Field Operating Guidelines

Version 1.33 – 03/2003

ALL GUIDELINES ARE GENERAL IN NATURE

AND ARE APPLICATION AND SITUATIONAL DEPENDENT.

Changes to version 1.33

Make-up torque tables for both product lines updated.

Contributors
Mike Azar
Richard Hill

Author & Editor

Kerry Koffler
Phone 281-233-5921

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
BIT PREPARATION ....................................................................................................................................................3

TRIPPING IN THE HOLE............................................................................................................................................5

TAGGING BOTTOM ...................................................................................................................................................5

DRILLING CEMENT PLUGS, FLOAT EQUIPMENT AND CASING SHOES........................................................6

ESTABLISHMENT OF BOTTOM-HOLE PATTERN................................................................................................7

REAMING ....................................................................................................................................................................8

PARAMETER EVALUATION ....................................................................................................................................8

DRILL-OFF TESTS ......................................................................................................................................................9

MAKING A CONNECTION ......................................................................................................................................11

RUNNING THE BIT...................................................................................................................................................12

PULLING THE BIT AND BIT STORAGE................................................................................................................14

FORMATION CHARACTERISTICS - DRILLING ..................................................................................................15

SYMPTOMS ...............................................................................................................................................................16

DIAGNOSTICS – SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES ..................................................................................................18

EQUATIONS ..............................................................................................................................................................22

DRILL-OFF TEST DATA ..........................................................................................................................................23

MONITORING BIT RUN...........................................................................................................................................24

RING GAGE SPECIFICATIONS...............................................................................................................................25

PUMP OFF FORCE - HYDRAULIC LIFT ................................................................................................................27

DRILL-OFF TEST VARIATIONS .............................................................................................................................28

TOTAL FLOW AREA................................................................................................................................................30

RECOMMENDED BIT SIZE vs CASING SIZE .......................................................................................................31

MAXIMUM CONE DIMENSIONS ...........................................................................................................................33

DUPLEX PUMP DISPLACEMENT ..........................................................................................................................34

TRIPLEX PUMP DISPLACEMENT..........................................................................................................................35

STANDARD MEASUREMENT UNITS ...................................................................................................................37

REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................................38

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

BIT PREPARATION
Before running / arriving at rig site
• Reach agreement regarding the performance objectives of the bit and the specific operating
parameters (flow rate, pump pressure, WOB, RPM, deviation control, surveys, TFA, jetting
configuration, etc.)
• Ensure bit connection matches the BHA connection to be used
• Ensure that all the necessary correct equipment is available. Verify proper bit breaker, nozzles,
nozzle wrenches, drill pipe screens, float, grasshoppers, etc., are / will be available.
• Calculate hydraulics under different scenarios, different flow rates, and plugged nozzles.
• Inspect the previous bit and geolograph for any potential problems. Discuss with customer,
problems with tight spots, junk in the hole, reaming, corrosion, etc.
• Make junk run or run a roller cone bit if necessary.
• Review BHA – local practice dictates stabilization, review gage specs on BHA, etc.
• Ensure that all cementing equipment to be drilled by a PDC bit, is PDC drillable.

Bit Handling at rig site

• Bit cutting elements with diamond both fixed cutter and roller cone bits, are brittle and
susceptible to impact damage. Care should be taken when handling or removing any bit
containing diamond-cutting elements.
• Do not drop the bit even if it is in the container.
• Do not attempt to lift medium to large size bits. Matrix bodied fixed cutter bits are considerably
heavier than steel.
• Bits placed on their pin are top heavy. Keep feet away from bit when attempting to handle it.
• Use a piece of wood or rubber under the bit face.

Bit Inspection
• Inspect bit for integrity (cutting elements, pin connection and make-up shoulder).
• Ensure there are no foreign objects or obstructions in the internal fluid passageways.
• Do not use a PDC gauge ring on a 3-cone bit or vice-versa. Gage the bit and verify type of ring
gauge used, as tolerances are dependent upon the bit type – fixed cutter or roller cone. See gage
specifications in appendix. Ensure gage conforms to customers’ casing program.
• Verify TFA on bits with fixed TFA.
• Record bit size, type and serial number.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

BIT PREPARATION (CONT)

Nozzle Installation
• Ensure that nozzle series are correct for bit type (i.e. 55, 60, etc.).
• Gauge the orifice size of every nozzle to ensure proper total fluid area (TFA).
• Remove the plastic plug and ensure that O-rings are properly installed and seated.
• If different size nozzles are to be used ensure that the correct sized nozzles are in the correct
place, e.g. 12¼” M50P with 3x13 and 3x12, put 3x13 in the center.
• Ensure that the threads are clean and greased (any petroleum-based grease). Fixed cutter bits
with matrix threads should not be greased.
• Grease the nozzle body below the threads to prevent O-ring damage.
• Screw the nozzle in by hand until snug.
• Use nozzle wrench for final tightening. Excessive force is not necessary and can damage the
carbide nozzle.
• If nozzle sizes below 9/32 are to be used, recommend the use of drill pipe screens and / or a float
to prevent reverse circulation plugging. Use grasshoppers if necessary

Make-Up

• Ensure that the appropriate bit breaker is with the bit. Inspect to insure good condition and that it
fits properly.
• Ensure that the rotary is covered to prevent anything from falling into the hole.
• Remove the bit from the box and place face down on a piece of wood or rubber.
• Engage the bit breaker with the bit and move them onto the rotary table.
• A float above the bit should be installed, especially on extended nozzle roller cone bits, in areas
that tend to plug.
• Engage the hanging box connection to the doped threads of the bit pin.
• Proper make-up for small diameter bits is to make-up by hand for several turns, then place in the
bit breaker and make-up to the recommended torque.
• Uncover the rotary and locate the bit and breaker onto the breaker holder.
• Make-up applying the recommended torque.
• Make-up torque specifications are from API spec RP7G.

Roller Cone Bits

• Keep BHA as vertical as possible when making up bit to ensure no damaging contact between the
nozzles (full-extended or mini’s) and the bit breaker occurs.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

TRIPPING IN THE HOLE

• Identify potential problem areas before tripping. Trip slowly through BOP, doglegs, tight spots,
ledges, casing shoes, cementing equipment, etc. Wash and or ream as necessary. Severe problems
may require a special ‘cleanup’ run.

• Roller cone bit legs will yield slightly and the bit can be rotated slightly in order to pass through some
tight spots. Fixed cutter bits do not yield. Bits with PDC cutting elements are susceptible to impact
damage. PDC bits are more susceptible to damage during tripping in the hole than roller cone bits.

• Certain types of fixed cutter bits with low junk slot area can create higher surge and swab pressures
than roller cone bits due to more restrictive annular space.

• Local knowledge/practice will typically dictate wash down and reaming procedures. Minimum
recommendation is to wash down at least the last joint to bottom at reaming speed with full
circulation. Preference is to ream the last stand / 90 feet at reaming speed with full circulation.

• Run screens if necessary. Place screens below kelly- don’t forget to move them on each connection!

TAGGING BOTTOM

• Approach the hole bottom cautiously, monitoring WOB and torque. An increase in WOB or torque
will indicate either contact with the hole bottom or fill. Fixed cutter bits will typically show an
increase in torque first. Bit is on bottom when torque increases with the WOB. Difference between
measured depth and contact point should be depth of fill.

• If fill is present, pick up above the fill and rotate to bottom with full circulation until bottom hole
contact is assured. Regardless if fill is present, the pipe should always be reciprocated off-bottom.

• On rotary assemblies, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter, 40 to 60 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter and the minimum
allowable RPM.
• Do not use high WOB when in fill. This could cause the bit to ball.

• Circulate and rotate off-bottom (as close as possible preferably less than 6 in., no more than 1 foot)
enough (5 to 15 minutes, application dependent, recommend 15 min. as minimum) to ensure the hole
bottom is clear of fill or junk.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DRILLING CEMENT PLUGS, FLOAT EQUIPMENT AND CASING SHOES

• When using fixed cutter bits to drill out, ensure that all cementing equipment (plugs, float collars and
shoes) is PDC drillable (non-metallic, rubber, nylon, plastic or cement).
• Recommend the use of non-rotating plugs. Alternatively, it is preferable when cementing to pump
some cement on top of the plug to help prevent it from rotating during drill out.
• Using the maximum allowable flow rate to assist cleaning is preferred, but may not be possible with
motor assemblies.

Procedure
• Frequently raising and lowering the bit while continuing circulation and rotation will help keep the bit
clear of debris. Flushing after every 1 to 2 in. drilled while reciprocating 3 to 4 feet will ensure debris
is removed and new material is being drilled. Should the penetration rate decrease suddenly, repeat
this step until it resumes.
• Do not spud. Spudding (impacting on the hole-bottom) can damage cutting structure elements on
both fixed cutter and roller cone bits. It can also damage the roller cone bearing / seal system.
• Monitor pump pressure to ensure nozzles do not become plugged.
• Change RPM if bouncing or erratic torque is encountered.

Fixed Cutter Bits

• On rotary, use the maximum flow rate with less than 6000 lbs. WOB and 60-100 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, drill with less than 6000 lbs. WOB and the minimum allowable rotary RPM.
Local practice will dictate flow rate as a compromise is needed between providing adequate cleaning
and minimum RPM.
• Maintain low and consistent torque.

