Isolated lubrication system for drill bits

Abstract

An isolated lubrication system (200) for a drill bit (100) is disclosed. The system (200) includes a body (105) having a cutting arm (106, 107, 108) with a journal (115) and a rotating tool (109, 110, 111) mounted on the journal (115). The system (200) also includes a reservoir (135) within the body (105) to contain a fluid lubricant (140) isolated from communication with the outside of the body (105). The system (200) also includes a plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) communicating with the reservoir (135) and communicating with each other. Multiple conduits (145, 150, 155) facilitate lubrication between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111) including bearings (120, 125, 130) by means of gravity and / or centrifugal force acting on the fluid lubricant (140). Furthermore, the system (200) includes a sealing system (201). This sealing system (201) includes a sealing cap (165) disposed to the reservoir (135), a seal (180) disposed between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111), and a stepped passage (185) disposed in the gap (175) between the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111) and the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) of the body (105).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to drill bits suitable for drilling operations. More specifically, this invention relates to an isolation lubrication system for drill bits that facilitates uniform lubrication of different bearing elements within the drill bit and also prevents lubricant contamination within the drill bit. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional roller cone bits comprise a body with two or more cutting arms. Each cutting arm defines an angular journal on which a rotating disc or roller cone is mounted. Roller cone bits, such as "triple cone" bits, comprise a body with three cutting arms defining three angular journals and three roller cones mounted on the three journals respectively. The roller cone may have multiple protrusions or teeth to cut through different rock formations. Furthermore, the roller cone may be mounted on the angular journals using one or more bearing elements, such as ball bearings and rolling element bearings. These bearing elements facilitate rotation of the roller cone about its axis and the angular journal. During operation, the application of a feed force to the body and rotation further cause the roller cone to rotate via the ball bearings and rolling element bearings. The rotation of the teeth and the roller cone enables the cutting of rock.

[0003] Typically, the bearing elements in a roller cone drill bit are lubricated by a lubricant such as grease. However, grease as a lubricant may have limited fluidity and may not effectively lubricate different areas of the bearing element's geometry and / or surroundings, such as cracks, edges, corners, and grooves. As a result, the life and performance of the roller cone drill bit may be affected during long-term use. Furthermore, a complex lubricant reservoir with a diaphragm and lubricant delivery system may be required to supply grease to the bearing elements of the roller cone drill bit. In some cases, it may also be necessary to equalize the pressure outside the roller cone drill bit with the pressure inside the lubricant reservoir to force grease from the reservoir into different areas of the bearing element and / or surrounding it. Pressure equalization may also require additional components and / or features in the roller cone drill bit to facilitate the movement of grease as needed.

[0004] Additionally, grease can be contaminated by debris generated during rock cutting. During operation, debris can accumulate around the lubricant seal located between the roller cone and the inclined journal of the drill bit. This continuous accumulation of debris during operation leads to wear and tearing of the lubricant seal. Wear and tearing can also cause debris to leak through the annular space surrounding the lubricant seal, resulting in grease contamination. Grease contamination further affects the lubrication of bearing components, thus reducing the life and performance of the roller cone bit.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 4,428,442 relates to a roller cone bit lubrication system having a pressurized air chamber and a central container for lubricating fluid. Furthermore, the roller cone bit lubrication system includes a conduit extending from the interior of the central container to an opening that allows pressurized air from the pressurized air chamber to carry lubricating fluid in a measured amount. The pressurized air also directs the lubricating fluid to an opening leading to a bearing formed between the roller cone and the journal. Clearly, the roller cone bit lubrication system requires a complex arrangement of the central container, pressurized air chamber, and conduit to ensure adequate circulation of the grease around the bearing. Additionally, debris from rock cuttings may leak through the openings around the roller cone and contaminate the grease. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect of the invention, a rotary drill bit comprising a body having a cutting arm having a journal extending therefrom is disclosed. A rotary tool can be mounted on the journal via a plurality of bearings, such that a gap is defined between the rotary tool and a base surface of the cutting arm, from which the journal extends. The rotary drill bit also includes an isolated lubrication system. The isolated lubrication system includes a reservoir located within the body to contain a fluid lubricant isolated from communication with the outside of the body. Furthermore, the isolated lubrication system includes a plurality of conduits within the body that are in direct or indirect communication with the reservoir and with respect to each other. These conduits can facilitate lubrication between the journal and the rotary tool (including the bearings) by means of at least one of gravity and centrifugal force acting on the fluid lubricant. The isolated lubrication system also includes a sealing system. The sealing system may include a sealing cap disposed on the reservoir and a seal disposed in the gap between the journal and the rotary tool. The sealing system may also include a stepped passage extending from the seal to an opening disposed in the gap between the cutting arm and the rotary tool.

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, an isolated lubrication system for a drill bit is disclosed. The isolated lubrication system includes a body having a cutting arm with a journal extending therefrom. A rotating cutter is mounted on the journal via a plurality of bearings, such that a clearance is defined between the rotating cutter and a base surface of the cutting arm, from which the journal extends. The body defines a reservoir for receiving fluid lubricant and isolating the fluid lubricant from communication with the outside of the body. The body also defines a first conduit communicating with the reservoir, such that fluid lubricant from the reservoir occupies the first conduit by gravity. Furthermore, the body defines a second conduit communicating with the first conduit, such that fluid lubricant from the first conduit occupies the second conduit and lubricates at least one of the plurality of bearings. Additionally, the body defines a third conduit communicating with the second conduit and extending to an outlet disposed in the journal. The isolated lubrication system also includes a sealing system. The sealing system may include a sealing cap disposed on the reservoir. The sealing system may also include a pin inserted into the second conduit to hold at least one bearing in place and retain fluid lubricant in the second conduit. Furthermore, the sealing system may include a reservoir seal provided in the gap between the journal and the rotating cutter. Additionally, the sealing system may include a stepped passage extending from the seal to an opening disposed in the gap between the cutting arm and the rotating cutter.

