Shell GTL Drilling Fluids
Shell Gas-To-Liquids (GTL) Drilling Base Fluids are a forward-thinking choice for operators who demand reliability and care about impact. Designed to perform across diverse well conditions - onshore and offshore - our fluids help drilling teams around the world boost efficiency.
Discover Shell GTL Drilling Fluids
Looking for an innovative, synthetic alternative to conventional solvents and base oils? Our GTL Fluids offer superior purity, improved performance, and enhanced efficiency! Contact us now and one of our experts will get back to you shortly.
Diesel slows you down. GTL Neoflo 4633 keeps you moving.
Drilling organic-rich shale? Choose GTL Neoflo 4633 for faster, more reliable performance.
Your GTL Drilling Fluids benefits
Faster drilling
Up to 15% higher rate of penetration
Lower downtime
Improved mud control and fewer mud motor failures
Cleaner operations
Low aquatic toxicity in accordance with OECD test guidelines 201, 202, and 210 and readily biodegradable in accordance with OECD 301B/301F (<60% biodegradation after 28 days)
Wider operating range
From desert heat to subarctic cold, and even deepwater wells
Proven savings
Up to $100,000 saved per well ¹
¹ Compared with diesel-based drilling fluid. Data from multiple field trials and based on a 10,000-ft lateral, US$50,000/d rig operation (including peripherals) and GTL fluid (Neoflo 4633) at US$23/bbl more than diesel. The savings are specific to the calculation date and site. These calculations may vary from site to site and from time to time, depending on, for example, the application, the operating conditions, and current drilling fluid being used.
Our GTL Drilling Fluids products
Our products are premium-quality base fluids, suitable for use in conventional and unconventional land and deep water applications. Because of its clean natural gas origin, it contains virtually no aromatics nor contaminants such as sulfur and amines or nitrogen.
GTL Neoflo 4633 - Available in North America
Shell GTL Neoflo 4633 is a premium synthetic base fluid produced using Shell’s advanced Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) technology. Derived from natural gas, it offers exceptional purity and consistency, helping operators achieve safer, more efficient drilling operations across North America.
Key Benefits
- Readily biodegradable – All components biodegraded by over 60% after 28 days in the OECD 301B/301F test.
- Low aquatic toxicity – classified as "not harmful" to algae, freshwater invertebrates and fish in accordance with OECD test guidelines 201, 202, and 210.
- Excellent thermal stability – Performs reliably in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) wells.
- Low pour point & high flash point – Enhances safety and operational flexibility in extreme climates.
- Consistent composition – Improves mud stability and drilling efficiency.
- Regulatory compliance – Meets OSPAR and REACH standards for offshore use.
Applications
- Onshore and offshore drilling in North America
- High-pressure, high-temperature wells
- Wide operating range, meeting OSPAR and REACH standards for offshore use
GTL Saraline 185V - Available in the rest of the world
Shell GTL Saraline 185V is a premium synthetic base fluid produced using Shell’s advanced Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) technology. Derived from natural gas, it offers exceptional purity and consistency, helping operators drill with confidence in even the most challenging environments.
Key Benefits
- Readily biodegradable – All components biodegraded by over 60% after 28 days in the OECD 301B/301F test
- Low aquatic toxicity – classified as "not harmful" to algae, freshwater invertebrates and fish in accordance with OECD test guidelines 201, 202, and 210.
- Excellent thermal stability – Reliable performance in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) wells.
- Low pour point & high flash point – Ensures safety and efficiency across extreme climates.
- Narrow boiling range & low aromatic content – Enhances fluid stability and lowers operational risks.
- Regulatory compliance – Meets OSPAR and REACH standards for offshore use.
Applications
- Offshore and deepwater drilling
- High-pressure, high-temperature wells
- Wide operating range, meeting OSPAR and REACH standards for offshore use
GTL Saraline G100 - Available in the Eastern Hemisphere
Shell GTL Saraline G100 is a premium synthetic base fluid produced using Shell’s advanced Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) technology. Derived from natural gas, it offers exceptional purity and consistency, helping operators drill with confidence in even the most challenging environments.
Key Benefits
- Readily biodegradable – All components biodegraded by over 60% after 28 days in the OECD 301B/301F test.
- Low aquatic toxicity – classified as "not harmful" to algae, freshwater invertebrates and fish in accordance with OECD test guidelines 201, 202, and 210.
- Excellent thermal stability – Reliable performance in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) wells.
- Low pour point & very high flash point – Ensures safety and efficiency across extreme climates, minimizing vapor exposure to workers offshore.
- Consistent composition & ultra-low aromatic content – Enhances fluid stability and lowers operational risks.
- Regulatory compliance – Meets OSPAR and REACH, and NEMS standards for offshore use. OCNS “E” rating (highest).
Applications
- Offshore and deepwater drilling
- High-pressure, high-temperature wells
- Wide operating range, meeting OSPAR and REACH standards for offshore use
Testimonials
Synthetic drilling base fluid testimonial from the Uinta Basin | Shell GTL Neoflo 4633
GTL Drilling Fluids FAQs
What are Shell GTL Drilling Fluids and how are they produced?
What are Shell GTL Drilling Fluids and how are they produced?
Shell GTL Drilling Fluids are high-purity synthetic base fluids made from natural gas using our advanced Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) technology. This process delivers consistent, innovative fluids that help operators drill with confidence, even in the most challenging operating environments.
What are the benefits of using GTL Saraline 185V or Neoflo 4633 over diesel-based drilling fluids?
What are the benefits of using GTL Saraline 185V or Neoflo 4633 over diesel-based drilling fluids?
Shell GTL fluids offer a step-change in performance and sustainability. They are low in skin or eye toxicity, readily biodegradable according to OECD 301B/301F (<60% biodegradation after 28 days), and deliver excellent thermal stability. Operators benefit from safer handling and improved operational efficiency.
Are Shell GTL Drilling Fluids biodegradable?
Are Shell GTL Drilling Fluids biodegradable?
Yes. Our GTL fluids meet stringent regulatory requirements, including OSPAR and REACH. They are classified as having low aquatic toxicity in accordance with OECD test guidelines 201, 202, and 210 and readily biodegradable according to OECD 301B/301F.
In which operating environments can Shell GTL Drilling Fluids be used?
In which operating environments can Shell GTL Drilling Fluids be used?
From arctic cold to desert heat, Shell GTL fluids are built to perform. Their low pour point and high flash point make them ideal for deepwater, high-pressure, and high-temperature wells‚ where reliability is non-negotiable.
What is the difference between Saraline 185V and Neoflo 4633?
What is the difference between Saraline 185V and Neoflo 4633?
Both are GTL-based fluids, but Saraline 185V is optimized for global offshore use, while Neoflo 4633 is tailored for North American operations. Each offers Shell's signature performance, with region-specific formulations.
What kind of performance improvements can operators expect?
What kind of performance improvements can operators expect?
Operators using Shell GTL fluids report faster rates of penetration, better mud stability, and reduced downtime than diesel or middle distillates. These fluids are engineered to help teams drill smarter, safer, and more efficiently.
Where can I find technical and safety datasheets for GTL Drilling Fluids?
Where can I find technical and safety datasheets for GTL Drilling Fluids?
You can download Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) directly from this Shell GTL Drilling Fluids webpage. The following documents provide detailed specifications to support safe and effective use. See for more information also the Products section of this page.
