Optimal selection of drilling bit in oil wells with the help of numerical geochemical modelling

Selecting the appropriate drill bit, optimizing operational parameters, and identifying drilling hazards related to the bit are key factors in achieving the most cost-effective drilling performance. Drill bits are among the most important and fundamental tools used by engineers in drilling oil and gas wells. Choosing the best bit and its corresponding drilling conditions is one of the major challenges faced by oil companies. Selecting a suitable bit for specific drilling conditions requires evaluating all the influencing factors. Proper bit selection plays a significant role in the performance and efficiency of drilling operations.

One of the modern approaches that has recently gained attention in Iran is geomechanics. In this study, geomechanics is applied as an innovative numerical modeling method to identify the most suitable drill bit for drilling oil wells. In this research, the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the formation was determined to be 24.33 MPa, which, based on Smith’s classification, indicates a soft formation. Furthermore, the formation’s lithology was identified as sandstone and shale.