The Rock Mechanics and Explosives Research Center (RMERC) at the Missouri University of Science and Technologyhas teamed with Novatek, of Provo, Utah to evaluate the technical feasibility and potential economic benefits of a new type of drill bit. This evaluation is part of a series of research projects funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Geothermal Division.

The new drill bit transmits both rotary and percussive drilling forces to the rock face, improves the cutting action using low friction highly polished polycrystalline diamond inserts, and augments the cutting action with high-pressure mud jets. Both the percussive drilling forces and the mud jets are generated down-hole by a mud-actuated hammer.

While Novatek focuses on the design and construction parameters for the bit, the RMERC is conducting research in the following areas:

• quantifying the reduced penetration forces in rock cutting by lowering the coefficient of friction
• improving the understanding of the rock failure process under domed percussion cutters
• optimizing cutter shape, orientation, indexing between percussive blows, and drilling parameters to increase drilling rates while lowering bit wear, and
• optimizing high-pressure mud jet distribution on the bit face to enhance removal of fractured and crushed rock, to cool the bit face, and to assist in rock fracturing by working in tandem with percussive and rotary forces.

Some of the equipment used in the RMERC ’s research is pictured below. Click on the thumbnails for more detailed images.