IADC Classification System For PDC Drill Bits

The IADC classification system, developed by the International Association of Drilling

Contractors has been the representative voice of drillers worldwide since 1940.

This system has enabled drillers worldwide to exchange information using standard nomenclature
and dull grading methods for PDC drill bits and tricones.

This system is not as widely used for PDC drill bits as it is for tricones. The IADC system for
tricones is used the world over. However, a knowledge of IADC classification for PDC drill bits is
helpful.

PDC Drill Bits Nomenclature

Nomenclature for PDC drill bits consists of one letter and three numbers. The letter indicates body
type: M for matrix,S for steel, and D for diamond The next three numbers indicate the following:

1. Formation Type To Be Drilled

2. Cutting Structure

3. Bit Profile
For example: M241

M=Matrix,
2=Formation type this bit will drill,
4=Cutting Structure,
1=Bit Profile

Geological formation type to be drilled are classified in the following manner:

(1) or (2) Soft and soft sticky-Highly drillable formations such as clay, marl, gumbo and
unconsolidated sands.

(3) Soft-medium-Low compressive strength sands, shales and anhydrites with hard layers
intermixed.

(4) Medium-Moderate compressive strength sand, chalk, anhydrite and shale.

(6) Medium hard-Higher compressive strength with non or semi-sharp sand, shale, lime and
anhydrite.

(7) Hard-High compressive strength with sharp layers of sand or siltstone.

(8) Extremely hard-Dense and sharp formations such as quartzite and volcanic rock.

PDC CUTTING STRUCTURE

Very soft (1) to medium (4) formation type pdc bits have one dominant size of PDC cutter. PDC
cutting structure is denoted in the following way:

2 - this bit has mostly 19mm cutters

3 - this bit has mostly 13 mm cutters

4 - this bit has mostly 8 mm cutters

For example: M431

M=Matrix,
4=This bit will perform well in medium formations,
3=Cutting Structure consists of primarily 13 mm pdc cutters,
1=Bit Profile

Formation types 6, 7 and 8 are somewhat different. These bits are designed for the harder, more
difficult drilling. Their cutting structures are denoted as follows:

1 - Natural Diamond

2 - TSP (Thermally Stable Polycrystalline)

3 - Combination
4 - Impregnated Diamond

BIT PROFILE

1 - Short Fishtail

2 - Short Profile

3 - Medium Profile

4 - Long Profile

For example: M612

M=Matrix,
4=This bit will perform well in medium hard formations,
1=Cutting Structure consists of natural diamond,
2=Short Profile