Roller Cone Bits

• On rotary, drill with 2000 to 3000 lbs. per inch of bit diameter and 40 to 60 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, drill with 2000 to 3000 lbs. per inch of bit diameter and the minimum
allowable rotary RPM. Local practice will dictate flow rate as a compromise is needed between
providing adequate cleaning and minimum RPM.
• Bouncing or erratic torque may indicate locked cones. Temporarily increase the weight to ensure cone
rotation, then reciprocate the bit slightly off-bottom while continuing circulation and rotation to help
clean the bit. Resume with original parameters when the bouncing or erratic torque has been
eliminated.
• Maintain minimum WOB / torque to prevent wiper plugs from rotating. Erratic torque may indicate a
rotating plug.

Rotating Plugs

• Should a plug begin to rotate, set down on plug with no RPM

• Increase WOB until 2000 to 3000 lbs. per inch of bit diameter is reached or alternatively an
increase of 300 psi over the normal standpipe occurs.
• Then begin rotation, ending with 40 to 60 RPM.
• Repeat until penetration is achieved and wiper plug is drilled.

Alternative procedure (last resort)

• Rotate bit at 20-40 rpm
• Use 500 pounds / inch of bit diameter
• Alternate using no flow rate for 1 minute to full flow for 30 seconds.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

ESTABLISHMENT OF BOTTOM-HOLE PATTERN

Bottom hole pattern break-in is considered to be when a new bit achieves uniform cutting structure
loading. Proper break-in is critical to durability and ROP.

• After drilling out the casing shoe, establish the bottom hole pattern. There may be some BHA
dictated WOB and RPM guidelines until the BHA is below the casing shoe. Optimization of WOB
and RPM may have to wait until the BHA or some portion of the BHA has cleared the casing shoe.
• Use extra care establishing a new bottom hole pattern when following a bit with a substantially
different bottom hole profile, e.g., a PDC bit following a roller cone bit or vice-versa.
• Roller cone bits typically drill a larger size hole than a fixed cutter bit. Be sure to properly establish
the bottom-hole pattern when following a roller cone bit in order to insure stability.
• Establishment of bottom-hole pattern can be dependent upon factors such as bit design, BHA, etc.

Roller Cone Bits

• Break-in is done with light WOB and slow RPM and a new bottom hole pattern is normally achieved
within 3 to 6 inches (assuming no tracking or off-center rotation).
• On rotary, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter with 40 to 60 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter and the minimum
allowable RPM – keep rotary rpm to a minimum 20 – 30 rpm. Minimum allowable motor RPM can
be formation dependent.
• Soft, balling formations should be entered with full flow rate. At that point, WOB and RPM can be
gradually increased to typically operating levels or to initial drill-off test levels. Increase WOB first
then RPM.

Fixed Cutter Bits

• Although a new bottom hole pattern is created in less than a bit diameter, it is preferred to drill 3 to 5
feet before increasing WOB and RPM.
• For starting parameters, use maximum flow rate, less than 6000 lbs. WOB and 60-100 RPM.
• Maintain low and consistent torque changing operating parameters as needed. See “DIAGNOSTICS
– SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES” for optimization of torque.
• Take extreme care following a coring operation or bits of different types or profiles. A different
existing profile can overload specific cutting elements potentially causing a premature failure.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

REAMING
• Ream using very light WOB and low RPM.
• Use the maximum allowable flow rate.
• Use lower RPM when reaming harder or more abrasive formations.
• Consider reducing bit size to avoid reaming cored/undergage sections on the last bit run, e.g. 8 3/8”
below 8½ or 5 7/8” below 6”.
Roller Cone Bit
• Local knowledge dictates reaming practices
• On rotary assemblies, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter, 40 to 60 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, use a maximum of 500 pounds per inch of bit diameter and the minimum
allowable RPM but with maximum flow rate. Local practice will dictate flow rate as a
compromise is needed between providing adequate cleaning and minimum RPM.
• In an undergage hole, the legs on a gage bit flex to a ‘pinched’ condition. Reaming an undergage
hole slowly ensures that the bit has opportunity to ream to gage.
• Monitor torque when reaming long abrasive sections. Torque will generally only increase should
gage rounding / breakage be severe enough that bit legs or BHA components are contacting /
cutting gage.
• A hole in a slightly undergage condition requires a lesser amount of WOB than a hole in a greater
undergage condition. For example, a hole 1/16” undergage requires less WOB in order not to
damage the bit than a hole ½” undergage
Fixed Cutter Bit
• On rotary assemblies, use 1000 – 5000 pounds, 40 to 60 RPM.
• On motor assemblies, use 1000 – 5000 pounds, minimum rotary 20 to 30 RPM, maximum flow.
Local practice will dictate flow rate as a compromise is needed between providing adequate
cleaning and minimum RPM.
• Monitor torque when reaming long abrasive sections. Torque will generally only increase should
gage wear / breakage be severe enough that the gage pads or BHA components are contacting /
cutting gage.

PARAMETER EVALUATION
Hook Load / Off Bottom Drill String Weight
• Before initiating any drilling, measure and record the hook load off-bottom, rotating with pumps
on. Vary rpm within anticipated range to ensure hook load is consistent. Should it vary, adjust
your WOB values accordingly. In high ROP applications, off-bottom string weight should be
measured with the string rotating and in a downward motion at the expected drilling rate.
Pump Pressure
• Measure and record actual pump pressure, off-bottom and on-bottom, to the calculated values.
Investigate and / or adjust accordingly.
• Note that with down hole motors, off-bottom pressure includes motor differential pressure plus
pressure required to provide the torque necessary to rotate the bit with a side load (i.e., bent
sub/housing). To determine true off-bottom pressure (motor differential), do not use rotary to
prevent side loading.
Torque
• Measure and record on-bottom and off-bottom torque. On-bottom torque will be from the bit’s
cutting structure and the drill string. Off-bottom torque is due to the drill string.

Pump Off Force - Hydraulic Lift

• The true WOB may be less than the measured weight by the amount of hydraulic lift (pump-off
force) acting beneath any type of bit that develops pressure drop due to fluid flowing between the
bit face and the rock. See appendix for methodology.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DRILL-OFF TESTS

• Drill-off tests are methods for determining the optimum combination of WOB and RPM that yield the
highest ROP (within other constraints).
• Drill-off tests should be run when:
Formation change
ROP change
Torque change
Personnel change
Changes in other operational parameters (hydraulics, mud properties, etc.)

• Optimization of WOB and RPM may have to wait until the BHA or some portion of the BHA has
cleared the casing shoe and or rat hole. Evaluate other factors to ensure optimization (or when) can
take place.

• Optimum WOB and RPM determined are for a particular application and can only be continuously
used in a homogeneous formation. Therefore in intervals of various formations, ROP optimization
tests will not produce the optimum weight and rotary combination. Drill off tests will be necessary
anytime the formation changes. Typically a range of WOB and RPM combinations is derived for the
interval, e.g., interbedded formations.

• Starting RPM values ⇒ this typically comes from offset information or the lower end of operating
parameters listed in the product literature.

• Maximum practical WOB ⇒ this typically comes from the upper end of the operating parameters
listed in the product literature, a realistic portion of the collar weight available or the maximum
allowed by other application criteria such as weight below the jars, etc.. When drilling, the maximum
practical WOB is application dependent, that is, determined by deviation concerns, vibration control,
etc..

• On motor assemblies, monitor pump pressure to detect stalling at maximum WOB.

• Typical weight increments to use in the drill-off tests ⇒ 2000 pounds for harder / slower ROP
formations and 5000 pounds for softer / faster ROP formations.

• If the greatest ROP occurs at several different weights or rotary speeds, always use the lowest WOB-
RPM rotary combination to optimize life providing that it does not produce detrimental vibration
effects.

• Optimum WOB and RPM is when additional WOB or RPM does not increase ROP in a linear fashion
or when the torque limit is reached.

NOTE: ANYTIME WOB AND RPM ARE CHANGED, TIME IS NEEDED TO ALLOW A
STEADYSTATE CONDITION TO OCCUR IN ORDER TO KNOW THE TRUE EFFECTS. THE
FLUCTUATIONS AND MINIMAL TIME USED IN SOME DRILL OFF TESTS MAY NOT
ALLOW THE OPTIMUM WOB AND RPM TO BE REALIZED.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DRILL-OFF TEST PROCEDURE

There are many variations of drill-off tests. The “standard” one is listed below. See the appendix for
different drill-off test variations. All drill-off tests can accomplish the same goal by varying the time
interval or drilled interval.

1. Pick off bottom and set the RPM and flow rate and evaluate operating parameters (see “Parameter
Evaluation” section).
2. Return to bottom, build to the maximum practical WOB.
3. Lock the brake.
4. Record the time required to "drill-off" a predetermined weight increment (typically between 2000-
5000 lbs.). Periodically tap the WOB indicator to ensure it does not stick.
5. Continue until ‘all’ WOB is drilled off or until the increment time starts to significantly increase. The
shortest time will indicate the optimum weight for that rotary speed.
6. Incrementally increase the RPM and repeat the above procedure. For hard formations or slow ROP
conditions, increase the RPM in 5 to 20 RPM increments. For soft formations or high ROP
conditions, increase the RPM in 10 to 40 RPM increments. Continue testing until the optimum is
determined.

• If the shortest time increment occurs at several different weights or rotary speeds, use the lowest
WOB-RPM (WR/D) combination.

