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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Field test results of improved geothermal tricone bits

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6240132
The third-generation geothermal tricone bit under development by Sandia Laboratories and Terra Tek was field tested in The Geysers geothermal area in California. Data taken during the tests were analyzed to determine the performance of the research bit as compared with the performance of a preferred tricone bit currently in use. An analysis of the bit gage wear, which is a major factor in bit life in this hard rock area, determined that the research bit had a 30 percent increase in gage life as compared with the conventional roller cone bit. Improvements in bearing and insert life were also measured. The optimal drilling run duration was determined for this formation as a function of reaming time and drilling time.
Research Organization:
Sandia Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
EY-76-C-04-0789
OSTI ID:
6240132
Report Number(s):
SAND-79-1432C; CONF-790906-4
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English