US20210198960A1 - Drill bit replacement apparatus - Google Patents
Drill bit replacement apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210198960A1 US20210198960A1 US17/059,669 US201917059669A US2021198960A1 US 20210198960 A1 US20210198960 A1 US 20210198960A1 US 201917059669 A US201917059669 A US 201917059669A US 2021198960 A1 US2021198960 A1 US 2021198960A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- drill bit
- drill
- replacement apparatus
- drilling tool
- support assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 172
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 18
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 18
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 18
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 description 8
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000011010 flushing procedure Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005422 blasting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003292 diminished effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007717 exclusion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005065 mining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009527 percussion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007858 starting material Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B10/00—Drill bits
- E21B10/64—Drill bits characterised by the whole or part thereof being insertable into or removable from the borehole without withdrawing the drilling pipe
- E21B10/66—Drill bits characterised by the whole or part thereof being insertable into or removable from the borehole without withdrawing the drilling pipe the cutting element movable through the drilling pipe and laterally shiftable
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B10/00—Drill bits
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B19/00—Handling rods, casings, tubes or the like outside the borehole, e.g. in the derrick; Apparatus for feeding the rods or cables
- E21B19/18—Connecting or disconnecting drill bit and drilling pipe
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B44/00—Automatic control systems specially adapted for drilling operations, i.e. self-operating systems which function to carry out or modify a drilling operation without intervention of a human operator, e.g. computer-controlled drilling systems; Systems specially adapted for monitoring a plurality of drilling variables or conditions
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a drill bit replacement apparatus for replacing a drill bit on a drilling tool. More specifically, the apparatus of the present invention is adapted to store multiple drill bits and make them available for replacement on the drilling tool.
- Mobile drilling units are typically employed to drill holes for blasting in mining operations. Such units commonly comprise a pivoting mast mounted on a drill platform.
- a drill string is mounted within or onto the mast to drill into the earth.
- the drill string comprises a drilling tool and series of drill rods.
- the drilling tool is mounted on the working end of the drill string and retains a drill bit that is driven into the earth to create a hole.
- the drill rod connects the drilling tool to a drill rotation source mounted on the mast. Rotational torque and drilling fluid for impact on the drill bit and/or flushing out broken rock are provided through the drill rod to the drilling tool to drive the drilling tool. As the drilling operation continues, additional lengths of drill rod are added to the drill string.
- the mechanical force that is imparted on the drill bit eventually wears down and blunts the drill bit.
- the drill bit may fracture and break. Worn or fractured drill bits need to be replaced.
- the drill bit is typically threadably connected to the lower end of the drilling tool.
- the threaded connection is orientated so that this rotational force does not unfasten the threaded connection, but rather acts to tighten the connection.
- a breakout mechanism is used to ‘break’ the drill bit from the drilling tool, loosening the tension in the screw joint.
- an operator typically removes the drill bit and positions it clear of the drilling tool.
- a replacement drill bit is then physically moved into position beneath the drilling tool to attach drill bit to the drilling tool.
- the positioning of the drill bit is either completed by hand or may be assisted with the use of a winch on the drill or a truck mounted crane. Whilst these devices do assist with the replacement process, they do not allow for precise positioning of the drill bit and an operator is still required to complete the coupling or decoupling of the drill bit to the drill string. This presents a significant danger to operators and injuries can occur as a result of uncontrolled movement of the drilling tools during the changeover process. The risks increase with large diameter drilling operations where the increased size and weight of the drill bits make them much more difficult to manoeuvre.
- a drill bit replacement apparatus for replacing a drill bit on a drilling tool, the apparatus comprising:
- the drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention is adapted to position a drill bit receptacle beneath a drilling tool.
- a drill bit located in the drill bit receptacle may be positioned beneath the drilling tool to permit the coupling of the drill bit to the drilling tool.
- an empty drill bit receptacle may be positioned beneath the drilling tool to permit the uncoupling of the drill bit from the drilling tool.
- each drill bit receptacle receives a single drill bit.
- a single drill bit receptacle may receive two or more drill bits.
- locating means or dividers may be used to separate the drill bits in the drill bit receptacle.
- each drill bit receptacle receives a drill bit in a vertical orientation.
- vertical orientation should be understood to refer to an orientation where the cutting face is received by the drill receptacle with the drill bit shaft pointing upwards. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, this orientation is substantially similar to the orientation in which the drill bit is received by the drilling tool. In this manner, the drill bit may be positioned beneath a drilling tool and the drilling tool may be lowered to couple with the drill bit.
- each replacement position aligns an approximate centre of a drill bit receptacle with the drilling tool. More preferably, each replacement position aligns an approximate centre of a drill bit receptacle with an approximate centreline of the drilling tool.
- the drill bit holder When in the storage position, the drill bit holder is preferably clear of the drilling tool. When in the storage position, the drill bit holder does not impinge the operation of the drilling tool.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus is mounted on a mobile drill unit. More preferably, the drill bit replacement apparatus is mounted on the drill platform of a mobile drill unit.
- the drill bit receptacles are provided in a linear arrangement.
- each drill bit receptacle is appropriately shaped and sized to receive a drill bit. More preferably, each drill bit receptacle is generally cylindrical.
- At least 20% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. More preferably, at least 30% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 40% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 50% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 60% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 70% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 80% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle.
- the positioning means comprises a support assembly.
- the drill bit holder is mountable on or in the support assembly.
- the drill bit holder is integrally formed with the support assembly.
- the drill bit holder is releasably retained on or in the support assembly. The inventors have found that by releasably retaining the drill bit holder on or in the support assembly that the entire drill bit holder, including any drill bits in the drill receptacles, can be loaded onto or unloaded from the support assembly in a single action.
- the support assembly is adapted to move in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the drilling tool. More preferably, the support assembly is adapted to move in a direction substantially parallel to the surface of the drill platform.
- the positioning means further comprises a linear actuator to move the support assembly between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions.
- the support assembly is coupled to the linear actuator.
- the linear actuator is selected from mechanical actuators, hydraulic actuators or pneumatic actuators.
- the support assembly is fully supported on the linear actuator.
- the full weight of the support assembly is supported by the linear actuator which can then extend out to the replacement positions in a cantilever arrangement.
- the linear actuator telescopes to extend and retract.
- the support assembly is provided on a framework.
- the framework is adapted to move between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions.
- the support assembly engages with a track.
- the track comprises two parallel rails.
- the track comprises a monorail.
- the track is mounted on the drill platform. It is envisaged that the support assembly may move along the track to move the drill bit holder between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions. It is envisaged that a linear actuator may be used to move the support assembly along the track.
- the support assembly comprises rollers that engage with the tracks.
- the support assembly comprises pinion drive gears that engage with the tracks.
- the tracks comprise rack teeth to engage with the pinion gear.
- the rack and pinion tracks also provide linear actuation to move the support assembly between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions.
- the drilling platform comprises an aperture or deck bush through which the drilling tool passes.
- the positioning means is adapted to position the drill bit holder over the aperture.
- the tracks are arranged to allow the support assembly to be positioned over the aperture.
- the arrangement of the tracks allows for the support assembly to cantilever over the aperture. In this arrangement, it is envisaged that a portion of the support assembly may extend beyond the tracks and that appropriate stoppers are incorporated into the support assembly and/or tracks to prevent the support assembly from disengaging with the tracks.
- the movement of the positioning means is remotely operated.
