Case Study: BP achieves 36% higher bit ROP and 179 hours saved with SLB’s Aegis armor cladding

BP Uses Armor Cladding to Increase Average Bit ROP 36% and Reduce Drilling Time 179 Hours over 8 Runs

BP wanted the highest possible rate of penetration while drilling 12 1/4-in. vertical intervals in Oklahoma through soft shale interbedded with sandstone and limestone. To improve performance beyond a matrix PDC bit, BP worked with SLB and its Smith Bits business to evaluate a modified steel-bodied bit with Aegis armor cladding.

SLB recommended Aegis armor cladding to protect the blade faces of steel-bodied bits, allowing a more aggressive design with taller blades and increased junk-slot area. Across 8 bit runs, BP drilled each interval in a single run, increased average ROP by 36% versus offset matrix PDC runs, and saved an estimated 179 hours of drilling time.

BP