Individualized Design and Field Application of Annular-Groove Polycrystalline Diamond Composite Bit

Abstract

Aiming at the problems of slow drilling speed, low service life, and poor stability of conventional polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits in deep formations that are difficult to drill, a new annular-grooved PDC bit is proposed. The bit adopts discontinuous tooth arrangement to set cutters, and a circumferential annular groove around the center of the bit is set on the bit body to form a fragile convex annular ridge at the bottom of the well, improving the bit’s ability to invade the formation and its rock-breaking efficiency. Combined with the formation characteristics of Shapai 11 well and Shixi 102 well in Xinjiang Oil Field, the PDC bit crown shape, annular-groove design, cutter selection, and other aspects are designed individually, and the dynamic rock-breaking and hydraulic characteristics of the annular-groove PDC bit are simulated and analyzed. Finally, two PDC bits with different diameters are developed—a Φ215.9-mm annular-groove PDC bit and the field application bit. The field application bit results show that compared with the bit in the same layer of adjacent wells, the mechanical penetration rate of the annular-groove PDC bit is increased by 29.8–176.7%, and the footage is increased by 142.5–273.1%. It is concluded that the annular-groove PDC bit can significantly reduce the rock-breaking energy consumption of the bit and improve the mechanical rate of penetration (ROP) of the bit. At the same time, the raised annular ridge can reduce the lateral vibration of the bit and extend the service life of the bit, which will accelerate the exploration and development of deep difficult-to-drill formations. It is of positive significance to reduce drilling costs.