How to choose carbide buttons for oil-field drilling tools？

Tungsten carbide buttons, also known as cemented carbide inserts, are critical components in oilfield drilling tools such as tricone bits, PDC bits, and reamers. When selecting tungsten carbide buttons for oilfield applications, several key factors should be carefully considered: geological conditions, button geometry, material composition, hardness, toughness, and installation method.

The foremost consideration is the type of rock formation. When drilling in hard formations (such as granite or quartzite), carbide buttons with high hardness and excellent wear resistance are required. For softer or highly abrasive formations (such as sandstone or shale), buttons with superior impact toughness are more appropriate to prevent cracking or chipping. Understanding the lithology aids in selecting the appropriate button shape among conical, domed, or parabolic profiles.

Button geometry has a direct impact on cutting efficiency and tool life. Conical buttons are ideal for hard formations due to their ability to concentrate pressure at a single point, enhancing penetration. Domed buttons perform well in softer or fractured formations, offering enhanced resistance to breakage and extended service life. Parabolic buttons are typically used in interbedded or composite formations, delivering a balance between penetration and durability.

Material composition is another critical selection factor. Tungsten carbide buttons are generally made of WC-Co (tungsten carbide–cobalt) alloy, where the cobalt content and WC grain size determine mechanical properties. Higher cobalt content improves toughness but may reduce hardness. Conversely, finer WC grains enhance hardness and wear resistance. For oilfield applications, medium-grain WC with cobalt content ranging from 6% to 12% is commonly used to achieve an optimal balance of toughness and hardness.

Finally, the installation method—such as interference fitting or brazing—should be selected based on the tool's design and operating environment. Proper installation ensures the carbide buttons remain securely fixed under high-impact and high-speed drilling conditions.

Collaborating with experienced tungsten carbide manufacturers can help ensure optimal product selection. Jinxin provides custom carbide button solutions tailored to specific drilling applications, significantly enhancing drilling efficiency and reducing operational costs.