AFRICA
DBOS services and new Magnum rock bits are demonstrating Smith Tool's determination to lower drilling costs and speed production.

 

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Smith Tool sales engineer (r) Edward Iwere helps find cost-effective drilling solutions at a barge rig on a Niger River tributary in Delta state, Nigeria. Pictured with him is the operating company's drilling manager, Morgan Agbapvonwu.
 
DBOS Technology Proves Valuable In Raising Drilling Efficiency Smith Tool continued to grow during 1996, posting an 18 percent increase in revenues over the previous year. Among the services that proved valuable to customers was Smith's Drill Bit Optimization System, or DBOS services.

First developed in 1990 as an aid to diamond bit selection, the DBOS analysis evolved into a competent well-planning tool. Complex geology requires detailed well-planning, and DBOS helps drilling engineers choose roller cone bits, underreamers and hole openers. Smith has provided over 300 DBOS analyses to customers since 1995. In response to strong demand, we are expanding this services in 1997. To speed DBOS analyses in 1997, we will add several portable DBOS computing centers in key locations worldwide.

Bit programs are formulated after detailed analysis of complex information about the rock formations to be drilled. Specific bit designs and the construction of custom bits for the more difficult hole sessions improve the drilling process and reduce well cost. The DBOS analysis process consists of several steps.

  • Develop the planned well's rock type profile using information from our databases and the customers latest geologic information
  • Model the physical and mechanical characteristics of the rock formation to be drilled
  • Determine the optimal bit type and design for these formation
  • Use the DBOS software to recommend specific bit features

Around the world, operators are entering into drilling programs which involve greater well depths, deeper waters and more difficult drilling conditions. DBOS analysis services are important tools in providing our customers with efficient drilling solutions. Customers appreciate the value Smith engineers add to the critical drilling process.
 
New Magnum™ Bits Result in Higher Drilling Rates During 1996, Smith Tool Developed a new generation of rock bits - the Magnum™ line. In some applications the Magnum bits doubled customers' drilling rates. Faster drilling means fewer rig days, earlier well production and lower overall drilling cost.

Magnum bits are available in a wide variety of sizes and custom features, including those that offer improved gage protection, advanced long-life bearings, improved hydraulics and new aggressive cutting insert shapes. High flow jet tubes deliver vital cleaning power, and diamond chisels maintain penetration rates throughout the drilling section.

Magnum's diamond chisels put the best available materials to work at the toughest, most abrasive part of the hole - the bottom. Manufactured by MegaDiamond - SupraDiamant, the high-density diamond chisels give the penetration advantages of a "chisel" shape and four times the impact strength of conventional carbide teeth.

An added option, "Trucut™", gives bits more diamond and maintains the hole's diameter when drilling abrasive rocks. The combination of diamond and traditional tungsten carbide teeth provides wear and heat resistance while drilling.

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