PDC non-planar face cutter

Throughout the history of oilfield drilling, workers have tried to improve drill bit mechanical efficiency. Various cutting theories, designs, and materials have been implemented to increase the Rate of Penetration (ROP), wear-resistance, and overall bit life. Traditional polycrystalline diamond cutter (PDC) technology has made tremendous gains over the past decade with corresponding footage and rate of penetration (ROP) improvements in drilling performance. The remaining challenge is managing complicated formations with competent stringers while maintaining drilling efficiency and the highest ROP potential.

The low rock-breaking efficiency of conventional polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits in hard abrasive formations prompts the development of PDC cutting elements from the planar to the non-planar structure. By modifying the standard planar PDC cutter face geometry with novel shallow recessed features, a demonstrated improvement in drilling efficiency was observed in these applications and an increase in attained footage. Through analyzing the effects of back-rake angle, cutting depth, rotational angle, and rock properties on rock breaking efficiency, we find that the non-planar cutter breaks rock mainly by crushing and shearing and has higher efficiency than the conventional PDC cutter. When a PDC bit with convex ridge PDC cutters is drilled into the gravel layer, the gravel no longer impacts the diamond composite plane directly but makes linear contact with the convex ridge. The ridges of the PDC cutters first contact with the formation and squeeze the gravel, resulting in stress concentration in the gravel surface layer, making it more prone to initial cracks and fracture. The field application shows that the PDC non-planar cutter is easier to penetrate the formation than the conventional cutter and is more stable with less torque required.

At ZZBETTER, we can offer both planar cutter and non-planar PDC cutters, while the non planar cutters with much better impact resistance, higher wear resistance and stability. As our customers said: the PDC planar cutters are brilliant, very easy to use. 

If you are interested in tungsten carbide products and want more information and details, you can CONTACT US by phone or mail at the left, or SEND US MAIL at the bottom of the page.