[0008] In another aspect of the invention, a drilling rig is disclosed, comprising a power source, a feed unit in communication with the power source, and a drill bit connected to the feed unit. The drill bit defines a body having a cutting arm having a journal extending therefrom. A rotating cutter can be mounted on the journal via a plurality of bearings, such that a clearance is defined between the rotating cutter and a base surface of the cutting arm, from which the journal extends. The drill bit also defines an isolated lubrication system. The isolated lubrication system includes a reservoir located within the body to contain a fluid lubricant isolated from communication with the outside of the body. Furthermore, the isolated lubrication system includes a plurality of conduits within the body that are in direct or indirect communication with the reservoir and with respect to each other. These conduits can facilitate lubrication between the journal and the rotating cutter, and on the bearings, by means of at least one of gravity and centrifugal force acting on the fluid lubricant. The isolated lubrication system also includes a sealing system. The sealing system may include a sealing cap disposed on the reservoir and a reservoir seal disposed in the clearance between the journal and the rotating cutter. The sealing system may also include a stepped passage extending from the seal to an opening located in the gap between the cutting arm and the rotating tool. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is an exemplary illustration of a rotary drill bit having three cutting arms and an isolation lubrication system in each cutting arm, according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2 It is a lubrication isolation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a rotary drill bit;

[0011] Figure 3 According to the first embodiment of the present invention Figure 2 An exemplary illustration of an enlarged view of an isolation lubrication system;

[0012] Figure 4 It is a device with an additional catheter according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the isolated lubrication system (BB);

[0013] Figure 5 According to the first embodiment of the present invention Figure 1-3 An exemplary illustration of the flow of fluid lubricant in an isolated lubrication system;

[0014] Figure 6 According to the first embodiment of the present invention Figure 2-3 An exemplary illustration of an enlarged view of a sealing cap in an isolation lubrication system;

[0015] Figure 7 According to the first embodiment of the present invention Figure 2-3 An exemplary illustration of an enlarged view of the seals and stepped passages in an isolated lubrication system;

[0016] Figure 8 According to the second embodiment of the present invention, a suction conduit is provided. Figure 2-3 An exemplary illustration of an isolated lubrication system;

[0017] Figure 9 This is according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view AA of a rotary drill bit having an isolated lubrication system equipped with a central reservoir;

[0018] Figure 10 This is according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 An exemplary illustration of an enlarged view of the central storage; and

[0019] Figure 11 It is according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention having Figure 9 The isolation lubrication system and Figure 2-3 Combination Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a rotary drill bit (AA). Detailed Implementation

[0020] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals are used wherever possible to denote the same or similar parts.

[0021] refer to Figure 1 Exemplary illustrations of a rotary drill bit 100 are disclosed. Examples of the rotary drill bit 100 include, but are not limited to, roller cone drill bits, such as tungsten carbide insert (TCI) drill bits or milling drill bits. Another example of the rotary drill bit 100 includes, but is not limited to, fixed-tool drill bits, such as polycrystalline diamond composite (PDC) drill bits, impregnated drill bits, or diamond drill bits. For clarity and understanding, the rotary drill bit 100 corresponding to a roller cone drill bit will be described herein. Furthermore, the rotary drill bit 100 will be referred to herein as "roller cone drill bit 100".

[0022] The roller cone drill bit 100 includes a body 105 rotatable about a central axis 101 of the roller cone drill bit 100. The body 105 may include a first cutting arm 106 (see...). Figure 2 The first cutting arm 106, the second cutting arm 107, and the third cutting arm 108 may be identical and equidistant from each other at an angle. The main body 105 also includes a first rotary cutter 109, a second rotary cutter 110, and a third rotary cutter 111, which are respectively fixed to the first cutting arm 106, the second cutting arm 107, and the third cutting arm 108. The first cutting arm 106, the second cutting arm 107, and the third cutting arm 108 are collectively referred to herein as "cutting arms (106, 107, 108)". The first rotary cutter 109, the second rotary cutter 110, and the third rotary cutter 111 are collectively referred to herein as "rotary cutters (109, 110, 111)". Furthermore, the rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) may be conical in shape and include inserts 112, such as tungsten carbide inserts, on their respective outer peripheral surfaces to facilitate cutting of rock materials. In some embodiments, the rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) may include milled protruding teeth (not shown) in place of the inserts 112 to facilitate cutting of rock material. Inserts 112, arranged with different lengths and intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary cutters (109, 110, 111), can be used to cut rock material. The rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) may be fixed to the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) respectively, such that the rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) with the corresponding inserts 112 can face each other.

[0023] Furthermore, the main body 105 also includes isolation lubrication systems 200 corresponding to the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) respectively. The isolation lubrication systems 200 may be identical in each of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108). Therefore, for clarity and understanding, this document will describe the first cutting arm 106 and the isolation lubrication system 200 corresponding to the first cutting arm 106 in detail. For the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the second cutting arm 107, the third cutting arm 108, and their respective isolation lubrication systems 200 will be omitted.

