Kymera Hybrid Bit Technology Reduces Drilling Costs

Abstract

Reducing drilling costs is a major concern for geothermal operators and crucial to long-term geothermal development. Reducing drilling days and lowering per-foot costs are primary means to achieving this goal. Baker Hughes developed the Kymera hybrid bit with those goals in mind. The basic advantages of the Kymera bit technology versus standard tungsten carbide (TCI) bits is the Kymera’s combination of roller cone and PDC bit design. In trials at EnergySource’s Hudson Ranch II project, performance data from 12.25 inch (31.115 cm) and 9.875 inch (25.0825 cm) Kymera bit runs were compared to TCI bit runs. Performance was measured using a systematic approach comparing revolutions per minute and rate of penetration in both slide and rotating mode. Formation and depth were also factored into the performance data. The Kymera hybrid bit increased rates of penetration and total footage drilled per bit run, resulting in a significant reduction in cost per foot versus standard roller cone bits and a substantial cost savings for the overall drilling program.