Ridged diamond element bit reduced torque, improved ROP
After successfully using an AxeBlade bit in the 12 1/4-in section and
simulating drilling performance with the IDEAS integrated dynamic design and
analysis platform, Smith Bits, a Schlumberger company, recommended using the
AxeBlade bit to optimize ROP in the 16-in section. The AxeBlade bit features a
unique ridge-shaped cutting element with a thicker diamond table. This geometry
enables more efficient cutting with less overall torque, higher instantaneous
ROP, and longer bit life than conventional PDC cutters.
Operator increases ROP 14%, saving 21 h and USD 50,000
The first 866 ft [263 m] of the 16-in section were drilled at an ROP of
35.5 ft/h [10.67 m/h]—the highest ROP ever achieved in this section. Gas
influx required the operator to drill the remaining 1,385 ft [422 m] at a
controlled ROP of 15 ft/h [4.6 m/h]. Despite this, the AxeBlade bit drilled the
entire section in one run at an average ROP of 18.8 ft/h [5.73
m/h]—increasing ROP by 14% compared with an offset well drilled using a
conventional PDC bit. A total of 21 h of on-bottom drilling time was saved,
reducing costs by USD 50,000.