- the movement of the positioning means is actuated by a control system. The inventors have found that each replacement position and the storage position can be programmed into the control system, allowing for automated positioning of the support assembly or the drill bit holder.
- a drill bit is retained in each drill bit receptacle by a clamping means.
- the clamping means engages with the drill bit during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool.
- each drill bit receptacle is provided with a one or more resistance members.
- the resistance members are adapted to prevent the rotation of the drill bit in the drill bit receptacle.
- a replaceable insert is mountable in the drill bit receptacle.
- drill bits come in a range of diameters and shapes.
- different replaceable inserts may be associated with each drill bit. It is envisaged that the replaceable inserts allow for a range of drill bits to be received in the drill bit receptacle.
- the drill bit receptacle imparts a frictional force on the drill bit to prevent rotation during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool.
- each drill bit can be of substantial weight. The inventors have found that by constructing or lining the bottom of the drill bit receptacle with a non-slip material, the combination of the weight of the drill bit and the resistance of the non-slip material will prevent the rotation of the drill bit during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool.
- each drill bit in the drill bit holder has any required adapter means loaded thereon.
- a protective cover is provided over the drill bits in the drill bit holder.
- each drill bit receptacle has a separate protective cover.
- a single protective cover is provided across all drill bit receptacles. The inventors have found that the protective cover prevents dust and other foreign materials from fouling the thread of the drill bit. This is especially useful when the drill bit holder is in the storage position and the drilling tool is being operated.
- the protective cover may be removed during the loading and unloading of the drill bit.
- the protective cover is fixed in a position above the drill rod holder when in the storage position.
- the apparatus further comprises a breakout means.
- a breakout means is used to breakout threaded connections on drilling tools. Preferably, once the threaded connection has been broken, the drill bit is lowered into the drill bit receptacle and the drilling tool is operated in reverse to screw off the drill bit.
- FIG. 1 a is a plan view of the drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention
- FIG. 1 b is an enlarged portion of FIG. 1 a;
- FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the drill bit holder and support assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a side elevation of a drill bit.
- FIGS. 1-4 there is shown a drill bit replacement apparatus 10 in accordance with the present invention.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 is primarily adapted for use on a drilling unit 12 .
- FIGS. 1 a and 1 b there is shown the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 as mounted on a drilling unit 12 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 is mounted on a drill platform 14 .
- the drill platform 14 is typically supported on a crawler undercarriage 16 (not shown) that allows the drill platform 14 to be positioned relative to the area to be drilled.
- the drill platform 14 further comprises levelling jacks (not shown) that may be positioned to provide stability when drilling.
- the mobile drilling unit 12 includes drill mast 20 which is hinged to the drill platform 14 such that the drill mast 20 is able to tilt relative to the drill platform 14 .
- the drill mast 20 is able to move between a horizontal position to an upright positon for drilling at varying angles.
- the horizontal positon allows for the transport of the drill platform 14 .
- Hydraulic actuators (not shown) control the movement of the drill mast 20 .
- the drilling unit 12 further comprises an operator cab 22 which houses the operating controls for the drilling operation, along with monitoring instruments. Whilst the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 comprises an operator cab, it is envisaged that operation of the drilling unit 12 may be controlled autonomously. Where drilling is completed by autonomous drilling methods, it is envisaged that the operator cab 22 may be replaced/used as a control room for remote signalled drilling operations, along with monitoring instruments.
- the drilling unit 12 comprises a drill rotation source 24 supported on the drill mast 20 (not shown in FIG. 2 ).
- the drill rotation source 24 is guided for longitudinal movement along the drill mast 20 . Movement of the drill rotation source 24 is controlled by a hoist (not shown). Hydraulic head actuators (not shown) control the movement of the drill rotation source 24 and the hoist.
- Hydraulic head actuators (not shown) control the movement of the drill rotation source 24 and the hoist.
- the drill rotation source 24 shown in the Figures is adapted to move along the drill mast 20 , it is envisaged that other rotation drive mechanisms may be employed, such as for example a Table Drive. As would be understood by a person skilled in the art, where a Table Drive is utilised, it does not move along the drill mast 20 .
- the drilling unit 12 further comprises a hydraulic pump mechanism (not shown) adapted to supply hydraulic fluid for hydraulic operations.
- the hydraulic pump mechanism is operated by a diesel engine (not shown) mounted on the drill platform 14 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is adapted to facilitate the addition and removal of drill bits 26 from a drilling tool 28 .
- a drilling tool 28 is a piece of drilling equipment that retains a drill bit 26 and permits operation of the drill bit 26 .
- the drilling tool 28 is coupled to a drill rod which is in turn coupled to the drill rotation source 24 .
- the coupling of the drill rod to the drill rotation source 24 permits rotational forces and drilling fluid to travel to the drilling tool 28 by way of the drill rod.
- the drill rotation source 24 is moved down the drill mast 20 to force the drill bit 26 of the drilling tool 28 into the earth. As drilling progresses, additional drill rods 30 are added to the drill string.
- the drilling operation imparts a mechanical force on the drill bit 26 . Over time, this force eventually wears down and blunts the drill bit 26 or may fracture the drill bit 26 . Once the drill bit 26 has worn or fractured, the drilling operation must be halted and the drilling tool 28 must be retrieved to the surface to enable the replacement of the drill bit 26 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is envisaged to permit the replacement of a drill bit 26 from a drilling tool 28 on a drill string with another drill bit 26 without the need for manual handling of the drill bits 26 by an operator.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention may be used to load the first drill bit 26 onto a drilling tool 28 at the commencement of drilling operations and remove the drill bit 26 when drilling operations are ceased. Addition and removal of drill bits can be performed manually by an operator, semi-autonomously or autonomously.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 comprises a drill bit holder 32 which is adapted to receive one or more drill bits 26 .
- the drill bit holder 32 comprises one or more drill bit receptacles 34 .
- the drill bit receptacles 34 are arranged in a linear array along the length of the drill bit holder 32 . It is envisaged that a rotary drill bit holder may also be used, in which case the drill bit receptacles 34 would be arranged in a circular array.
- Each drill bit receptacle 34 is appropriately shaped and sized to receive a drill bit 26 .
- drill bits 26 have a generally cylindrical shape, it is envisaged that the most appropriate shape for each drill bit receptacle 34 will also be cylindrical. With reference to FIG. 3 , when a drill bit 26 is placed in a drill bit receptacle 34 , the tip 36 of the drill bit 26 will rest on a bottom surface of the drill bit receptacle 34 . As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, drill bits 26 may come in a range of diameters. Accordingly, the drill bit receptacle 34 will need to be wide enough to allow a particular drill bit 26 to be received therein.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 further comprises a positioning means 38 that is adapted to move the drill bit holder 32 between a storage position and one or more replacement positions. Each replacement position will align one of the drill bit receptacles 34 with the drilling tool 28 to either present a drill bit 26 for coupling with the drilling tool 28 or to present an empty drill bit receptacle 34 to the drilling tool 28 to facilitate the uncoupling of a drill bit 26 from the drilling tool 28 .
- the positioning means 38 is configured to move the drill bit holder 32 in a direction that is parallel to the plane of the drilling platform and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the drilling tool 28 .
- the inventors envisage that during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit 26 and the drilling tool 28 , the drilling tool 28 can be raised vertically to a position above the drilling platform and the drill bit holder 32 can be moved to a replacement positon with a drill bit receptacle 34 positioned beneath the drilling tool 28 .
