Why Re-run Drill Bits Can Be a Good Fit for Some Projects

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Re-run drill bits are a crucial tool in the drilling industry. They are designed to be used multiple times and can save drillers a significant amount of money. Essentially, re-run drill bits are drill bits that have been used before and have been reconditioned to be as good as new. This means any damage or wear and tear that has occurred while drilling has been repaired, and the drill bit has been sharpened to maintain its performance. The process of reconditioning involves cleaning, inspecting, repairing, and sharpening the drill bit to ensure it meets industry standards. Re-run drill bits provide an eco-friendly option for drilling companies as they reduce waste and are an economically viable alternative to purchasing new drill bits.

Choosing the right drill bit for a project

It is important to choose the right drilling bit for a project, whether that is going to be re-run or new. The type of bit selected can significantly influence the success of the project and the time and resources required to complete the job. A poor quality or inappropriate drill bit can have a negative impact on the overall project’s results, leading to lost time, increased costs, and reduced success rates. Choosing the right bit can not only save time and money but also lead to more efficient results.

Advantages of re-run drill bits

Cost-effective

Re-run drill bits are a budget-friendly option for companies looking to reduce their drilling costs. These bits are made from high-quality materials and are carefully inspected and refurbished to ensure that they are in excellent condition. This means that they offer the same level of performance as new drill bits without the higher price tag. Overall, re-run drill bits are an effective way for companies to save money without compromising on quality.

Durable

Re-run drill bits are durable pieces of equipment that can help drilling companies save significant amounts of money in the long run. As their name suggests, these bits are designed to be used multiple times, which means they can withstand the wear and tear of repeated drilling operations. Re-run bits are particularly useful for companies that frequently drill in the same type of formation or use a similar drilling technique. By investing in these high-quality bits, companies can reduce their overall drilling costs and improve their bottom line over time. 

Eco-friendly

Re-run drill bits are a step towards eco-friendliness in the drilling industry. These drill bits are used and have been refurbished for further use instead of being thrown away. They are designed to be durable, and with a little bit of reconditioning, they can perform just as well as a brand-new drill bit. By using re-run drill bits, drilling companies can significantly reduce waste and save money at the same time. Not only is this environmentally responsible, but it also makes business sense, as purchasing new drill bits can be expensive. With re-run drill bits, both drilling companies and the environment benefit.

Types of projects where re-run drill bits are a good fit

Re-run in-ground drilling bits are an excellent solution for a variety of drilling projects where budget constraints are a concern. These drill bits have a proven track record of performing well while maintaining maximum efficiency with minimal wear. Re-run bits are an ideal option for those looking to get the most out of their drilling projects while keeping their expenses under control.

Re-run drill bits are especially suitable for large commercial drilling projects:

Selecting a re-run drill bit

When it comes to selecting re-run drill bits, there are several factors that must be taken into account. Firstly, the condition of the bits should be assessed thoroughly to determine whether they are suitable for reuse. Only bits that have undergone proper maintenance and are in good condition should be considered. The re-run bits at OK-Bit must pass strict quality control scrutiny before we offer them for sale. 

 

Secondly, the compatibility of the bit with the drilling application is of utmost importance as it can affect the overall drilling efficiency and effectiveness. You need to make sure that the re-run bit is appropriate for the material being drilled, the equipment being used, and the overall drilling specifications. 

 

Lastly, the cost-effectiveness of the re-run bit must also be considered. While this option may be cheaper, it is important to weigh the cost savings against potential risks and the potential impact on drilling efficiency and productivity.

When to use re-run drill bits

Re-run drill bits are a great solution for many large commercial drilling tasks. When a drill bit has lost its cutting ability or starts to wear out, the option to re-run it can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a brand-new drill bit. Re-running allows the bit to be refurbished, extending its lifespan and performance while also lowering upfront expenses. Factors to consider when deciding to re-run a drill bit include its original condition, the type of rock it will be drilling into, and the depth of the well. In some cases, re-run bits may not be the best choice, but for the right application, they can save time and money while still providing high-quality drilling results.

Where to find the right drill bit for your project

If you’re a driller looking for a re-run bit in Oklahoma, Arizona, or anywhere else, chances are good that you know what you are looking for. And chances are even better that we will have it in stock and ready. Whether you want to come pick it up in person or if delivery or shipping is the better option for you, we’ll make sure you get what you need. If you do need advice on which bit to choose, we have been the drill bit experts for 46 years, and you can count on our family to steer you in the right direction.

Looking to sell used drilling bits?

O-K Bit buys used bits of any kind. Recoup some of your costs by selling us your used bits. We buy large or small quantities of used bits of any kind–in almost any condition. We rebuild, retip, and refurbish all kinds of bits to keep our re-run drill bits inventory stocked. We are the world’s largest retailer of used bits and have a reputation for keeping quality re-runs of all kinds stocked and ready to use.