• Below is a hypothetical example of a drill off test. Note that that 45,000 to 40,000 pounds produces
the optimum time at both 60 RPM and 70 RPM. Use 60 RPM, as this would reduce the WR level in
this case by 17% thus ensuring maximum durability while still providing optimum ROP.

Hypothetical Drill Off Test Data

Hypothetical Drill Off Test TIME TO DRILL OFF (seconds)
WOB 50 RPM 60 RPM 70 RPM 100 RPM

20 50-45 12 8 7 9
50 RPM 45-40 11 6 6 7
15
SECONDS

40-35 13 8 8 7
60 RPM 35-30 14 12 10 9
10
70 RPM 30-25 20 15 13 11
5
100 RPM
0
50- 45- 40- 35- 30-
45 40 35 30 25
WOB

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

MAKING A CONNECTION

Consistently following the procedure below will help prevent a whirling bottom-hole pattern from
occurring.
Procedure

• Reduce RPM approximately 50%. Maintain a minimum rotary of 60 to 80 RPM.

• Drill off 50% of WOB.
• Stop rotary and lift off bottom.
• Make connection.
• Start rotary at 60 to 80 RPM.
• Circulate approximately 1minute off-bottom before making connection or after connection is
made.
• Slowly set bit back on bottom.
• Add weight slowly to attain previous weight on bit.
• Increase rotary speed to previous RPM.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RUNNING THE BIT

ROP, TORQUE, DIRECTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS ARE FORMATION AND

SITUATIONAL DEPENDENT.

• Monitor and record symptoms (i.e. torque, ROP, pump pressure and directional characteristics) to
establish baselines (or ranges) within the application at normal operating conditions. Deviation
from these baselines must be investigated. See section on symptoms and bit related causes.

• Ensure that symptoms are indicative of problems and not just an expectation within the run. For
example, it can be common for tracking and the resultant symptoms to occur within a known interval.
Beyond this interval the symptoms disappear and the bit runs normally.

BHA Considerations
• Avoid critical RPMs.

Controlled Drilling
• If in or encountering a known hard or abrasive formation of short length with a dull bit, controlled
drilling (sacrificing ROP) through the interval may enhance the following bit’s performance. The
dull condition and bit type will determine the feasibility. Monitor the ROP and torque, follow the
recommendations for evaluating ROP and torque as listed below. Proceed only if ROP and increased
risk is acceptable to the customer.

Deviation & Directional Control

• Deviation concerns may override optimum WOB used. Typically minimum WOB is used to control
deviation on rotary assemblies.
• Monitor deviation on straight holes. Reduce WOB to maximum allowable to maintain deviation
specified by customer. See Smith Drilling & Completion’s “Drilling Straight Holes in Crooked
County”, publication #59. Monitor for vibration. Generally, increase RPM to improve ROP.
• Higher torque/higher speed changes bit walk direction by making the bit attack the formation at
different angle due to higher torque. The bit tries to climb the hole wall at a different position at
different torque levels. High speed on turbines can make the bit change direction completely.

Formation Changes
• Formation changes can instigate both torsional and lateral vibrations. Monitor and adjust
accordingly. See “DIAGNOSTICS –SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES.
• When anticipating a harder/more difficult formation, to prevent impact damage, reduce the RPM
maintaining WOB while still in the softer formation to help prevent initiation of lateral or torsional
vibrations when the hard formation is encountered. After the formation is encountered, adjust the
parameters or perform a drill-off test.
• If an unknown formation (anomaly/transition) is expected, reduce the RPM and the WOB to a
minimum accepted level. Establish ROP and torque baselines at these levels. Monitor ROP and
torque to determine when formation has been encountered and when through the anomaly.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

Durability Optimization
• Durability is dependent upon WOB, RPM and hydraulics used. Use the minimum WOB and RPM
necessary to optimize ROP while ensuring durability to produce an economic run. These WOB and
RPM values are solely situational and area dependent.
• Determining durability at operating conditions can only be done by analyses of performance and
reliability of similar applications.
• Increasing WOB and / or RPM past the flounder point will typically decrease the cutting structure life
and on roller cone bits, the bearing / seal life, and while providing no increase in ROP.
• Monitor mud properties to prevent corrosive effects influencing durability.

Operational Parameter Guidelines

• Optimum WOB and RPM determined are for a particular application and can only be continuously
used in a homogeneous formation. Therefore in intervals of various formations, ROP optimization
tests will not produce the optimum weight and rotary combination.
• Drill off tests will be necessary anytime the formation changes. Typically a range of WOB and RPM
combinations is derived for the interval, e.g., interbedded formations.

WOB
• WOB requirement depends on formation type and hardness.
ƒ As compressive strength increases, increase WOB and decrease RPM.
ƒ WOB should not be increased beyond the maximum recommended guideline.
• Abrasiveness increases, maintain or slightly reduce WOB and decrease RPM.
• WOB will generally have to increase as cutter elements wear to maintain optimum ROP.
• Bit stability generally increases with increasing WOB.
• Always optimize WOB to reduce damaging bit induced vibrations. See “DIAGNOSTICS –
SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES.

RPM
• RPM requirement depends on formation hardness and abrasiveness.
• As compressive strength increases, decrease RPM. Higher RPM is effective in softer formations.
• Lower RPM is effective in hard or abrasive formations (minimizes vibrations and cutter wear).
Some formations can be considerably soft but abrasive.
• Always optimize RPM to prevent damaging vibrations. See “DIAGNOSTICS –SYMPTOMS
AND REMEDIES.

Torque
• Relatively constant torque is desired while drilling. To attain constant torque, vary the WOB and
RPM as necessary within the constraint of the application. See “DIAGNOSTICS –SYMPTOMS
AND REMEDIES.
• It is preferable to use a torque indicator to monitor the performance of fixed cutter bits if
available. Automatic drillers use weight, not torque.
• When drilling with motors, monitor differential pressure to monitor torque.
• Torque is generally less in harder formations and is generally more consistent in harder
formations than in soft formations.
• Torque generated by the drill string can be multiples of torque created by a rock bit especially in
directional or horizontal wells. Always check torque due to drill string vs. torque to the bit + drill
string.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

Hydraulics
• Different formations can respond to different hydraulic energy levels and on roller cone bits to
different flow distributions.
• Optimum WOB and RPM for the hydraulic scenario is when additional WOB or RPM does not
increase ROP linearly. The bit is floundering when operating beyond this point. Increasing
WOB and / or RPM past the flounder point will typically decrease the cutting structure life and
on roller cone bits, the bearing / seal life, and while providing no increase in ROP

ROP ROP vs WR

ROP

Flounder - point at which further

increases in WR do not provide
linear returns

WR

PULLING THE BIT

• When economics dictates.
• When ROP dictates.
• Loss of directional characteristics
• Loss of pump pressure due to a washout.

Roller Cone Bit

• When a substantial increase or dramatic fluctuation in torque is seen with low or high WOB and
low ROP or when tagging bottom. Magnitude is typically area and application dependent.
• There is no 100% effective/reliable indicator.
• The best indicator is dramatic fluctuations of torque when tagging bottom.

BIT STORAGE OF RERUNABLE BITS

Roller Cone Bit

• For sealed bearing bits, do not store in any oil or derivatives. Store in water initially to allow
cleaning of packed formation in seal and reservoir area. Initially cover cones and make sure
reservoir dome area is below water on dome vents and with pin vents, the system is cleared of
packed solids. For longer-term storage in desert environments, it may be best to keep the bits in
water - covering cones. However, once cones are free, storage in air should be fine if wind
blown fines are not a major issue.
• For open bearing bits, soak in water to loosen packed material, flush bearings and re-grease.
Then storage in air should be fine if wind blown fines are not a major issue.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines
FORMATION CHARACTERISTICS - DRILLING

Shale
• More responsive to RPM than WOB.
• Use the upper RPM end from the recommended operating parameters from the product literature.
• Monitor and modify RPM when drilling through interbedded sections to prevent cutting structure breakage in
sands, carbonates, etc.
• An over-pressured shale will typically increase the ROP (pressure dependent). ROP 3 to 4 times normal
have been noted.
• Maximize hydraulics through shale sections if possible.
• Monitor torque to detect bit balling.

Sand
• More responsive to WOB than RPM.
• Porosity in sand is a major factor in ROP. Everything else being equal, a higher porosity sand will yield a
higher ROP. An over-pressured sand can also increase the ROP.
• Depleted sands are difficult to drill due to the high differential pressure across the face of the rock. Expect
the bit to drill slowly in this situation. Also, the bit may drill off center, which will produce an even slower
ROP. Consider changing mud properties to reduce the chip hole down pressure (mud weight, spurt loss).
• Maintain minimum RPM to minimize gage wear. In known extremely abrasive formations, monitor torque
to ensure a gage hole.
• Evaluate cuttings and other downhole tools to estimate degree of abrasiveness and adjust RPM if necessary.

Carbonates
• More responsive to WOB than RPM.
• Monitor for bit bouncing.
• Chert nodules, often encountered in limestone and dolomite formations, can move or roll underneath the
cutting structure similar to broken formations. This can overload cutting structure elements leading to
chippage and or breakage. Ensure excessive WOB or RPM is not used.

Quartz
• Use minimum RPM to reduce gage damage, but with adequate WOB to effectively drill high compressive
strength rock.
• Monitor bit for torque indicating a potential undergage condition, which dictates pulling the bit.

