Varel International Introduces A-Force Roller Cone Bits for Underbalanced Applications
(DALLAS - 12 February 2009) - Varel International announces the launch of the A-Force roller cone bit series, a line built specifically for underbalanced applications including air, foam, and mist.
A-Force bits bring together new roller cone technology and improved materials resulting in a drill bit with increased speed, longevity and steerability. Chris Byrd, Vice President - Roller Cone Business Unit, said the A-Force series technology grew out of Varel's roller cone research and development efforts.
"Varel has built a solid foundation in roller cone technology and now we are able to exploit the benefits of our developments. The A-Force series includes patent-pending innovations which assist in the reduction of heat and wear in internal roller cone bit components. This, in turn, leads to longer bit life, improved drilling economics and an enhanced drilling program for operators," Byrd said.
The technology in the series works to improve the longevity of the seal and the bearing system and to extend the life of the drill bit.
Bearing Seal - A-Force bits include a heat shield disc deployed between the seal and the inner bearing. This shield acts as a thermal insulator, protecting the seal from excessive thermal energy, lowering the operating temperature for the seal and extending seal life.
The bits are also equipped with a conical seal gland which positions the seal in such a way that it can better handle pressure fluctuations and still maintain a preferred sealing location and interface. This is especially important with the high internal bearing pressures that can be experienced in air, foam, and mist drilling.
Higher Load Capacity Journal Bearing - The series incorporates a more robust and more tightly toleranced journal bearing capable of supporting increased levels of weight on bit. This translates directly into longer, more reliable bit runs.
A-Force series drill bits include additional material improvements:
A new grease formulation which is stable at increased operating temperatures. This grease reduces internal bearing heat generation allowing the bearings to remain cooler.
A more wear resistant hardmetal inlay, shown to provide a 54 percent reduction in wear, was incorporated onto the journal surface of the A-Force series. This hardmetal works to prevent wear to the journal surface extending the effective life of the bearing.
The series also uses redesigned head forgings which provide for increased leg strength, reduced bit length and improved steerability.
A-Force bits incorporate Varel's patented High Energy Tumbled (HET) processed carbide inserts and are equipped with both cutting structure designs and carbide grades specific to underbalanced applications.
A-Force bit are available in diameters ranging from 6-1/8" - 12-1/4".
About Varel International
Founded in 1947, Varel International is the world's largest independent supplier and the fifth largest company operating 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/.
###
