Paper: A Method For Maintaining Hole Gauge Case Histories In The Permian Basin

Maintaining hole gauge has always been a drilling concern and problem. Historically gauge protection above the bit has been accomplished by using hard metals that offer good wear resistance. There are limitations to this method for actually sustaining a quality gauge hole. Other methods for accomplishing a gauge hole are mechanical devices placed in the drilling assembly, such as reamers. These tools also have limitations in directional applications and hostile environments. This paper will discuss the development of a tool that strategically places Synthetic Diamond Enhanced Inserts to accomplish both hole gauge protection and reaming. The performance of this tool will be economically evaluated with offset data for a direct comparison to the drilling curve and the benefit it derives.