Baker Hughes released its TerrAdapt adaptive drill bit, which the company says uses automation to mitigate downhole dysfunctions that cause inefficient drilling and tool failures.

The TerrAdapt bit uses self-adjusting depth-of-cut control elements, and automatically changes its aggressiveness based on the formation through which it is drilling to mitigate vibrations, stick-slip, and impact loading. The company says this results in faster, more consistent rates of penetration (ROP), longer bit/tool life, and reduced non-productive time and lost time.

When vibrations are detected, the TerrAdaptbit’s DOC control elements extend to prevent sudden changes in DOCBaker Hughes says most well intervals are drilled through a variety of formations containing layers of different rock types. However, current polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) drill bit designs feature a fixed DOC control setting that is optimized for a single rock type. A fixed-DOC bit will drill smoothly in some areas but will perform erratically and inefficiently in others, the company says, because of vibrations that occur when the bit transitions between different rock types, causing stick-slip.

During stick-slip events, the bit’s bite becomes too aggressive, causing it to “stick” and stop rotating, . Meanwhile, the drillpipe behind it continues to wind up like a spring until the bit releases, or “slips,” and begins spinning. These stick-slip events increase drilling costs by reducing ROP, and can damage the bit and other expensive mechanical and electrical bottom hole assembly components.

Baker Hughes says the TerrAdapt bit incorporates self-adjusting DOC elements that autonomously extend to create an optimal DOC based on the formation, preventing vibrations and stick-slip when the bit transitions between rock types or sections. When the risk of stick-slip has passed, the elements retract, enabling drilling to resume at a maximum ROP. The elements also absorb sudden shocks to the bit face, reducing damage to the bit’s cutters and other bottom hole hardware and electronics.

The company says that in the Delaware Basin, a TerrAdapt bit recently increased a customer’s ROP by 27% compared to the average ROP on offset wells drilled through the same interbedded formations. The bit reduced torque variations by 90%, indicating reduced stick-slip, and enabling the operator to drill 713 ft (217 m), or 27%, farther and use less energy than on the nearby wells drilled with traditional PDC bits.

This TerrAdapt bit is the first in a new line of adaptive bits that Baker Hughes is developing to help operators address various drilling dysfunctions, improve performance and reduce costs.

Baker Hughes is a supplier of oilfield services, products, technology, and systems to the oil and natural gas industry.