Water Well Drilling: What Bit Type Do I Need?

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If you’re familiar with drilling at all, you know it’s all about the geology. It’s no different when drilling for water wells. Rock formation type, depth of the overburden, bedrock and the aquifer all play a role in how you determine the method of drilling and which equipment and drill bits you need. You might need roller cone bits, step drag bits, claw bits, chevron bits or PDC bits for water well drilling, but it’s dependent on the application. 

 

If you already know what type of bit you need, contact our team to make an order. O-K Bit is the world’s largest supplier of rerun bits, and we’re happy to provide you with whichever bits you’re looking for. 

 

Types of Water Wells

While you are probably interested in information about how water wells are drilled and what bits you may need, it’s important to note that drilled wells are not the only type of water wells. 

 

There are three primary types of water wells: drilled wells, dug wells and driven wells. Each has its own unique characteristics. 

 

  • Drilled Wells – Drilled water wells utilize a drilling rig and drill bits to bore into the earth. The bit rotates clockwise to create the borehole. As the bit breaks up the soil and rock beneath, the wells are drilled deep into the ground (often between 100 and 500 feet). 
  • Dug Wells – Dug wells are water wells that are created by digging a hole in the ground and lining the walls of the hole with brick, tile or stone. The hole is drilled to a level below the water table so that the water comes into the hole and can be bailed out. 
  • Driven Wells – These wells are made by driving pipe into the ground. Driven wells are relatively shallow (30 to 50 feet deep) and, therefore, they draw in water that is in aquifers close to the surface.  

 

All three types of wells penetrate below the water table into the aquifer below (although to different depths). The water from the aquifer is then pumped or bailed out through the well. However, driven wells and dug wells are more likely to be contaminated because they draw water from shallower depths which are more likely to have bacteria or contamination.  

 

How are water wells drilled?

Drilling water wells is a process that involves many steps. The lengthy process is valuable though because, if done correctly, a water well can provide water for a hundred years or longer. The process also helps drillers ensure they are equipped with the right tools and drill bits for successfully drilling the well. 

Steps for drilling a water well: 

  • Identify the desired location – Before beginning the process, it’s important to identify the well’s location and ensure an adequate supply of groundwater. If there is not an adequate water supply or the correct directional flow of water, you may need to select a different site. 
  • Evaluate the site of the well – evaluating the site is an important step for determining the desired depth of the well, understanding the rock formations present and selecting the equipment needed for the well. This includes choosing the correct drill bits for your water well drilling site. 
  • Drilling the well – drilling the well will involve setting up the drilling rig, drilling the borehole and installing the casing and screen. 
  • Pumping and evaluating – after the drilling, the pumped yield of the well will be evaluated and then developed. For most wells, there will be fine materials (minerals and sediment) that need to be removed so the water more effectively moves into the well.
  • Testing and disinfecting – The water will then be tested for quantity and quality. The well will be disinfected. After the water well is successfully drilled, it will be capped (for sanitary protection) until it can be connected to the customer’s system. 

 

Bits Used for Water Well Drilling 

A wide variety of drill bits are used for water well drilling. The rock formations of the drilling site will determine which bits are needed, but the O-K Bit team is equipped with whichever water well drill bits you need. 

 

The following bits are commonly used for water well drilling: 

  • Step Drag Bits 
  • Roller Cone Bits 
  • PDC Bits 
  • Claw Bits 
  • Reamer Bits 

Step Drag Bits 

Step drag bits are commonly used for drilling pilot holes. They are useful in this application because their cuttings are easiest to log and they are able to drill quickly. They are durable and hard, which means they have the longevity that many other bit types lack. Step bits are also used in sand, clay and other medium-hard rock formations throughout the drilling process. You should avoid using step bits in hard or coarse gravel rock formations because they will not be able to shear effectively. 

Roller Cone Bits 

Roller cone bits are identifiable by their rolling cone inserts. These cutting structures are useful for drilling through tough soil and rock. The tungsten carbide inserts are durable and self-cleaning, so as they crush and chip hard rock formations they remain productive. These bits are used at lower penetration rates, but they are especially effective at breaking up hard rock. 

PDC Bits (Polycrystalline Diamond Compact Bits) 

You may use a PDC bit for a water well drilling application if you hope to drill very precisely in soft to medium rock formations. These bits utilize a synthetic diamond compound on the cutters to create a highly durable and productive cutting structure on the bit. PDC bits are able to achieve high penetration rates while in use. 

Claw Bits

If your water well drilling site has a high volume of clay, a claw bit may be useful as you drill your water well. A claw bit is designed to use its uniquely shaped fingers to dig into and loosen hard clay that otherwise would be difficult to bore through. These bits are highly durable and the cutting structures (the fingers) can be replaced when worn. 

