Consistent drillbit performance needed

Working in the northeastern US, an operator planned major projects in southwestern Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. The projects were expected to have 100 wells over 684,000 acres. For two CBM wells in southwestern Pennsylvania, this operator needed consistent drillbit performance to improve slimhole drilling efficiency.

Slimhole TCI bit applied

The 4 3/4-in Xplorer slimhole TCI drill bit was chosen for this slim CBM application. Xplorer TCI bits have ultrashort leg forgings that improve steerability at extreme build angles and maximize chassis strength in the face of challenging hydraulic demands. To handle the high rotation speeds associated with slimhole drilling, Xplorer rock bits use the Bullet dual-material seal system, which reduces seal wear while limiting temperature buildup. These bits also have individual cutter layouts specifically developed for slim holes that reduce cone shell wear and insert loss.

Drilling performance optimized

Using 4 3/4-in Xplorer slimhole TCI drill bits for these two CBM wells, the operator experienced optimal drillbit consistency and high drilling performance. A total of 15,172 ft was drilled, breaking the world record for cumulative footage drilled.