Thor

TM

THOR
Class Cutters
CLASS
CUTTERS

Ultimate impact resistance

› Tested and certified for maximum impact
resistance, Thor class cutters attack the most
demanding drilling environments.

Varel International’s ThorTM class cutters are engineered to be more

impact resistant than standard cutters to address the challenges
specific to hard rock applications and interbedded formations.

Varel deploys its Thor class cutters to meet the challenges associated with
interbedded lithology and high impact drilling applications where cutter toughness
is required. Drilling through transitional zones often produces significant drill string
vibrations. These vibrations coupled with the weight of the drill string behind the
bit can potentially cause excessive damage to the drill bit cutting structure.
Thor class cutters are manufactured to withstand the effects of these downhole
vibrations. With maximum diamond particle size distribution and optimal
sintering, Thor cutters have increased toughness while maintaining thermal
mechanical abrasion resistance. Before a cutter can enter the Thor classification,
it undergoes a battery of tests and evaluation techniques. Central to qualifying
for the Thor classification is a high score in Varel’s patent pending Acoustic
Emissions Toughness Test (AETT). AETT measures the underlying strength of the
polycrystalline diamond and, ultimately, its resistance to breakage. With Thor
cutters, the foundation of the cutting structure is protected, leading to increased
ROP and extended drill bit life.

› The foundation of the drill bit, its cutting structure

design, is protected by impact resistant cutters
in hard-to-drill applications.

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