[0024] Reference Figure 2 It was disclosed that it has an isolation system of 200. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view AA of a roller cone drill bit 100. The body 105 of the roller cone drill bit 100 includes an inlet 102. A first cutting arm 106 includes a journal 115 extending from a base surface 116 of the first cutting arm 106. A first rotating cutter 109 is mounted on the journal 115 via bearings (120, 125). Examples of bearings (120, 125) include, but are not limited to, ball bearings 120, such as single-row or deep groove bearings, double-row or thrust ball bearings, double-row self-aligning ball bearings, or single-row and double-row angular ball bearings. Another example of bearings (120, 125) includes, but is not limited to, rolling element bearings 125, such as spherical ball bearings, single-row or double-row cylindrical bearings, tapered ball bearings, or needle roller bearings. Other examples of bearings (120, 125) include, but are not limited to, sliding bearings or sleeve bearings, friction bearings, jewel bearings, fluid bearings, magnetic bearings, flexural bearings, and composite bearings. A first rotating cutter 109 may be mounted on a journal 115 such that the first rotating cutter 109 rotates about an axis 117 of the first rotating cutter 109 and the journal 115 by means of bearings (120, 125). In some embodiments, an additional bearing (not shown) may be provided between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109 to share the load with the bearings (120, 125) and to facilitate the rotation of the first rotating cutter 109. A thrust bearing 130 may also be provided between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109 to minimize friction between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109 during rotation.

[0025] The isolation lubrication system 200 of the roller cone bit 100 includes a reservoir 135 located in the first cutting arm 106 of the body 105 to contain a fluid lubricant 140, such as oil. The reservoir 135 can have different shapes and sizes. For example, the reservoir 135 can be a cylindrical or rectangular groove in the first cutting arm 106 of the body 105. The volume of the reservoir 135 can also vary depending on its shape and size. The reservoir 135 may have a reservoir opening 136 extending to the outer peripheral surface 137 of the first cutting arm 106. The isolation lubrication system 200 may need to be filled before operation of the roller cone bit 100. To create a vacuum and introduce the fluid lubricant 140 into the reservoir 135, it may be necessary to remove air from the reservoir 135. When the reservoir 135 is filled with the fluid lubricant 140, the resulting vacuum promotes uniform lubrication of the thrust bearing 130 and the bearings (120, 125).

[0026] The reservoir 135 may be directly or indirectly connected to a plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) such that the conduits (145, 150, 155) facilitate the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 in the isolation lubrication system 200 (see [reference]). Figure 5 The conduits (145, 150, 155) may also be directly or indirectly connected to each other to facilitate lubrication between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109, which includes bearings (120, 125). The conduits (145, 150, 155) can provide lubrication for multiple spaces, edges, corners, and cracks of different geometries and sizes, which may be formed around the bearings (120, 125) and / or between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109.

[0027] The isolation lubrication system 200 may include a first conduit 145 in the first cutting arm 106, which is in direct communication with the reservoir 135, such that fluid lubricant 140 from the reservoir 135 is passed by gravity 505 (see...). Figure 5 The first conduit 145 is occupied. The isolation lubrication system 200 may also include a second conduit 150 in the first cutting arm 106, which may be in direct communication with the first conduit 145, such that fluid lubricant 140 from the first conduit 145 occupies the second conduit 150. The fluid lubricant 140 in the second conduit 150 can lubricate the ball bearings 120 and / or 125 due to the vacuum generated in the isolation lubrication system 200, and also by means of the centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 during operation (see...). Figure 5The rotation of the roller cone drill bit 100 about its central axis 101 can cause the first rotating cutter 109 to rotate about its axis 117. The rotation of the roller cone drill bit 100 and the first rotating cutter 109 can cause a centrifugal force 510 to act on the fluid lubricant 140 in the second conduit 150, such as... Figure 5 As shown. The fluid lubricant 140 in the second conduit 150 can pass through the annular space (305, 310) formed between the journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109 (see...). Figure 3 Lubricates ball bearings 120 and / or 125. In some embodiments, the second conduit 150 may be a through-hole provided through the first cutting arm 106, such that the bearing rollers in ball bearing 120 can be introduced into the drill bit via the second conduit 150, and a pin 170 can be inserted into the second conduit 150 to hold the bearing rollers of ball bearing 120 in place. In some embodiments, the isolation lubrication system 200 may include additional conduits (152, 154) (see...) Figure 4 The lubrication system 200 can be directly connected to the second conduit 150 and the ball bearing 120 to lubricate the thrust bearing 130, the ball bearing 120, and / or the ball bearing 125. Furthermore, the isolation lubrication system 200 may also include a third conduit 155 in the first cutting arm 106, which is directly connected to the second conduit 150 and extends to an outlet 160 disposed in the journal 115 of the first cutting arm 106. Fluid lubricant 140 from the second conduit 150 can be delivered by gravity 505 and / or centrifugal force 510 (see...). Figure 5 The third conduit 155 is occupied and discharged from the outlet 160. This is due to the vacuum generated during the rotation of the roller cone bit 100 and the first rotary cutter 109, and also by means of the centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 (see...). Figure 5 The fluid lubricant 140 exiting from outlet 160 can lubricate the thrust bearing 130, ball bearing 120, and / or ball bearing 125. The fluid lubricant 140 exiting from outlet 160 can flow through the annular spaces (315, 320, 325, 310) formed between journal 115 and the first rotating cutter 109 (see...). Figure 3 The first conduit 145 is used to lubricate the thrust bearing 130, ball bearing 120, and / or ball bearing 125, respectively. The conduits (145, 150, 155) can be cylindrical and can have the same or different diameters. The second conduit 150 and the third conduit 155 can be indirectly connected to the reservoir 135 via the first conduit 145. Similarly, the third conduit 155 can be indirectly connected to the reservoir 135 and the first conduit 145 via the second conduit 150.

