Bits with 3D-printed armor increase erosion resistance | SLB

Bits equipped with 3D-printed armor provide superior erosion resistance in Marcellus Shale

Published: 02/23/2023

Concrete blue texture
Compared with a conventional bit run on the same rig, a PDC bit with Aegis armor achieved 10% higher average ROP.
Compared with a conventional bit run on the same rig, a PDC bit with Aegis armor achieved 10% higher average ROP.
Location
United States, North America, Onshore
Details

Lithology
Shale

Bit diameter
12 1/4 in

Background

An operator wanted to improve steel bit design to increase erosion resistance, maximize the number of runs per bit body, and finish with a rerunnable or refurbishable dull condition in Marcellus shale, sandstone, and siltstone. Using a 12 1/4-in PDC bit with Aegis™ 3D-printed armor, the operator reached TD in test runs on four pads and achieved 10% higher average ROP compared with conventional bits on the same rig.

Products Used