- the drill bit holder 32 can be moved to a storage position and drilling can commence.
- the positioning means 38 comprises a support assembly 40 that is adapted to receive and retain the drill bit holder 32 thereon.
- the drill bit holder 32 is integrally formed with the support assembly 40 .
- the drill bit holder 32 is replaceably received by the support assembly 40 . The inventors have found that by configuring the support assembly 40 to releasably receive the drill bit holder 32 , the entire drill bit holder 32 , together with any drill bits 26 can be fully placed in or removed from the support assembly 40 .
- the support assembly 40 is mounted on tracks 42 .
- the engagement of the support assembly 40 and the tracks 42 permits the movement of the support assembly 40 along the tracks 42 .
- the engagement of the support assembly 40 and the tracks 42 can be any arrangement that permits the movement of the support assembly 40 along the tracks 42 .
- the engagement of the support assembly 40 and the tracks 42 is a rack and pinion type engagement.
- the support assembly 40 is provided with a pinon gears 44 that are adapted to engage with complementary teeth on the tracks 42 . This arrangement has been found to be particularly advantageous as the movement of the support assembly 40 along the tracks 42 can be accurately controlled by a drive means, such as a motor 45 , coupled to the pinion gears 44 .
- the accurate control of the movement is important in ensuring that the drill bit holder 32 is accurately moved into the one or more replacement positions so that the drilling tool 28 can be accurately and repeatable aligned with the drill bit receptacles 34 .
- the rack and pinion arrangement will also easily permit the movement of the support assembly 40 to be remotely or autonomously controlled.
- the engagement of the support assemble 40 is a trolley wheel and rail arrangement.
- the support assembly 40 is provided in the form of a support trolley that engages with the track.
- Other arrangements are available to those skilled in the art and can be as simple as wheels provided on the support assembly 40 .
- Suitable linear actuators include, for example, hydraulic cylinders or pneumatic cylinders that extend and retract to move the support assembly 40 between the storage positon and the one or more replacement positions.
- the tracks 42 are orientated to permit the drill bit holder 32 to be positioned beneath the drilling tool 28 .
- This arrangement is dependent on the exact configuration of the drill mast.
- the drilling tool 28 is adapted to pass through a drilling aperture 46 in the drilling rig.
- the tracks 42 are mounted on the drilling platform on either side of the drilling aperture 46 .
- This arrangement permits the support assembly 40 to be positioned directly under the drilling tool 28 and over the drilling aperture 46 .
- the tracks 42 could be positioned up to, but not extend past, the drilling aperture 46 .
- part of the support assembly 40 may extend past the tracks 42 to cantilever across the drilling aperture 46 .
- the support assembly 40 may be supported by the linear actuator.
- the linear actuator would extend to position the support assembly 40 beneath the drilling tool 28 .
- one end of the linear actuator would be fixed to the drilling unit 12 and would facilitate the extension of the support assembly 40 out to a position underneath the drilling tool 28 .
- the drill bit 26 is coupled to the drilling tool 28 by way of threaded connection.
- the drill rotation source 24 provides rotational torque to the drilling tool 28 .
- This rotational torque is utilised to couple/decouple the drill bit 26 and the drilling tool 28 .
- the drill bit 26 In order to permit this action, the drill bit 26 must be held stationary in the drill bit receptacle 34 whilst the drilling tool 28 is screwed on/off.
- the drill bit receptacle 34 is provided with a clamping means (not shown) that engages the drill bit 26 during coupling/decoupling.
- the drill bit receptacle 34 is provided with a resistance member (not shown) that imparts a frictional force on the drill bit 26 that resists the rotation of the drill bit 26 . It is envisaged that such a resistance member would abut the tip 36 of the drill bit 26 and resist the rotation.
- the drill bit 26 used on most rotary drills are of a tricone construction, three separate resistance members are preferably provided in the drill bit receptacle 34 to fit between the cones of the drill bit 26 .
- the resistance members are configured to fit the drill bit face flushing configurations.
- the resistance members are preferably tapered to allow different sized drill bits 26 to engage with the various resistance members.
- drill bits 26 come in a range of diameters and shapes.
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 is further provided with a number of replaceable inserts (not shown).
- Each replaceable insert is designed to have an outer diameter that fits within the drill bit receptacle 34 , with an inner section that is shaped and sized to fit a particular drill bit 26 . It is envisaged that the replaceable inserts allow for a range of drill bits 26 to be received in the drill bit receptacle 34 .
- the replaceable insert is preferably removed and a different replaceable insert is placed in the drill bit receptacle 34 .
- the resistance member can be as simple as a non-slip lining on the bottom of the drill bit receptacle 34 that the drill bit 26 rests on to resist movement of the drill bit 26 during coupling/decoupling.
- an adapter means 48 include, for example, a drive sub, bit rings and bushings.
- Each drill bit 26 in the drill bit holder 32 has any required adapter means 48 loaded thereon. It is understood by the inventors that by providing the drill bits 26 with any adapter means 48 already coupled thereto there is no need to swap out such adapter means 48 when the drill bit 26 is replaced. As such, the coupling/uncoupling of the drill bit 26 and the drilling tool 28 may be fully automated. It is envisaged that the adapter means 48 coupled to a worn drill bit 26 may be replaced onto a sharp drill bit 26 during the servicing of the drill rig.
- a protective cover 50 may be provided on each drill bit 26 in the drill bit holder 32 .
- the protective cover 50 acts to cover the drill bit 26 and any adapter means 48 to prevent dust and other foreign materials from fouling the drill bit 26 threads and interfering with the coupling to the drilling tool 28 .
- the protective cover 50 is provided in a fixed position over the storage position.
- the protective cover 50 is comprised a hollow container 52 that surrounds the drill bit receptacle.
- a lid 54 is hingedly coupled to the hollow container 52 .
- the lid 54 is fixed to an actuator, for example a cylinder 56 , which may be retracted and extended to open and close the lid 54 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 further comprises a breakout means (not shown).
- Typical breakout means comprise a pair of hydraulically operated clamps that grip the drilling tool 28 and drill bit 26 respectively. Once engaged, the clamps rotate in opposite directions to unscrew the drill bit 26 from the drilling tool 28 .
- operation of the drilling tool 28 will impart a rotational force onto the threaded connection between the drilling tool 28 and the drill bit 26 .
- the threaded connection is orientated so that this rotational force does not unfasten the threaded connection, but rather acts to tighten the connection.
- a breakout means is used for breakout of threaded connections on drilling tools 28 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is intended to couple and decouple drill bits 26 from a drilling tool 28 .
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 is mounted on a mobile drilling rig.
- the drill bit holder 32 Prior to operation, the drill bit holder 32 is loaded with drill bits 26 in the drill bit receptacles 34 .
- Each drill bit 26 has any required adapter means 48 fastened thereto and a protective cover 50 is placed over the drill bit 26 and adapter means 48 .
- the drill bit holder 32 is loaded onto the support assembly 40 .
- the support assembly 40 is moved to a storage position and retained in place.
- the mobile drill unit is then positioned at the intended drilling site and the drill mast is raised.
- the starter rod and the drilling tool 28 can then be loaded onto the drill rotation source 24 .
- the drill rotation source 24 is raised so that the drilling tool 28 is positioned above the drilling platform of the drill rod.
- the liner actuator or pinion drive actuator of the positioning means 38 is then used to move the support assembly 40 along the tracks 42 to one of the replacement positions.
- a drill bit receptacle 34 and the drill bit 26 contained therein is aligned with the drilling tool 28 .
