The new Hughes Christensen IRev infinite-revolution bit improves run life while minimizing trips and the number of bits required when drilling in hard and abrasive intervals, including sandstones or complex sections interbedded with softer shales. Learn more: http://bit.ly/IRevBits

1. TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
24 JPT • FEBRUARY 2014
Infinite-Revolution Bit
Baker Hughes has introduced the Hughes
Christensen IRev infinite-revolution bit
that improves run life while minimiz-
ing trips and the number of bits required
when drilling in hard and abrasive inter-
vals, including sandstones or complex
sections interbedded with softer shales.
IRev technology features a cutting struc-
ture that includes diamond-impregnat-
ed posts that allow an increased rate of
rock removal, enabling the bit to drill in
places where polycrystalline-diamond-
compact bits typically cannot perform
(Fig. 3). As diamonds wear away, new dia-
monds are exposed to enhance perfor-
mance and extend bit life further. Other
new features of the IRev bit include a
designthatenableshighertorqueoutputto
deliver greater rate of penetration (ROP).
Application-specific diamond grits pro-
vide optimal performance by matching
technology to application. Depending on
the application environment, addition-
al features can be incorporated into the
IRev bit to deliver superior performance.
New profiles balance workloads better to
extend bit life, while improved hydraulics
enables more-effective cleaning in hard
sections interbedded with stickier, softer
shalesandsiltstones.Postscanbeexposed
above the blades to improve aggressive-
ness in less-demanding applications,
delivering higher ROP. JPT
◗◗ For additional information, visit
www.bakerhughes.com.
Chris Carpenter, JPT Technology Editor
Copyright 2014, Society of Petroleum Engineers. Reprinted from the Journal of Petroleum Technology with permission.
Fig. 3—The IRev infinite-revolution
bit from Baker Hughes offers
increased rates of rock removal
and penetration.