Case Study: a major operating company achieves 20%+ higher drillbit ROP with SLB's AxeBlade bit and Axe TR elements

Triple-Ridged Diamond Element Increases Drillbit ROP by More Than 20%

SLB worked with a major operating company drilling in the SCOOP play in south central Oklahoma that wanted to improve cutting efficiency in the lower intermediate vertical section. The wellbore conditions included interbedded sands, shales, and limestone that damaged conventional PDC drill bits, caused multiple trips and bottomhole assemblies, and led to high accumulated drilling hours.

SLB addressed the challenge with an AxeBlade bit using Axe TR triple-ridged diamond elements. The bit improved penetration through the formation stringers, helping the operator drill more efficiently and reduce costs. With SLB’s solution, the operator drilled 2,039 ft at 39.31 ft/h versus 1,591 ft at 32.57 ft/h with conventional bits, increasing rate of penetration by more than 20% while using fewer bits.