New PDC bit design reduces vibrational problems

Journal Article · Mon May 22 00:00:00 EDT 1995 · Oil and Gas Journal

OSTI ID:52054

Mensa-Wilmot, G; Alexander, W L ^[1]

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

A new polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit design combines cutter layout, load balancing, unsymmetrical blades and gauge pads, and spiraled blades to reduce problematic vibrations without limiting drilling efficiency. Stabilization improves drilling efficiency and also improves dull characteristics for PDC bits. Some PDC bit designs mitigate one vibrational mode (such as bit whirl) through drilling parameter manipulation yet cause or excite another vibrational mode (such as slip-stick). An alternative vibration-reducing concept which places no limitations on the operational environment of a PDC bit has been developed to ensure optimization of the bit`s available mechanical energy. The paper discusses bit stabilization, vibration reduction, vibration prevention, cutter arrangement, load balancing, blade layout, spiraled blades, and bit design.

• OSTI ID: 52054
• Journal Information: Oil and Gas Journal, Vol. 93, Issue 21; Other Information: PBD: 22 May 1995
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
42 ENGINEERING NOT INCLUDED IN OTHER CATEGORIES
DRILL BITS
DESIGN
OPERATION
DRILLING EQUIPMENT
MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS
MITIGATION
DYNAMIC LOADS
EQUATIONS