Case Study: High-Performance PDC Drill Bit Delivers Exceptional ROP for Su 76-8-32X Well in Liujiagou Formation
Project Overview
Client: Sinopec Oilfield Branch
Well Location: Su 76-8-32X Well, Liujiagou Formation
Drilling Challenge: Achieving efficient penetration through hard and abrasive formations while maximizing drilling rate and minimizing tool wear.
Bit Specs: 8-1/2SD9633 PDC Drill Bit (Bit No. 2557)
Service Life Target: Optimize pure drilling time and extend bit run life for continuous well construction.
Drilling Parameters & Performance Metrics
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Bit Specification Number | 8-1/2SD9633 |
| Bit Serial Number | 2557 |
| Target Interval | 688 - 2760 m |
| Drilling Team | No. 40695 Well Team |
| Total Drilled Depth | 2072 m |
| Pure Drilling Time | 32 hours |
| Mechanical Drilling Rate (ROP) | 64.75 m/h |
Key Challenges Overcome
Formation Abrasiveness: The Liujiaga Formation is characterized by high abrasion resistance and compact rock structure, which poses severe wear risks for conventional drill bits and often leads to reduced ROP and frequent bit trips.
Efficiency Demands: The project required minimizing non-productive time (NPT) from bit changes or performance issues, while meeting strict depth progress targets for the wellbore construction schedule.
Precision Requirements: Maintaining stable borehole quality alongside high ROP was critical to avoid subsequent casing and completion operational challenges.
Solution Implementation
Our 8-1/2SD9633 PDC drill bit was selected for the Su 76-8-32X well based on its specialized design for hard formations:
Advanced Matrix Material: The bit body is constructed with high-strength, wear-resistant matrix composite, ensuring structural integrity in abrasive Liujiaga Formation rock.
Optimized Cutter Layout: Precision-engineered cutter array with premium polycrystalline diamond compact cutters, engineered to deliver aggressive penetration while balancing cutter stability and impact resistance.
Hydraulic Optimization: Refined hydraulic nozzles and flow channels to enhance cuttings removal, preventing bit balling and maintaining consistent ROP throughout the run.
Field Technical Support: On-site engineering team provided real-time parameter adjustment, including weight on bit (WOB) and rotary speed, to align with formation characteristics and maximize bit performance.
Results & Achievements
The 8-1/2SD9633 PDC drill bit delivered outstanding results for the Su 76-8-32X well, exceeding client expectations across key performance indicators:
1. Exceptional Drilling Efficiency
Achieved a mechanical drilling rate of 64.75 m/h—a 15% improvement compared to the client’s historical average for similar formations in the region.
Completed the 2072 m drilling interval in just 32 hours of pure drilling time, drastically reducing overall well construction duration and accelerating project timeline.
2. Minimal Non-Productive Time (NPT)
Eliminated premature bit wear or failure, avoiding unplanned bit trips and associated downtime. The bit maintained stable performance for the entire run, with no signs of excessive cutter damage or body wear post-job.
3. Borehole Quality Assurance
Delivered a smooth, gauge-stable borehole throughout the 688–2760 m interval, meeting the client’s stringent standards for casing running and subsequent well completion operations. This reduced the need for reaming or borehole correction, further optimizing project costs.
4. Cost Efficiency
By maximizing ROP and extending bit run life, the solution reduced per-meter drilling costs by approximately 12% compared to alternative bits used in nearby offset wells. The elimination of NPT also translated to significant labor and equipment cost savings for the client.
Client Testimonial
“The 8-1/2SD9633 PDC drill bit from Shaanxi Hainaisen Petroleum Technology Co., Ltd proved to be a game-changer for the Su 76-8-32X well. Its superior performance in the abrasive Liujiaga Formation allowed us to hit our depth targets ahead of schedule, while minimizing operational disruptions. The combination of high ROP and reliable borehole quality made this bit the ideal choice for our project, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for future drilling operations.”— Project Manager, Sinopec Oilfield Branch
Conclusion
This case demonstrates the expertise of Shaanxi Hainaisen Petroleum Technology Co., Ltd in delivering tailored PDC drill bit solutions for challenging downhole environments. The 8-1/2SD9633 model’s combination of advanced materials, optimized cutter design, and field-proven performance enabled the client to achieve unprecedented efficiency and cost savings for the Su 76-8-32X well.
At Shaanxi Hainaisen Petroleum Technology Co., Ltd, we combine decades of engineering experience with real-world field data to develop drill bit solutions that address the unique demands of each wellsite. Whether operating in hard-abrasive formations, high-temperature environments, or complex structural settings, our products are engineered to maximize ROP, minimize NPT, and drive operational success for our global clients.
Contact Us
For more information about our PDC drill bit solutions or to discuss your specific drilling project requirements, visit www.hnsdrillbit.com or contact our technical sales team today.
