The Spiral Reaming Shells

A spiral design of reaming shells implies that the cutting/reaming surfaces or flutes are helically arranged around the shell body (rather than straight). That aids in chip evacuation, smoother cutting action and stabilisation of the hole. For example, in metal-machining reamers (smaller scale) the spiral flute variant is used for through-holes and flutes that push chips forward. [1] In the drilling, spiral or helical features are sometimes used (especially in diamond or carbide reaming shells) to give better stability and cutting/reaming action in challenging formations.

Spiral Reaming Shells in Drilling Operations

Reaming shells, particularly spiral reaming shells, are indispensable for maintaining hole diameter and direction. As highlighted by industry experts, the Spiral Reaming Shell is the benchmark for knowledgeable drillers where quality and reliability are valued above initial cost. Drilling is made easy and more manageable with this reaming shell. The importance of the reaming shell in maintaining hole direction and gauge cannot be underestimated. At every bit change, the new bit is expected to reach the bottom of the hole without interference. As the shell typically lasts the life of several bits, the selection of the best available reaming shell is an investment in productivity and overall cost of the project.【2】

Key Technical Features

Spiral Waterway Canals: The gauge ring incorporates spiral waterways which serve dual functions: efficient evacuation of bit cuttings, and ensuring the reaming shell maintains full circumferential contact with the borehole wall (360° support). That enhances hole stability and reduces deviation.

High-Grade Synthetic Cutting Media: Unlike some reaming shell designs using natural industrial diamond particles (which may raise contamination or inconsistent performance concerns), spiral design uses synthetic diamond grit, TSP synthetic diamond elements and tungsten-carbide wear pads, all embedded in a tough abrasion-resistant matrix body.

Versatile Formation Suitability: Because of its robust structure and synthetic cutting media, the Spiral Reaming Shell is well suited for all formation conditions: from broken and highly abrasive formations to consolidated, non-abrasive hard rock.

Hole-Gauge and Directional Control: As noted in drilling practice, the dimension of the borehole tends to reduce due to bit wear and the action of the assembly; reamers keep the hole diameter constant. Moreover, stable reaming shells contribute to directional control in wireline core drilling systems. 【3】

Why Reaming Shells are important

Prevents hole collapse or narrowing:  As the bit wears and the drill string rotates in the hole, the bore may tend to reduce in diameter or deviate. The full-gauge reaming shell preserves the hole size, allowing subsequent bit changes to reach the bottom without interference.

Improves drilling stability and bit life: Because the reaming shell provides full 360° wall contact and fluid clearing via spiral waterways, the drill string vibrations and assembly swing are reduced. A stable hole means the bit engages optimally and avoids early wear or unplanned trips.【3】

Reduces overall project cost – Although high-quality reaming shells may have higher upfront cost, they are expected to last for several bit changes and reduce non-productive time, lost rods/trip time, bit damage and deviated holes.【2】

Supports a wide range of formations: When encountering mixed formations from weathered rock to hard massive metamorphic or intrusive rock. A reaming shell whose cutting media and matrix are engineered for broad formation suitability is a strong asset.

HQ Surface-set Spiral Reaming Shells

Why Choose ROCKCODE’s Spiral Reaming Shell

ROCKCODE commits on producing high-quality spiral reaming shells, supporting geological tools Our product range includes a variety of models designed to meet diverse drilling needs. Here is our product list:

Left: ROCKCODE Impregnated Reaming Shell

Middle: ROCKCODE Surface-set Reaming Shells

Right: ROCKCODE Super Heavy Duty Reaming Shells

Left:ROCKCODE HQ Double-ring Surface-set Reaming shell

Middle: ROCKCODE HQ Surface-set Spiral Reaming Shells

Right: ROCKCODE HQ Locking Coupling

ROCKCODE’s Spiral Reaming Shells are built to last, with options like the Impregnated Reaming Shell that features a wear-proof matrix and efficient fluid passages, resulting in high reaming and penetration rates. Similarly, the Surface-Set Reaming Shell facilitates effective flushing, contributing to long service life and cost-effectiveness. ROCKCODE uses its own ultra-wear-resistant matrix formula and employs an integrated sintering process with a super-hard matrix and high-quality diamonds. This ensures every reaming shell delivers consistent rear-end stabilization and aligns with industry best practices.

→ For more information about ROCKCODE’s Spiral Reaming Shell, please visit: https://www.rockcodebit.com/reaming-shell-stabilizer.html

→ Email us at: info@rockcodebit.com

→ Information in this article is for general reference only. For specific drilling projects and drilling bits, please consult qualified professionals. Thank you.

Source

1.https://www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-gb/tools/solid-round-tools/solid-carbide-reamers

2.https://www.pilotdiamondtools.ca/products/reaming-shells/

3.https://www.dimatec.com/drilling-products/reaming-stabilizing/reaming-tools/

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