Rotary drag bits having a pilot cutter configuraton and method to pre-fracture subterranean formations therewith
US7896106B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 1, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 27, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B10/43
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A rotary drag bit exhibiting enhanced cutting efficiency and extended life is provided. The rotary drag bit comprises a bit body having a face surface, and a plurality of cutters coupled to the face surface of the bit body. The plurality of cutters comprises at least one pilot cutter and a rotationally trailing larger, primary cutter at substantially the same radius and, optionally of slightly less exposure. The pilot cutter is sized and positioned to pre-fracture the formation and perform an initial cut, while the primary cutter removes weakened, remaining formation material along the same rotational path. A method to pre-fracture subterranean formations using a rotary drag bit having a pilot cutter configuration is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.