NORTHERN QUEBEC - MERCIER DRILLING has been testing the new 16-mm Vulcan drill bit in the James Bay region. What the company found should be music to all drillers' earsthe 16-mm bit significantly outperformed (doubled) the standard 12-mm bits. The 16-mm bit first reached 698 metres (compared with 380 for a 12-mm bit) and then the second bit completed an exceptional 1,012 metres. Fewer pull-outs to replace drill bits equals better productivity on the drill site.
The Vulcan 16-mm bit was developed during field research by the FORDIA GROUP. It consistently delivers higher productivity than smaller bits, easily up to 33% longer bit life. The new bits offer an innovative proprietary design. Its critical gauges are protected with thermally stable polycrystalline diamonds for durability. The bridge structure is specifically designed not to restrict drilling fluid circulation. Moreover, the bridge is made of the same material as the matrix and wears along with it providing a unique system that equally distributes the highest torque on all segments.
The Fordia Group website is available in either French or English at www.Fordia.com.
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