Pyrite
• Pyrite is extremely abrasive and hard. Use minimum RPM to reduce gage damage, but with adequate WOB
to effectively drill high compressive strength rock.
• Pyrite can move or roll underneath the cutting structure similar to broken formations. This can overload
cutting structure elements leading to chippage and or breakage. Ensure excessive WOB or RPM is not used.
• Monitor for bit bouncing.
• Monitor bit for torque indicating a potential undergage condition, which dictates pulling the bit.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines
SYMPTOMS

The surface measurable symptoms indicating potential bit related problems are:

• Decreased ROP
• Increased, Decreased or Erratic Torque (pump pressure on motor applications)
• Reduced Directional Characteristics
• Decreased or Increased Pump Pressure

Please note that there are other application factors that can create the same surface measurable
symptoms.

Any deviation from accepted norms should be investigated. With no changes in current operating
parameters, the potential bit related causes of the above symptoms are:

• Bit Balling
• Bit Bouncing (see also axial vibration)
• Off-Center Rotation / Whirl (see also lateral vibration)
• Tracking
• Cutting Structure Damage and / or Wear
• Bearing / Seal Failure
• Formation Change
• Bit Washout / Lost Nozzle / Plugged Nozzles
• Inadequate Hole Cleaning / Annulus Packing Off
• Junk

Note that all of the symptom changes will vary in magnitude and may not be measurable or
identifiable on the surface due to many factors.

Roller cone bit symptoms are more subtle than fixed cutter bits due to the lesser amount of torque
generated per WOB.

Ensure that symptoms are indicative of problems and not just an expectation within the run.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

BIT RELATED SYMPTOMS

ROP ROP Torque Torque Torque Directional Pump Pressure Pump Pressure
Decrease Increase Increase Erratic Decrease Characteristic Change Increase Decrease
Balling Formation Change Bearing / Seal Failure C/S damage or wear Balling Bearing / Seal Failure Balling Lost Nozzle
Bearing / Seal Failure Optimum WOB Bit Vibration - Whirl Formation Change C/S damage or wear C/S damage or wear Inadequate Hole Cleaning Washout
Bouncing Optimum RPM C/S damage or wear Interbedded Fms Formation Change Formation Change Plugged Nozzle
C/S damage or wear Optimum cleaning Formation Change Junk Washout C/S damage or wear
Formation Change Inadequate Hole Cleaning Bit Vibration - Stick/Slip Sub-optimum WOB Excessive WOB
Junk Junk Excessive WOB Sub-optimum RPM Large d.o.c.
Off Center Rotation Excessive WOB Excessive RPM Plugged drill pipe screen
Tracking Inadequate RPM
Washout
Sub-optimum WOB
Sub-optimum RPM

APPLICATION RELATED SYMPTOMS

ROP ROP Torque Torque Torque Directional Pump Pressure Pump Pressure
Decrease Increase Increase Erratic Decrease Characteristic Change Increase Decrease
Drill String Washout Fluid Properties External Junk BHA Hanging Up Decreasing Filter Cake Formation Change Annulus Packing Off Aerated fluid
External Junk Formation Change Formation Change External Junk Dec. Hole Inclination Broken Formations Drill String Washout
Fluid Properties Fractured Fms Fractured Fms Formation Change Formation Change Geopressured Fms Fluid Properties
Formation Change Overpressured Fms Geopressured Fms Going Undergage Plastic / Hydrable Fms Lost Circulation
Overbalanced Condition Underbalanced Condition Increasing Filter Cake Interbedded Fms Unconsolidated Fms Gas Kick
Inc. Hole Inclination Keyseats / Doglegs Mud Motor dump valve
Overbalanced Condition
Plastic / Hydratable Fms
Poor Hole Cleaning
Unconsolidated Fms
Annulus Packing Off

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DIAGNOSTICS – SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES

ROP TORQUE PRESSURE

Symptoms Resultant Operational Procedures / Changes Application Changes
Parameter Parameter Parameter
Decrease Decrease Increase Pressure may decrease Bit Balling 1-Increase hydraulics if possible Alternative mud systems
2-Pick slightly off-bottom Change bit type
3-Spin at high rotary with maximum flow for 15+ minute Proper drilling practices
4-Vary rotary from very low to maximum Change fluid distribution
Should above fail Control drill
5-Slug with an abrasive plug such as walnut hulls Follow recommended drilling
6-Repeat steps 1 through 3 fluid guidelines
Should above fail &
ONLY IF HOLE CONDITIONS ALLOW
7-Shut down pump & pick off-bottom ~40 feet
8-Drop string 5-10 feet suddenly
Should above fail &
ONLY IF HOLE CONDITIONS ALLOW
9-With bit on bottom, circulate 15+ minutes with no rotary
10-Then repeat steps 1 through 3
When bit becomes unballed, control drill through
balling interval OR pull bit based on
performance/economic expectations
Decrease Erratic Kelly Movement Bit Bouncing 1-Change RPM Run Shock Sub
Large Hook-Load Variation Axial Vibration - first increase then decrease Change Bit Type
Whipping of Drawworks Cables - allow time for stabilization
Down Hole Impacts 2-Change WOB
- adjust based on RPM
- allow time for stabilization
Decrease Erratic Torque may increase or decrease Cutting Structure Pull Bit Change bit type
Damage or Wear
Decrease Erratic Torque may increase Bearing / Seal Failure Pull Bit Change bit type

Decrease Decrease May see vibration symptoms Formation Change 1-Analyse and eliminate vibrations if present Run Shock Sub
- axial Harder 2-Increase WOB and adjust RPM accordingly Change bit type
- torsional 3-Re-establish proper bottom hole pattern
- lateral 4-Perform new drill off test
Average torque is Lower
Torque is more consistent
Increase Increase May See Vibration Symptoms Formation Change 1-Analyse and eliminate vibrations if present Change bit type
- axial Softer 2-Decrease WOB and adjust RPM accordingly
- torsional 3-Re-establish proper bottom hole pattern
- lateral 4-Perform new drill off test
Average torque is higher
Torque is more variable
Decrease Increase May Increase Inadequate Hole Cleaning 1-Increase hydraulics if possible
2-Control drilling
3-Can run only if pressure, ROP and significant
increase in risk of failure is acceptable to customer

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DIAGNOSTICS – SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES

ROP TORQUE PRESSURE

Symptoms Resultant Operational Procedures / Changes Application Changes
Parameter Parameter Parameter
Decrease Increase Bit Bouncing Lateral Vibration 1-Change RPM for several minutes Change bit type
Kelly Movement Bit Whirl Should above fail
Large Hook-Load Variation 2-Pick off Bottom and Stop Rotary
Whipping of Drawworks Cables 3-Allow time for string to settle
Down Hole Impacts 4-Restart rotary 60-80 RPM
Formation Change(s) 5-Return to Bottom
Aggressive Side Cutting Bit 6-Increase WOB over previous value
Overgage/Washed Out Hole 7-Decrease RPM from previous value
Down Hole Impacts Lateral Vibration 1-Change RPM for several minutes Stiffer BHA
Overgage/Washed Out Hole BHA Whirl Should above fail Use Down Hole Motor
Limber BHA 2-Pick off Bottom and Stop Rotary Non-rotating Stabilizers
Unstabilized BHA 3-Allow time for string to settle Roller Reamers
4-Restart rotary 60-80 RPM
5-Return to Bottom
6-Increase WOB over previous value
7-Decrease RPM from previous value
Decrease Increase Torque may increase due to Plugged Nozzle(s) 1-Pick off-bottom and circulate
inadequate hole cleaning ONLY IF HOLE CONDITIONS ALLOW ---
2-Shut down pump & pick off-bottom ~40 feet
3-Drop string 5-10 feet suddenly
4-If that fails pull the bit.
5-Can run only if increased pressure, decreased ROP
and increased risk of failure is acceptable to customer
Decrease Erratic Down Hole Impacts Torsional Vibration 1-Increase RPM for several minutes Increase Mud Lubricity
High WOB on PDC Bit Stick-Slip 2-If Stick-Slip still evident, decrease WOB Rotary Torque Control System
Formation Change Should above fail
Low RPM 3-Pick off Bottom and Stop Rotary
Cutting Structure Damage 4-Allow time for string to settle
Bearing / Seal Failure 5-Restart rotary 60-80 RPM
PDC Bit Too Aggressive 6-Return to Bottom
7-Increase RPM over previous value
8-Decrease WOB from previous value
Down Hole Impacts Torsional Vibration 1-Increase RPM for several minutes Increase Mud Lubricity
Poor Hole Cleaning Drill String Stick-Slip 2-If Stick-Slip still evident, decrease WOB Rotary Torque Control System
Deviated Well Should above fail Use Down Hole Motor
Poor Stabilizer Placement 3-Pick off Bottom and Stop Rotary
High WOB 4-Allow time for string to settle
BHA Buckling 5-Restart rotary 60-80 RPM
BHA Whirl 6-Return to Bottom
7-Increase RPM over previous value
8-Decrease WOB from previous value
Decrease Decrease Torque may increase due to Washout / Lost Nozzle 1-Pull the bit
inadequate hole cleaning
2-Can run only if decreased pressure, decreased ROP
and increased risk of failure is acceptable to customer

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RECOGNISING AND CONTROLLING SLIP-STICK VIBRATION

HOW THE TORQUE APPEARS ON THE MUD WHEN IT IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR, WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT IT FROM,
LOGGING VIBRATION SCREEN: & THE DAMAGE IT CAN DO: HAPPENING, OR TO SUPPRESS IT IF SEEN:

