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Design and application of softer formation tungsten carbide rock bits

Conference · · Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5570927
Life of the tungsten carbide tooth rock bit was greatly increased by the introduction to the industry of the O-ring sealed journal bearing design in 1969. With this development greater emphasis was then placed on cutting structure development. Innovative tooth shape designs and metallurgical improvements have allowed the application of carbide tooth rock bits to be extended into softer and softer formations. Continued bearing development has resulted in more consistent bit performance and a greater tolerance for higher rotary speed. This and the introduction of softer carbide tooth cutting structures have provided the impetus for the industry conversion from steel tooth to carbide tooth rock bits. J22 class bits (IADC Code 5-1-7) have proved to be economical in a wide range of soft formations. Performance from the new J11 class bits (IADC Code 4-3-7) also shows promise of improving the economics of drilling even softer formations. Drilling rates in excess of 100 feet per hour have been obtained in some applications. The design, development, and application of these new products are discussed in this paper.
Research Organization:
Hughes Tool Div.
OSTI ID:
5570927
Report Number(s):
CONF-830203-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States) Journal Volume: IADC/SPE 11386
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English