Three-Dimensional Modeling of PDC Bits
21928
Behr, S.M.
Warren, T.M.
Sinor, L.A.
Brett, J.F.
Abstract
PDC bit modeling has historically incorporated the PDC bit modeling has historically
incorporated the assumption that cutter forces are constant for a full revolution
of the bit. This assumption places considerable limitations on the model's
ability to simulate drilling in nonhomogeneous rock and in cases where the
bit whirls. Recent studies have shown that cutter damage due to impact loading
is a primary cause of PDC bit failure. These impacts may primary cause of
PDC bit failure. These impacts may be caused by both bit whirl and drilling
through nonhomogeneous rock. The three dimensional model presented in this
paper provides the capability to presented in this paper provides the capability
to evaluate cutter loading for both of these conditions. It shows that the
cutter loads for common drilling situations may be as much as ten times greater
than those calculated with previously available two dimensional models.