Reamer Bits 

Finally, reamer bits are often used in water well drilling to widen the borehole and keep the hole straight. The cutting surfaces of these bits are attached below drill pipe which then aids in keeping the hole straight and prevents bits from becoming gummed up with clay. Most commonly, reamer bits are used in sandy soils or clay formations. 

Well Drilling Methods

There are a wide variety of well drilling methods and techniques. The best approach will likely depend on the unique conditions of your drilling site. A few of these methods are: 

  • Down the Hole Drilling 
  • Air Rotary Drilling 
  • Bucket Auger Drilling 
  • Cable Tool Drilling 
  • Reverse Circulation Drilling 
  • Mud Rotary Drilling 

Regardless of the method or location of your water well drilling, O-K Bit is here to help you select the best new and rerun bits for the job. Contact our team today to order the supplies you need for water well drilling.

Matrix Body PDC Bits vs. Steel Body PDC Bits

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If you have worked in drilling for any amount of time, you’ve probably heard about PDC bits. PDC stands for “polycrystalline diamond compact,” which describes the material compound that makes up these bits’ cutting surface. Both Matrix Body PDC and Steel Body PDC are made with this compound. 

These bits go by many names. They are commonly called: 

  • PDC Bits 
  • Polycrystalline diamond compact bits 
  • Composite chip tooth bits 
  • Polycrystalline diamond cutting block bits 

PDC bits are often used for oil drilling – but are popular in other industries as well. They were created in 1976 and are just as popular now as roller-cone bits (the kind of bit that has rotating parts). While PDC bits have a long history of success, they continue to evolve and constantly improve through new and innovative cutting angles, arrangements, and materials. These bits are very efficient as they work to shear away rock formations rather than crushing them. Each year, new advances in technology improve the efficacy of PDC bits and improve drilling speed. 

These bits are known as the “nose-to-the-grindstone” bits of the drilling industry – they get the job done and can be highly effective for a wide range of services and formation types—no moving parts to get jammed up, no fuss, just effective drilling for all your needs. 

You’ve come to the right place if you need new or rerun, refurbished PDC bits. O-K bit is the world’s largest supplier of rerun bits. We’d love to equip you with the PDC bits you need. 

If you want to learn more about Matrix Body PDC Bits and Steel Body, keep reading! 

What Are PDC Bits? 

There are two primary styles of PDC drill bits – matrix body PDC bits and steel body PDC bits. Both are similarly shaped round bits with four to eight cutting structures, or blades, that fan out from the middle. Each blade is then topped with between ten and thirty cutters. The bits have water channels dispersed for cooling, and there is a nozzle at the apex of the bit. If you’re trying to imagine this bit, it looks a bit like the crown a king might wear. 

 

PDC bits are used for oil and gas drilling, geothermal drilling, water well drilling, construction drilling, mining and horizontal directional drilling. O-K Bit can supply the PDC bits for your drilling projects; please contact us to place an order. 

The Science Behind PDC Bits 

You may have learned in school that diamond is the hardest material known to man. It is! And it is perfect for cutting through other materials like rock formations for drilling. 

PDC bits utilize tiny, inexpensive, man-made diamonds in their cutting structures. The process of creating the diamonds on these bits is complicated. Simplified, here is the process for creating diamond drill bits: 

  • The tiny synthetic diamonds are made 
  • The diamonds are then aggregated into large masses of crystals 
  • The crystals are then shaped into diamond tables 
  • Diamond tables are then bonded to metal, typically tungsten carbide, and a metallic binder 
  • This becomes the cutter part of the bit – there are many cutters on each blade of the bit
  • The cutters are then attached to the blades, which are attached to the body of the bit  

Together, the cutters and blades on the tip of the PDC bit are used to cut through rock formations of all kinds. 

Synthetic Diamonds in Drill Bits 

As you can see, synthetic diamonds are the key material for PDC bits. In manufacturing these bits, ultra-small grains of diamond (also called diamond grit) are created. This grit is very durable but becomes less stable at a molecular level when it heats up. So, your PDC bit is more likely to fail if not adequately cooled when in use. 

Regardless, synthetic diamonds are incredibly wear-resistant; they are the ideal material for longevity and durability. The metal type changes if you choose a matrix or steel body bit – but the diamond is critical.  PDC bits can have a long lifespan as long as they are adequately cooled. 

Matrix Body PDC Bits 

Matrix body bits are one of the most popular PDC bit types. They are made of a composite material that is both hard and brittle. The material is made of tungsten carbide grains metallically bonded with a softer, tougher metallic binder. While Matrix body bits are not as strong against impacts, they have much better abrasion resistance than steel body PDC bits.

Matrix body bits are created by using a mold heated in a furnace. The mold is filled with the metal composite in a solid form, heated to melt, cooled, and then assembled with the cutters. 

