Cavings

{
  "id": "MLC-T-OAG-000600",
  "term": "Cavings",
  "field": "Oil and gas",
  "definition": "Rock fragments that fall from the sides of a borehole into the well, distinct from the cuttings generated by the drill bit. Their presence in the drilling fluid returns indicates wellbore instability, caused by mechanical stresses or chemical reactions between the fluid and the formation. Geologists and mud loggers analyze the size, shape, and lithology of cavings at the shale shakers to diagnose the specific cause of the instability and guide adjustments to the mud properties.",
  "subject": "Drilling Fluids",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/oil-and-gas/cavings/"
}