Question 2845 Deck General

The correct answer is B) mud pumps. On an offshore drilling rig, the pumps that circulate the drilling fluid (also known as "mud") through the drill string while drilling are called mud pumps. Mud pumps are the primary circulation system that move the drilling mud from the mud pits, through the drill string, and back up to the surface. This circulation of the drilling mud is critical for maintaining well control, removing drill cuttings, and cooling and lubricating the drill bit. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) mixing pumps are used to blend the various components of the drilling mud, not circulate it; C) centrifugal pumps are a type of pump that may be used, but are not the specific term for the main circulation pumps; and D) while "circulation pumps" is a generic term, "mud pumps" is the more specific and commonly used industry term.