Uses of Matrix Body PDC Bits

Matrix body PDC bits are primarily used for these applications: 

  • Soft to medium-hard formations 
  • High volume 
  • High sand 
  • Applications where the same bit will need to be used for several bit runs 

Steel Body PDC Bits 

Steel body PDC bits are another of the most common PDC bit types. These bits are the opposite of a matrix bit in composition. They are made from steel instead of the metal composite used for matrix body PDC bits. They are excellent at impact resistance but are more likely to be compromised by erosion. 

Steel PDC bits use the cutting action of the bit to break up the rock it is drilling into. They are typically very stable and can drill at high speeds. 

These bits are made from steel bars. The bars are machined with metallic mills and lathes to make the bit body, and then the cutting teeth and post are welded to it. Steel PDC bits are more easily formed into complex shapes and designs. Creating intricate designs allows for a greater variety of cutting faces and features. Variations in cutting features can be helpful when drilling in unique rock formations. 

Uses of Steel Body PDC Bits 

Steel body PDC bits are useful in applications that include: 

  • Drilling in shale formations 
  • Soft limestone sites 
  • Fast drilling in the stratum 
  • Natural gas drilling 
  • Deep wells 
  • Abrasive formations 

Buy PDC Bits Online 

Choosing a supplier for PDC bits can be an overwhelming task. Although there are many excellent options to choose from, O-K Bit is an experienced supplier with the largest inventory in the USA of new and rerun bits. O-K Bit has a large selection of PDC bits available for various drilling operations. Contact the O-K Bit team to find the new or rerun bits for your drilling projects.

What Drag Bit Do I Need? Chevron Vs. Step

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Drag bits are used for drilling across a wide variety of industries – from mining, water well, and geothermal drilling to natural gas and oilfield drilling. Because they are used in various environments and applications, drag bits are some of the most popular bits used worldwide. 

There are different varieties of drag bits, but the most common are chevron drag bits and step drag bits. Depending on your formation type and density, the ideal size of the bit and style may vary.  If you’re questioning, “What type of drag bit do I need?” you are in the right place. We’ve outlined chevron bits vs. step bits here, but you can always ask the experts at O-K Bit, too! 

O-K Bit is a leader in providing new and refurbished bits for any type of drilling in nearly any formation. Contact O-K Bit today, and our team of knowledgeable experts can supply the products and information you need. We’re always happy to guide customers to the best bit for their specific drilling project. 

When should I use a drag bit? 

A drag bit is probably your best bet if you are attempting to drill through soft formations like clay, sand, and some very soft rocks. They are designed to work well in soft formations, but if you are drilling in harder or more rocky formations, you might need to explore tricone, PDC, or another bit type. 

Drag bits are often used to drill pilot holes. If you are looking to sample and log a series of cuttings, a drag bit would be helpful to complete this work. Because of the design and cost of drag bits, they can also be more economical for drilling. 

How does a drag bit work? 

Drag bits, including chevron bits and step bits, are most often made of alloy steel, but they can be manufactured using tungsten carbide. Some are solid cast, and others are welded. The construction of tungsten carbide bits makes them more durable. Tungsten carbide bits may serve you better if drilling in a rocky formation or for other specialty purposes. If you’re drilling in sand or clay, an alloy steel bit will probably suffice. The cutting structures vary on chevron drag bits and step drag bits. Still, both designs feature a central opening with radial cutting structures or wings. 

To understand how drag bits work, imagine you’re drilling a small pilot hole in a wall with a tiny household drill bit. After it’s drilled, that pilot hole can then be used as a guide for a larger bit to bore through. Drag bits work in the same way; the tip of the bit essentially creates a pilot hole for the rest of the cutting structure to shear and expand the hole. Drag bits do not have the fastest rotation or rate of penetration (ROP), but they are effective and can be very precise. 

Another benefit of drag bits is the simplicity of design and lack of rotating parts. While roller bits or others may become stuck in soft formations, drag bits often drill more efficiently and require less maintenance. 

Step Drag Bits 

Step drag bits are one common type of drag bit and one of the most common bit types used worldwide. As the name indicates, the cutting structures of these bits feature a stair-stepped design. They are pointed at the top, stairstep down, and become wider at the base of the bit. Step-type drag bits can have three or four wings. Four-wing bits are typically more durable and longer lasting. You’ll also find them more precise and able to drill a straighter hole. Three-wing step drag bits tend to drill faster but with less precision.  The number of steps usually depends on the size of the bit. 

