Fixed cutter drill bit for abrasive applications

Abstract

The invention provides a fixed cutter drill bit for drilling through unconsolidated, highly abrasive formations. The bit includes a bit body having a cutting face and a side portion. The bit body comprising carbide matrix material. A plurality of blades azimuthally spaced about the cutting face and a plurality of cutters disposed along the blades. At least one gage pad is disposed along a side of the bit body and includes wear resistant gage elements formed of a material more wear resistant than the matrix material forming a portion of the gage pad. The wear resistant elements have a rounded surface and are embedded in gage pad material proximal a leading edge of the gage pad to provide a rounded wear-resistant edge or surface proximal the leading edge.

Description

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The invention relates to fixed cutter drill bits designed for abrasive applications, and more particularly to fixed cutter bits designed for high rate of penetration drilling in unconsolidated ultra abrasive formations.[0003]2. Background Art[0004]Different types of drill bits have been developed and found useful in different drilling environments. Bits typically used for drilling boreholes in the oil and gas industry include roller cone bits and fixed cutter. Cutting structures on bits vary depending on the type of bit and the type of formation being cut. Roller cone cutting structures typically include milled steel teeth, tungsten carbide inserts (“TCIs”), or diamond enhanced inserts (DEIs). Cutting structures for fixed cutter bits typically include polycrystalline diamond compacts (“PDCs”), diamond grit impregnated inserts (“grit hot-pressed inserts” (GHIs)), or natural diamond. The selection of a bit type and cutting st...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011]In one aspect, the present invention provides a fixed cutter drill bit providing imp

Problems solved by technology

In drilling unconsolidated, ultra abrasive formations, bit life is limited due to excessive wear; therefore, bit cost has become a significant factor in the selection of bits for this environment.

Heavy oil reservoirs typically comprise unconsolidated to low compressive strength, yet highly abrasive sands that are permeated with thick, dense heavy oil.

Drill bits used in unconsolidated, ultra abrasive applications are typically damaged beyond repair after a first run due

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