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Flow pattern changes improve roller cone bit performance

Journal Article · · Oil and Gas Journal
OSTI ID:234002
 [1]
  1. Security DBS, Dallas, TX (United States)

Improving the flow pattern through and around roller cone bits has increased penetration rate and footage while dropping the cost per foot drilled. These changes to the flow area around the bit help clean the bit and borehole more efficiently. By eliminating the protruding nozzle bosses, increasing nozzle bore size, narrowing the width of the bit arm segments, and providing a convex spherical dome, flow trajectories have been improved. These altered flow trajectories have eliminated hydraulic dead spots commonly found around current roller cone rock bit configurations. Nozzles are directed significantly more inward, toward the well bore bottom and away from the edge of the borehole. The flow impacts the bottom of the hole where it is needed most. Further performance enhancement features include an angled ramp on the shirt-tail portion of the arm to aid in lifting the cuttings upward, away from the cones and the bearing seals. Changing contours of the bit arms in the nozzle and bearing areas also improves cleaning and prevents cuttings from packing off in the bearing seal area.

OSTI ID:
234002
Journal Information:
Oil and Gas Journal, Journal Name: Oil and Gas Journal Journal Issue: 19 Vol. 94; ISSN OIGJAV; ISSN 0030-1388
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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