[0028] Reference Figure 3The isolation lubrication system 200 also includes a sealing system 201 to prevent fluid lubricant 140 from leaking to the exterior of the body 105 of the roller cone bit 100. The sealing system 201 also isolates the fluid lubricant 140 from communication with the exterior of the body 105. The sealing system 201 includes a sealing cap 165 (also...). Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, a sealing cap 165 seals the reservoir opening 136, thereby isolating the reservoir 135 from communication with the outside of the body 105. The sealing cap 165 includes an orifice 166 and a retractable member 167 disposed within the orifice 166. The retractable member 167 can be retracted and removed from the orifice 166 to facilitate the extraction of air from the reservoir 135 and / or the supply of fluid lubricant 140 to the reservoir 135 via the orifice 166. Examples of the retractable member 167 include, but are not limited to, plugs, caps, screws or nuts and bolt assemblies. A reservoir seal 168 (e.g., an O-ring seal) may also be provided around the sealing cap 165 to prevent fluid lubricant 140 from leaking to the outside of the reservoir 135 and to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 in the reservoir 135 from communication with the outside of the body 105.

[0029] Alternative embodiments that facilitate the extraction of air from the reservoir 135 are also conceivable. For example, see... Figure 8 A suction conduit 805 can be provided between the inlet 102 of the body 105 and the reservoir 135 to facilitate the suction of air from the reservoir 135. As a result, the suction of air from the suction conduit 805 and the supply of fluid lubricant 140 to the reservoir 135 via an orifice 166 in the sealing cap 165 can be performed independently. After air suction, a plug 810 with a suction seal 815 can be provided in the suction conduit 805 to isolate the reservoir 135 from communication with the outside of the body 105. Alternatively, the suction conduit 805 can facilitate the supply of fluid lubricant 140 to the reservoir 135, and the orifice 166 in the sealing cap 165 can facilitate the suction of air from the reservoir 135.

[0030] Refer to Figure 3The sealing system 201 also includes a pin 170 inserted into the second conduit 150 to hold the ball bearing 120 in place and retain the fluid lubricant 140 within the second conduit 150. A first end 171 of the pin 170 holds the ball bearing 120 in place, while a second end 172 of the pin 170 facilitates isolation of the fluid lubricant 140 from the outside of the body 105. The second end 172 of the pin 170 can be welded into place in the second conduit 150 after insertion to facilitate isolation of the fluid lubricant 140. The pin 170 may be a metal pin having an annular groove 173 disposed between the first end 171 and the second end 172 of the pin 170. The annular groove 173, in turn, helps retain the fluid lubricant 140 within the second conduit 150. The fluid lubricant 140 in the second conduit 150 can pass through the annular space 305 surrounding the periphery of the first end 171 of the pin 170 in the second conduit 150, and lubricate the thrust bearing 130, ball bearing 120, and / or ball bearing 125. This is due to the vacuum generated in the isolation lubrication system 200 and also by means of the centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 during the rotation of the roller cone bit 100 and the first rotary cutter 109 (see...). Figure 5 ( ), which can promote lubrication.

[0031] The first rotary cutter 109 can be mounted on the journal 115 such that a clearance 175 can be defined between the first rotary cutter 109 and the base surface 116 of the first cutting arm 106, from which the journal 115 extends. The sealing system 201 may also include a journal seal 180 disposed in the clearance 175 between the journal 115 and the first rotary cutter 109. Figure 7 (as shown in the image).

[0032] See Figure 7 The journal seal 180 may be a double-cone™ seal having two sealing rings 181, 182 (e.g., metal sealing rings), which may be arranged coaxially with the journal 115 and make face-to-face sealing contact with each other. The two sealing rings 181, 182 may also be supported by annular seals 183 (referred to herein as "rings"). Rings 183 may be flexible and made of an elastic material. Furthermore, rings 183 enable the first rotating cutter 109 and the first cutting arm 106 to support the two sealing rings 181, 182 respectively. Sealing ring 181 may rotate with the first rotating cutter 109, and sealing ring 182 may be fixedly supported by the first cutting arm 106. During operation, rotation of the first rotating cutter 109 along axis 117 causes the rings 183 to perform a bouncing action, which may also push the two sealing rings 181, 182 into face-to-face sealing contact. As a result, journal seal 180 is able to prevent fluid lubricant 140 (such as...) Figure 5(As shown) leakage occurs when the rotational speed of the first rotating cutter head 109 changes. The journal seal 180 also facilitates the isolation of the fluid lubricant 140 from the outside of the body 105. In addition, the journal seal 180 also prevents debris and contaminants of the fluid lubricant 140 in the isolation lubrication system 200 from leaking from the outside of the body 105 of the roller cone bit 100.

[0033] Further examples of journal seal 180 include, but are not limited to, O-ring seals, T-shaped seals, inverted double-cone seals, triple-cone seals, floating seals, face seals, heavy-duty seals, life-saving seals, V-ring stack seals, combined seals, helical spring seals, S-shaped seals, stepped seals, wedge seals, spring-energized seals, annular seals, or any other mechanical face seal. In some embodiments, a bushing (not shown) may also be provided between journal 115 and the first rotating tool 109 in place of journal seal 180.