- the drilling tool 28 is lowered towards the drill bit 26 and the drill rotation source is operated to screw the drilling tool 28 onto the drill bit 26 .
- the drill bit receptacle 34 retains the drill bit 26 in a stationary position relative to the drilling tool 28 to permit the coupling of the threaded connector.
- the drilling tool 28 may be lifted and the drill bit 26 will be lifted from the drill bit receptacle 34 .
- the support assembly 40 can be moved back to the storage position and clear of the drilling tool 28 . The drilling operation can then commence.
- the drilling operation will impart a mechanical force on the drill bit 26 which will eventually wear and blunt the drill bit 26 .
- the drilling tool 28 is retrieved and again positioned above the drilling platform.
- the support assembly 40 is then moved from the storage position to a replacement position which aligns an empty drill bit receptacle 34 with the drilling tool 28 .
- the breakout means are then engaged with the drilling tool 28 and drill bit 26 to break the threaded connection of the drill bit 26 and the drilling tool 28 .
- the breakout means is then disengaged and the drill bit 26 is lowered into the empty drill bit receptacle 34 .
- the drill bit receptacle 34 again imparts a frictional resistance on the drill bit 26 and the drill rotation source 24 may be operated in reverse to unscrew the drill bit 26 from the drilling tool 28 , thereby decoupling it.
- the drilling tool 28 is again lifted and the support assembly 40 is positioned in another replacement position to present a new drill bit 26 to the drilling tool 28 for coupling. Once coupled as described above, the drilling operation can then recommence with the new drill bit 26 .
- the worn drill bits 26 can be continued to be replaced as long as there are new/sharp drill bits 26 available in the drill bit holder 32 .
- the inventors have found that the linear arrangement of the drill bit holder 32 allows for increased capacity of drill bits 26 to be stored on the drilling unit.
- the operation of the drilling unit will typically be ceased at regular intervals to allow for servicing and refuelling of the drilling unit. These intervals are typically 12 hours apart. It is envisaged that the drill bit holder 32 will hold enough drill bit 26 to last the operation between intervals.
- the drill bit holder 32 can be fully removed from the support assembly 40 and be replaced with another drill bit holder 32 that is loaded with new/sharp drill bits 26 .
- an advantage of the track arrangement shown in the Figures the weight of all the drill bits 26 is held by the drilling rig 12 .
- the entire process can either be remotely operated or fully automated.
- the movement of the storage assembly to the one or more replacement positions can be fully programmed into a programmable logic controller (PLC).
- PLC programmable logic controller
- the drill bit replacement apparatus 10 can further be integrated with automated drill rod loading apparatus and/or drilling tool 28 loading apparatus to fully automate the drilling operations. This is believed to be particularly advantageous in blast hole drilling operations, where it is believed that the efficiency and safety of the operation can be increased.
- a further advantage envisaged by the inventors is that the drill bit holder 32 may be loaded with drill bits 26 suitable for different drilling tools 28 .
- drilling tools 28 there are different types of drilling tools 28 that may be used.
- Common types of drilling tools 28 include rotary drilling (RD) tools, percussion assisted rotary drilling (PARD) tools or a down the hole hammer (DTHH) tools.
- RD rotary drilling
- PARD percussion assisted rotary drilling
- DTHH down the hole hammer
- different drill bits 26 may be selected depending on the hardness of the rock that is being drilled.
- Rotary tools generally have a high penetration rate and are more economic for drilling in soft rocks.
- the use of rotary tools in hard rock requires a drilling rig with high pull down and rotation capacity to drive the bit through the rock.
- the apparatus 10 of the present invention may be provided on a drilling rig 12 that comprises other means for automating the drilling process.
- Such means include, but are not limited to automated drill rod loading apparatus 60 (such as described in the Applicant's co-pending PCT/AU2019/050135) and automated drilling tool replacement apparatus 62 (such as described in the Applicant's co-pending PCT/AU2019/050178).
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- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Earth Drilling (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a drill bit replacement apparatus for replacing a drill bit on a drilling tool. More specifically, the apparatus of the present invention is adapted to store multiple drill bits and make them available for replacement on the drilling tool.
- The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.
- Mobile drilling units are typically employed to drill holes for blasting in mining operations. Such units commonly comprise a pivoting mast mounted on a drill platform. A drill string is mounted within or onto the mast to drill into the earth. The drill string comprises a drilling tool and series of drill rods. The drilling tool is mounted on the working end of the drill string and retains a drill bit that is driven into the earth to create a hole. The drill rod connects the drilling tool to a drill rotation source mounted on the mast. Rotational torque and drilling fluid for impact on the drill bit and/or flushing out broken rock are provided through the drill rod to the drilling tool to drive the drilling tool. As the drilling operation continues, additional lengths of drill rod are added to the drill string.
- As the drill bit is driven into the earth, the mechanical force that is imparted on the drill bit eventually wears down and blunts the drill bit. In certain circumstances, the drill bit may fracture and break. Worn or fractured drill bits need to be replaced. In order to complete this, the drilling operation must be halted and the drilling tool is retrieved to the surface to enable the replacement of the drill bit. The drill bit is typically threadably connected to the lower end of the drilling tool. The threaded connection is orientated so that this rotational force does not unfasten the threaded connection, but rather acts to tighten the connection. In order to change the drill bit a breakout mechanism is used to ‘break’ the drill bit from the drilling tool, loosening the tension in the screw joint. Once the tension has been released an operator typically removes the drill bit and positions it clear of the drilling tool. A replacement drill bit is then physically moved into position beneath the drilling tool to attach drill bit to the drilling tool. The positioning of the drill bit is either completed by hand or may be assisted with the use of a winch on the drill or a truck mounted crane. Whilst these devices do assist with the replacement process, they do not allow for precise positioning of the drill bit and an operator is still required to complete the coupling or decoupling of the drill bit to the drill string. This presents a significant danger to operators and injuries can occur as a result of uncontrolled movement of the drilling tools during the changeover process. The risks increase with large diameter drilling operations where the increased size and weight of the drill bits make them much more difficult to manoeuvre.
- Whilst many parts of drilling operations may be completed autonomously or semi-autonomously, the changing of drill bits still requires at least some manual intervention from an operator, usually at the machine. If a drilling rig is being autonomously operated, then the drilling rig needs to be switched to manual operation every time the drill bits need replacement. Because of the need for manual intervention, the safety, capital, operational cost or production advantages offered by autonomous drilling rig are diminished during bit changes. This is particularly problematic in hard rock drilling operations where multiple bit changes can be required during every drill shift.
- Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
- In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a drill bit replacement apparatus for replacing a drill bit on a drilling tool, the apparatus comprising:
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- a drill bit holder comprising one or more drill bit receptacles, each drill bit receptacle adapted to receive at least one drill bit; and
- a positioning means adapted to move the drill bit holder between at least one storage position and one or more replacement positions, wherein each replacement position aligns at least one drill bit receptacle with the drilling tool.
- The drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention is adapted to position a drill bit receptacle beneath a drilling tool. In this manner, a drill bit located in the drill bit receptacle may be positioned beneath the drilling tool to permit the coupling of the drill bit to the drilling tool. Alternatively, an empty drill bit receptacle may be positioned beneath the drilling tool to permit the uncoupling of the drill bit from the drilling tool.
