Optimization of rock-bit life based on bearing failure criteria

Journal Article · Tue Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1992 · SPE Drilling Engineering (Society of Petroleum Engineers); (United States)

OSTI ID:7249486

Feav, M J; Thorogood, J L; Whelehan, O P; Williamson, H S ^[1]

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1. BP Exploration Co. Ltd., Abevoleen (GB)

This paper reports that recent advances in rock-bit seal technology have allowed greater predictability of bearing life. Cone loss following bearing failure incurs costs related to remedial activities. A risk analysis approach, incorporating bearing-life relationships and the inter-dependence of drilling events, is used to formulate a bit-run cost-optimization method. The procedure enables a choice to be made between elastomeric and metal seals on a lowest-replacement-cost basis. The technique also provides a formal method for assessing the opportunity cost for using a device to detect bit-bearing failures downhole.

• OSTI ID: 7249486
• Journal Information: SPE Drilling Engineering (Society of Petroleum Engineers); (United States), Journal Name: SPE Drilling Engineering (Society of Petroleum Engineers); (United States) Vol. 7:3; ISSN 0885-9744; ISSN SDENE
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020200* -- Petroleum-- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration
42 ENGINEERING
420205 -- Engineering-- Transport & Storage Facilities-- (1980-)
440400 -- Well Logging Instrumentation
47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION
BEARINGS
COST
DRILL BITS
DRILLING EQUIPMENT
ELASTOMERS
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
FAILURE MODE ANALYSIS
LIFETIME
MAINTENANCE
MATERIALS
MATERIALS TESTING
METALS
OPTIMIZATION
POLYMERS
SEALING MATERIALS
SERVICE LIFE
SYSTEM FAILURE ANALYSIS
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS
TESTING