Investigation of insert-hole interference fit influence on downhole drilling bit failure

Down-the-hole drilling is a reliable method for drilling in medium-to-hard geological structures. The insert-hole fitting interference value emerges as one of the most important factors of down-the-hole drilling bit life. In this study, fatigue tests were conducted using a tungsten carbide pin press-fitted into a hole in the specimens of DIN 1.6580 steel (which is used for manufacturing the bit body) to quantify the effect of interference value on the bit body failure. Then, the process of bit-rock collision was simulated using three-dimensional finite element method taking into account the residual stresses in the insert and bit body to determine the optimal interference value. Simulations were performed considering the rotary motion of the bit in addition to impact for a single-insert as well as a commercial 3.5 inch bit. Results showed that the interference value influences fatigue life significantly. Also, the velocity and angle of impact have considerable influence on body stresses. Results of this study can greatly assist the design of insert-hole manufacturing tolerances in down-the-hole bits.