Multi-layer encapsulation of diamond grit for use in earth-boring bits

US7810588B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Baker Hughes Holdings LLC · US

Inventors

• Eric E. McClain · Spring, US
• Dan E. Scott · Conroe, US
• Wesley Dean Fuller · Willis, US
• Robert M. Welch · Diemelstraße, US
• Jimmy W. Eason · Diemelstraße, US
• Marcus Skeem · Provo, US
• Van Jordan Brackin · Conroe, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 23, 2007
• Grant date: Oct 12, 2010
• Expiry date: Feb 6, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B22F2998/00
• WIPO field: Materials, metallurgy
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A method of constructing an earth-boring, diamond-impregnated drill bit has a first step of coating diamond grit with tungsten to create tungsten-coated diamond particles. These coated particles are then encapsulated in a layer of carbide powder held by an organic green binder material. The encapsulated granules are then mixed along with a matrix material and placed in a mold. The matrix material includes a matrix binder and abrasive particles. The mixture is heated in the mold at atmospheric pressure to cause the matrix binder to melt and infiltrate the encapsulated granules and abrasive particles.