[0034] Furthermore, the sealing system 201 also includes a stepped passage 185 or a labyrinth seal extending from the journal seal 180 to the opening 190, which is disposed in the gap 175 between the first cutting arm 106 and the first rotating cutter 109. The stepped passage 185 may be defined by a combination of a continuous lip 186 disposed on a base surface 116 in the first cutting arm 106 and a continuous groove 188 disposed on an end surface 118 in the first rotating cutter 109 in the gap 175. The end face 118 faces the base surface 116 of the cutting arm 106 in the gap 175. The continuous lip 186 and the continuous groove 188 may also be annular. The continuous lip 186 may be received in the continuous groove 188 such that the stepped passage 185 is defined in the gap 175. The stepped passage 185 may be “L”, “S”, or “Z” shaped or a combination of different shapes. The stepped passage 185 may also include a portion of a gap 175 defined at the opening 190 between the base surface 116 and the end surface 118. In some embodiments, two or more continuous lips and continuous grooves, respectively resembling a continuous lip 186 and a continuous groove 188, may be provided between the first cutting arm 106 and the first rotary cutter 109, such that these two or more continuous lips and continuous grooves can collectively define the stepped passage 185. The continuous lip 186 may be disposed around a journal 115 on the base surface 116 of the cutting arm 106, from which the journal 115 extends. The continuous lip 186 may define a sidewall 187 perpendicular to the base surface 116 of the first cutting arm 106. In some embodiments, the continuous lip 186 and the continuous groove 188 may be disposed adjacent to the journal seal 180. An annular sealing groove 189 may also be disposed adjacent to the continuous groove 188 in the first rotary cutter 109. At least one sidewall 187 of the annular sealing groove 189 and the sidewall 187 can support two sealing rings 181 and 182 respectively via an annular element 183. The annular element 183 can press against the sidewall 187 of the annular sealing groove 189 and the continuous lip 186 respectively to seal the fluid lubricant 140 (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (as shown), so that it is not connected to the outside of the main body 105.

[0035] In an alternative embodiment, a continuous lip 186 may be provided on the end surface 118 of the first rotating cutter 109, and a continuous groove 188 may be provided in the base surface 116 of the first cutting arm 106 to define a stepped passage 185.

[0036] The stepped passage 185 prevents the flow of cutting material debris that may accumulate at the opening 190 during the operation of the roller cone drill bit 100. As a result, the stepped passage 185 prevents wear of the journal seal 180 due to debris and increases the lifespan of the journal seal 180. Therefore, it also prevents the flow of fluid lubricant 140 (such as...) contained in the journal seal 180 from being damaged. Figure 5 (As shown) It is contaminated due to debris.

[0037] In embodiments of the isolation lubrication system 200, for example, such as Figure 8 As shown, the sealing system 201 may also include a plug 810 having a suction seal 815 disposed in the suction conduit 805 to isolate the reservoir 135 from the inlet 102 of the body 105.

[0038] See Figure 1-2 In some embodiments, the body 105 of the roller cone drill 100 may include multiple cutting arms of different shapes and sizes not described in this invention. Therefore, the isolated lubrication system 200 described in this invention can be applied to the body 105 of a roller cone drill 100 having multiple cutting arms and multiple rotating cutters respectively mounted on the multiple cutting arms. The multiple cutting arms and multiple rotating cutters may have different shapes and sizes. Furthermore, multiple conduits of different shapes and positioned in different locations within the body 105 may be provided to facilitate lubrication between the multiple cutting arms and the multiple rotating cutters (each including multiple bearings therein). Additionally, alternative embodiments of the reservoir 135 in the body 105 in terms of shape, size, and position are also contemplated (e.g., Figure 9 and Figure 11 (As shown).

[0039] Reference Figure 9 It was made public. Figure 1-2 An alternative embodiment of the isolation lubrication system 200 has a central reservoir 905 disposed in the body 105 instead of the reservoir 135. In one embodiment, the central reservoir 905 (also...) Figure 10(As shown in the diagram) can be a cylindrical groove disposed in inlet 102. The central reservoir 905 can be equipped with a sealing cap 910 and sealed to the inlet 102 by means of seals 911 (such as O-ring seals and seat rings 912). The sealing cap 910 may include a central retractable member 913. The central retractable member 913 can be retracted and removed to introduce fluid lubricant 140 into the central reservoir 905. Connecting conduits 915 can be disposed between the central reservoir 905 and the cutting arms (106, 107, 108), respectively. For clarity and understanding, the central reservoir 905, which is in direct communication with the first cutting arm 106 via the connecting conduit 915, will be described in detail herein. For brevity, the central reservoir 905, which is in direct communication with the connecting conduits 915 connected to the cutting arms 107 and 108, will be omitted.

[0040] The first conduit 145 in the first cutting arm 106 can be directly connected to the connecting conduit 915 and indirectly connected to the central reservoir 905. In one embodiment, the connecting conduit 915 can be perpendicular to the central reservoir 905. In another embodiment, the connecting conduit 915 can be at an angle relative to the central reservoir 905. The first conduit 145 can also extend to a cutting arm opening 926 provided on the outer peripheral surface 137 of the first cutting arm 106. The cutting arm opening 926 facilitates the extraction of air from the isolation lubrication system 200. The first conduit 145 can also be provided with a plug 922 and a conduit seal 924 in the cutting arm opening 926 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 from communication with the outside of the body 105 after air extraction. In an alternative embodiment, the central retractable part 913 of the sealing cap 910 can be removed to allow air to be drawn from the central reservoir 905, and fluid lubricant 140 can be introduced via the cutting arm opening 926, such that the central reservoir 905, connecting conduit 915, and conduits (145, 150, 155) are filled with fluid lubricant 140. A plug 922 and a conduit seal 924 can then be provided in the cutting arm opening 926 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 from communication with the outside of the body 105.

