WWJ Closeup, August 2025

PATRICK MCKELVEY
Product Specialist
Wyo-Ben Inc.
Billings, Montana

YOU PRESENTED “MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR DRILLING FLUIDS” AT A STATE SHOW THIS YEAR. WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAY?
Understanding just how critical water quality is. Water makes up approximately 97% of your drilling fluid. Our typical fluid mix is about 97% water and 3% bentonite and polymer by weight. To get the best performance, give your fluid the right environment. This includes maintaining a pH between 8.5 and 9.5.

MOST COMMON QUESTION YOU RECEIVE?
“What should I mix for a specific ground condition?” Planning, understanding your job scope, and knowing your conditions matter. Also, “What do I do now?” usually when something has already gone wrong. These products are formulated to keep you out of trouble, not necessarily to get you out of it.

OTHER THAN SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES, THE GREATEST CHALLENGE FACING MANUFACTURERS?
Currently, inflation and ongoing tariff concerns are top challenges. Labor also remains a struggle, especially in lower population areas where we compete with other industries like rail and manufacturing for skilled workers and competitive wages.

TOP MISCONCEPTION WHEN IT COMES TO PURCHASING DRILLING FLUIDS OR ADDITIVES?
The biggest misconception is around cost. Some focus only on the price tag of the products, but overlook the real expense: downtime, lost tooling, stuck pipe, and extra man-hours. Proper planning and having the right products on-site help avoid these costly delays—ultimately saving both time and money.

MOST SATISFYING PART OF YOUR JOB?
Helping customers successfully complete projects—whether straightforward or complex—on time and under budget is incredibly rewarding. I take pride in being part of the Wyo-Ben team and delivering the kind of support and service that makes a real difference for our clients.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF DRILLING FLUIDS LOOK LIKE?
The future is bright and full of opportunity. Wyo-Ben products are being adopted across a range of growing industries— including geothermal, water well drilling, HDD [horizontal directional drilling], and oil field work. The continued expansion of these sectors makes this an exciting time for drilling fluids