20000.00 When it is most likely to occur: Prevention:

• with PDC bits • avoid excessive tortuosity, especially in deviated or

15000.00
CYCLIC • in water base mud sections, especially if deviated water base mud wells
TORQUE • in more “tortuous” wells • use a soft torque system, and keep it tuned as hole
10000.00
• in interbedded formations depth and drillpipe sizes change
• run roller reamers rather than stabilisers.
What it leads to if not suppresed:
5000.00 • if motor in use - stator may fail How to suppress cyclic torque if seen:
• impact damage to PDC bits (cutter breakage/loss)
• twist-offs • apply a short period of higher RPM (1-2 mins)
0.00 • over-torqued drillpipe connections • reduce weight on bit (though this usually reduces ROP)
1

• if the rig has one, tune its soft torque system

374
747

1120

1493

1866

2239
2612

2985

3358

3731

(ca. 3 minutes of torque data)

When it is most likely to occur:
30000.00 • with PDC bits, especially large diameter PDC bits, & Prevention:
less balanced PDC bit types
• with less stabilised rotary BHAs • use only anti-whirl PDC bits, or tracking-type PDC
• while drilling with low RPM (eg top drive low gear) bits, if on pendulum BHAs. Use well-balanced PDC bits
on near-bit stabiliser BHAs
FULL What it leads to if not suppresed:
TORQUE ([Link])

• use a motor (without a bend in a hard sandy section)

SLIP- • impact damage to PDC bits (cutter breakage/loss)
20000.00 • add a near bit stabiliser or roller reamer (though
STICK • total PDC bit failure (“flat-topping”) - see below this only delays bit damage, & will not cure drillstring
• drillstring connections backing off failures)
BHA BHA BHA breaks
Decelerating stuck free
How to suppress full slip-stick if seen:

10000.00 • pull off bottom, stop rotary for a few seconds,

re-start rotary and return to bottom
1
251
501
751
1001

2001

3001

3751
1251
1501
1751

2251
2501
2751

3251
3501

• changes to RPM and WOB may not work against full

slip-stick
• run a motor if drilling parameter changes do not work

Produced by and permission for use given by:

Martyn Fear, BP Exploration Colombia
Tel. + 57 1 628 4990, email fearmj@[Link]

SUMMARY ADVICE FOR PDC BITS IN HARD FORMATIONS: RUN THE LOWEST RPM THAT GIVES SMOOTH TORQUE

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

APPENDIX

Frequently used equations

Hardness Classification

Example Forms
Drill Off Test
Monitoring a bit run

Ring Gage Specifications

Make-up Torque

Pump Off Force - Hydraulic Lift Evaluation

Drill-Off Test Variations

Total Flow Area (TFA) chart

Bit Sizes vs. Casing Size

Maximum Cone Diameter Specs

API Diamond Bit Breaker Specs.

Pump Output Tables

Duplex
Triplex

Standard Measurement Units

References

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines

EQUATIONS

TO FIND APPROXIMATE PUMP PRESSURE WITH CHANGES IN SPM OR MUD WEIGHT

2
 SPM 2   Mudwt 2 
PP1 x   = PP2 PP1 x   = PP 2
 SPM 1   Mudwt1 

PP1 is current pump pressure PP2 is new pump pressure

SPM1 is current strokes per minute SPM2 is new strokes per minute
Mudwt1 is current mud weight Mudwt2 is new mud weight

BUOYED WEIGHT

 Mudwt 
Corrected weight = air weight x 1 −  Mudwt in PPG
 65.5 

BIT PRESSURE DROP (psi) HYDRAULIC HORSEPOWER (hp)

2
Flowrate x Mudwt ∆Pb x Flowrate
∆Pb = HHP =
10856 x TFA2 1714

HOLE AREA (IN2) HYDRAULIC HORSEPOWER PER SQUARE INCH (hsi)

π x HoleDiameter 2
Hydraulic Horsepower
A= HSI =
4 Hole Area

BREAKEVEN ANALYSIS

Rig Cost (Dr lg Hrs + Trip Hrs) + Bit Cost

Cost per Foot =
Footage Drilled

Hardness Classifications
Description PSI * "Mpa" Examples
Ultra Soft < 1000 Gumbo, unconsolidated sands
Very Soft 1000 - 4000 Chalk, salt, claystone, sands
Soft 4000 - 8000 Coal, siltstone, schist, sands
Medium 8000 - 17000 Sandstone, slate, shale, limestone, dolomite
Hard 17000 - 27000 Quartzite, basalt, gabbro, limestone, dolomite
Very Hard > 27000 Marble, granite, gneiss

*PSI - Uniaxial Unconfined Compressive Strength

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DRILL-OFF TEST DATA

Test Performed by Date

Size Operator
Type Lease Name
Serial # Lease Number
Field
Country

Drilling Contractor Legal

Rig Name/Number

BHA

Off Bottom Drill String Weight Formation

Starting Drill String Weight Flow Rate
Pump Pressure
Starting RPM Nozzles TFA
Starting WOB Mud Wt
PV
YP

Time Footage
WOB Time Interval Interval Torque
Comments

Optimum WOB from above

Time Footage
RPM Time Interval Interval Torque

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

MONITORING BIT RUN

Test Performed by Date

Size Operator Legal

Type Lease Name Drilling Contractor
Serial # Lease Number Rig Name/Number
Field
Nozzles/TFA Country

BHA
Pump Pressure Torque
Cum. Cum. Rotary Motor Total On- Off- On- Off- Flow Mud
Depth Min/Ft ROP Hours ROP WOB RPM RPM RPM Bottom Bottom Bottom Bottom Rate Wt PV YP Formation

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RING GAGE SPECIFICATIONS

• There are no API specifications for roller cone nominal ring gages. Only for diamond and PDC bits.

Gage specifications, per API spec 7.7 for diamond and PDC bits.
• “Go” and “No Go” gages should be a ring fabricated from 1 inch steel with and OD equal to
nominal bit size plus 1 ½ inch.
• “Go” gage ID should equal nominal bit size plus 0.002 in. (0,051 mm) clearance with a tolerance
of +0.003, -0.0 (+0,076, -0)
• “No Go” gage ID should equal minimum bit size (nominal less maximum negative tolerance)
minus 0.002 inch interference with a tolerance of +0.0, -0.003 inch (+0, -0,076mm)
• If acceptable the bit should enter the “Go” gage (bit not too large).
• If acceptable the bit should NOT enter the “No Go” gage (bit not to small).
• Both ring gages and the bit should be within 200F (110 C) of one another.

API TOLERANCES FOR FIXED CUTTER AND ROLLER CONE BITS

Bit size (in.) Fixed Cutter Roller Cone

6 ¾ and smaller -0.015 to +0.00 -0.0 to +1/32
6 25/32 and including 9 -0.020 to +0.00 -0.0 to +1/32
9 1/32 and including 13 ¾ -0.030 to +0.00 -0.0 to +1/32
13 25/32 and including 17 ½ -0.045 to +0.00 -0.0 to +1/16
17 17/32 and larger -0.063 to +0.00 -0.0 to +3/32

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RECOMMENDED ROLLER CONE BIT MAKE-UP TORQUE

Recommended Rock Bit Make-Up Torque

API Reg.
Bit Size Recommended Torque
Connection
Minimum Maximum
in. mm in. mm ft-lbs ft-lbs N-m

2 3/8 60 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 89 to 114 3,000 3,500 4,000 to 4,800

2 7/8 73 4-5/8 to 5 118 to 127 4,500 5,500 6,000 to 7,000
3 1/2 89 5-1/8 to 7-3/8 137 to 187 7,000 9,000 9,500 to 12,000
4 1/2 114 7-5/8 to 9 194 to 229 12,000 16,000 16,000 to 22,000
6 5/8 168 9-1/2 to 28* 241 to 711 28,000 32,000 38,000 to 43,000
7 5/8 194 14-3/4 to 28* 375 to 711 34,000 40,000 46,000 to 54,000
34 or 36* 864 or 914 63,500 78,300 85,000 to 105,000
8 5/8 219 18-1/2 to 28* 470 to 711 40,000 60,000 54,000 to 81,000
34 or 36* 864 or 914 96,170 108,950 129,000 to 146,000

Note: Some of the above bit sizes are available with alternate pin connections on special order.
* Makeup torque must correspond to API connection for each bit size.

RECOMMENDED PDC & DIAMOND BIT MAKE-UP TORQUE

Recommended PDC and Diamond Bit Make-up Torque

API Reg. Bit Sub OD Minimum Normal Maximum
Connection
Size (inches) (ft-lbs) (ft-lbs) (ft-lbs)
NOTES:
(inches)

3 1,970 2,280 2,450 1. Higher make-up torque

2 3/8" 3 1/8 2,660 3,100 3,300 values within the above
3 1/4 3,400 3,950 4,200 ranges are recommended
3 1/2 3,380 3,950 4,200 when high WOB is used.
2 7/8"
3-3/4 & larger 5,080 5,900 6,300
4 1/8 5,700 6,600 7,000
3 1/2" 4 1/4 6,940 8,050 8,550 2. Box connection bits
4-1/2 & larger 8,400 9,850 10,500 should use make-up torque
values between Minimum
5 1/2 13,700 16,000 17,000
and Normal.
4 1/2" 5 3/4 18,100 21,100 22,400
6 & larger 18,550 21,600 22,900
7 1/2 40,670 47,300 50,200 3. All connections must be
6 5/8"
7-3/4 & larger 41,050 47,800 50,750 lubricated with a joint
8 1/2 53,100 61,850 65,670 compound meeting API
7 5/8" 8 3/4 63,500 73,750 78,300 spec.
9 & larger 68,600 79,800 84,750
10 96,170 102,600 108,950
8 5/8"
10-1/4 & larger 107,580 114,700 121,800

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

PUMP OFF FORCE - HYDRAULIC LIFT

• The true WOB may be less than the measured weight by the amount of hydraulic lift (pump-off
force) acting beneath the bit. Hydraulic lift occurs with any type of bit that develops pressure
drop due to fluid flowing between the bit face and the rock. This force is generally less with PDC
bit than with natural diamond bits.
• There are three methods for determining pump-off force, 1-drill-off method, 2-slack off method,
3-drillers method.

