Barite 4.2
Drilling-grade barite at 4.20 g/cm³, batch-certified to API 13A and processed in the Neuquén Basin. Quality, availability and proximity to secure the supply Vaca Muerta requires.
A plant focused on Vaca Muerta
We are an Argentine company specialised in processing and supplying minerals for the Oil & Gas industry. From our industrial plant in Añelo, Neuquén, we process drilling-grade barite at 4.20 g/cm³ to supply the drilling operations of Vaca Muerta.
We operate at the centre of Argentina’s unconventional activity. Our strategic location lets us shorten distances, streamline logistics and respond faster to the supply needs of the basin.
Our plant runs two Raymond-type pendulum mills with a combined initial capacity of 12,000 to 14,000 tonnes per month, plus an in-house laboratory that tests and certifies every batch to API 13A specification.
We combine industrial capacity, quality control and logistical proximity to deliver a reliable, consistent and efficient supply of drilling-grade barite to Vaca Muerta operations.
Drilling-grade barite 4.20 g/cm³
Barite (barium sulphate, BaSO₄) is the reference weighting agent in drilling fluids. Its high specific gravity makes it possible to reach the required mud density, help control formation pressures and support wellbore stability while drilling.
ALTRA produces and supplies drilling-grade barite at 4.20 g/cm³ for the Oil & Gas industry, processed locally and batch-tested to API 13A specification. Consistent quality, availability and logistical proximity to supply Vaca Muerta operations.
Barite for drilling fluids
The quality and consistency of barite are essential to its performance as a weighting agent. Our process is therefore built around controlling particle size distribution, specific gravity and the parameters set by API 13A, ensuring consistency from batch to batch.
Our operation is specialised in drilling-grade barite at 4.20 g/cm³, combining industrial capacity, an in-house laboratory and production strategically located in Añelo, Neuquén.
One product. One standard. One focus.
| Property | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Density (specific gravity) | ≥ 4.20 g/cm³ |
| Residue > 75 µm | ≤ 3.0% |
| Particles < 6 µm | ≤ 30% |
| Soluble alkaline earth metals (as Ca) | ≤ 250 mg/kg |
Every batch undergoes quality control to verify conformity with the applicable specification before release.
A strategic partner for Vaca Muerta
Production in Añelo
At the heart of Vaca Muerta, close to the main operations in the basin.
API 13A quality
Drilling-grade barite at 4.20 g/cm³, tested and certified batch by batch to API 13A specification.
Industrial capacity
Processing and bulk dispatch capacity of 12,000 to 14,000 tonnes per month.
Reliable supply
Local production and availability, for continuity and predictability of supply.
Proximity logistics
Shorter distances and transit times for a faster response to the operation.
Batch traceability
Quality control, identification and technical documentation tied to every batch produced.
Direct support
Technical, commercial and logistical response to support each customer’s planning.
Barite specialists
An industrial operation focused on drilling-grade barite and the specific needs of Oil & Gas.
Traceability and the API 13A standard
We work to the API 13A specification for drilling-fluid barite. Every batch is certified in our own laboratory before dispatch.
| Property | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Grey / yellowish-white powder |
| Density (API specific gravity) | Min. 4.20 |
| Moisture | Max. 1.0% |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water and oil |
ALTRA typical values, drilling-grade barite 4.2 (API Grade Barite).
| Document | Download |
|---|---|
| Safety Data Sheet (SDS)AL-SDS-BAR-001 | PDF · 600 KB |
| Technical Data Sheet (TDS) Baryte OreAL-TDS-BAR-001 | PDF · 252 KB |
| Technical Data Sheet (TDS) Baryte PowderAL-TDS-BAR-002 | PDF · 399 KB |
Current ALTRA documentation. Files open in a new tab.
About drilling-grade barite and ALTRA
What is drilling-grade barite?
Drilling-grade barite is high-density barium sulphate (BaSO₄) used as a weighting agent in the muds or drilling fluids of oil and gas wells. Its role is to add weight in order to control well pressure.
What is barite used for in drilling?
It is added to the drilling fluid to increase its density. This balances formation pressures, prevents blowouts and helps stabilise the wellbore walls while drilling.
What does "barite 4.2" mean?
The 4.2 refers to the minimum density (specific gravity) of 4.20 g/cm³ required by the API 13A specification for drilling-fluid barite. It is the oil industry standard.
Where is ALTRA located?
ALTRA is in Añelo, Neuquén, Argentina, at the heart of the Vaca Muerta basin. That location shortens the logistics distance to the fields.
Does ALTRA barite comply with the API 13A standard?
Yes. ALTRA processes its 4.2 drilling-grade barite to the API 13A specification for use in drilling fluids. Typical technical values are available in the Quality and compliance section.
What is ALTRA's production capacity?
The Añelo plant runs two Raymond-type pendulum mills with a combined initial capacity of 12,000 to 14,000 tonnes per month, and in-house quality control on every batch.
Request information
Tell us what your operation needs. Our team will reply with commercial and technical information on availability, volumes, specifications and supply terms.