Development of high performance drill bits utilizing polycrystalline diamond compact cutters
Sandia Laboratories is developing techniques for utilization of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutters on drill bits. A technique for attaching PDC cutters by a diffusion bonding process has been developed. The application of the method for attaching cutters to mounting studs has been demonstrated. The final phase of this project is underway where the goal is to attach the cutters directly to the bit body eliminating the necessity for using studs. Development of high performance PDC bit designs, capable of drilling into hard formations at high penetration rates has begun. Laboratory and field tests have been conducted and additional tests are scheduled. This paper describes the recent advances made in cutter bonding and bit design technology. The most significant advance made in bonding technology in the last year is the attachment of PDC cutters to steel. The bonds to steel, which is the most desirable material for bit bodies, have shear strengths in excess of 60,000 psi. An investigation into the direct attachment of cutters to bit bodies is being conducted and a brief discussion of the bonding techniques and associated stress problems is given. The results of full-scale laboratory testing of a Hybrid roller-cone PDC bit and a 6-1/2 inch PDC bit are described. These tests were conducted to evaluate the bonding technology and determine the effects of wear on bit performance. The effects of wear on required torque and bit weight for various cutter penetration up to 0.250 inch in granite are given. The first field test of a bit with diffusion bonded PDC cutters is described.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- EY-76-C-04-0789
- OSTI ID:
- 6258895
- Report Number(s):
- SAND-79-0866C; CONF-790805-10
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: DOE symposium on enhanced oil and gas recovery and improved drillings technology, Tulsa, OK, USA, 22 Aug 1979
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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