- In one form of the present invention, each drill bit receptacle receives a single drill bit. Alternatively, a single drill bit receptacle may receive two or more drill bits. In such an arrangement, it is envisaged that locating means or dividers may be used to separate the drill bits in the drill bit receptacle.
- In one form of the present invention, each drill bit receptacle receives a drill bit in a vertical orientation. The term “vertical orientation” should be understood to refer to an orientation where the cutting face is received by the drill receptacle with the drill bit shaft pointing upwards. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, this orientation is substantially similar to the orientation in which the drill bit is received by the drilling tool. In this manner, the drill bit may be positioned beneath a drilling tool and the drilling tool may be lowered to couple with the drill bit.
- Preferably, each replacement position aligns an approximate centre of a drill bit receptacle with the drilling tool. More preferably, each replacement position aligns an approximate centre of a drill bit receptacle with an approximate centreline of the drilling tool.
- When in the storage position, the drill bit holder is preferably clear of the drilling tool. When in the storage position, the drill bit holder does not impinge the operation of the drilling tool.
- In one form of the present invention, the drill bit replacement apparatus is mounted on a mobile drill unit. More preferably, the drill bit replacement apparatus is mounted on the drill platform of a mobile drill unit.
- Preferably, the drill bit receptacles are provided in a linear arrangement.
- Preferably, each drill bit receptacle is appropriately shaped and sized to receive a drill bit. More preferably, each drill bit receptacle is generally cylindrical.
- In one form of the present invention, at least 20% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. More preferably, at least 30% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 40% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 50% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 60% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 70% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle. Still preferably, at least 80% of the length of the drill bit is received by the drill bit receptacle.
- In one form of the present invention, the positioning means comprises a support assembly. Preferably, the drill bit holder is mountable on or in the support assembly.
- In one form of the present invention, the drill bit holder is integrally formed with the support assembly. In an alternative form of the present invention, the drill bit holder is releasably retained on or in the support assembly. The inventors have found that by releasably retaining the drill bit holder on or in the support assembly that the entire drill bit holder, including any drill bits in the drill receptacles, can be loaded onto or unloaded from the support assembly in a single action.
- In one form of the present invention, the support assembly is adapted to move in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the drilling tool. More preferably, the support assembly is adapted to move in a direction substantially parallel to the surface of the drill platform.
- In one form the present invention, the positioning means further comprises a linear actuator to move the support assembly between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions. Preferably, the support assembly is coupled to the linear actuator. More preferably, the linear actuator is selected from mechanical actuators, hydraulic actuators or pneumatic actuators.
- In one form of the present invention, the support assembly is fully supported on the linear actuator. In this embodiment, the full weight of the support assembly is supported by the linear actuator which can then extend out to the replacement positions in a cantilever arrangement. Preferably, the linear actuator telescopes to extend and retract.
- In an alternative form of the present invention, the support assembly is provided on a framework. Preferably, the framework is adapted to move between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions.
- In an alternative form of the present invention, the support assembly engages with a track. Preferably, the track comprises two parallel rails. Alternatively, the track comprises a monorail. More preferably, the track is mounted on the drill platform. It is envisaged that the support assembly may move along the track to move the drill bit holder between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions. It is envisaged that a linear actuator may be used to move the support assembly along the track.
- In one form of the present invention, the support assembly comprises rollers that engage with the tracks. In an alternative form of the present invention, the support assembly comprises pinion drive gears that engage with the tracks. Preferably, the tracks comprise rack teeth to engage with the pinion gear. Advantageously, the rack and pinion tracks also provide linear actuation to move the support assembly between the storage position and the one or more replacement positions.
- In one form of the present invention, the drilling platform comprises an aperture or deck bush through which the drilling tool passes. Preferably, the positioning means is adapted to position the drill bit holder over the aperture. Where the positioning means comprises tracks, it is envisaged that the tracks are arranged to allow the support assembly to be positioned over the aperture. In one form of the present invention, there is provided a track on each side of the aperture. In an alternative form of the present invention, the arrangement of the tracks allows for the support assembly to cantilever over the aperture. In this arrangement, it is envisaged that a portion of the support assembly may extend beyond the tracks and that appropriate stoppers are incorporated into the support assembly and/or tracks to prevent the support assembly from disengaging with the tracks.
- In one form of the present invention, the movement of the positioning means is remotely operated. In an alternative form of the present invention, the movement of the positioning means is actuated by a control system. The inventors have found that each replacement position and the storage position can be programmed into the control system, allowing for automated positioning of the support assembly or the drill bit holder.
- As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the drill bit must remain stationary to permit the drilling tool to screw onto or off the drill bit. In one form of the present invention, a drill bit is retained in each drill bit receptacle by a clamping means. Preferably the clamping means engages with the drill bit during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool.
- In an alternative form of the present invention, each drill bit receptacle is provided with a one or more resistance members. Preferably, the resistance members are adapted to prevent the rotation of the drill bit in the drill bit receptacle.
- In one form of the present invention, a replaceable insert is mountable in the drill bit receptacle. As would be understood by a person skilled in the art, drill bits come in a range of diameters and shapes. Preferably, different replaceable inserts may be associated with each drill bit. It is envisaged that the replaceable inserts allow for a range of drill bits to be received in the drill bit receptacle.
- In an alternative form of the present invention, the drill bit receptacle imparts a frictional force on the drill bit to prevent rotation during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, each drill bit can be of substantial weight. The inventors have found that by constructing or lining the bottom of the drill bit receptacle with a non-slip material, the combination of the weight of the drill bit and the resistance of the non-slip material will prevent the rotation of the drill bit during coupling/decoupling of the drill bit and the drilling tool.
- As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the coupling of a drill bit to a drilling tool often requires the use of an adapter means. Such adapter means include, for example, a drive sub, bit rings and bushings. In one form of the present invention, each drill bit in the drill bit holder has any required adapter means loaded thereon.
- In one form of the present invention, a protective cover is provided over the drill bits in the drill bit holder. Preferably, each drill bit receptacle has a separate protective cover. Alternatively, a single protective cover is provided across all drill bit receptacles. The inventors have found that the protective cover prevents dust and other foreign materials from fouling the thread of the drill bit. This is especially useful when the drill bit holder is in the storage position and the drilling tool is being operated. In one form of the present invention, the protective cover may be removed during the loading and unloading of the drill bit. In an alternative form of the present invention, the protective cover is fixed in a position above the drill rod holder when in the storage position.
- In one form of the present invention, the apparatus further comprises a breakout means. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, operation of the drilling tool will impart a rotational force onto the threaded connection between the drilling tool and the drill bit. The threaded connection is orientated so that this rotational force does not unfasten the threaded connection, but rather acts to tighten the connection. A breakout means is used to breakout threaded connections on drilling tools. Preferably, once the threaded connection has been broken, the drill bit is lowered into the drill bit receptacle and the drilling tool is operated in reverse to screw off the drill bit.
- Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
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FIG. 1a is a plan view of the drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention; -
FIG. 1b is an enlarged portion ofFIG. 1 a; -
FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the drill bit replacement apparatus of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the drill bit holder and support assembly of the present invention; and -
FIG. 4 is a side elevation of a drill bit. - In
FIGS. 1-4 , there is shown a drillbit replacement apparatus 10 in accordance with the present invention. The drillbit replacement apparatus 10 is primarily adapted for use on adrilling unit 12. - In
FIGS. 1a and 1b there is shown the drillbit replacement apparatus 10 as mounted on adrilling unit 12. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1a and 1b the drillbit replacement apparatus 10 is mounted on adrill platform 14. Thedrill platform 14 is typically supported on a crawler undercarriage 16 (not shown) that allows thedrill platform 14 to be positioned relative to the area to be drilled. Thedrill platform 14 further comprises levelling jacks (not shown) that may be positioned to provide stability when drilling. - The
mobile drilling unit 12 includesdrill mast 20 which is hinged to thedrill platform 14 such that thedrill mast 20 is able to tilt relative to thedrill platform 14. Thedrill mast 20 is able to move between a horizontal position to an upright positon for drilling at varying angles. The horizontal positon allows for the transport of thedrill platform 14. Hydraulic actuators (not shown) control the movement of thedrill mast 20. - The
drilling unit 12 further comprises anoperator cab 22 which houses the operating controls for the drilling operation, along with monitoring instruments. Whilst the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 comprises an operator cab, it is envisaged that operation of thedrilling unit 12 may be controlled autonomously. Where drilling is completed by autonomous drilling methods, it is envisaged that theoperator cab 22 may be replaced/used as a control room for remote signalled drilling operations, along with monitoring instruments. - As best seen in
FIG. 2 , thedrilling unit 12 comprises adrill rotation source 24 supported on the drill mast 20 (not shown inFIG. 2 ). Thedrill rotation source 24 is guided for longitudinal movement along thedrill mast 20. Movement of thedrill rotation source 24 is controlled by a hoist (not shown). Hydraulic head actuators (not shown) control the movement of thedrill rotation source 24 and the hoist. Whilst thedrill rotation source 24 shown in the Figures is adapted to move along thedrill mast 20, it is envisaged that other rotation drive mechanisms may be employed, such as for example a Table Drive. As would be understood by a person skilled in the art, where a Table Drive is utilised, it does not move along thedrill mast 20. - The
drilling unit 12 further comprises a hydraulic pump mechanism (not shown) adapted to supply hydraulic fluid for hydraulic operations. The hydraulic pump mechanism is operated by a diesel engine (not shown) mounted on thedrill platform 14. - The drill
bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is adapted to facilitate the addition and removal ofdrill bits 26 from adrilling tool 28. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art adrilling tool 28 is a piece of drilling equipment that retains adrill bit 26 and permits operation of thedrill bit 26. Thedrilling tool 28 is coupled to a drill rod which is in turn coupled to thedrill rotation source 24. The coupling of the drill rod to thedrill rotation source 24 permits rotational forces and drilling fluid to travel to thedrilling tool 28 by way of the drill rod. Thedrill rotation source 24 is moved down thedrill mast 20 to force thedrill bit 26 of thedrilling tool 28 into the earth. As drilling progresses,additional drill rods 30 are added to the drill string. - As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the drilling operation imparts a mechanical force on the
drill bit 26. Over time, this force eventually wears down and blunts thedrill bit 26 or may fracture thedrill bit 26. Once thedrill bit 26 has worn or fractured, the drilling operation must be halted and thedrilling tool 28 must be retrieved to the surface to enable the replacement of thedrill bit 26. The drillbit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is envisaged to permit the replacement of adrill bit 26 from adrilling tool 28 on a drill string with anotherdrill bit 26 without the need for manual handling of thedrill bits 26 by an operator. Similarly, the drillbit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention may be used to load thefirst drill bit 26 onto adrilling tool 28 at the commencement of drilling operations and remove thedrill bit 26 when drilling operations are ceased. Addition and removal of drill bits can be performed manually by an operator, semi-autonomously or autonomously. - The drill
bit replacement apparatus 10 comprises adrill bit holder 32 which is adapted to receive one ormore drill bits 26. As best seen inFIG. 2 , thedrill bit holder 32 comprises one or more drill bit receptacles 34. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, thedrill bit receptacles 34 are arranged in a linear array along the length of thedrill bit holder 32. It is envisaged that a rotary drill bit holder may also be used, in which case thedrill bit receptacles 34 would be arranged in a circular array. Eachdrill bit receptacle 34 is appropriately shaped and sized to receive adrill bit 26. Asdrill bits 26 have a generally cylindrical shape, it is envisaged that the most appropriate shape for eachdrill bit receptacle 34 will also be cylindrical. With reference toFIG. 3 , when adrill bit 26 is placed in adrill bit receptacle 34, thetip 36 of thedrill bit 26 will rest on a bottom surface of thedrill bit receptacle 34. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art,drill bits 26 may come in a range of diameters. Accordingly, thedrill bit receptacle 34 will need to be wide enough to allow aparticular drill bit 26 to be received therein. - The drill
bit replacement apparatus 10 further comprises a positioning means 38 that is adapted to move thedrill bit holder 32 between a storage position and one or more replacement positions. Each replacement position will align one of thedrill bit receptacles 34 with thedrilling tool 28 to either present adrill bit 26 for coupling with thedrilling tool 28 or to present an emptydrill bit receptacle 34 to thedrilling tool 28 to facilitate the uncoupling of adrill bit 26 from thedrilling tool 28. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the positioning means 38 is configured to move thedrill bit holder 32 in a direction that is parallel to the plane of the drilling platform and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thedrilling tool 28. In this manner, the inventors envisage that during coupling/decoupling of thedrill bit 26 and thedrilling tool 28, thedrilling tool 28 can be raised vertically to a position above the drilling platform and thedrill bit holder 32 can be moved to a replacement positon with adrill bit receptacle 34 positioned beneath thedrilling tool 28. Once the coupling/decoupling of thedrill bit 26 and thedrilling tool 28 has been completed, thedrill bit holder 32 can be moved to a storage position and drilling can commence. - In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the positioning means 38 comprises a
support assembly 40 that is adapted to receive and retain thedrill bit holder 32 thereon. In one embodiment of the present invention, thedrill bit holder 32 is integrally formed with thesupport assembly 40. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, thedrill bit holder 32 is replaceably received by thesupport assembly 40. The inventors have found that by configuring thesupport assembly 40 to releasably receive thedrill bit holder 32, the entiredrill bit holder 32, together with anydrill bits 26 can be fully placed in or removed from thesupport assembly 40. The inventors envisage that this arrangement will permit adrill bit holder 32 loaded with blunt/faileddrill bits 26 to be replaced with a seconddrill bit holder 32 loaded withsharp drill bits 26 in a single action. It is envisaged that thedrill bit holder 32 may advantageously be changed out when the mobile drilling rig is being refuelled or otherwise serviced. - In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the
