Laboratory Experiments Qualify Bit Influence on High-Frequency Torsional Oscillations

This paper discusses a full-scale drilling test rig that allows comprehensive study of the influences of bit characteristics on high-frequency torsional oscillations (HFTO) for the first time.

December 1, 2023

Journal of Petroleum Technology

Fig. 1—Locations of accelerometer measurement points. Left: free-end bit; right: fixed-end drive.

High-frequency torsional oscillations (HFTOs) generate dynamic loads that can damage drilling tools, resulting in cracks, twistoffs, or broken electronics. Recently, a full-scale drilling test rig was proven to generate verified HFTO behavior under laboratory conditions. This rig allows for a comprehensive study of the influences of bit characteristics on HFTO. The complete paper presents methods to qualify bit features to suppress HFTO.

Laboratory Rig Setup

Test-Rig Design. The full-scale laboratory test rig drills rocks in a pressurized rock chamber.

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