Dome-shaped PDC cutters drill harder rock effectively

Journal Article · Mon Dec 14 00:00:00 EST 1992 · Oil and Gas Journal; (United States)

OSTI ID:7009709

Moran, D P ^[1]

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1. Smith International Inc., Houston, TX (United States)

This paper reports that rock mechanics and sonic travel time log data indicate that bits with convex-shaped polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutters can drill harder rock formations than comparable bits with flat PDC cutters. The Dome-shaped cutters have drilled carbonate formations with sonic travel times as small as 50 [mu]sec/ft, compared to the standard cutoff of 75 [mu]sec/ft for flat PCD cutters. Recent field data from slim hole wells drilled in the Permian basin have shown successful applications of the 3/8-in. Dome cutter in the Grayburg dolomite with its sonic travel times as low as 50-55 [mu]sec/ft and compressive strengths significantly greater than the standard operating range for PDC bit applications. These field data indicate that the Dome cutters can successfully drill hard rock. The convex cutter shape as good impact resistance, cuttings removal, heat dissipation, and wear resistance.

• OSTI ID: 7009709
• Journal Information: Oil and Gas Journal; (United States), Vol. 90:50; ISSN 0030-1388
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION
CUTTING TOOLS
SHAPE
DRILL BITS
OIL WELLS
PERMIAN BASIN
WELL DRILLING
DIAMONDS
POLYCRYSTALS
ROCK MECHANICS
WELL LOGGING
CARBON
CRYSTALS
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DRILLING EQUIPMENT
ELEMENTAL MINERALS
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