PAC-R vs PAC-UL vs PAC-LV: Which Grade for Your Mud System?
All three grades are high-purity polyanionic cellulose for fluid-loss control in water-based mud. The difference between them is how much viscosity each one contributes to the system, which determines which grade fits your solids loading and rheology targets.
| Grade | Product Code | Viscosity Contribution | Best-Fit System |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAC-R (Regular) | PZT-PAC-R | Moderate | General-purpose WBM where some added viscosity is acceptable or desired |
| PAC-LV (Low Viscosity) | PZT-PAC-LV | Moderate-low (between UL and R) | Systems needing a controlled, moderate viscosity contribution alongside fluid-loss control |
| PAC-UL (Ultra-Low Viscosity) | PZT-PAC-UL | Minimal | Already-viscous or high-solids systems where any further thickening is a liability |
When to reach for PAC-R
Regular-grade PAC providing efficient general-purpose filtration control with a moderate contribution to system viscosity. This is the default starting point for most WBM programs. Pick a different grade only when the system's existing viscosity or solids content pushes you toward UL or LV instead.
When to reach for PAC-LV
Mid-range PAC grade balancing fluid-loss control with a moderate, controlled viscosity contribution between UL and R grades. A middle-ground choice when you want more predictable fluid-loss performance than UL provides, without the full viscosity contribution of R.
When to reach for PAC-UL
The lowest-viscosity grade in the PAC family: fluid-loss control with minimal added viscosity, for already-viscous or high-solids systems. The right call whenever the mud is already carrying enough solids or viscosity that any additional thickening becomes an operational problem rather than a benefit.