Selecting the right drilling bits is essential to achieve optimal drilling performance and ensure an efficient and trouble-free drilling operation. Here are some factors to consider when selecting drilling bits for your project
The Type of Drilling Operation
Different drilling operations require different varieties of drilling bits. For example, drilling through soft and hard rock formations and even soil material like clay requires a specific type of bit like the clay bit
Consider the Drilling Environment
The drilling environment plays a crucial role in selecting the right drilling bits. For instance, drilling in hot, dry conditions requires types of drilling bits that would not be suitable for drilling in wet or muddy conditions.
Drilling Bit Design
There are various designs of drilling bits on the market, each with unique features and sets of advantages over others. Some are as follows:
- PDC (polycrystalline diamond compact) bits: ideal for drilling through hard rock
- Fixed cutter drill bits: use natural or synthetic diamond cutters to fragment rocks, sometimes called shear bits because they remove rock formations through a shearing action
- Tri-cone bits: suitable for drilling through soft to medium rock formations.
Drilling Bit Size and Shape
The size and shape of the drilling bit can also affect drilling performance. The size of the drilling bit should be compatible with the drill string size and shape of the type of rock formation.
Consider the Cost
Drilling bits can vary significantly in price, depending on the design, size, quality, and even the quantity you purchase. It is cheaper to buy several compared to buying one or two pieces. But everything ultimately depends on your budget and your requirements when selecting.
Consult with a Drilling Expert
If you are unsure which drilling bit to select, it is always best to consult a drilling expert who can provide handy guidance based on their experience and expertise. We can guide and advise you on the same.
With the above on selecting drilling bits at your fingertips, you will be ready for that project, but you will still need to know how and where to buy the right bits.
Where Can I Buy Drilling Bits?
You can buy drilling bits from the same places that sell drilling equipment. They often stock drilling accessories and parts, which drilling bits fall under. Here are a few options:
- Online: You can buy drill bits from our online store, where you can view various drill bits, get detailed quotes, place orders for equipment, pay for items securely and conveniently, and more – from the comfort of your home or office.
- Your local hardware home improvement, or industrial-size stores stocking specialized drilling bits
- Specialty drilling supply manufacturers: If you need highly specialized drill bits for specific applications, you can also consider purchasing from specialty drill supply manufacturers like PRD Rigs, a Kenyan drilling equipment manufacturer.
We are authorized distributors of PRD Rigs and many leading drilling equipment manufacturers worldwide. Please contact or visit our head office and showroom at No. 10, Factory Street in the Industrial Area in Nairobi, Kenya, for in-depth consultation on drilling bits and more.
Featured image source: iStock