GEOLOG Launches KickMaster™ – Next-Generation Flow Meter Technology for Safer, Smarter Drilling Operations
GEOLOG, the world’s largest independent surface logging company and a recognized pioneer in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to formation evaluation and automated drilling performance, today announced the launch of KickMaster™, a patented family of advanced flow meters designed to deliver precise, real-time measurements in even the most demanding drilling environments.
The new KickMaster™ system represents a major technological advancement in mud flow monitoring — a critical element in well control and drilling optimization. Developed by GEOLOG’s in-house research and development team, the KickMaster™ line addresses long-standing challenges in measuring heterogeneous, gas-cut, and high-solids mud flows. By delivering accurate, continuous flow, density, and temperature data, the system empowers drilling teams to make faster, data-driven decisions, reduce non-productive time (NPT), and enhance safety both offshore and onshore.
Precision Flow Measurement for Every Drilling Challenge
The KickMaster™ family includes three specialized models, each engineered to meet specific drilling conditions and operational requirements:
- Flow-Out Meter – Designed for both standard and high-volume mud returns, this model provides reliable readings even when mud contains more than 40% gas. It introduces approximately 70% lower backpressure than typical flow meters, allowing operators to maintain higher flow rates during top-hole drilling. A full bypass loop design supports faster, more cost-effective rig-up and maintenance, making it ideal for operators seeking both performance and operational efficiency.
- Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Meter – Purpose-built for modern managed pressure drilling operations, this variant is rated to 550 psi and ships with its own integrated bypass loop. It allows seamless installation into new or existing MPD systems, improving control precision in high-pressure environments while supporting dynamic pressure management and enhanced drilling stability.
- Standpipe High-Pressure Meter – Engineered for durability and accuracy under extreme conditions, this model is rated to 10,000 psi and delivers robust, high-fidelity Flow-In measurements. Its data is critical for hydraulic modeling, pump performance assessment, and overall drilling system optimization, ensuring that operators have complete visibility into their fluid management from surface to bit.
By overcoming the traditional limitations of conventional flow meters, KickMaster™ ensures superior data accuracy across all phases of drilling — from spud-in through completion. This level of precision is essential for early detection of well control events, particularly kicks and losses, where even minor flow deviations can signal critical subsurface changes.
Enabling Safer, More Efficient Drilling
Accurate flow measurement is one of the most vital aspects of drilling safety and performance. In complex wells, flow data underpins decisions related to pressure management, drilling optimization, and environmental protection. Historically, operators have struggled with inconsistent or delayed readings, especially in high gas-cut conditions or when drilling with non-Newtonian fluids.
KickMaster™ directly addresses these challenges by combining high-frequency data acquisition with advanced signal processing algorithms, resulting in stable, real-time output regardless of mud composition or flow regime. This enables drilling teams to identify anomalies faster, make more confident operational decisions, and prevent costly incidents before they escalate.
“KickMaster™ represents a major step forward in well control and drilling intelligence,” said Richard Calleri, CEO of GEOLOG. “Our customers have consistently asked for reliable, accurate flow measurement throughout every phase of drilling. KickMaster™ delivers exactly that, bringing stronger well-control intelligence to the rig and helping operators increase safety while reducing cost, particularly in offshore environments.”
A Legacy of Innovation in Surface Logging
GEOLOG has long been at the forefront of integrating data-driven technology into surface logging operations. The company’s expertise in AI-based formation evaluation, real-time drilling analytics, and automated performance optimization has enabled operators around the world to achieve measurable gains in safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.
KickMaster™ builds on this legacy, representing GEOLOG’s latest contribution to smarter, safer, and more sustainable drilling. By delivering accurate, real-time flow data to operators, the system strengthens early event detection capabilities and helps reduce non-productive time — directly translating into operational cost savings and reduced risk exposure.
