Dull grading is the feedback loop that makes bit selection better. A bit that comes out with worn cutters on the shoulder has been run at too high a parameter for the formation; one with broken cutters has seen impact damage from vibration or interbedded stringers; one with a ring out has a hydraulics or cleaning problem. Reading the dull tells the engineer what to change.

Cutter technology has moved faster than almost any other part of drilling. Modern polycrystalline diamond compact cutters are harder, more thermally stable and more abrasion resistant than those of a decade ago, and shaped cutters have extended fixed cutter bits into formations that previously required roller cones. Selection practice based on old experience often leaves performance unused.

Selection is a system decision. The same bit performs differently on a motor, a rotary steerable system and rotary assembly; a bit chosen for steerability may drill slowly; one chosen for penetration rate may not hold gauge or may vibrate. Selecting the bit, the steering tool and the parameters together is what produces results.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Describe roller cone bit design, bearings, seals and cutting structures.
• Describe fixed cutter bit design, cutter technology and blade layout.
• Explain back rake, depth of cut control and gauge design.
• Describe impregnated, diamond and hybrid bits and their applications.
• Select bits by formation, hole size and application.
• Predict bit performance from offset data.
• Match bits to steering tools and parameters.
• Apply operating practice appropriate to each bit type.
• Apply the IADC dull grading system accurately.
• Interpret dull characteristics and use them to improve selection.

The course is instructor-led. Bit designs are covered with cutaway drawings, cutter samples and manufacturer data. A substantial part of the course is devoted to dull grading, with participants grading a large number of dull bits from photographs and records and drawing conclusions for the next run. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bit records for discussion.

Organisations sending participants to this training will:

• Improve bit selection and reduce cost per metre.
• Use dull grading systematically to improve future runs.
• Reduce bit-related trips and failures.
• Improve matching of bits to steering tools and parameters.
• Strengthen technical discussion with bit suppliers.

Participants will:

• Understand bit design and cutter technology.
• Be able to select bits for formation and application.
• Be able to predict bit performance from offset data.
• Be able to grade dull bits accurately using the IADC system.
• Be able to use dull analysis to improve the next run.

• Drilling engineers
• Rig site supervisors and company representatives
• Drillers and senior rig crew
• Drilling performance engineers
• Bit and service company engineers
• Graduate engineers in drilling roles

Upon successful completion of this training course, delegates will be awarded an official Certificate of Completion issued by the Petroleum Engineers Association (PEA), an ISO 9001:2015 certified training organization. The certificate carries 10 Credits and formally records the total learning hours completed.

Each certificate is signed by the Course Facilitator and the CEO of the Petroleum Engineers Association, and serves as verifiable proof of professional training that delegates can present to employers and professional bodies worldwide.