support assembly 40 is mounted ontracks 42. The engagement of thesupport assembly 40 and thetracks 42 permits the movement of thesupport assembly 40 along thetracks 42. The engagement of thesupport assembly 40 and thetracks 42 can be any arrangement that permits the movement of thesupport assembly 40 along thetracks 42. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the engagement of thesupport assembly 40 and thetracks 42 is a rack and pinion type engagement. As best seen inFIG. 3 , thesupport assembly 40 is provided with a pinon gears 44 that are adapted to engage with complementary teeth on thetracks 42. This arrangement has been found to be particularly advantageous as the movement of thesupport assembly 40 along thetracks 42 can be accurately controlled by a drive means, such as amotor 45, coupled to the pinion gears 44. The accurate control of the movement is important in ensuring that thedrill bit holder 32 is accurately moved into the one or more replacement positions so that thedrilling tool 28 can be accurately and repeatable aligned with the drill bit receptacles 34. It is envisaged that the rack and pinion arrangement will also easily permit the movement of thesupport assembly 40 to be remotely or autonomously controlled. In an alternative embodiment the engagement of the support assemble 40 is a trolley wheel and rail arrangement. In this form of the present invention, thesupport assembly 40 is provided in the form of a support trolley that engages with the track. Other arrangements are available to those skilled in the art and can be as simple as wheels provided on thesupport assembly 40. In embodiments where a rack and pinion drive is not used, the movement of thesupport assembly 40 is controlled by a linear actuator (not shown). Suitable linear actuators include, for example, hydraulic cylinders or pneumatic cylinders that extend and retract to move thesupport assembly 40 between the storage positon and the one or more replacement positions. - The
tracks 42 are orientated to permit thedrill bit holder 32 to be positioned beneath thedrilling tool 28. This arrangement is dependent on the exact configuration of the drill mast. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, thedrilling tool 28 is adapted to pass through adrilling aperture 46 in the drilling rig. As best seen inFIG. 2 , thetracks 42 are mounted on the drilling platform on either side of thedrilling aperture 46. This arrangement permits thesupport assembly 40 to be positioned directly under thedrilling tool 28 and over thedrilling aperture 46. Alternatively, it is envisaged that thetracks 42 could be positioned up to, but not extend past, thedrilling aperture 46. In this arrangement, part of thesupport assembly 40 may extend past thetracks 42 to cantilever across thedrilling aperture 46. - In alternative embodiments, the
support assembly 40 may be supported by the linear actuator. In this embodiment the linear actuator would extend to position thesupport assembly 40 beneath thedrilling tool 28. To permit this, it is envisaged that one end of the linear actuator would be fixed to thedrilling unit 12 and would facilitate the extension of thesupport assembly 40 out to a position underneath thedrilling tool 28. - As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the
drill bit 26 is coupled to thedrilling tool 28 by way of threaded connection. As discussed above, thedrill rotation source 24 provides rotational torque to thedrilling tool 28. This rotational torque is utilised to couple/decouple thedrill bit 26 and thedrilling tool 28. In order to permit this action, thedrill bit 26 must be held stationary in thedrill bit receptacle 34 whilst thedrilling tool 28 is screwed on/off. In one embodiment, thedrill bit receptacle 34 is provided with a clamping means (not shown) that engages thedrill bit 26 during coupling/decoupling. Alternatively, thedrill bit receptacle 34 is provided with a resistance member (not shown) that imparts a frictional force on thedrill bit 26 that resists the rotation of thedrill bit 26. It is envisaged that such a resistance member would abut thetip 36 of thedrill bit 26 and resist the rotation. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, thedrill bit 26 used on most rotary drills are of a tricone construction, three separate resistance members are preferably provided in thedrill bit receptacle 34 to fit between the cones of thedrill bit 26. For down hole hammer drills, it is envisaged that the resistance members are configured to fit the drill bit face flushing configurations. The resistance members are preferably tapered to allow differentsized drill bits 26 to engage with the various resistance members. - As would be understood by a person skilled in the art,
drill bits 26 come in a range of diameters and shapes. In order to correctly position and retain differentsized drill bits 26 in thedrill bit receptacle 34, the drillbit replacement apparatus 10 is further provided with a number of replaceable inserts (not shown). Each replaceable insert is designed to have an outer diameter that fits within thedrill bit receptacle 34, with an inner section that is shaped and sized to fit aparticular drill bit 26. It is envisaged that the replaceable inserts allow for a range ofdrill bits 26 to be received in thedrill bit receptacle 34. In order to adapt thedrill bit receptacle 34 to fit another drill bit, the replaceable insert is preferably removed and a different replaceable insert is placed in thedrill bit receptacle 34. Alternatively, due to the weight of thedrill bit 26, the inventors have found that the resistance member can be as simple as a non-slip lining on the bottom of thedrill bit receptacle 34 that thedrill bit 26 rests on to resist movement of thedrill bit 26 during coupling/decoupling. - As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the coupling of a drill bit to a down the hole
hammer drilling tool 28 often requires the use of an adapter means 48. Such adapter means 48 include, for example, a drive sub, bit rings and bushings. Eachdrill bit 26 in thedrill bit holder 32 has any required adapter means 48 loaded thereon. It is understood by the inventors that by providing thedrill bits 26 with any adapter means 48 already coupled thereto there is no need to swap out such adapter means 48 when thedrill bit 26 is replaced. As such, the coupling/uncoupling of thedrill bit 26 and thedrilling tool 28 may be fully automated. It is envisaged that the adapter means 48 coupled to aworn drill bit 26 may be replaced onto asharp drill bit 26 during the servicing of the drill rig. - A
protective cover 50 may be provided on eachdrill bit 26 in thedrill bit holder 32. Theprotective cover 50 acts to cover thedrill bit 26 and any adapter means 48 to prevent dust and other foreign materials from fouling thedrill bit 26 threads and interfering with the coupling to thedrilling tool 28. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, theprotective cover 50 is provided in a fixed position over the storage position. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 4 , theprotective cover 50 is comprised ahollow container 52 that surrounds the drill bit receptacle. Alid 54 is hingedly coupled to thehollow container 52. Thelid 54 is fixed to an actuator, for example acylinder 56, which may be retracted and extended to open and close thelid 54. - The drill
bit replacement apparatus 10 further comprises a breakout means (not shown). Typical breakout means comprise a pair of hydraulically operated clamps that grip thedrilling tool 28 anddrill bit 26 respectively. Once engaged, the clamps rotate in opposite directions to unscrew thedrill bit 26 from thedrilling tool 28. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, operation of thedrilling tool 28 will impart a rotational force onto the threaded connection between thedrilling tool 28 and thedrill bit 26. The threaded connection is orientated so that this rotational force does not unfasten the threaded connection, but rather acts to tighten the connection. A breakout means is used for breakout of threaded connections ondrilling tools 28. - In use, the drill
bit replacement apparatus 10 of the present invention is intended to couple and decoupledrill bits 26 from adrilling tool 28. The drillbit replacement apparatus 10 is mounted on a mobile drilling rig. Prior to operation, thedrill bit holder 32 is loaded withdrill bits 26 in the drill bit receptacles 34. Eachdrill bit 26 has any required adapter means 48 fastened thereto and aprotective cover 50 is placed over thedrill bit 26 and adapter means 48. Thedrill bit holder 32 is loaded onto thesupport assembly 40. Thesupport assembly 40 is moved to a storage position and retained in place. The mobile drill unit is then positioned at the intended drilling site and the drill mast is raised. The starter rod and thedrilling tool 28 can then be loaded onto thedrill rotation source 24. Thedrill rotation source 24 is raised so that thedrilling tool 28 is positioned above the drilling platform of the drill rod. The liner actuator or pinion drive actuator of the positioning means 38 is then used to move thesupport assembly 40 along thetracks 42 to one of the replacement positions. In each replacement position, adrill bit receptacle 34 and thedrill bit 26 contained therein is aligned with thedrilling tool 28. Thedrilling tool 28 is lowered towards thedrill bit 26 and the drill rotation source is operated to screw thedrilling tool 28 onto thedrill bit 26. During the coupling of thedrill bit 26 to thedrilling tool 28, thedrill bit receptacle 34 retains thedrill bit 26 in a stationary position relative to thedrilling tool 28 to permit the coupling of the threaded connector. Once thedrill bit 26 is coupled to thedrilling tool 28, thedrilling tool 28 may be lifted and thedrill bit 26 will be lifted from thedrill bit receptacle 34. Once thedrill bit 26 is clear of thedrill bit receptacle 34, thesupport assembly 40 can be moved back to the storage position and clear of thedrilling tool 28. The drilling operation can then commence. - The drilling operation will impart a mechanical force on the
