To further improve the ability of PDC bits to drill harder, more abrasive formations, ReedHycalog® has developed bit designs with patented DiamondBack™ cutters. Available as an option in ReedHycalog's Hybrid PDC bits, DiamondBack cutters are custom designed PDC components which replace the diamond impregnated tungsten carbide elements ("Hybrids") in high wear areas of the bit. Typically, DiamondBack cutters are placed on the shoulder or outside diameter region (ODR) to extend bit life in severe applications.

When a drill bit is new, DiamondBack cutters do not contact the formation as the bit drills within the target penetration rate interval. The bit performs as a conventional PDC bit to ensure maximum penetration rates. When a harder formation is encountered, the primary cutters begin to wear allowing the DiamondBack cutters to contact the formation. Each DiamondBack cutter takes an increasing share of the load, thus preventing catastrophic damage to the primary PDC cutter as the bit drills through the harder, more abrasive formations.

Bits designed for harder or more abrasive formations commonly have an increased number of blades. As the number of blades increases, problems with hole cleaning and formation impaction become more common. DiamondBack technology avoids those problems because using extra cutters in strategic Hybrid locations eliminates the need to add blades to make a tougher bit.

Bits with DiamondBack cutters are most effective in areas where localized cutter wear causes premature bit failure. Prime applications have hard/abrasive formations, especially if conditions become more severe with increasing depth. Like the Hybrids used in Hybrid PDC bits, DiamondBack cutters provide improved stability in applications where bit whirl is a problem.