Smith's Drill Bit Optimization System, determines the appropriate combination of cutting structure, gauge protection, hydraulic configuration, and other features for a drill bit for optimizing drilling performance. This software-driven process has the primary goal of providing bits that drill with the lowest possible cost per foot. The DBOS service incorporates a thorough analysis of offset well data including well logs, formation tops, mud logs, core analysis, rock mechanics, drilling parameters, bit records and dull bit conditions to optimize both rock bit and PDC bit selections to achieve minimum cost per foot for the operator with a minimum of "trial and error." The tools utilize a commercially available geologic mapping and well log correlation and analysis software together with a series of Smith Bits algorithms for rock compressive strengths, bit performance analysis, and bit selection.

DBOS optimizes both roller cone and fixed-cutter bit performance; it can provide analysis based on a single offset well, a multi-well cross section, or full field mapping and regional trend analyzes that produce development strategies.

The process begins with evaluation of expected formation types and their section lengths obtained from offset well logs. The DBOS application then determines unconfined rock compressive strength, effective porosity, abrasion and impact potential. These rock properties contribute to the identification of one or more potentially optimal bit types and suggest various applicable bit features. DBOS predicts the cost per foot that each bit and configuration will achieve. Bit selection recommendations are determined by bit type with minimum cost per foot.

For PDC bit designs, cutter type and diameter, density, bit profile, hydraulic configuration, and gauge protection requirements are all optimized.

Post-run analyzes evaluate bit performance from available data such as real time penetration rates, weight on bit, RPM, torque, bit dull conditions, and more. This provides design and applications engineering feedback and launches a continuous improvement cycle.

DBOS has been in service for more than 10 years, and Smith’s database contains records pertaining to more than 3,500 projects in 54 countries, encompassing over 5,000 wells. Operators, worldwide, have attributed substantial savings in drilling time and cost to the use of Smith Bits DBOS.