drill bit 26 which will eventually wear and blunt thedrill bit 26. Once thedrill bit 26 is worn it must be replaced on thedrilling tool 28. In order to complete this, thedrilling tool 28 is retrieved and again positioned above the drilling platform. Thesupport assembly 40 is then moved from the storage position to a replacement position which aligns an emptydrill bit receptacle 34 with thedrilling tool 28. The breakout means are then engaged with thedrilling tool 28 anddrill bit 26 to break the threaded connection of thedrill bit 26 and thedrilling tool 28. The breakout means is then disengaged and thedrill bit 26 is lowered into the emptydrill bit receptacle 34. Thedrill bit receptacle 34 again imparts a frictional resistance on thedrill bit 26 and thedrill rotation source 24 may be operated in reverse to unscrew thedrill bit 26 from thedrilling tool 28, thereby decoupling it. Thedrilling tool 28 is again lifted and thesupport assembly 40 is positioned in another replacement position to present anew drill bit 26 to thedrilling tool 28 for coupling. Once coupled as described above, the drilling operation can then recommence with thenew drill bit 26. - The
worn drill bits 26 can be continued to be replaced as long as there are new/sharp drill bits 26 available in thedrill bit holder 32. Advantageously, the inventors have found that the linear arrangement of thedrill bit holder 32 allows for increased capacity ofdrill bits 26 to be stored on the drilling unit. As would be understood by a person skilled in the art, the operation of the drilling unit will typically be ceased at regular intervals to allow for servicing and refuelling of the drilling unit. These intervals are typically 12 hours apart. It is envisaged that thedrill bit holder 32 will holdenough drill bit 26 to last the operation between intervals. During the service interval thedrill bit holder 32 can be fully removed from thesupport assembly 40 and be replaced with anotherdrill bit holder 32 that is loaded with new/sharp drill bits 26. Furthermore, an advantage of the track arrangement shown in the Figures, the weight of all thedrill bits 26 is held by thedrilling rig 12. - Given the entire replacement process does not require any human handling of the
drill bits 26, the entire process can either be remotely operated or fully automated. In this embodiment it is envisaged that the movement of the storage assembly to the one or more replacement positions can be fully programmed into a programmable logic controller (PLC). The drillbit replacement apparatus 10 can further be integrated with automated drill rod loading apparatus and/ordrilling tool 28 loading apparatus to fully automate the drilling operations. This is believed to be particularly advantageous in blast hole drilling operations, where it is believed that the efficiency and safety of the operation can be increased. - A further advantage envisaged by the inventors is that the
drill bit holder 32 may be loaded withdrill bits 26 suitable fordifferent drilling tools 28. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, there are different types ofdrilling tools 28 that may be used. Common types ofdrilling tools 28 include rotary drilling (RD) tools, percussion assisted rotary drilling (PARD) tools or a down the hole hammer (DTHH) tools. As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art,different drill bits 26 may be selected depending on the hardness of the rock that is being drilled. Rotary tools generally have a high penetration rate and are more economic for drilling in soft rocks. However, the use of rotary tools in hard rock requires a drilling rig with high pull down and rotation capacity to drive the bit through the rock. This presents a significant capital expenditure for the high capacity drill rig itself, along with higher operating costs to power the drills air compressor or fluid supply. Furthermore, therotary drill bits 26 may wear at a quicker rate, requiring ongoing replacement costs. These factors together contribute to a much higher cost impediment to such operations. Unlike RD tools, DTHH tools are generally more suited and more economic for drilling of hard rock material. Accordingly, it is generally more economic to use DTHH tools in hard rock. The difference in economy increases when drilling larger diameter holes (+127 mm). As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, each of thesedrilling tools 28 operates in a different manner and requiresdifferent drill bits 26. By loading thedrill bit holder 32 with each of thesedifferent drill bits 26, they are available for use bydifferent drilling tools 28 during operation of themobile drilling rig 12. - It is envisaged that the
apparatus 10 of the present invention may be provided on adrilling rig 12 that comprises other means for automating the drilling process. Such means include, but are not limited to automated drill rod loading apparatus 60 (such as described in the Applicant's co-pending PCT/AU2019/050135) and automated drilling tool replacement apparatus 62 (such as described in the Applicant's co-pending PCT/AU2019/050178). - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. The invention includes all such variation and modifications. The invention also includes all of the steps, features, formulations and compounds referred to or indicated in the specification, individually or collectively and any and all combinations or any two or more of the steps or features.
Claims (20)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2018902089 | 2018-06-11 | ||
AU2018902089A AU2018902089A0 (en) | 2018-06-11 | Drill Bit Replacement Apparatus | |
PCT/AU2019/050600 WO2019237150A1 (en) | 2018-06-11 | 2019-06-11 | Drill bit replacement apparatus |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20210198960A1 true US20210198960A1 (en) | 2021-07-01 |
Family
ID=68841812
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/059,669 Abandoned US20210198960A1 (en) | 2018-06-11 | 2019-06-11 | Drill bit replacement apparatus |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20210198960A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2019285373A1 (en) |
BR (1) | BR112020024883A2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2019237150A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2023007231A1 (en) * | 2021-07-30 | 2023-02-02 | Dv Technology Spa | Automatic system and method for exchanging, storing and lubricating tricone bits |
WO2023019331A1 (en) * | 2021-08-18 | 2023-02-23 | Vale S.A. | Uncoupling spanner for disconnecting drill bits, system for replacing drill bits, and method for replacing drill bits |
CN117514041A (en) * | 2023-10-30 | 2024-02-06 | 河北省荣昌交通实业有限公司 | Drilling device convenient to adjust |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
SE543995C2 (en) * | 2019-12-20 | 2021-10-19 | Epiroc Rock Drills Ab | A method performed by a control device for changing a drill bit in a rock drilling unit, a control device of a rockdrilling unit, a rock drilling unit and a rock drilling rig |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8342236B2 (en) * | 2008-09-19 | 2013-01-01 | Bucyrus International Inc. | Blast hole drill bit carousel and a blast hole drill including a blast hole drill bit carousel |
US9523269B2 (en) * | 2012-09-21 | 2016-12-20 | Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment Llc | Automatic control system and method for a drilling tool changer apparatus |
-
2019
- 2019-06-11 AU AU2019285373A patent/AU2019285373A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2019-06-11 WO PCT/AU2019/050600 patent/WO2019237150A1/en active Application Filing
- 2019-06-11 BR BR112020024883-5A patent/BR112020024883A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2019-06-11 US US17/059,669 patent/US20210198960A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2023007231A1 (en) * | 2021-07-30 | 2023-02-02 | Dv Technology Spa | Automatic system and method for exchanging, storing and lubricating tricone bits |
WO2023019331A1 (en) * | 2021-08-18 | 2023-02-23 | Vale S.A. | Uncoupling spanner for disconnecting drill bits, system for replacing drill bits, and method for replacing drill bits |
CN117514041A (en) * | 2023-10-30 | 2024-02-06 | 河北省荣昌交通实业有限公司 | Drilling device convenient to adjust |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2019237150A1 (en) | 2019-12-19 |
AU2019285373A1 (en) | 2020-12-24 |
BR112020024883A2 (en) | 2021-03-09 |
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