[0041] Reference Figure 11 It was made public. Figure 9 and Figure 2-3The combination of the isolation lubrication system 200. The central reservoir 905 is in communication with the reservoir 135 via the connecting conduit 915. The first conduit 145 in the first cutting arm 106 is indirectly in communication with the connecting conduit 915 via the reservoir 135, and thus indirectly in communication with the central reservoir 905. In one embodiment, the central retractable part 913 of the sealing cap 910 can be retracted and removed to supply fluid lubricant 140 to the central reservoir 905, the connecting conduit 915, the reservoir 135, and the conduits (145, 150, 155). Furthermore, the retractable part 167 in the sealing cap 165 can be retracted and removed to draw air from the reservoir 135 and the central reservoir 905 via the orifice 166. Alternatively, the central retractable part 913 of the sealing cap 910 can be removed to draw air from the central reservoir 905 and the reservoir 135. Then, the retractable part 167 in the sealing cap 165 can be retracted and removed to facilitate the supply of fluid lubricant 140 to the reservoir 135, conduits (145, 150, 155), connecting conduit 915, and central reservoir 905. When the central reservoir 905 and reservoir 135 are filled with fluid lubricant 140, the vacuum created by the suction of air and gravity 505 can promote the lubrication of the bearings (120, 125) and the thrust bearing (130).

[0042] Industrial applicability

[0043] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 5 The body 105 of the roller cone bit 100 is adapted to cut rock material and remove debris from a borehole (not shown). The roller cone bit 100 can be connected to a drilling rig (not shown) via a feed unit (not shown). The feed unit can be connected to a power source (not shown) including a rotor (not shown) that provides the necessary rotation to the roller cone bit 100. The feed unit may include a drill pipe with a drill string that can supply compressed air or fluid to flush the cutting material out of the borehole. Furthermore, the feed unit can provide the necessary feed force to cut rock material in the borehole.

[0044] Before operating the roller cone drill bit 100, it may be necessary to prime the isolation lubrication system 200 in the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) separately. To create a vacuum and introduce the fluid lubricant 140 into the reservoir 135, it may be necessary to remove air from the reservoir 135. In one embodiment, a retractable part 167 of the sealing cap 165 can be retracted and detached from the sealing cap 165 to facilitate air extraction. The fluid lubricant 140 can then be introduced into the reservoir 135. The retractable part 167 can then be secured to the sealing cap 165 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 in the reservoir 135 from communication with the outside of the body 105 of the roller cone drill bit 100. In another embodiment, air from the reservoir 135 can be extracted through a suction conduit 805 (see...). Figure 8 The fluid lubricant 140 is discharged and sealed by a plug 810 and a suction seal 815 disposed in the suction conduit 805. Then, the fluid lubricant 140 is introduced into the reservoir 135 by separating the retractable part 167 in the sealing cap 165 and reconnecting the retractable part 167 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140. The fluid lubricant 140 can be introduced into the reservoir 135 such that the fluid lubricant 140 occupies the first conduit 145, the second conduit 150, and the third conduit 155. The fluid lubricant 140 can also occupy the additional conduits 152 and 154 communicating with the second conduit 150. In one embodiment, the fluid lubricant 140 can occupy 80%-85% of the volume of the reservoir 135 such that the fluid lubricant 140 is contained in the reservoir 135 in the event of thermal expansion of the fluid lubricant 140 during operation of the roller cone drill bit 100. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the fluid lubricant 140 may have a viscosity between 80 centipoise and 200 centipoise at an operating temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. The flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 in the isolated lubrication system 200 may be due to gravity 505 and centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 during operation of the roller cone drill bit 100. The isolated lubrication system 200 may not require additional components or systems to facilitate the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 within the isolated lubrication system 200.

[0045] During operation of the roller cone drill 100, a power source facilitates its rotation about a central axis 101 via a feed unit. This rotation of the roller cone drill 100, in turn, causes the rotation of rotary cutting tools (109, 110, 111) mounted on journals 115 of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108). The rotary cutting tools (109, 110, 111) can rotate about their respective axes and journals 115 in directions opposite to the rotation of the roller cone drill 100. For example, the roller cone drill 100 can rotate clockwise, while the rotary cutting tools (109, 110, 111) can rotate counterclockwise.

[0046] For clarity and understanding, this document will describe in detail the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 in the isolation lubrication system 200 of the first cutting arm 106. For the sake of brevity, the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 in the isolation lubrication systems 200 of the second cutting arm 107 and the third cutting arm 108 will be omitted.

[0047] Fluid lubricant 140 occupies the first conduit 145 by gravity 505. The rotation of the roller cone bit 100 and the first rotating cutter 109 also results in a centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140. The centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 allows the fluid lubricant 140 to pass through the annular space 305 surrounding the first end 171 of the pin 170 in the second conduit 150, thereby causing lubrication of the ball bearing 120. The fluid lubricant 140 can also permeate through the annular space 310 between the ball bearing 120 and the ball bearing 125, and lubricate the ball bearing 125. Furthermore, the fluid lubricant 140 can then permeate through the annular space 325 between the ball bearing 120 and the thrust bearing 130, and lubricate the thrust bearing 130. In addition, fluid lubricant 140 occupies the third conduit 155 by gravity 505. The rotation of the roller cone bit 100 and the first rotating cutter 109, combined with gravity 505 and / or centrifugal force 510 acting on the fluid lubricant 140, allows the fluid lubricant 140 to exit from the outlet 160 of the third conduit 155. The fluid lubricant 140 from the outlet 160 can then pass through annular spaces 315, 320, and 325, thereby lubricating the thrust bearing 130 and the ball bearing 120, respectively. The fluid lubricant 140 from the annular space 325 can also seep around the ball bearing 120 and into the annular space 310 to lubricate the ball bearing 125. The journal seal 180 prevents further leakage of the fluid lubricant 140 around the ball bearing 125.