9 Step Procedure For Slack-Off Method

1. Determine number of strokes that yield desired on bottom circulating pressure. Pump that
number of strokes while running test.
2. Establish a new/fresh bottom-hole pattern
3. With pump(s) on and drill string rotating raise the bit approximately 1-2 feet off-bottom.
4. Record pump pressure and zero weight indicator
5. Lower the kelly in 1 to 2 inch increments allowing time after each step for the weight and
pressure to stabilize. Record the stabilized values. The first few values should be relatively
constant.
6. Continue to lower the kelly in small steps. The pump pressure should begin to rise rapidly once
the bit moves to within 0.5 in off-bottom. Beyond this point, due to drill string elasticity, the bit
advances only a fraction of the kelly movement. Try to obtain several data points in this region.
7. Watch for pump pressure oscillations as the bit reaches the pump-off point. These should smooth
out once the applied weight exceeds the pump-off force and the bit starts drilling. Beyond this
point pump pressure rises much more gradually as weight is added to the bit.
8. Continue to add weight incrementally until the desired operating WOB is reached.
9. Plot the data and locate the pump-off point. Determine the true WOB. Adjust the applied WOB
if necessary in order to obtain the desired mechanical weight.

4 Step Procedure For Driller’s Method

1. Record indicated WOB and pump pressure while drilling. This is WOB1.
2. Stop rotating. Shut pumps off.
3. Record indicated WOB. This is WOB2.
4. Pump-off force = WOB1 – WOB2.

7 Step Procedure for Drill – Off Method

1. With pump(s) on and drill string rotating raise the bit approximately 1-2 feet off-bottom.
2. Record the hook load and zero the weight indicator.
3. Lower the bit to bottom and establish a new/fresh bottom-hole pattern.
4. Lock the brake and allow the bit to drill-off.
5. Record the indicated weight as the bit drills off. The data is usually recorded with each 1000 lb.
decrease of indicated weight or at some regular time interval such as 5 minutes.
6. End the test when it is clear that the indicated weight has stopped decreasing. The weight
indicator should give a direct reading of the pump-off force at this point. Record this value.
7. Raise the bit approximately 1 foot off bottom and check that the indicated weight has returned to
the original value. Discrepancies can arise from hole drag.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

DRILL-OFF TEST VARIATIONS

Drill-Off Test #1

1. Pick off bottom and set the RPM and flow rate and evaluate operating parameters (see section).
2. Place the maximum practical WOB.
3. Lock the brake.
4. Record the time required to "drill-off" a predetermined weight increment (typically between 2000-
5000).
5. Continue until ‘all’ WOB is drilled off or until the increment time starts to significantly increase. The
shortest time will indicate the optimum weight for that rotary speed.
6. Increase the RPM in 5 to 20 RPM increments and repeat the above procedure. Continue testing until
the optimum is determined.
7. A variation of this drill-off test is to use the optimum WOB from step 5 and then increase the RPM in
5 to 20 RPM increments, recording the time to drill a convenient footage increment (typically 5 feet).
Continue until optimum RPM is determined. Note that this assumes the WOB will be optimum for
all RPM values – not necessarily correct.

Drill-Off Test #2

1. Pick off bottom and set the RPM and flow rate and evaluate operating parameters (see section).
2. Return to bottom, building to a low starting WOB.
3. From this WOB, increase weight in a predetermined weight increment (typically between 2000-5000
lbs.). Record the time required to a suitable footage increment. Footage increment typically ROP
based (5+ feet for higher ROPs, 1-3 feet for lower ROPs).
4. Calculate and plot the resulting ROP versus WOB. At some point, the ROP may drop off or decrease
with increasing WOB. The optimum WOB is just below the weight that caused a flattening of the
ROP plot.
5. Repeat the test using the optimum WOB from step 2 and increase RPM in 5-20 RPM increments.
Drill a convenient time or footage interval (1 minute or 1 foot).
6. Calculate and plot ROP versus RPM. At some point, increasing RPM will result in a very small or no
increase in ROP. The optimum RPM is just below the RPM that caused a flatting of the ROP plot.
7. Continue testing until the optimum is determined.
8. If the shortest time increment occurs at several different weights or rotary speeds, use the lowest
weight rotary combination.

Drill-Off Test #3

1. Pick off bottom and set the RPM and flow rate and evaluate operating parameters (see section).
2. Return to bottom, build to the maximum or selected WOB.
3. Lock the brake.
4. Let the bit drill-off and record the WOB every minute or suitable time interval.
5. Calculate and plot the resulting ROP versus WOB.
6. Repeat the test and increase the RPM in 5 – 20 RPM increments. Continue testing until the optimum
is determined.
7. If the shortest time increment occurs at several different weights or rotary speeds, use the lowest
weight rotary combination.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines

DRILL-OFF TEST VARIATIONS

Drill-Off Test #4

• This test is mostly used when an approximate operating WOB is known.

• This can be either per time interval or per footage interval.
• This method is used in areas of high ROP where WOB drills off too fast to record or in non-homogeneous
formations where the ROP fluctuates greatly.

1. Pick off bottom and set the RPM and flow rate and evaluate operating parameters (see section).
2. Return to bottom, build to the maximum or selected WOB.
3. Drill for a set time interval (typically 5 minutes) or a set footage interval (5 feet, up to a kelly length) with
constant WOB. Calculate the ROP for the interval.
4. Repeat the test at other WOB values until the optimum WOB is found.
5. Repeat the test and increase the RPM in 5 – 20 RPM increments. Continue testing until the optimum is
determined.
6. If the shortest time increment occurs at several different weights or rotary speeds, use the lowest weight
rotary combination.

Drill-Off Test #5

• Also know as an ‘active drill-off test’

1. Select a mid-range WOB and RPM.

2. Maintain RPM and record ROP over 5 minutes with varied WOB.
3. Determine optimum WOB.
4. Maintain WOB and record ROP over 5 minutes with varied RPM.
5. Determine optimum RPM.

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

TOTAL FLOW AREA

Total Flow Area (TFA) of Standard Nozzles (in²)

Nozzle Size Number of Nozzles
(in.) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
7/32 0.038 0.075 0.113 0.150 0.188 0.225 0.263 0.301 0.338
8/32 0.049 0.098 0.147 0.196 0.245 0.295 0.344 0.393 0.442
9/32 0.062 0.124 0.186 0.249 0.311 0.373 0.435 0.497 0.559
10/32 0.077 0.153 0.230 0.307 0.383 0.460 0.537 0.614 0.690
11/32 0.093 0.186 0.278 0.371 0.464 0.557 0.650 0.742 0.835
12/32 0.110 0.221 0.331 0.442 0.552 0.663 0.773 0.884 0.994
13/32 0.130 0.259 0.389 0.518 0.648 0.778 0.907 1.037 1.167
14/32 0.150 0.301 0.451 0.601 0.752 0.902 1.052 1.203 1.353
15/32 0.173 0.345 0.518 0.690 0.863 1.035 1.208 1.381 1.553
16/32 0.196 0.393 0.589 0.785 0.982 1.178 1.374 1.571 1.767
17/32 0.222 0.443 0.665 0.887 1.108 1.330 1.552 1.773 1.995
18/32 0.249 0.497 0.746 0.994 1.243 1.491 1.740 1.988 2.237
19/32 0.277 0.554 0.831 1.108 1.384 1.661 1.938 2.215 2.492
20/32 0.307 0.614 0.920 1.227 1.534 1.841 2.148 2.454 2.761
21/32 0.338 0.676 1.015 1.353 1.691 2.029 2.368 2.706 3.044
22/32 0.371 0.742 1.114 1.485 1.856 2.227 2.599 2.970 3.341
23/32 0.406 0.811 1.217 1.623 2.029 2.434 2.840 3.246 3.652
24/32 0.442 0.884 1.325 1.767 2.209 2.651 3.093 3.534 3.976
25/32 0.479 0.959 1.438 1.917 2.397 2.876 3.356 3.835
26/32 0.518 1.037 1.555 2.074 2.592 3.111 3.629
27/32 0.559 1.118 1.677 2.237 2.796 3.355 3.914
28/32 0.601 1.203 1.804 2.405 3.007 3.608
29/32 0.645 1.290 1.935 2.580 3.225 3.870
30/32 0.690 1.381 2.071 2.761 3.451
31/32 0.737 1.474 2.211 2.948 3.685
32/32 0.785 1.571 2.356 3.142 3.927

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May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RECOMMENDED BIT SIZE VS. CASING SIZE

