1. Material Classification
Based on the materials used, stabilizers can be categorized into alloy steel stabilizers and non-magnetic alloy steel stabilizers. The former is widely used, while the latter is primarily employed in high-latitude regions, highly deviated wells, high-magnetic-field environments, and drilling conditions with severe corrosion.
2. Alloy Steel Stabilizers
Alloy steel stabilizers are typically made from Cr-Mo materials, such as AISI 4140 and 4145H. Among these, 4145H steel is the most commonly used due to its higher carbon content and excellent hardenability. All steel is smelted in electric furnaces and subjected to vacuum degassing to minimize non-metallic inclusions. A stringent heat treatment process is applied to optimize mechanical properties, achieving an ideal combination of high strength and toughness.
3. Non-Magnetic Alloy Steel Stabilizers
Non-magnetic stabilizers are specifically designed and manufactured for directional drilling, typically installed between two sections of non-magnetic drill collars to create a non-magnetic isolation zone. Theoretically, they are suitable for high-latitude areas, highly deviated wells, and wells with significant north-south offset. At any inclination angle, geological measurement instruments remain unaffected by the magnetic field of the drill string. These stabilizers can also be used in conventional directional drilling systems to ensure compass readings are free from adverse magnetic interference. Non-magnetic alloy steel is usually chromium-manganese austenitic stainless steel, offering mechanical properties comparable to 4145H alloy steel, along with low magnetic permeability and high corrosion resistance. The surface can be further enhanced through automated cold work hardening (e.g., shot peening), improving mechanical strength and resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Surface hardening helps suppress crack initiation, enhances surface properties, and increases fatigue resistance. To maintain a non-magnetic environment, the stabilizer’s centralizing section should be processed with non-magnetic reinforcement techniques.
4.Sleeve-Type Stabilizers
Sleeve-type stabilizers are typically shorter and well-suited for wells with significant inclination. Their simple design, light weight, and ease of installation reduce logistical challenges in remote drilling operations, resulting in lower usage costs.
5.Clamp-On Stabilizer Assembly
Clamp-on stabilizer assemblies can be securely fastened to drill collars, screw drills, jars, logging-while-drilling tools, or other rotary drilling equipment requiring centralization or steering. These stabilizers are lightweight and easy to install, enhancing well trajectory control, improving drilling efficiency, and eliminating the risk of loosening in horizontal sections. The locking mechanism features a dual-locking design for secure attachment. The lower locking ring is embedded with several carbide blocks to provide mandatory clamping force. All components are made from 4145H steel, quenched and tempered, or from non-magnetic chromium-manganese steel when connected to non-magnetic drill collars.
Post time: Mar-07-2025
