Varel International Announces Launch of CompassTM Series Roller Cone Bits
(CARROLLTON, Texas- 27 October 2009) - Varel International announces the commercial launch ofCompassTM Series roller cone drill bits for slimhole applications. The tungsten carbide insert bits are available in sizes ranging from 3-3/4" to 7-3/8".
Compass Series bits are targeted for applications such as reduced size casing programs, horizontal drilling, re-entries, multi-laterals and coiled tubing drilling which all require steerability, reliability and maximized rates of penetration. This series has been system engineered to perform well at low weight on bit, run longer hours and to withstand high RPMs typical of motor applications.
Through the incorporation of an advanced cutting structure design and the inclusion of the highly successful High EnergyTM technology suite, drill bit designers optimized the series for slimhole applications. Benefits of the design include enhanced steerability, a lower cost per foot average and reduced bit trips due to improved rates of penetration (ROP) and distance drilled.
Field tests have shown an above average ROP improvement in multiple applications. The responsiveness and durability of the bits have minimized costs associated with additional drill bit runs and tripping in areas where they have been tested.
In one slimhole application for a major operator in Western Canada, a 158.8mm Compass bit was
challenged to increase meters drilled while maintaining an acceptable ROP. This application requires the bit to pass through increasingly hard formations including the abrasive, sharp sands of the Cadomin/Nikanassin formations. Varel supplied the operator with the Compass CM44DMRS bit which successfully drilled 180 meters to a total depth of 1985m. This performance netted a 19.4 percent improvement in meters drilled when compared to the closest competitor offset. Using this same competitor offset, a 31 percent improvement in ROP was realized.
Features of the line include:
Advanced Cutting Structure and Gage Design - Cutting structures are designed for speed and steering responsiveness with advanced shirttail protection for longer life in directional applications.
Patent Pending Heat Shield - The heat shield ring is deployed between the seal and inner bearing and acts as a thermal insulator to the seal from heat generated in the bearing.
Patent Pending Conical Seal Gland - The newly designed seal gland is constructed to resist cuttings packing into the seal area. Its unique geometry provides significant benefits during high angle drilling.
Improved Bearing Grease - Compass bits have incorporated a high temperature, high lubricity bearing grease assisting in the reduced generation of internal bearing heat allowing bearings to last longer.
High Capacity Reservoir - A new reservoir provides a 13 percent volume increase over previous designs and is configured to be "self-draining."
Advanced Bearing Metallurgy - The inclusion of advanced bearing metallurgy increases the durability and reliability of the products: silver plated bushings in 5-5/8" to 7-3/8" sizes and high cobalt hardfacing in 3-3/4" to 5-1/2" sizes.
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 www.varelintl.com.
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