Weight per Foot

OD ID Drift Diameter Recommended Bit
with Couplings
(in.) (in.) (in.) Size
(lbs.)
4½ 9.50 4.090 3.965 3 7/8
4½ 10.50 4.052 3.927 3 7/8
4½ 11.60 4.000 3.875 3¾
4½ 13.50 3.920 3.795 3¾
5 11.50 4.560 4.435 4¼
5 13.00 4.494 4.369 4¼
5 15.00 4.408 4.283 4¼
5 18.00 4.276 4.151 4 1/8
5½ 14.00 5.012 4.887 4¾
5½ 15.50 4.950 4.825 4¾
5½ 17.00 4.892 4.767 4¾
5½ 20.00 4.778 4.653 4 5/8
5½ 23.00 4.670 4.545 4½
6 5/8 20.00 6.049 5.924 5 7/8
6 5/8 24.00 5.921 5.796 5 5/8
6 5/8 28.00 5.791 5.666 5 5/8
6 5/8 32.00 5.675 5.550 5 3/8
7 17.00 6.538 6.413 6¼
7 20.00 6.456 6.331 6¼
7 23.00 6.366 6.241 6 1/8
7 26.00 6.276 6.151 6 1/8
7 29.00 6.184 6.059 6
7 32.00 6.094 5.969 5 7/8
7 35.00 6.004 5.879 5¾
7 38.00 5.920 5.795 5¾
7 5/8 24.00 7.025 6.900 6¾
7 5/8 26.40 6.969 6.844 6¾
7 5/8 29.70 6.875 6.750 6 5/8
7 5/8 33.70 6.765 6.640 6 5/8
7 5/8 39.00 6.625 6.500 6¼
8 5/8 28.00 8.017 7.892 7 7/8
8 5/8 32.00 7.921 7.796 7 5/8
8 5/8 36.00 7.825 7.700 7 5/8
8 5/8 40.00 7.725 7.600 7 3/8
8 5/8 44.00 7.625 7.500 7 3/8
8 5/8 49.00 7.511 7.386 7 3/8

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines

RECOMMENDED BIT SIZE VS. CASING SIZE

Weight per Foot

OD ID Drift Diameter Recommended Bit
with Couplings
(in.) (in.) (in.) Size
(lbs.)
9 5/8 32.30 9.001 8.845 8¾
9 5/8 36.00 8.921 8.765 8¾
9 5/8 40.00 8.835 8.679 8 5/8
9 5/8 43.50 8.755 8.599 8½
9 5/8 47.00 8.681 8.525 8½
9 5/8 53.50 8.535 8.379 8 3/8
10 ¾ 32.75 10.192 10.036 9 7/8
10 ¾ 40.50 10.050 9.894 9 7/8
10 ¾ 45.50 9.950 9.794 9¾
10 ¾ 51.00 9.850 9.694 9 5/8
10 ¾ 55.50 9.760 9.604 9½
10 ¾ 60.70 9.660 9.504 9
10 ¾ 65.70 9.560 9.404 9
11 ¾ 42.00 11.084 10.928 10 ¾
11 ¾ 47.00 11.000 10.844 10 ¾
11 ¾ 54.00 10.880 10.724 10 5/8
11 ¾ 60.00 10.772 10.616 10 ½
13 3/8 48.00 12.715 12.559 12 ¼
13 3/8 54.50 12.615 12.459 12 ¼
13 3/8 61.00 12.515 12.359 12 ¼
13 3/8 68.00 12.415 12.259 12 ¼
13 3/8 72.00 12.347 12.191 12
16 65.00 15.250 15.062 15
16 75.00 15.124 14.936 14 ¾
16 84.00 15.010 14.822 14 ¾
18 5/8 87.50 17.755 17.567 17 ½
20 94.00 19.124 18.936 17 ½
20 106.50 19.000 18.812 17 ½
20 133.00 18.730 18.542 17 ½

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines
MAXIMUM CONE DIMENSIONS CHART

Size Range Maximum Diameter Maximum Length

in. mm in. mm in. mm
3-1/2 to 3-7/8 89 to 98 2-3/8 60 1-5/8 41
4-3/4 121 2-7/8 73 2-1/8 54
5-7/8 to 6-1/4 149 to 159 4-1/4 108 3-1/8 79
6-1/2 to 6-3/4 165 to 172 4-1/2 114 3-1/2 89
7-3/8 to 8 187 to 203 5-1/4 133 4 102
8-1/8 to 8-1/2 206 to 216 5-7/8 149 4-1/8 105
8-5/8 to 9 219 to 229 6-1/8 156 4-5/8 117
9-1/8 to 9-1/2 232 to 241 6-1/2 165 4-3/8 111
9-5/8 to 9-7/8 245 to 251 6-3/4 171 4-3/4 121
10 to 10-5/8 254 to 270 7-1/4 184 5-1/2 140
11 to 11-7/8 279 to 302 7-7/8 200 5-7/8 149
12 to 12-1/4 305 to 311 8 203 6-1/8 156
13-1/4 to 15 337 to 381 9-5/8 244 7-5/8 194
16 406 10-1/4 260 8-1/8 206
17-1/2 445 11-1/2 292 8-5/8 219
18-1/2 470 12 305 9 229
20 508 12-1/2 318 9-5/8 244
22 559 13-3/4 349 10-1/2 267
24 610 15-1/4 387 11-1/4 286
26 660 16 406 12-3/4 324
28 711 17 432 113 330

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May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines
DUPLEX PUMP DISPLACEMENT

Gallons per in of Stroke Length

Fluid Piston Rod Diameter (in.)
LINER 1.5 1.625 1.75 1.875 2 2.125 2.25 2.375 2.5 2.625 2.75 2.875 3 3.125 3.25 3.375 3.5 3.625
3 0.092 0.086 0.081 0.075 0.068 0.061 0.054 0.046 0.037 0.029 0.020 0.010
3.25 0.113 0.108 0.102 0.096 0.089 0.082 0.075 0.067 0.059 0.050 0.041 0.031 0.021 0.011
3.5 0.136 0.131 0.125 0.119 0.112 0.105 0.098 0.090 0.082 0.073 0.064 0.054 0.044 0.034 0.023 0.012
3.75 0.161 0.155 0.150 0.143 0.137 0.130 0.122 0.115 0.106 0.098 0.088 0.079 0.069 0.058 0.048 0.036 0.025 0.013
4 0.187 0.182 0.176 0.170 0.163 0.156 0.149 0.141 0.133 0.124 0.115 0.105 0.095 0.085 0.074 0.063 0.051 0.039
4.25 0.215 0.210 0.204 0.198 0.191 0.184 0.177 0.169 0.161 0.152 0.143 0.133 0.123 0.113 0.102 0.091 0.079 0.067
4.5 0.245 0.239 0.234 0.228 0.221 0.214 0.207 0.199 0.190 0.182 0.173 0.163 0.153 0.143 0.132 0.120 0.109 0.097
4.75 0.276 0.271 0.265 0.259 0.252 0.245 0.238 0.230 0.222 0.213 0.204 0.194 0.184 0.174 0.163 0.152 0.140 0.128
5 0.309 0.304 0.298 0.292 0.286 0.279 0.271 0.263 0.255 0.246 0.237 0.228 0.218 0.207 0.196 0.185 0.173 0.161
5.25 0.344 0.339 0.333 0.327 0.320 0.313 0.306 0.298 0.290 0.281 0.272 0.262 0.252 0.242 0.231 0.220 0.208 0.196
5.5 0.381 0.375 0.370 0.364 0.357 0.350 0.343 0.335 0.326 0.318 0.309 0.299 0.289 0.279 0.268 0.256 0.245 0.233
5.75 0.419 0.414 0.408 0.402 0.395 0.388 0.381 0.373 0.365 0.356 0.347 0.337 0.327 0.317 0.306 0.295 0.283 0.271
6 0.459 0.454 0.448 0.442 0.435 0.428 0.421 0.413 0.405 0.396 0.387 0.377 0.367 0.357 0.346 0.335 0.323 0.311
6.25 0.501 0.495 0.490 0.483 0.477 0.470 0.462 0.455 0.446 0.438 0.428 0.419 0.409 0.398 0.388 0.376 0.365 0.353
6.5 0.544 0.539 0.533 0.527 0.520 0.513 0.506 0.498 0.490 0.481 0.472 0.462 0.452 0.442 0.431 0.420 0.408 0.396
6.75 0.589 0.584 0.578 0.572 0.565 0.558 0.551 0.543 0.535 0.526 0.517 0.507 0.497 0.487 0.476 0.465 0.453 0.441
7 0.636 0.630 0.625 0.619 0.612 0.605 0.598 0.590 0.581 0.573 0.564 0.554 0.544 0.534 0.523 0.511 0.500 0.488
7.25 0.684 0.679 0.673 0.667 0.660 0.653 0.646 0.638 0.630 0.621 0.612 0.602 0.592 0.582 0.571 0.560 0.548 0.536
7.5 0.734 0.729 0.723 0.717 0.711 0.704 0.696 0.688 0.680 0.671 0.662 0.653 0.643 0.632 0.621 0.610 0.598 0.586
7.75 0.786 0.781 0.775 0.769 0.762 0.755 0.748 0.740 0.732 0.723 0.714 0.704 0.694 0.684 0.673 0.662 0.650 0.638
8 0.840 0.834 0.829 0.823 0.816 0.809 0.802 0.794 0.785 0.777 0.768 0.758 0.748 0.738 0.727 0.715 0.704 0.692

Multiply output by stroke length, strokes per minute and volumetric efficiency to get pump output in GPM.

