Foam wiper balls are typically inserted into the drill pipe or casing by first loading them into the top of the pipe. Here’s how the process generally works:
- Lubricate the Ball: To ensure smooth passage, the foam ball is often lubricated with drilling mud or a similar fluid.
- Insert the Ball: The foam ball is then placed at the top of the pipe or casing.
- Pressurize the System: The drilling mud or another fluid is pumped into the system, pushing the foam ball down the pipe. The foam ball wipes away residual fluids, debris, and mud as it moves.
- Ball Travels Through the Pipe: As it travels down, the foam ball expands slightly to ensure it wipes the entire internal diameter of the pipe or casing.
So, the foam balls are not loaded inside a separate loading pipe but directly into the drill pipe or casing at the top.