Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Performance Drilling Motor?

Quantum’s performance drilling motor is comprised of basically three major components: the power section, the transmission (drive shaft) and the bearing assembly (or bearing pack assembly). Quantum drilling motors are available in a number of different sizes, torque and speed variations to meet your hole size and bit operating parameter needs.

Quantum’s proprietary processes for design and repair of our bearing packs set us apart from our competition. By increasing the durability and longevity of key parts of our drilling motors, we provide our customers the opportunity for longer runs and less down time, thus saving valuable drilling days.

What is Directional Drilling?

Historically, most drilling is done by drilling a hole vertically in a straight line from top to bottom.  However, with directional drilling it is possible to guide the drill bit such that the hole may be drilled directionally, at an angle away from vertical and even horizontally. 

There are many situations in which it is a very practical solution.  For instance, due to marshes, bodies of water or other obstructions, it may not be possible to position the drilling rig directly above the target formation. Also, when there are multiple targets, it is unlikely that these targets will be stacked directly one above the other. Directional drilling makes it possible to drill through several different targets.

Directional drilling can even be used to deviate the well bore around an obstruction such as a stuck pipe that was left in the hole.

What is horizontal drilling?

Many times formations (such as the Barnett Shale) are highly impermeable.  In other words, hydrocarbons that are distant from the well bore are not able to travel through the formation to be collected at the well bore.  In this case, a long, lateral section, for example 1,500 feet in length, is drilled horizontally through the formation.  Increasingly, multi-laterals may be drilled from the same well bore, further increasing the opportunity for a successful producing well.

What is MWD (measurement while drilling)?

MWD (Measurement While Drilling) Systems provide high accuracy directional guidance to meet the most stringent of directional applications. Quantum employs the GE Tensor directional module as the backbone of the MWD system to ensure the highest quality measuring device for accurate and survey data. Quantum has researched and obtained the top-of-the-line transmission systems to work in various well environments throughout our areas of operation.

What are Shock Subs?

Shock Absorber Tools improve drilling performance by improving drill bit and drill string stability. Quantum’s shock subs keep the bit running smoothly, especially reducing damaging loads and bit bounce in hard-rock drilling environments. Quantum’s shock subs are designed to allow optimum energy levels (bit weight and rotary speed) at the bit to enhance penetration rate. The Quantum shock sub reduces vibration throughout the total drill string, minimizing damage to connectors.