"How To" Videos

Are Mudgas Tubes compatible with existing mud gas sampling manifolds?

Yes! Though the valves are different, we have engineered the valve-actuators to work with existing manifolds.

​

What flow rate is best for Mudgas Tubes?

An optimal flow rate would be about 1 to 3 liters per minute, but we realize this cannot always be achieved. It's important to remember that the Mudgas Tube is a "flow-through" container. As such, even slower flow rates will work, they will just require a longer amount of time to completely "fill" the tube  with sample. For instance, at 100 ml per minute flow rate,  it would take just under one minute to flow one volume of gas through our 90 ml Mudgas Tube. Ideally, flowing for a longer period of time ensures a complete "purge" of air from within the tube prior to sample collection.​Best practice is to leave a tube inserted in the manifold at all times, and only remove the tube when a sample is desired.

​

What is the operating temperature range for Mudgas Tubes?

The elastomers that close the valve on a Mudgas Tube do become more rigid in colder temperatures, though they do remain closed when "at rest." If working in colder temperatures, allow the valves a little extra time to close before disconnecting from your sample source. Optimal service temperature range: -30°F to 120°F. 

​

Why are the valve actuators different colors?

Though not pertinent to Mudgas Tubes, a few of our products under development will include direction-dependent "inserts." These inserts will require the tubes to be used in a specific configuration. To prepare for this, we would recommend that field techs implement a "RED to the RIGHT" protocol. That said, Mudgas Tubes will work in either direction. One such iteration of this style of sampling container will be our new V3, Variable Volume Vessel.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

 

What is the pressure limit on Mudgas Tubes?

15 PSIG... for samples that are non-hazardous, keeping the pressure limit below 15 PSIG, allows them to be shipped without HAZMAT restrictions.

​

Can these be used for production gases?

Yes! For pressurized sample collection please refer to our Pressurized Sampling Device.  This regulating device will allow one to fill a Mudgas Tube from a pressurized source (MAX. 3000 psig), reducing the pressure to suitable limits, prior to collection.

​

How do the valves work?

The valves can be opened by either depressing or tilting the white valve stem (note: the red and black actuators should be removed prior to sample extraction in the lab). After removing an actuator, we have found that male Luer slip fittings work quite well for accessing the sample inside. We are also working on a "septum cap" that should greatly simplify sample access (as well as automated analyses).

​

How are the included rubber bands used?

Red and black overcaps are provided to protect the valves during shipment. The rubber bands are provided merely as a secondary precaution to hold the overcaps in place. Simply place the rubberband into the "detents" on the ends of each overcap, prior to returning each tube to the box. This also provides a good indicator as to which tubes have already been used.

​

What are “piggyback” labels?

The labels provided are actually "transfer lables." When writing on the top label, a copy of what is being written is created on the label underneath. The top label can then be placed onto the tube, and the "copy" can be placed onto the provided blank sheet.

​

How do I ship samples in Mudgas Tubes?

If the samples contain flammable (or potentially flammable) gases, then the Mudgas Tubes can be shipped as HAZMAT under UN2037 (just like the old aluminum receptacles). Keep in mind, one must be certified to ship HAZMAT materials. Contact your lab of choice for assistance in these matters.

​

Are Mudgas Tubes suitable for H2S?

Though we have not tested Mudgas Tubes specifically for H2S, the reduced amount of aluminum present in these containers may make them more suitable than traditional metal containers. Please be aware that there are significant shipping restrictions as it pertains to H2S. Professional assistance is strongly recommended for both sample collection and shipment of such samples. 

​

How much do Mudgas Tubes cost?

Mudgas Tubes are presently priced at $1125 per box of 25 tubes ($45 each).

​

What are Mudgas Tubes made of?

Mudgas Tubes are made from a number of proprietary materials. That said, these materials have been used successfully in the industry for a number of years. Generally speaking, the tubes are made of plastics, aluminum, and rubber.

​

Are Mudgas Tubes compatible with water?

Yes! Though the primary application for Mudgas Tubes was the collection of mud gases while drilling, there are certainly a number of other applications suitable for these containers... including the collection of water or other fluid samples.

​

​