Optionally stabilized drilling tool, and method of use

Abstract

Abstract A hollow shaft is tapped and threaded at respective ends for engaging between a drill stem and a conventional cripple bit. A plurality of radially and longitudinally extending stabilizers are spaced longitudinally apart on said shaft. Each stabilizer is fixed to a collar mounted for rotation on the shaft, and retained thereon by fixed collars secured to the shaft overlapping end flanges of rotational collars. The shaft is recessed under each stabilizer to reduce friction of rotation thereon. Transverse holes are defined through the respective stabilizers to equalize pressures on the sides thereof. In rotational drilling, the stabilizers are randomly misaligned around the shaft to stabilize the drilling end portion of the drill string in its bore. If the bit changes direction to a side for any reason, the stabilizers are all aligned by a near side of the bore and cease to act as stabilizers. Rotational drilling is stopped and percussion drilling is begun with the crippled bit oriented by well known methods and equipment to correct to original direction. By resuming rotational drilling when correction is made the stabilizers become misaligned and stabilization is resumed.

Inventors

• 👤 Ralph J Farris

Bibliographic Details