Uses for Step Drag Bits 

  • Drilling in sand, clay, shale, limestone, and some gravel 
  • Sampling and logging cuttings – because the design provides larger cuttings 
  • Drilling efficiently – step drag bits can maintain rotary table speeds of 60 to 80 rpm 
  • Drilling for water wells, mining, geothermal, environmental, and exploration drilling

Chevron Drag Bits

Chevron drag bits are the other typical style of drag bits. Three or four wings create the cutting structure of chevron bits in a radial formation. Each wing is pointed at the tip and widens towards the base. Each wing forms its own chevron shape, as the name indicates. Like step drag bits, chevron bits can have three or four wings. The tips of the wings are often made of tungsten carbide or another highly-durable material to strengthen the bit and attack difficult rock formations. 

Generally, chevron bits are more durable than step drag bits and can successfully drill in more rocky and abrasive formations. Another feature of the chevron bit is its ability to drill through plugs and concrete casings. If you get stuck in a jam, the chevron bit can probably bail you out – it really is a robust and vigorous bit that can be used almost anywhere. You’ll find using a chevron bit requires more pressure on the bit, and the drilling process may be a little slower than a step bit. 

Uses of Chevron Drag Bits 

  • Drilling in both soft and medium formations, including shale, sandstone, limestone, other rock formations, casings, and concrete 
  • Drilling slowly in harder formations and maintaining a consistent borehole – 50 to 60 rpm is typical 
  • Drilling for water wells, mining, geothermal, environmental, and exploration drilling

So, What Kind of Drag Bit Do I Need?

Without understanding the geology and environment in which you are drilling, it’s hard to say exactly which type of drag bit you need. There are a few things you can consider to help determine which drag bit is best, though. Is your rock formation soft and porous (step bits), or is it a medium to hard formation (chevron bits)? Do you prefer to cut through the rock very quickly (step bits), or slowly and steadily (chevron bits)? Do you need to collect cutting samples to log (step bits)? 

After learning more about step drag bits and chevron drag bits, the answer may be pretty clear-cut. If it’s not, that’s okay. Choosing the right bit can make all the difference to the cost, efficiency, and success of your drilling project. We understand you want to make the right decision. O-K Bit is ready to help. Our team is the world’s largest retailer of refurbished bits in the world, and we really do know our stuff.  Contact us today to get started.

Your Guide to DTH Drilling

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Pneumatic tools have been used to drill through rock since the 19th century. Back then, drillers would suspend themselves from a rope over a quarry face to put a drill from the right position and use small diameter holes. The process was inefficient and dangerous. It could send rocks flying and the accuracy was subject as much to luck as it was skill. After a while, drilling crews started carrying jackhammers on masts, beautiful boreholes were misaligned, the explosives that followed could be even more dangerous.

Thankfully, we live in the modern era, where down the hole (DTH) drilling has become one of the most efficient and safest methods since its invention in the mid 1950s. Let’s explore what DTH drilling is, why it’s such a successful technique, and how it might be the perfect process for your drilling operation.

What is DTH Drilling and how does it work?

DTH drilling is a drilling method that’s used to crush rock by using a drilling hammer to hit hard rock repeatedly. DTH drills are pneumatic tools that provide power by driving compressed air into a piston inside the hammer. This type of drilling has made it much easier to drill wells quickly and efficiently by allowing contractors to switch from dirt boring to rock boring simply by adding a compressor and hammer to a drill bit.

Before DTH became a widespread drilling technique, contractors would desert a dirt bore project after encountering hard rock, leaving it to a different set of drillers to continue. With DTH drilling, the same drilling team can work through multiple materials.

At its most basic level, DTH drilling involves attaching a drilling hammer to the bottom of a drill string. Small, percussive hammers are placed above the drill bit, allowing drill pipes to exert a feed force necessary to rotate the hammer and bit together with fluid (usually air, water, or mud). This actuates the hammer and flushes the cutting. Drill pipes are then added to the drill string as the hole gets deeper.

Because the air-powered piston strikes the bit directly, energy is transferred down the hole, minimizing any lost energy. This allows drilling to greater depths.

DTH Drilling is most often used in the mining industry, where blast hole drilling is necessary for projects like water well drilling, building construction, and oil and gas processes.

Types of DTH Drilling Hammers

DTH hammers are fully fluid actuated. There are two primary parts: a valve which controls the flow and a piston that strikes the impact surface. The hammer body allows for stable, straight guidance of the bit. There are three types of hammers that depend on the actuation fluid:

  • Air hammers – These are typically limited to shallow holes of less than 200 meters.
  • Water hammers – These require a lost water flow of between 55 and 744 L/min depending on hammer size to actuate the hammer. These allow for better borehole control and greater depth than air hammers.
  • Drilling mud hammers –  These are the newest types of drilling hammers, but they’ve shown a lot of promise so far. They’re able to drill on every existing drilling rig by using classical mud composition. They are fantastic choices for drilling into hard rock in geothermal projects due to their ability to drill extremely deep.

What are the benefits of DTH drilling?

