Varel's Cutter Selection 

Complementing bit selection by selecting a cutter with the right properties can be as challenging as selecting the right drill bit. Varel engineers have overcome the complexity of this task by developing functions within the drill bit design software that incorporate cutter properties to simulate a bit's overall performance.

Varel continues to push the limits of fixed cutter technology through its aggressive approach to innovative platforms that allow the delivery of cutting edge products and performance you need for all of your drilling challenges. Getting the job done, doing it well and delivering the best products are at the core of our values.

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Varel International's Thor^TM class cutters are engineered to be more impact resistant than standard cutters to address the challenges specific to hard rock applications and interbedded formations.

Thor class cutters are manufactured to withstand the effects of these downhole vibrations. With maximum diamond particle size distribution and optimal sintering, Thor cutters have increased toughness while maintaining thermal mechanical abrasion resistance. Before a cutter can enter the Thor classification, it undergoes a battery of tests and evaluation techniques. Central to qualifying for the Thor classification is a high score in Varel's patent pending Acoustic Emissions Toughness Test (AETT). AETT measures the underlying strength of the polycrystalline diamond and, ultimately, its resistance to breakage. With Thor cutters, the foundation of the cutting structure is protected, leading to increased ROP and extended drill bit life.

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Varel International is committed to providing our customers with the highest quality and longest lasting cutting elements available. Highly resistant to abrasion and the heat of drilling, Varel's Vulcan^TM class cutters are applied in the hardest and most abrasive drilling applications.

Varel applies Vulcan class cutters when a high level of thermomechanical abrasion is anticipated. Highly abrasive formations generate elevated friction and heat during drilling, and industry standard cutters can crack and wear under these conditions.

Before a cutter is qualified for Vulcan classification, it is subjected to Varel's rigorous cutter testing methodology. Key to entering the Vulcan class is a high score in Varel's thermal abrasion test, the Bimodal  Abrasive Rock Test (BART). BART is a laboratory abrasion resistance test that employs two drastically different rock samples. The two rock samples create a load/unload cycle to simulate interbedded formations and formation transitions. By recreating this environment, BART provides a more suitable measurement of abrasion resistance correlating to field performance.

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Cutting Structures

"P" POWERCUTTERS

Varel's high-density "Powercutter" arrangement gives enhanced bit life through a variety of rock types without sacrificing ROP. The new Powercutter cutting structure provides extra exposure and cutter density on the critical shoulder area of the bit. Bits can now achieve maximum rates of penetration through one rock formation and then continue to penetrate harder sand or limestone beds without excessive wear or damage e.g. interbedded formations.

"U" UP DRILL / BACK REAM

When directional drilling hole wall sloughing, keyseating, or sever dog legs can occur requiring action. The updrill feature allows hole wall cleaning as you ream the well bore eliminating problems.

"W" CROWN TSP

Thermally Stable Polycrystalline diamond material is beneficially placed behind PDC cutters to improve bit stability with a grooving effect. A unique wear pattern is created increasing PDC cutter indentation as the cutter wears down.

"X" SHOCK STUDS

Shock Studs limit drill bit vibration and increase stability. When drilling conditions cause a vibration, Shock Studs make contact with the formation to help restore the bit's normal smooth cutting action. Smooth cutting action increases cutter life and overall bit performance.

Gage Features

"T" TURBINE SLEEVE

Turbine sleeves can be customized to specific lengths and diameters to match each individual requirement. Sleeves are designed so the junk slots match the bit junk slots eliminating intersections, making the design hydraulically efficient. Gage protection on the sleeve can also be matched to the customer's need.

"G" PREMIUM GAGE

Premium gage protection is designed to insure that correct hole diameter is maintained. A variety of gage configurations exists. The premium gage consists of Thermally Stable Polycrystalline diamond rounds, Tungsten Carbide brick and PDC (Polycrystalline Diamond Compact) cutters. The number of pre-flat PDC cutters in the gage is the only option with this feature. 

Hydraulics Options

"H" NOZZLE PATTERN

With the "H" feature, a bit will have more than one nozzle per blade. The number of nozzles will be determined by the application or bit design. Typical nozzle pattern is one nozzle per blade.

"N" NOZZLE PATTERN

With the "N" feature, a bit will have less than one nozzle per blade. The number of nozzles will be determined by the application or bit design. Typical nozzle pattern is one nozzle per blade.

Other Features

"S" STEEL BODY

Steel body drill bit designs are typically used in applications where open-faced hydraulics and aggressive cutting structures are required. They can provide for faster penetrating bits than conventional matrix designs.

"B" BOX CONNECTION

Box connections are most commonly used in conjunction with a turbine sleeve so that crossover subs are not required when connecting to turbines, RSS and other downhole tools.