Guide to: Best Practices for Frac Plug Drilling

By utilizing high-quality, smaller PDC cutters (10–13 mm), bits create finer chips and smaller debris. This significantly reduces the risk of downhole jamming, allowing for smoother, uninterrupted milling through frac plugs, cement, and surrounding solids.

High circulation capacity is critical for clearing cuttings out of the hole quickly. Bits featuring enlarged circulation ports (up to 1 inch) and a 1.5-inch bored-out throat allow large volumes of fluid and debris to pass seamlessly without clogging the drill string.

To withstand severe downhole stress, select a tapered, one-piece PDC body design. This unified construction provides the structural durability needed to mill rapidly through complete plug strings and harsh formations without structural failure.

Bits equipped with side-port fluid delivery and extra-large junk slots keep fluid moving across the cutting face rather than standard bottom discharge. This design prevents bit balling and minimizes plugging when passing through softer or gummy downhole materials.

To ensure seamless integration with reverse-circulation or drill pipe setups, verify that the bit features precise high-torque thread connections—such as 2 3/8 API, 2 3/8 PH6 box, 2 7/8 PH6 box, 1 1/2 MMT, or CS Hydrill specifications.