DTH drilling is extremely effective, which is why we’ve been using it for the past seven decades. Some of the major benefits include:

  • The use of air is extremely efficient. You don’t have to buy, source, treat, or transport it for use.
  • DTH systems are simple to adapt to most directional drills, and it doesn’t take long.
  • Very little rotational torque is required to cut rock that will allow the hammer to drill straight.
  • The same drill can be used to drill through both dirt and rock.
  • There isn’t as much wear and tear on a drill bit since the hammer is doing most of the work.
  • There is a smaller carbon footprint than other techniques due to the use of less drilling mud and additives that need to be disposed of.
  • It can be used more often in cities because it produces less noise and vibrations than alternatives. 
  • Fewer amounts of additives and drilling fluids are required than for alternatives.
  • The rate of penetrations is up to five times greater than rotary drilling techniques.

OK Bit has the DTH Drill Bits you need

If you’ve decided DTH is the right drilling method for your project, OK Bit can supply you with whatever bits you need to get the job done. If you aren’t sure if DTH drilling is the best choice or if you need help choosing a specific hammer or bit, our expert staff will be happy to help. Contact us today.

a geothermal energy site

Geothermal Drilling and Energy: A Simple Guide

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When it comes to drilling for energy sources, efficiency is the name of the game. The less energy you use to access more energy sources, the more efficient the system. This is beneficial for both financial and ecological reasons. It costs money to use energy, and wasted energy releases greenhouse gasses that pollute the planet. But what if you could harness energy that already exists beneath the surface of the planet? Geothermal energy aims to do just that. Let’s discuss the geothermal drilling process as well as its benefits.

What is Geothermal Drilling?

Geothermal energy is the heat produced deep beneath Earth’s surface in the core. It’s created naturally through geological processes. This energy exists whether we use it or not, and even if we do, it renews as geological processes continue. The only challenge is accessing it. The most useful stash of energy exists between two and twelve miles under the surface, so special drilling technology is required to reach it.

 

Geothermal energy isn’t new, but it’s been increasing in popularity in recent years. This is especially true in Iceland, which transformed itself over the 20th century in large part by pioneering geothermal drilling. Now, 66% of the country’s primary energy use is derived from geothermal sources. Other countries are quickly catching up. As of 2021, it accounted for only .4% of energy in the USA, but that number is increasing quickly. Many see it as a method of the future.

How Does Geothermal Energy Work?

Geothermal well drilling varies in its methods. While some wells only need to be a few hundred feet deep, some reach depths spanning several miles. The most common method for extraction, often called conventional geothermal drilling, uses hot pressurized water near the surface to produce energy. Drillers pump the water up, extract its heat, then reinject the cooled water. Unfortunately, this method only works in areas with underground pools of hot, pressurized water, and these can be hard to find. Iceland’s success is largely due to an abundance of these pools

 

However, there is a newer, more practical extraction method called enhanced geothermal drilling. In this process, wells extract energy from non-porous rocks. Drillers inject water into a well, force it through fractures in hot rock, and pump it out of another well to extract the heat. There are still some engineering-related problems to overcome, but it’s widely considered to be the future of geothermal drilling.

 

What are the Benefits of Geothermal Energy?

 

  • Environmentally sustainable – Unlike traditional fuel sources like fossil fuels, geothermal energy produces essentially no emissions. Nothing is burned, and there isn’t a finite amount of its source. Sure, there’s still a small amount of greenhouse gas production, but it pales in comparison to burning fossil fuels.

  • Highly efficient – Geothermal pump systems use 25-50% less electricity than conventional HVAC systems when heating and cooling.

  • Fully renewable and reliable – Geothermal energy is fully renewable thanks to naturally occurring geological processes, but it’s also exceptionally reliable. Unlike other renewable energy sources like biomass, solar, or wind, geothermal energy isn’t dependent on any external circumstances. It’s available at all times, during any sort of weather or any time of year.
  • Maintenance-free (mostly) – Because there are so few movable parts in a geothermal system, they rarely malfunction or break. Pumps usually last for more than twenty years, and the pipes can last for more than fifty years.

 

The Future of Geothermal Drilling

Geothermal technology is getting cheaper as technology advances. In the last forty years, the cost of running a geothermal power plant has declined by nearly 50%.  As of right now, only about 10% of the Earth’s surface is fit for power production, but as enhanced geothermal drilling becomes more widely available, this will continue to make geothermal energy more accessible and affordable. 

 

The potential is incredible. The amount of heat that exists within 10,000 meters of Earth’s surface contains a mind-boggling 50,000 times more energy than all oil and natural gas resources in the world, combined. It’s waiting to be used. By investing in geothermal energy now, you can be a part of a cleaner, more affordable, more renewable, and more reliable energy source than traditional fossil fuels.

Is Geothermal Energy Right for Your Project?

