Development of improved high temperature seals and lubricants for downhole motors in geothermal applications

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1983 · Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States)

OSTI ID:5458971

De La Fosse, P H; Black, A D; DiBona, B G; Sandstrom, J L; Tibbitts, G A

A major limitation of downhole mud motors for geothermal drilling, as well as straight-hole oil and gas drilling, is the bearing section. Reduced bearing life results from the inability to seal a lubricant in the bearing pack. A reliable rotary seal will extend the bearing life and will allow high pressure drops across the bit for improved bottomhole cleaning and increased drilling rate. This paper summarizes the results of a six-year program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy/Division of Geothermal Energy to develop a sealed bearing pack for use with downhole motors in geothermal applications. Descriptions of the Seal Test Machine, Lubricant Test Machine and Bearing Pack Test Facility are presented. Summaries of all seal tests, lubricant tests and bearing pack tests are provided; and a comprehensive program bibliography is presented.

• Research Organization: Drilling Research Laboratory, Salt Lake City, UT
• OSTI ID: 5458971
• Journal Information: Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States), Vol. 83-PET-23
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
BEARINGS
LUBRICANTS
RELIABILITY
SEALS
SERVICE LIFE
ELECTRIC MOTORS
GEOTHERMAL WELLS
MWD SYSTEMS
WELL DRILLING
TESTING
TEST FACILITIES
DRILLING
MOTORS
WELLS
150303* - Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology- Exploratory Drilling & Well Logging
150901 - Geothermal Engineering- Drilling Technology & Well Hardware