[0048] The rotation of the first rotary cutter 109 also enables the insert 112 disposed on the first rotary cutter 109 to cut through the rock material in the borehole (not shown). Debris from the cut material can accumulate around the first rotary cutter 109 and can enter the gap 175 through the opening 190. A stepped passage 185 disposed in the gap 175 prevents debris from flowing from the opening 190 to the journal seal 180. The stepped passage 185 thereby reduces wear on the journal seal 180 and increases its lifespan. Therefore, the journal seal 180 also prevents debris from contaminating the fluid lubricant 140 around the bearings (120, 125), thereby also increasing the lifespan of the lubricated bearings (120, 125).

[0049] Reference Figure 9-10Before operating the roller cone drill bit 100, air from the isolation lubrication system 200 can be removed through the cutting arm opening 926, which can then be sealed by the plug 922 and the conduit seal 924. Then, to introduce the fluid lubricant 140 into the central reservoir 905, the central retractable part 913 in the sealing cap 910 of the central reservoir 905 can be retracted and removed until the connecting conduit 915 and the conduits (145, 150, 155) are occupied by the fluid lubricant 140. For example, when the connecting conduit 915 is perpendicular to the central reservoir 905, the resulting vacuum promotes the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 within the connecting conduit 915. Furthermore, for example, when the connecting conduit 915 is tilted at an angle relative to the central reservoir 905, in addition to creating a vacuum, the gravity 505 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 can promote the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 within the connecting conduit 915. The central retractable component 913 can then be secured to the sealing cap 910 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 in the central reservoir 905 from the inlet 102 of the roller cone bit 100. When the fluid lubricant 140 is filled into the central reservoir 905, the vacuum created by removing air from the isolation lubrication system 200 and gravity 505 promote lubrication of the thrust bearing 130, ball bearing 120, and rolling element bearing 125.

[0050] During operation, fluid lubricant 140 from central reservoir 905 can flow 515 through connecting conduit 915 by means of centrifugal force 510. Fluid lubricant 140 can then flow 515 in conduits (145, 150, 155) by means of gravity 505 and / or centrifugal force 510, and provide lubrication between journal 115 and first rotating cutter 109 including bearings (120, 125).

[0051] Reference Figure 11Before the roller cone drill bit 100 is operated, air from the isolated lubrication system 200 can be removed by removing the retractable part 167 through the orifice 166 of the sealing cap 165. The retractable part 167 can then be secured to the sealing cap 165, creating a vacuum in the isolated lubrication system 200. To then introduce the fluid lubricant 140 into the central reservoir 905, the central retractable part 913 in the sealing cap 910 of the central reservoir 905 can be retracted and removed until the connecting conduit 915. The reservoir 135 and the conduits (145, 150, 155) are occupied by the fluid lubricant 140 by the generated vacuum and gravity 505. For example, when the connecting conduit 915 is perpendicular to the central reservoir 905, the generated vacuum promotes the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 within the connecting conduit 915. Furthermore, for example, when the connecting conduit 915 is tilted at an angle relative to the central reservoir 905, in addition to creating a vacuum, the gravity 505 acting on the fluid lubricant 140 can promote the flow 515 of the fluid lubricant 140 in the connecting conduit 915. The central retractable component 913 can then be secured to the sealing cap 910 to isolate the fluid lubricant 140 in the central reservoir 905 from the inlet 102 of the roller cone bit 100. When the fluid lubricant 140 is filled into the reservoir 135, the vacuum created by removing air from the isolation lubrication system 200 helps lubricate the thrust bearing 130, the ball bearing 120, and the rolling element bearing 125.

[0052] During operation, fluid lubricant 140 from central reservoir 905 can flow 515 through connecting conduit 915 to reservoir 135 by means of gravity 505 and / or centrifugal force 510. Fluid lubricant 140 can then flow 515 from reservoir 135 in conduits (145, 150, 155) by means of gravity 505 and / or centrifugal force 510, and provide lubrication between journal 115 and first rotating cutter 109 (including thrust bearing 130 and bearings (120, 125)).

[0053] Obviously, the isolation lubrication system 200 (such as...) Figure 2 , Figure 9 and Figure 11 (As shown) This can improve the life and performance of the first rotary cutting tool 109, bearings (120, 125), and therefore the roller cone drill bit 100.

[0054] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made to the methods and / or systems of the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the description and practice of the methods and / or systems disclosed herein. This specification and examples are intended to be considered merely exemplary, and the true scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A rotary drill bit (100), comprising: A body (105) having cutting arms (106, 107, 108) and rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) and an inlet (102), the cutting arms having a journal (115) extending therefrom, the rotary cutters being mounted on the journal (115) by a plurality of bearings (120, 125, 130) such that a gap (175) is defined between the rotary cutters (109, 110, 111) and the base surface (116) of the journal (115) of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) extending therefrom. and The isolation lubrication system (200) includes: A reservoir (135) is provided in the body (105) to contain a fluid lubricant (140), the fluid lubricant (140) being isolated from communication with the outside of the body (105). A plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) in the body (105), the conduits being directly or indirectly connected to the reservoir (135) and connected relative to each other, such that the plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) facilitate lubrication between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111) and to the bearings (120, 125, 130) by means of at least one of gravity and centrifugal force acting on the fluid lubricant (140), and Sealing system (201), comprising: A sealing cap (165) is disposed in the reservoir (135) of the body (105) to isolate the reservoir (135) from communication with the outside of the body (105). The sealing cap (165) includes an orifice (166) and a retractable member (167) disposed in the orifice (166) for supplying fluid lubricant (140) into the reservoir (135). A seal (180) is disposed in the gap (175) between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111), and A stepped passage (185) extending from the seal (180) to the opening (190) in the gap (175); A suction conduit (805) is provided between the inlet (102) and the reservoir (135) to facilitate the suction of air from the reservoir (135), and after the air is suctioned, a plug (810) with a suction seal (815) is provided in the suction conduit (805) to isolate the reservoir (135) from the outside of the body (105).

2. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) include the reservoir (135), the sealing cap (165) disposed in the reservoir (135), and the plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155).

3. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of guide tubes (145, 150, 155) comprises: The first conduit (145) in the body (105) is in communication with the reservoir (135) such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the reservoir (135) occupies the first conduit (145) by gravity. The second conduit (150) in the body (105) communicates with the first conduit (145) such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the first conduit (145) occupies the second conduit (150) and lubricates at least one of the plurality of bearings (120, 125, 130). The third conduit (155) in the body (105) communicates with the second conduit (150) and extends to an outlet (160) disposed in the journal (115), such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the second conduit (150) occupies the third conduit (155), exits from the outlet (160), and lubricates the at least one bearing.

4. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the body (105) comprises three cutting arms of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108), each of the three cutting arms comprising the journal (115) extending therefrom, the reservoir (135), the sealing cap (165) disposed to the reservoir (135), and the plurality of separate conduits (145, 150, 155).

5. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the body (105) comprises three cutting arms of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108), a corresponding journal of the journal (115) extending from the cutting arms, the three cutting arms sharing the reservoir (135, 901), and each cutting arm comprising the plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) independently communicating directly or indirectly with the shared reservoir (135, 901).

6. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the stepped passage (185) is defined by a combination of a continuous lip (186) disposed in the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) and a continuous groove (188) disposed in the rotary cutter (109, 110, 111) in the gap (175), the continuous lip (186) being received in the continuous groove (188) in the gap (175).

7. The rotary drill bit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the rotation of the rotary drill bit (100) and the rotation of the rotary cutting tools (109, 110, 111) about the journal (115) results in a centrifugal force that guides the fluid lubricant (140) from the plurality of conduits (145, 150, 155) to the at least one bearing.

8. An isolation lubrication system (200) for a rotary drill bit (100), comprising: A body (105) having cutting arms (106, 107, 108) and rotating cutters (109, 110, 111) and an inlet (102), the cutting arms having journals (115) extending therefrom, the rotating cutters being mounted on the journals (115) by a plurality of bearings (120, 125, 130) such that a gap (175) is defined between the rotating cutters (109, 110, 111) and the base surface (116) of the journals (115) of the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) extending therefrom, wherein the body (105) defines: A reservoir (135) is provided in the body (105) to contain a fluid lubricant (140), the fluid lubricant (140) being isolated from communication with the outside of the body (105). The first conduit (145) in the body (105) is in communication with the reservoir (135) such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the reservoir (135) occupies the first conduit (145) by gravity. The second conduit (150) in the body (105) communicates with the first conduit (145) such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the first conduit (145) occupies the second conduit (150) and lubricates at least one of the plurality of bearings (120, 125, 130). The third conduit (155) in the body (105) communicates with the second conduit (150) and extends to an outlet (160) disposed in the journal (115), such that the fluid lubricant (140) from the second conduit (150) occupies the third conduit (155), exits from the outlet (160), and lubricates the at least one bearing; and Sealing system (201), comprising: A sealing cap (165) is disposed in the reservoir (135) within the body (105) to isolate the reservoir (135) from communication with the outside of the body (105); the sealing cap (165) includes an orifice (166) and a retractable member (167) disposed in the orifice (166) for supplying fluid lubricant (140) into the reservoir (135); A pin (170) is inserted into the second conduit (150) to hold the at least one bearing in place and to retain the fluid lubricant (140) in the second conduit (150). A seal (180) is disposed in the gap (175) between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111), and A stepped passage (185) extends from the seal (180) to an opening (190), the opening being disposed in the gap (175) between the cutting arms (106, 107, 108) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111); A suction conduit (805) is provided between the inlet (102) and the reservoir (135) to facilitate the suction of air from the reservoir (135), and after the air is suctioned, a plug (810) with a suction seal (815) is provided in the suction conduit (805) to isolate the reservoir (135) from the outside of the body (105).

9. A drilling rig, comprising: Power source; The feed unit is connected to the power source; and Drill bit (100), connected to the feed unit; wherein the drill bit (100) defines: Body (105), the body having an inlet (102), a journal (115) extending from the body, and rotating cutters (109, 110, 111) mounted on the journal (115), such that a gap (175) is defined between the rotating cutters (109, 110, 111) and the base surface (116) of the body (105) from which the journal (115) extends, and The isolation lubrication system (200) includes: A reservoir (135) is provided in the body (105) to contain a fluid lubricant (140), the fluid lubricant (140) being isolated from communication with the outside of the body (105). Multiple conduits (145, 150, 155), which are directly or indirectly connected to the reservoir (135) and communicate with each other to facilitate lubrication of multiple moving parts, areas, and couplings between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111), and Sealing system (201), comprising: A sealing cap (165) is disposed in the reservoir (135) of the body (105) to isolate the reservoir (135) from communication with the outside of the body (105), wherein the sealing cap (165) includes an orifice (166) and a retractable member (167) disposed in the orifice (166) for supplying fluid lubricant (140) into the reservoir (135); A seal (180) is disposed in the gap (175) between the journal (115) and the rotating cutter (109, 110, 111), and A stepped passage (185) extends from the seal (180) to an opening (190) disposed in the gap (175). A suction conduit (805) is provided between the inlet (102) and the reservoir (135) to facilitate the suction of air from the reservoir (135), and after the air is suctioned, a plug (810) with a suction seal (815) is provided in the suction conduit (805) to isolate the reservoir (135) from the outside of the body (105).

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