest the balance cup.
2 Safety Hazardous Chemicals Some chemicals used in this procedure may be hazardous under certain conditions. • Always work in a well-ventilated area while using aerosol sprays.Always wear protective eyewear when working with aerosol spray solvents. • Never use aerosol sprays near open flames or objects at high temperatures. • Use protective gloves to avoid prolonged contact between skin and solvents. • Wash hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, smoking, or using the restroom. Protective Equipment • Wear appropriate hand and foot protection when working with the equipment used in this procedure. • Wear protective eyewear when performing any operation that has the potential of creating flying debris. Wear appropriate heat-resistant gloves when exposed to high temperature. Sharp Edges Sharp edges can create a cut hazard. Avoid direct contact with sharp edges. Material Safety Information Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) information should be reviewed before using any hazardous chemical or solvent. Waste Disposal • Always follow your waste management procedures.
• Segregate all trash and waste by placing in properly labeled containers.
• Do not pour chemicals down any drains.
• Do not wash tools, instruments or containers over sinks or drains. 3 Features and Specifications The balance consists of a graduated balance beam with cup, lid cap, and a base with fulcrum. See Figure 3-1.
The beam has four graduated scales(two per side):
• Pounds per gallon
• Specific gravity
• pounds per cubic foot
• pounds per square inch per 1,000 feet
This feature makes it possible to choose the appropriate density units.
The balance beam also has a sliding weight (rider) that moves along the graduated scale on the beam and a bubble level that indicates when it is balanced. The indention on the beam sits securely on the knife edge of the fulcrum.
Category Specification Measuring Range (0.7-2.88)g/cm3 (45-180)1b/cu ft (6-24)1b/gal (310-1250)1b/sq in /1000ft Working Environmental Temperature 5ºF~113ºF (-15ºC~45ºC) Dimensions530×95×105(mm) Weight 1kg Positive Scale Reverse Scale Figure 3-1 Mud Balance 4 Procedure 1. Place the mud balance base (preferably in carrying case) on a flat level surface.
2. Measure the temperature of the fluid and record on the appropriate mud report form.
3. Fill the clean, dry cup to the top with the freshly obtained mud sample to be weighed.
4. Place the lid on the cup and set it with a gentle twisting motion. Be sure that some mud is expelled through the hole in the cap as this will ensure the cup is full and also will free any trapped air or gas.
5. Cover the hole in the lid with a finger and wash all mud from the outside of the cup and arm. Then thoroughly dry the entire balance.
6. Place the balance on the knife edge and move the rider along the outside of the arm until the cup and arm are balanced as indicated by the bubble.
7. Read mud weight at the edge of the rider toward the mud cup. 8. Clean and dry the mud balance after each use. 5 Calibration The Mud Balance calibration can be checked using fresh water. At 70°F (21°C) fresh water should give a reading of 1g/cm 3 on the specific gravity. If the Mud Balance does not give the correct reading for fresh water, the instrument should be thoroughly cleaned. Replacing the lid on the balance cup with a new lid can cause the Mud Balance to be out of calibration. Check the calibration whenever a different lid is used and, if necessary, recalibrate using the new lid. If the Mud Balance continues to give improper readings for fresh water after cleaning, It should be recalibrated. This is done by removing the screw cover from the weight adjustment compartment and adding or removing lead shot until the Mud Balance is correctly calibrated. 6 Maintenance 1. Clean and inspect the instrument before using the instrument. Keep it away from corrosive fluids and solvents.
2. Handle with care.
3. Check the instrument regularly to ensure it is in good working condition.
4. Normal maintenance procedures: • Clean and dry the mud balance after each use. Do not turn upside-down. • Do not change the cup and the lid at will.
5.For long time storage, inspect the equipment at least every 3 months. Keep the equipment clean and maintain regularly. 6.1 Spare Parts List (Optional) No. Part No. Description Diagrams 1 100001 Lid Cap 2 10003 Bubble Level 3 Lead Shot
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