The application of advanced PDC concepts proves effective in south Texas
Over the years, a variety of problems with polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit design and application has been documented, with bit whirl being identified as the cause of many inherent problems. The goal of most PDC manufacturers, and the subject of this paper, is development of a better-performing, whirl-resistant PDC bit design. Similarly, the goal for most operators is the lower cost resulting from effective application of such bits. Toward those ends, a cooperative development effort between operators and a manufacturer was undertaken to apply advanced concepts effectively to the design, manufacture, and application of a new series of PDC bits in south Texas. Adoption of design concepts, such as force-balanced cutting structures, asymmetric blade layouts, spiral blade designs, and tracking cutter arrangements, proved effective in countering the destructive effects of bit whirl, and allowed PDC bits to be used in harder formations. Summaries of both operational and economic performance confirm the success of the undertaking.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 419874
- Journal Information:
- SPE Drilling and Completion, Journal Name: SPE Drilling and Completion Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 11; ISSN 1064-6671; ISSN SDCOE5
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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