Varel International Delivers World's Largest Roller Cone Drill Bit

(CARROLLTON, Texas- 21 December 2010) - Varel International, the leading independent manufacturer of drill bits and global supplier to the drilling industry, recently completed a massive 44" steel-toothed roller cone bit for the oil and gas industry. The bit, which weighs in at more than 6,000 pounds and is more than 22 percent larger in diameter than any previous roller cone bit, was requested specifically by Saudi Aramco, an integrated global petroleum company in the Middle East.  

This bit features an advanced cutting structure with optimized row placement, tooth spacing and cutter geometry for increased drilling efficiency. These attributes also work to minimize tooth wear and prevent cutter tracking in a wide variety of formations and conditions.

David Harrington, vice president of Varel's roller cone technology group, explained how the ultra-large diameter bit will work to create efficiencies in current field operations by offering a single bit solution to top-hole drilling which previously involved drilling a pilot hole and then re-drilling with a hole opening assembly.

"Drilling with this large diameter bit in the top-hole section is a more efficient solution. The bit saves the operator time and money through a reduction of tripping to change bits and the need for hole enlargement tools," said Harrington. He concluded, "The inaugural run of this innovative product is scheduled for the first quarter of 2011."

For more information on Varel's industry leading line of roller cone products, please contact your Varel representative.

About Varel International

Founded in 1947, Varel International is the world's largest independent supplier in the global oil & gas drill bit market. Headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, Varel services oil & gas, mining, and industrial markets with its comprehensive suite of roller cone and fixed cutter drill bits. The company employs more than 1,000 people and has manufacturing facilities in Carrollton, Texas; Houston, Texas; Matamoros, Mexico and Tarbes, France, as well as sales offices throughout the world. Varel's proprietary design capabilities, efficient manufacturing, and global sales force uniquely positions the company to provide high-quality drill bits that deliver excellent performance and value to its customer base. For more information, visit http://www.varelintl.com/.

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