Whether you’re an industrial driller looking to improve or replace your bits or a DIY enthusiast looking to create a geothermal well for your home, OK Bit has the drill bits you need. If you have questions about your specific project or about geothermal drilling as a whole, our experts will be happy to answer any questions you may have.  Contact us today to get started.

man working on a drilling operation

Your guide to horizontal directional drilling (HDD)

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Sometimes you need to drill beneath a road, a waterway, or some other obstacle that creates an engineering challenge for those used to downward drilling. Through the process of horizontal directional drilling (HDD), you can get your project done without disruption. But what exactly does HDD entail? Let’s explore this useful technique, the tools required to make it happen, and the reasons why it’s become such a popular drilling method.

 

If you need drill bits for your HDD operation, OK Bit has what you’re looking for. We offer a huge variety of new and rerun HDD bits. If you know what you’re looking for, contact us today to see if we have your bit in stock. If you aren’t sure, our experts will be happy to advise you on the best tool for the job.

 

How does horizontal directional drilling work?

There are three primary steps to horizontal directional drilling:

 

  1. Pilot hole drilling

    You’ll start HDD by drilling a small diameter pilot hole. Next, you’ll pump drilling fluid through the drill pipe to the bit, where high-pressure jets will help the bit grind soil ahead of the drill stem. This fluid carries cuttings back to the pit at the entrance of the drill rig.

  2. Pre-reaming

    Next, you’ll pre-ream the pilot hole until it’s a sufficient size to install product lines. You’ll pull the reamer back and rotate it while pumping drilling fluid, which will cut and remove debris to make the hole bigger. Additives like Bentonite are often used to ensure a stable hole.

  3. Pipe pullback

    Once your hole is pre-reamed, it’s time to pull back the pipe. Your reamer and drill rod will be able to swivel, preventing any torsional stress from the rotating drill string’s transfer to the product pipe.

What kinds of projects is HDD good for?

HDD is the best technique for installing a variety of types of underground infrastructure. It’s commonly used for:

 

  • Telecommunication cables
  • Fiber optic cables
  • Oil and gas pipelines
  • Water pipelines
  • Sewer pipelines
  • Electrical cables

 

If your project doesn’t fit any of the above categories, that doesn’t mean HDD isn’t your best option. Because of its versatility, the drilling industry is finding new applications all the time. Our experts can help you decide if it’s right for you.

The advantages of HDD:

  • Uninvasive – HDD allows you to install pipes and other utilities underground without disrupting anything above them on the surface. This is why it’s the most popular method for drilling in urban and suburban areas.

  • Easier to get permits – HDD creates less of a disturbance than the trench method and requires less equipment and people, so getting permits is a simpler process.

    • Cost efficient – For most projects, HDD is also cheaper than alternatives. You need fewer workers, less fuel, and fewer pieces of equipment. Additionally, there are little to no costs involved with restoring the surface after installation.

  • Faster – Horizontal drilling is more efficient, so the process is faster. You also don’t have to spend time restoring the surface afterward. Because the pipeline is deeper than with the trench method, you’re also less likely to have to fix it or do maintenance.

What are the best soil types for HDD?

Soil type plays a large role in the success of horizontal directional drilling. Soft soils do best, including clay and sand. However, if soil is too soft, this can make steering the equipment more difficult and increase risk of hydraulic fracturing.

 

Hard rock can work well too, but it takes longer and needs heavier-duty equipment. Soil with a lot of cobbled rock or gravel, however, can make your equipment more difficult to steer and more unstable. This increases your risk of drilling fluid return.

 

Choosing the best HDD drill bit for the job

Finding the right HDD drill bit can be intimidating. There are a ton of different kinds, including PDC bits, milled tooth, TCI roller cone bits, drag and shear type bits, and point attack bits. Each of these bit types has its own IADC code and set of attributes that can get more detailed than you’ll likely need them to.

 

Choosing the right bit is typically a four part process:

  • Collect information about drill site – Start by doing an on site survey. Contact local authorities, water well drillers, construction companies, and anyone else who might be important and able to give you the information you need. The more you know, the more confidence you can have in your decision.

  1. Identify soil category – Take samples of the soil and analyze its materials. The texture and hardness will help inform what the right drill bit for the project will be.

  2. Choose a drill bit based on category – HDD bits go from softer to harder in descending order. If you need help figuring out what the right bit is for your project and soil type, our team can help you analyze your information and find the perfect bit.

  3. Adjust your bit as needed – You may find through the drilling process that soil type is inconsistent or other issues exist you need to adjust for. Analyzing return characteristics can help you know what adjustments might be needed.

 

OK Bit has the Horizontal Directional Drill Bits you need

If you’ve decided HDD is the right drilling method for your project, OK Bit can supply you with whatever bits you need to get the job done. If you aren’t sure if HDD drilling is the best choice or if you need help choosing a specific bit, our expert staff will be happy to help. Contact us today.