Equation used ( )
GPM = 0.0068 x 2 x liner 2 − rod diameter 2 x stroke length x SPM x efficiency

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May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines
TRIPLEX PUMP DISPLACEMENT
Gallons per Stroke
Stroke Length
LINER 7 7.25 7.5 7.75 8 8.25 8.5 8.75 9 9.25 9.5 9.75 10 11 12
3 0.643 0.666 0.689 0.711 0.734 0.757 0.780 0.803 0.826 0.849 0.872 0.895 0.918 1.010 1.102
3.25 0.754 0.781 0.808 0.835 0.862 0.889 0.916 0.943 0.970 0.997 1.024 1.050 1.077 1.185 1.293
3.5 0.875 0.906 0.937 0.968 1.000 1.031 1.062 1.093 1.125 1.156 1.187 1.218 1.250 1.374 1.499
3.75 1.004 1.040 1.076 1.112 1.148 1.183 1.219 1.255 1.291 1.327 1.363 1.399 1.434 1.578 1.721
4 1.142 1.183 1.224 1.265 1.306 1.346 1.387 1.428 1.469 1.510 1.550 1.591 1.632 1.795 1.958
4.25 1.290 1.336 1.382 1.428 1.474 1.520 1.566 1.612 1.658 1.704 1.750 1.796 1.842 2.027 2.211
4.5 1.446 1.497 1.549 1.601 1.652 1.704 1.756 1.807 1.859 1.911 1.962 2.014 2.066 2.272 2.479
4.75 1.611 1.668 1.726 1.784 1.841 1.899 1.956 2.014 2.071 2.129 2.186 2.244 2.301 2.532 2.762
5 1.785 1.849 1.913 1.976 2.040 2.104 2.168 2.231 2.295 2.359 2.423 2.486 2.550 2.805 3.060
5.25 1.968 2.038 2.109 2.179 2.249 2.319 2.390 2.460 2.530 2.601 2.671 2.741 2.811 3.093 3.374
5.5 2.160 2.237 2.314 2.391 2.468 2.546 2.623 2.700 2.777 2.854 2.931 3.008 3.086 3.394 3.703
5.75 2.361 2.445 2.529 2.614 2.698 2.782 2.867 2.951 3.035 3.119 3.204 3.288 3.372 3.710 4.047
6 2.570 2.662 2.754 2.846 2.938 3.029 3.121 3.213 3.305 3.397 3.488 3.580 3.672 4.039 4.406
6.25 2.789 2.889 2.988 3.088 3.188 3.287 3.387 3.486 3.586 3.686 3.785 3.885 3.984 4.383 4.781
6.5 3.017 3.124 3.232 3.340 3.448 3.555 3.663 3.771 3.879 3.986 4.094 4.202 4.310 4.740 5.171
6.75 3.253 3.369 3.486 3.602 3.718 3.834 3.950 4.066 4.183 4.299 4.415 4.531 4.647 5.112 5.577
7 3.499 3.624 3.749 3.873 3.998 4.123 4.248 4.373 4.498 4.623 4.748 4.873 4.998 5.498 5.998
7.25 3.753 3.887 4.021 4.155 4.289 4.423 4.557 4.691 4.825 4.959 5.093 5.227 5.361 5.898 6.434
7.5 4.016 4.160 4.303 4.447 4.590 4.733 4.877 5.020 5.164 5.307 5.451 5.594 5.738 6.311 6.885
7.75 4.288 4.442 4.595 4.748 4.901 5.054 5.207 5.361 5.514 5.667 5.820 5.973 6.126 6.739 7.352
8 4.570 4.733 4.896 5.059 5.222 5.386 5.549 5.712 5.875 6.038 6.202 6.365 6.528 7.181 7.834

Multiply output by strokes per minute and volumetric efficiency to get pump output in GPM.
2
Equation used GPM = 0.0102 x liner x stroke length x SPM x efficiency

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
 Field Operating Guidelines
STANDARD MEASUREMENT UNITS

Conversion Factors
Quantity/Property Units SI Units Symbol
Multiply by:
Depth ft. 0.3048 meters m
0.445 decanewtons daN
Weight-on-bit lbs.
4.535 x 10-4 tonne tonne
Nozzle Size 32nds in. 0.794 millimeters mm
Drill Rate ft./hr. 0.3048 meters/hour m/hr.
barrels 0.1590 cubic meters m3
Volume
U.S. gal./stroke 3.785 x 10-3 cubic meters/stroke m3/stroke
U.S. gal./min. 3.875 x 10-3 cubic meters/minute m3/min.
Pump Output & Flow bbls./stroke an oil barrel is cubic meters/stroke m3/stroke
Rate 0.159873 x m3 exactly
bbls./min. cubic m3/min.
0.1590 meters/minute
Annular Velocity &
ft./min. 0.3048 meters/minute m/min.
Slip Velocity
Linear Length &
in. 25.4 millimeters mm
Diameter
6.895 kilopascals KPa
Pressure psi 0.006895 megapascals MPa
0.06895 bar bar
Mud Density lbs./gal. (U.S) 119.83 kilogram/cubic meter kg/m3
Mud Gradient psi/ft. 22.621 kilopascals/meter KPa/m
Funnel Viscosity sec./qt. (U.S) 1.057 seconds/liters s/l
Apparent & Plastic
centipose 1 millipascals seconds mPa’s
Viscosity Yield Point
Gel Strength & Stress lb.f/100ft² 0.4788 pascals Pa
Cake Thickness 32nds in. 0.794 millimeters mm
Filter Loss mm or cc 1 cubic centimeters cm3
Torque ft./lbs. 1.3358 newtons meters N-m

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.
Field Operating Guidelines
REFERENCES

J.V. Kenner and M.R. Isbell, Hughes Christensen,"Dynamic Analysis Reveals Stability of Roller Cone Rock Bits".
September 25-28, 1994, SPE 28314

A.K. Booer and R.J. Meehan, Schlumberger Cambridge Research, "Drillstring Imaging-An Interpretation of Surface
Drilling Vibrations". June 1993, SPE Drilling and Completions

Blas Ortiz, SPE, Security DBS Intl. - A Division of Dresser Ind., Cesar Casallas, Security DBS - Colombia, Hector
Parra, BP Exploration - Colombia. "Improved Bit Stability Reduces Downhole Harmonics (Vibrations)".
September 09-11, 1996, IADC/SPE 36413

I.G. Falconer, T.M. Buress, and M.C. Sheppard, Anadrill/Schlumberger, "Separating Bit and Lithology Effects
from Drilling Mechanics Data". February 28 - March 2, 1998, IADC/SPE 17191

R.L. Cook and J.W. Nicholson, Shell Development Co., and M.C. Sheppard and W. Westlake,
Anadrill/Schlumberger. "First Real Time Measurements of Downhole Vibrations, Forces, and Pressures Used To
Monitor Directional Drilling Operations", February 28 - March 3, 1989, SPE/IADC 18651.

Prasert Sananikone, Osamu Kamoshima, and D.B. White, Sedco Forex Schlumberger. "A Field Method for
Controlling Drillstring Torsional Vibrations". February 18 - 21, 1992, IADC/SPE 23891.

C.A. Zamudio, J.L. Tlusty, and D.W. Dareing, U. of Florida. "Self-Excited Vibrations in Drillstrings". September
27 - 30, 1987, SPE 16661

G.W. Halswy, A. Kyllingsttad, and A. Kylling, Rogaland Research Inst., "Torque Feedback Used to Cure Slip-Stick
Motion". October 2 -5, 1988, SPE 18049

T.M. Burgess and C.A. Martin, Anadrell/Schlumberger, "Wellsite Action on Drilling Mechanics Information
Improves Economics". February -2 March 1995, SPE/IADC 29431

M.J. Fear, BP Exploration Co. (Colombia) Ltd., and Fereidoun Abbassian, BP Exploration, "Experience in the
Detection and Suppression of Torsional Vibration From Mud Logging Data". October 25 - 27, 1994, SPE 28908

S.H.L. parfitt and Fereidoun Abbassian, BP Exploration, "A Model for Shock Sub Performance Qualification".
February 28 - March 2, 1995, SPE/IADC 29354

Don W. Dareing, SPE, "Drill Collar Length is a Major Factor in Vibration Control", April 1984

J. Ford Brett, SPE, Oil & Gas consultants Intl. Inc., "The Genesis of Torsional Drillstring Vibrations", September
1992

V.A. Dunayevsky, A. Judzis, and W.H. Millis, Sohio Petroleum Co. and G. Griffin, Standard Oil Co. (Ohio),
"Dynamic Stability of Drillstrings Under Fluctuating Weights-on-Bit". September 22 - 25, 1985, SPE 14329

S.F. Wolf, M. Zachsenhouse, and A. Arian, NL Industries Inc., "Field Measurements of Downhole Drillstring
Vibrations". September 22 - 25, 1985, SPE 14330

J. Ford Brett, SPE, Thomas M. Warren, SPE, and Suzanne M. Behr, SPE, Amoco Production Co., "Bit Whirl-A
New Theory of PDC Bit Failure". December 1990

Copyright © 1998 Smith International Confidential -- For Internal Use Only -- Ver 1.33 -0 3/2003
May not be disclosed, used or reproduced without written permission from Smith International, Inc.