Tricone Drill Bit Vs. PDC Bit: Which is Right For You?

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If you work in the oil and gas industry, it’s vitally important to always choose the right drill bit for the job. A poor choice might reduce your efficiency, but it also might have disastrous consequences that will end up costing you far more than the bit itself.

 

Two of the most popular choices for industrial drilling today are the tricone drill bit and the PDC bit. Both of these options have their pros and cons, so the right choice comes down to your operation’s unique needs. Let’s explore the strengths and weaknesses of these two options so you can help make the best decision.

 

If you need a tricone bit, a PDC bit, or any other type of industrial drill bit, contact OK Bit today. We’ll let you know if we have what you need in stock. If you aren’t sure what you need, our experts will be able to guide you.

Tricone Drill Bits

Tricone bits were invented in the early 1930s by Hughes engineer Ralph Neuhaus, and in the near century since, they’ve become a mainstay of all types of industrial drilling operations. Tricone bits are named for their three moving roller cones which require lubricated bearings. 

 

They’ve been tested time and time again, and many professionals consistently find them to be the best options for a wide variety of operations. To support this, engineers have repeatedly improved the design as technology evolved to allow for the addition of innovations like tungsten carbide inserts and sealed journal bearings.

 

Although rival PDC bits excel in many rock formations, tricone bits are still the best choice for drilling projects involving gravel, limestone, dolomite, and most other formations that aren’t homogenous, consolidated rock.

 

Issues can arise with tricone bits when they are worn out prematurely. This can happen when the bit is over-rotated. When you buy a bit from us, we’ll always advise you on ways to extend its life as long as possible. While tricone bits are less expensive than PDC bits, that won’t mean much if you have to replace them far more often.

 

Tricone bits work well in both soft and hard formations, but it’s important to choose the right tricone bit based on PSI. Overall, tricone bits can handle a range of 4,000-40,000 PSI. Since this is a massive scale, you can use this as a quick reference:

 

  • Soft formation tricone bits: 4,000-8,000 PSI
  • Medium soft formation tricone bits: 8,000-15,000 PSI
  • Medium hard formation tricone bits: 15,000-25,000 PSI
  • Hard formation tricone bits: 25,000-40,000 PSI

 

Pros of Tricone Bits

  • Extremely versatile
  • Good for both soft and hard rock formations
  • High impact resistance
  • More control
  • Low-cost initial investment
  • Time-tested

Cons of Tricone Bits

  • Shorter lifespan
  • Slower than PDC bits
  • Can lose parts in boreholes
  • Require lubrication

PDC Bits

Polycrystalline diamond compact bits have existed since the early 1970s, but they’ve only recently gained traction for water well and HDD purposes. This delay was mostly for financial reasons. While they started out as prohibitively expensive for most drillers, they’ve slowly become more and more affordable for operations of all sizes. Now they’re some of the most widely used bits in the world.

 

The most notable difference between the PDC bit and tricone bit is that the PDC bit has no moving parts.  PDC bits use fixed heads, and they’re made through a combination of tungsten carbide and artificial diamonds fused under pressure and heat. There are a few different body styles, but the “bullet head” variation is most common. PDC bits are generally faster than tricone bits, and they come in two types: matrix-body and steel-body. Matrix body bits are a little more expensive, but they are often more durable and require less maintenance.

 

One benefit of PDC bits is their ability to excel in soft rock. Most rock drill bits, including tricone bits, are designed to work well on hard rock, but they often suffer when applied to very soft formations. In general, PDC bits can work well in rock with a PSI between 2,000 and 30,000. Depending on your hardness, you’ll likely find that different amounts of blades are ideal. There’s some variation, but this can act as a quick reference guide:

 

  • Three blades: 2,000-8,000 PSI
  • Four blades: 6,000-11,000 PSI
  • Five blades: 8,000 to 20,000 PSI

 

Pros of PDC bits

  • Fast and safe
  • PDC bits have a long lifespan, so even if they cost more upfront, they may be the cheaper option in the long run. For this reason, they’re often the better choice for large-scale operations.
  • Because they have no moving parts, it isn’t possible to lose parts in the borehole during an operation. The same can’t be said of tricone bits.
  • PDC bits can achieve a higher rate of penetration than tricone bits under the right circumstances, lowering the overall cost per foot.
  • They work well in both soft and hard rock formations.

 

Cons of PDC bits

  • Cutter can break in high impact formations
  • Don’t work as well as tricone bits for very hard rocks

 

O-K Bit has the drill bits you need

Ready to order the bit you need? Feeling lost? Either way, we can help. Contact OK Bit today. We’ll let you know if we have what you need in stock. We can also customize drill bits for your operation. If you aren’t sure what you need, our experts are always happy to help.

OK Bits Services

Welcome To Our New Site

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We are very excited to announce the launch of our new website.